Naked bike showdown: kawasaki z900 vs yamaha mt-07 – performance, features, and price
What To Know
- While the Z900 boasts a clear advantage in power and torque, the MT-07’s lighter weight and lower displacement make it a more agile and fuel-efficient option.
- The MT-07, in contrast, offers a more upright and relaxed seating position, making it a more comfortable choice for extended rides and daily use.
- While the Z900 commands a premium for its superior performance and features, the MT-07 offers an excellent value proposition for budget-conscious riders seeking a versatile and enjoyable motorcycle.
The naked bike segment is a fiercely contested battleground, where manufacturers vie for supremacy with their offerings that combine raw performance and unadorned aesthetics. Among the most notable contenders are the Kawasaki Z900 and the Yamaha MT-07, two motorcycles that have garnered widespread acclaim for their respective strengths. In this comprehensive comparison, we pit the Kawasaki Z900 against the MT-07 to determine which machine reigns supreme in this highly competitive arena.
Engine and Performance:
At the heart of the Z900 lies a potent 948cc inline-four engine that unleashes an exhilarating 125 horsepower and 72 lb-ft of torque. The MT-07, on the other hand, employs a compact 689cc parallel-twin engine that generates a respectable 73 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque. While the Z900 boasts a clear advantage in power and torque, the MT-07’s lighter weight and lower displacement make it a more agile and fuel-efficient option.
Handling and Suspension:
The Z900’s rigid steel trellis frame and 41mm inverted forks provide a planted and responsive ride, while its 5-way adjustable rear shock allows for fine-tuning to suit individual preferences. The MT-07’s tubular steel frame and 41mm conventional forks offer a more forgiving and comfortable ride, making it more suitable for everyday commuting and urban environments.
Braking:
Both the Z900 and MT-07 are equipped with dual front disc brakes, with the Z900 featuring larger 300mm rotors and radial-mount calipers for enhanced stopping power. The MT-07’s 282mm rotors and non-radial calipers provide adequate braking performance, but the Z900’s superior setup offers greater confidence and control under hard braking.
Ergonomics and Comfort:
The Z900’s aggressive riding position, with its low clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs, is designed for spirited riding and track days. The MT-07, in contrast, offers a more upright and relaxed seating position, making it a more comfortable choice for extended rides and daily use.
Features and Technology:
The Z900 boasts a comprehensive array of advanced features, including a full-color TFT instrument cluster, traction control, and multiple riding modes. The MT-07, while less technologically advanced, still offers a basic LCD instrument cluster and optional ABS.
Price and Value:
The Kawasaki Z900 typically retails for around $9,000, while the Yamaha MT-07 is priced at approximately $8,000. While the Z900 commands a premium for its superior performance and features, the MT-07 offers an excellent value proposition for budget-conscious riders seeking a versatile and enjoyable motorcycle.
Final Thoughts:
The Kawasaki Z900 and Yamaha MT-07 represent two distinct approaches to the naked bike concept. The Z900 excels with its raw power, sharp handling, and technological sophistication, making it an ideal choice for performance enthusiasts and track day aficionados. The MT-07, on the other hand, shines with its agility, comfort, and affordability, making it a more practical and versatile option for everyday riders and urban commuters. Ultimately, the best choice between these two titans depends on the individual’s specific needs and preferences.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which motorcycle is more powerful, the Z900 or MT-07?
A: The Kawasaki Z900 is significantly more powerful, with 125 horsepower compared to the MT-07’s 73 horsepower.
Q: Which motorcycle has better fuel efficiency?
A: The Yamaha MT-07 is more fuel-efficient, with a lighter weight and smaller displacement engine.
Q: Which motorcycle is more comfortable for long rides?
A: The Yamaha MT-07 offers a more upright and relaxed riding position, making it more comfortable for extended rides.
Q: Which motorcycle has more advanced features?
A: The Kawasaki Z900 boasts a more comprehensive array of advanced features, including a full-color TFT instrument cluster, traction control, and multiple riding modes.
Q: Which motorcycle is more affordable?
A: The Yamaha MT-07 is typically priced lower than the Kawasaki Z900, offering a better value proposition for budget-conscious riders.