Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 vs. Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

When comparing the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021, it is important to consider their technical specifications and strengths and weaknesses.

In terms of engine and drive train, both bikes have in-line engines with fuel injection systems. However, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has a slightly more powerful engine with 119 HP compared to the Kawasaki Z900 RS's 111 HP. The Yamaha also has slightly lower torque at 93 Nm compared to the Kawasaki's 98.6 Nm. Both bikes have liquid cooling systems and similar displacements, with the Yamaha at 889 ccm and the Kawasaki at 948 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arm suspensions in the rear. The Yamaha MT-09 SP offers more adjustment options for the front and rear suspension, including compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. The Kawasaki Z900 RS only offers preload and rebound adjustments for the rear suspension.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022

In terms of chassis, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, while the Kawasaki Z900 RS has a steel frame with a tubular design. The aluminum frame of the Yamaha may provide slightly better handling and agility.

Both bikes have double disk brakes in the front with similar diameters, 298 mm for the Yamaha and 300 mm for the Kawasaki. This ensures top braking performance for both models.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the Yamaha MT-09 SP offers a range of features including ABS, cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Kawasaki Z900 RS, on the other hand, only offers ABS and traction control.

When it comes to dimensions and weights, both bikes have similar front and rear tire widths and diameters. The Yamaha has a slightly shorter wheelbase at 1430 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 1470 mm. The seat height of the Yamaha is also slightly lower at 825 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 835 mm. However, the Yamaha is lighter with a kerb weight of 189 kg compared to the Kawasaki's 215 kg. The Kawasaki also has a larger fuel tank capacity at 17 liters compared to the Yamaha's 14 liters.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP is praised for its lively and high-torque engine, extremely agile handling, top brakes, high-quality chassis, and pure driving pleasure. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 RS is known for its authentic and beautiful retro look, very comfortable seating position, and being easy and comfortable to ride.

However, the Yamaha MT-09 SP does have some weaknesses, including a poorly legible TFT display, rather hard seat, and controls of electronics that could be more intuitive. The Kawasaki Z900 RS lacks a quickshifter and driving modes, although it does have adjustable traction control.

In conclusion, both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Yamaha offers a more powerful engine, more advanced rider assistance systems, and a lighter weight, while the Kawasaki provides a retro look, comfortable riding position, and adjustable traction control. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.