Kawasaki Z900 2017 vs. KTM 890 Duke 2021

The Kawasaki Z900 2017 and the KTM 890 Duke 2021 are both naked bikes that offer impressive performance and features.

Starting with the engine and drive train, both bikes have in-line engines with liquid cooling and fuel injection systems. However, there are some differences in power and torque. The Kawasaki Z900 2017 has a more powerful engine with 125.4 HP and 98.6 Nm of torque, while the KTM 890 Duke 2021 has a slightly lower power output of 115 HP and torque of 92 Nm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Kawasaki Z900 2017 has a monoshock rear shock absorber with preload and rebound adjustment, while the KTM 890 Duke 2021 has a monoshock rear shock absorber with preload adjustment. The rear suspension material is aluminum for both bikes.

Kawasaki Z900 2017

When it comes to the chassis, the Kawasaki Z900 2017 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the KTM 890 Duke 2021 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design.

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 300 mm and four-piston calipers. The Kawasaki Z900 2017 uses petal technology for its front brakes, while the KTM 890 Duke 2021 uses radial technology.

Both bikes come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS. However, the KTM 890 Duke 2021 offers additional features like riding modes, cornering ABS, launch control, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

KTM 890 Duke 2021

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same front and rear tire widths and diameters. The Kawasaki Z900 2017 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1450 mm compared to the KTM 890 Duke 2021's 1476 mm. The seat height is also higher on the KTM 890 Duke 2021 at 820 mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 2017's 795 mm.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 2017 is praised for its ingenious naked bike chassis, superb looks, and a responsive engine with a well-balanced torque. It is also considered to be a good intersection of performance, price, and practical use. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Duke 2021 is appreciated for its rev-happy engine, lively handling, buttery-smooth quickshifter, and comprehensive electronics package. It is also noted that the KTM 890 Duke 2021 does not leave riders desiring the R version on country roads.

As for weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z900 2017 is criticized for having a narrow knee angle for tall people, suggesting the need for a different seat. The KTM 890 Duke 2021's only weakness mentioned is that the quickshifter is an additional cost option.