Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 vs. Ducati Streetfighter V4 S 2020

The Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 and the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S 2020 are both naked bikes with powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, they differ in terms of engine power, torque, suspension, chassis, brakes, and dimensions.

The Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 is equipped with an inline, liquid-cooled engine that produces 111 HP and 98.6 Nm of torque. It has a fuel injection system and four cylinders. The bike features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with compression, preload, and rebound adjustment, and a swing arm rear suspension with preload and rebound adjustment. The frame is made of steel, providing stability and durability. The front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 300 mm and four pistons. The Z900 RS has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, Ride by Wire, and traction control. It has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 180 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1470 mm, and the seat height is 835 mm. The bike weighs 215 kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 17 liters.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

On the other hand, the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S 2020 is equipped with a V, liquid-cooled engine that produces a whopping 208 HP and 123 Nm of torque. It also has a fuel injection system and four cylinders. The bike features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with compression, preload, and rebound adjustment, and a single swing arm rear suspension with compression, preload, and rebound adjustment. The frame is made of aluminum, providing a lightweight and agile ride. The front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 330 mm and four pistons. The Streetfighter V4 S has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, dynamic suspension, cornering ABS, launch control, ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 200 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1488 mm, and the seat height is 845 mm. The bike weighs 199 kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 16 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 is praised for its powerful and smooth engine, good looks, comfortable seating position, easy rideability, and balanced handling. It is not nervous or ponderous, providing a confident and enjoyable riding experience. On the other hand, the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S 2020 is lauded for its top-level electronics package, high-revving and brutally powerful engine, very agile handling, surprisingly comfortable seating position even for tall riders, powerful brakes, sporty and high-quality chassis, and great aerodynamics that provide stable wind conditions even at high speeds. Additionally, the Streetfighter V4 S is considered to have looks that are to die for.

Ducati Streetfighter V4 S 2020

However, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 does have some weaknesses. It lacks a shift assistant, making gear shifting less smooth compared to bikes with this feature. It is also heavier than other retro bikes in its class, which may affect maneuverability. The seat is considered a little too soft for long tours, and there is no wind protection, which may lead to discomfort during high-speed rides. On the other hand, the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S 2020 has a few weaknesses as well. It requires higher revs to deliver power, lacking low-end torque. In city traffic and everyday life, the engine response can be somewhat rough. The bike's handling at low speeds is tippy, requiring more effort to maneuver. Additionally, the engine noise strongly changes depending on speed and flap position, which may be a drawback for some riders.

In conclusion, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 and the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S 2020 are both powerful naked bikes with advanced features. The Z900 RS offers a smooth and comfortable ride, while the Streetfighter V4 S provides a thrilling and sporty experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences for power, handling, and aesthetics.