The Kawasaki Z900 stands out in the world of supernaked motorcycles. It combines old-school looks with cutting-edge tech. Its 948cc inline-four engine makes for an exciting ride, whether you’re in the city or on country roads.
The Z900’s “Sugomi” design grabs attention with its bold yet refined look. It also has a light and agile frame. Plus, its adjustable suspension ensures top-notch handling and control.
The Kawasaki Z900 is priced between $9,799 and $11,299. This makes it a great deal in the 900cc class, up against the Suzuki GSX-S1000 and Honda CB1000R. Its mix of power, style, and affordability makes it a great choice for those looking for a fun and versatile ride.
Key Takeaways
- Powerful 948cc inline-four engine with 125 hp and 73 lb-ft of torque
- Aggressive “Sugomi” design language with retro-inspired styling
- Lightweight chassis and adjustable suspension for exceptional handling
- Competitively priced, offering great value in the 900cc supernaked segment
- Suitable for both city commuting and spirited weekend rides
Unveiling the Kawasaki Z900 Legacy
The Kawasaki Z900 is the latest in the Z series, known for high-performance motorcycles. It honors the Z1 and Z900 models with its power, agility, and tech. The new Z900 ABS is a result of careful engineering for an exciting ride.
Evolution of the Z Series
Since 2017, the Z900 ABS has been Kawasaki’s top 900cc machine. It offers great performance and handling. The latest model has a new 948cc engine for better torque and high-revving.
Market Positioning and Competition
The Z900 ABS stands out in the market, between 750cc and 1000cc bikes. It faces off against the Suzuki GSX-S1000, Honda CB1000R, and KTM 890 Duke. But it’s priced lower, making it a great choice for those wanting power and value in the streetfighter world.
“The Z900 ABS represents the next chapter in Kawasaki’s rich streetfighter heritage, delivering a thrilling riding experience that stays true to the brand’s commitment to performance and innovation.”
Aggressive Sugomi Design Language
The Kawasaki Z900 shows off Kawasaki’s Sugomi design, which means it looks bold and eye-catching. This style is all about sharp lines that make the bike stand out.
The Z900’s wide shoulders and simple design give it a powerful look. Its lean-forward position and big fuel tank make it feel connected to the rider. This design also makes the bike easy to handle.
Kawasaki’s Sugomi design does more than just look good. It also makes the Z900 ride better. The bike’s sharp headlight not only looks cool but also helps with airflow and lighting.
The Z900’s design is different from other naked bikes. It has a unique look that grabs attention. This design shows Kawasaki’s focus on making bikes that are both beautiful and fun to ride.
“The Kawasaki Z900’s Sugomi design language is a testament to the brand’s dedication to creating motorcycles that are not only visually stunning but also perform exceptionally well on the road.”
The Z900’s design has won over many riders. Kawasaki keeps working to make bikes that look great and ride well. This shows they’re a top name in motorcycles.
Heart of the Beast: Engine Performance
The Kawasaki Z900 has a powerful 948cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four engine. It delivers exciting performance. This engine produces 125 horsepower at 9,500 rpm and 73.1 lb-ft of torque at 7,500 rpm.
The engine’s Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) system and 36mm Keihin throttle bodies ensure smooth power delivery. This lets riders use the 948cc engine and inline-four to its fullest.
Transmission and Clutch System
The Z900 has a 6-speed transmission with short gearing for quick shifts. It also has a slipper and assist clutch. This makes shifting easier and prevents rear wheel hop during downshifts.
Performance Numbers
- 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration: 3 seconds
- Top speed: 155 mph (250 km/h)
The Z900’s impressive performance numbers make it a standout in the high-performance naked bike segment. Its power delivery and torque are excellent.
The Kawasaki Z900’s 948cc engine and inline-four configuration offer a thrilling ride. Its refined power delivery makes it a true performance-oriented naked bike.
Advanced Rider Electronics Package
The Kawasaki Z900 has a range of advanced features to boost performance and safety. It includes power modes and riding modes. These let riders adjust the bike to fit different riding situations.
The Z900 has two power modes: full power and a reduced power mode. The full power mode lets the bike reach its 125 horsepower for fast speeds. The reduced power mode cuts power to 55-60% for easier riding in tight spaces or for beginners.
- Full Power Mode: Unleashes the full 125 horsepower potential of the Z900’s inline-four engine for thrilling acceleration and high-speed performance.
- Reduced Power Mode: Delivers a more manageable 55-60% of the engine’s output, ideal for navigating through congested urban areas or building rider confidence.
The Z900 also has four riding modes: Rain, Road, Sport, and Rider. These modes adjust power, throttle, and traction control for better performance in various conditions. Riders can choose the best mode for their ride.
| Riding Mode | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Rain | Gentle power delivery and increased traction control for superior wet-weather performance and rider confidence. |
| Road | Balanced power delivery and traction control settings for everyday riding in a variety of conditions. |
| Sport | Responsive power delivery and reduced traction control for spirited, performance-oriented riding. |
| Rider | Fully customizable mode that allows riders to tailor the power, throttle response, and traction control to their personal preferences. |
The Z900 also has three traction control levels. This gives riders the confidence to ride harder while keeping control on the road.
The Kawasaki Z900’s advanced electronics make it a versatile and customizable bike. It lets riders handle different conditions with ease and confidence.
Chassis and Handling Excellence
The Kawasaki Z900 is a true masterpiece in chassis engineering. It offers exceptional handling and responsiveness. The high-tensile, lightweight trellis steel frame is at its core. It strikes the perfect balance between rigidity and agility.
The suspension setup is also noteworthy. It features an inverted fork with adjustability for rebound and damping. This setup allows for 4.7 inches of travel. The rear suspension has a preload and rebound adjustable spring, ensuring precise control and comfort.
The SE variant takes it up a notch. It comes with an Öhlins rear shock and a remote preload adjuster. This enhances the handling even more.
Braking System
Stopping power is also impressive. The Z900 has dual 300mm Brembo brakes at the front and a 250mm single disc at the rear. The SE model upgrades to Brembo front brakes. This boosts braking performance and control.
Whether you’re navigating twisty roads or making sharp turns, the Z900’s chassis and handling are thrilling. It offers a ride that’s both exciting and confidence-inspiring. It’s a true delight for any enthusiast rider.
Smart Technology Integration
The Kawasaki Z900 shows Kawasaki’s dedication to combining the latest tech with top-notch performance. At its core is a 4.3-inch digital TFT color display. This display shows key riding info and lets riders customize it.
Riders can tweak the display’s brightness and background color. This makes it easier to see in different lights. It shows speed, tachometer, gear, fuel, and more, keeping riders informed.
The Z900 also connects with Kawasaki’s Rideology app through Bluetooth. This lets riders see phone alerts on the display. So, they can keep up with calls and messages while riding.
The Rideology app also tracks vehicle info and riding logs. Riders can check this data on their phones. It helps them improve their riding skills and enjoy their rides more.
“The Kawasaki Z900’s advanced technology integration sets a new standard in the motorcycle industry, blending convenience, connectivity, and performance in a seamless package.”
Kawasaki is leading the way in motorcycle tech with the Z900. Its TFT display, Rideology app, and smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth make it a top choice for riders.
Ergonomics and Comfort Features
The Kawasaki Z900 looks aggressive but focuses on rider comfort. Its seat height is lower than some rivals. This makes it easy for many riders to get on.
The seat is designed to be comfortable for both city rides and long trips. It has a wide rear and a tapered shape. This design supports the rider’s body well.
Riding Position Analysis
The Z900’s design balances an upright and sporty riding position. This makes long rides more comfortable. It helps riders enjoy the bike’s performance without getting tired.
Seat Design and Comfort
Kawasaki put a lot of thought into the Z900’s seat. It has thick padding and a shape that spreads out the rider’s weight. This makes the ride comfortable, whether on twisty roads or long highways.
The Kawasaki Z900 offers a thrilling ride that’s also comfortable for long trips. It’s perfect for those who love performance and long rides.
Premium Components and Build Quality
The Kawasaki Z900 shows Kawasaki’s dedication to quality and detail. This high-performance bike comes with top-notch parts that make every ride better.
The bike’s full LED lighting system is a highlight. It includes headlights, position lamps, license plate lamps, and turn signals. This lighting makes the Z900 look great and keeps riders safe on the road.
The bike’s design is enhanced by the Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires. These tires provide great grip and handling. They’re mounted on 17-inch wheels, making the Z900 agile and stable.
The Z900’s build quality is top-notch. From the performance parts to the LED lighting, it shows Kawasaki’s craftsmanship. This bike is a masterpiece of engineering.
Kawasaki aimed to create a premium riding experience with the Z900. It combines style, performance, and quality. This makes the Z900 a standout choice for riders who want the best.
Conclusion
The Kawasaki Z900 is a top pick in the supernaked motorcycle world. It combines bold looks, strong performance, cutting-edge tech, and comfort for the rider. Its 948cc engine packs 125 horsepower and 73.1 ft-lbs of torque, making every ride thrilling.
The Z900’s handling is spot-on, thanks to its balanced design. This makes it great for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. It’s a bike that boosts your confidence and excitement on the road.
The Kawasaki Z900 is a smart buy for those wanting a versatile, high-performance bike. It’s priced well and comes with features like ABS and sleek design. It’s perfect for anyone looking to step up to a premium supernaked bike.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to the scene, the Z900 is a great pick. It offers top-notch performance and style. Kawasaki has really hit the mark with this bike, showing their dedication to quality and rider satisfaction.
FAQ
What are the key features of the Kawasaki Z900?
The Kawasaki Z900 is a powerful naked bike. It has a retro look but modern performance. It has a 948cc engine, a light chassis, and adjustable suspension.
This bike offers smooth power for city rides and fun weekend adventures.
How does the Z900 compare to its competitors in the 900cc class?
The Z900 faces off against the Suzuki GSX-S1000, Honda CB1000R, and KTM 890 Duke. It has similar power but costs less. This makes it a great choice for those wanting value and performance.
What is the Sugomi design philosophy behind the Z900’s styling?
The Z900 follows Kawasaki’s Sugomi design. It has an aggressive look. Its sharp headlight, broad shoulders, and simple design make it look ready to attack.
What are the performance specifications of the Z900’s engine?
The Z900 has a 948cc, 4-cylinder engine. It makes 125 horsepower and 73.1 lb-ft of torque. It has DFI and 6-speed transmission for smooth power and quick shifting.
What advanced rider assistance features does the Z900 offer?
The Z900 has many advanced features. It has two power modes and four riding modes. It also has three levels of traction control for better safety and confidence.
How does the Z900’s chassis and suspension contribute to its handling performance?
The Z900 has a lightweight trellis steel frame. This makes it agile and easy to handle. Its suspension is adjustable for better control and comfort.
The SE variant has an Öhlins rear shock for even better performance.
What smart technology features are integrated into the Z900?
The Z900 has a 4.3-inch digital TFT display. It’s adjustable for brightness and color. It also connects to smartphones through Kawasaki’s Rideology app.
This lets riders see phone notifications and track their rides.
How does the Z900 prioritize rider comfort and ergonomics?
Despite its bold look, the Z900 focuses on comfort. It’s designed for long rides without getting tired. It has a low seat and a wide rear seat for better grip.
