BMW S 1000 R 2014 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2019

In terms of engine and drive train, both the BMW S 1000 R 2014 and the Kawasaki Z900 2019 have in-line engines with four cylinders. However, the BMW S 1000 R has a higher engine power of 160 HP compared to the Kawasaki Z900's 125.4 HP. The BMW S 1000 R also has a higher torque of 112 Nm compared to the Kawasaki Z900's 98.6 Nm. In terms of displacement, the BMW S 1000 R has a slightly larger engine with 999 ccm compared to the Kawasaki Z900's 948 ccm.

Both bikes have upside-down telescopic fork front suspensions and swing arm rear suspensions with monoshock absorbers. The BMW S 1000 R has an aluminum frame with a twin tube frame type, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a steel frame with a double cradle frame type.

BMW S 1000 R 2014

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disk front brakes with four pistons. However, the BMW S 1000 R uses radial technology for its front brakes, while the Kawasaki Z900 uses petal technology.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the BMW S 1000 R has dynamic suspension, while the Kawasaki Z900 has ABS.

Both bikes have 17-inch front and rear tires, with the BMW S 1000 R having a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm. The Kawasaki Z900 has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 180 mm. The wheelbase of the BMW S 1000 R is 1439 mm, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1450 mm. The seat height of the BMW S 1000 R is 814 mm, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a slightly lower seat height of 795 mm. The kerb weight of the BMW S 1000 R with ABS is 207 kg, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a slightly higher kerb weight of 210 kg with ABS.

Kawasaki Z900 2019

In terms of strengths, the BMW S 1000 R 2014 is praised for its sporty chassis, extreme power and performance, very good electronic helpers, terrific price/performance ratio, and its ability to be fast and comfortable on the racetrack and on country roads. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 is praised for its light and natural handling with high stability, silky engine with full pull from mid revs, high chassis transparency with great feedback, comfortable sitting position, and fair price.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW S 1000 R 2014 is criticized for its slightly rough engine running, the dynamic suspension control (DDC) being rather on the "hard" side overall, relatively high seat, temptation to overdrive, and its design being a matter of taste. The Kawasaki Z900 2019 is criticized for its TFT display being mounted too low, cumbersome menu operation, and rear view mirrors offering modest visibility.