Kawasaki z900 or yamaha xsr900: which motorcycle offers the best bang for your buck?

The world of naked motorcycles is a vibrant and competitive one, with two of the most popular and well-respected models being the Kawasaki Z900 and the Yamaha XSR900. Both bikes offer a unique blend of performance, style, and affordability, making them favorites among riders of all skill levels. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Kawasaki Z900 and the Yamaha XSR900 to help you make an informed decision.

Performance

Engine: The Kawasaki Z900 is powered by a 948cc inline-four engine that produces 125 horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque. The Yamaha XSR900, on the other hand, features a 847cc crossplane triple engine that delivers 115 horsepower and 65 lb-ft of torque. While the Z900’s engine offers more power and torque, the XSR900’s triple-cylinder configuration provides a smoother, more characterful exhaust note.

Transmission: Both the Kawasaki Z900 and the Yamaha XSR900 come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. However, the Z900 offers an optional automatic clutch system, making it easier to ride in stop-and-go traffic.

Suspension: The Kawasaki Z900 features a 41mm inverted front fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock. The Yamaha XSR900, on the other hand, has a 43mm inverted front fork and a preload- and rebound-adjustable rear shock. Both bikes provide a comfortable and controlled ride, but the XSR900’s suspension is slightly more sophisticated.

Handling

Chassis: The Kawasaki Z900 is built on a lightweight trellis frame, while the Yamaha XSR900 uses a steel diamond frame. The Z900’s chassis provides excellent stability and agility, while the XSR900’s frame is more rigid, resulting in a slightly more planted feel.

Brakes: The Kawasaki Z900 comes with dual 300mm front brake discs and a single 250mm rear brake disc. The Yamaha XSR900 has dual 298mm front brake discs and a single 245mm rear brake disc. Both bikes offer excellent stopping power, but the Z900’s brakes are slightly more powerful.

Tires: The Kawasaki Z900 is equipped with Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 tires, while the Yamaha XSR900 comes with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires. Both sets of tires provide good grip and handling, but the Bridgestone tires are slightly more sporty.

Style

Design: The Kawasaki Z900 has a modern and aggressive design, with a sharp and angular bodywork. The Yamaha XSR900, on the other hand, has a more retro-inspired design, with a round headlight, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and a quilted seat.

Colors: The Kawasaki Z900 is available in four colors: Metallic Spark Black, Metallic Graphite Gray, Candy Lime Green, and Metallic Matte Carbon Gray. The Yamaha XSR900 comes in three colors: Black Metallic, Silver Metallic, and Red Metallic.

Features

Instrumentation: The Kawasaki Z900 has a fully digital instrument cluster that includes a tachometer, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, and fuel gauge. The Yamaha XSR900 has a combination of analog and digital instruments, with a tachometer, speedometer, and a digital display that includes an odometer, trip meter, and fuel gauge.

Lighting: The Kawasaki Z900 has LED headlights, taillights, and turn signals. The Yamaha XSR900 has halogen headlights, LED taillights, and incandescent turn signals.

Other Features: The Kawasaki Z900 comes with an adjustable windscreen, while the Yamaha XSR900 has a standard windscreen. The Z900 also offers an optional quickshifter, while the XSR900 has an optional traction control system.

Price

The 2023 Kawasaki Z900 has a starting price of $8,999, while the 2023 Yamaha XSR900 starts at $9,999. Both bikes are competitively priced, but the Kawasaki Z900 offers a slight advantage in terms of value.

The Ultimate Verdict

The Kawasaki Z900 and the Yamaha XSR900 are both excellent naked motorcycles that offer a unique blend of performance, style, and affordability. The Z900 is the more powerful and aggressive bike, while the XSR900 has a more retro-inspired design and a smoother engine. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and riding style.

If you’re looking for a powerful and modern naked motorcycle, the Kawasaki Z900 is a great choice. If you prefer a more classic-looking bike with a characterful engine, the Yamaha XSR900 is the way to go.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Which bike is faster, the Kawasaki Z900 or the Yamaha XSR900?

A: The Kawasaki Z900 is faster than the Yamaha XSR900, with a top speed of 149 mph compared to the XSR900’s 136 mph.

Q: Which bike is more comfortable for long rides?

A: The Yamaha XSR900 is generally considered to be more comfortable for long rides, thanks to its more upright riding position and slightly softer suspension.

Q: Which bike is better for beginners?

A: Both the Kawasaki Z900 and the Yamaha XSR900 are suitable for beginners, but the XSR900’s smoother engine and more forgiving suspension may make it a slightly better choice for new riders.