2021 Kawasaki Z900: Is Four-Cylinder Power Enough To Set This Naked Sport Bike Apart From The Pack?
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- čas přidán 6. 07. 2024
- In this video, Alex rides the latest Kawasaki Z900 to see what it's all about. Does it have the power and tech to fend off its rivals, or does it still need some thoughtful updates to keep it competitive? Let's find out!
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#Kawasaki #Z900 #Review - Auta a dopravní prostředky
I went to buy a MT09 and seen the Z900, so naturally I had to ride both. I was so set on the MT09 but after riding both back to back twice I rode home on my new Z900. Zero regrets period!!!
What did you like about the z900 over the mt09? I’m in the same boat and can’t decide on the z900, street triple r, or mt09.
@@keltecdan I rode both too, have had my Z900 for a year now. I went with it for a couple of reasons, but main 3 points are: 1- the mt09 is very attractive for thieves, at least in my area 2- the smoothness of the engine and the comfort 3- the looks, Kawi does amazing paint jobs and I love the way the bike looks from the side. I don't love the headlight, liked it on the 1000 more, but it still looks nice
The Z900 seat is just terrible and the passenger is even worse that is my only complaint spend the money and have it redone that's what I am looking into doing now with a couple local places.
Smoothest engine ever. I ride my mates often and the engine, slipper clutch and response is perfect.
@@garyrayner6330 I love the slipper clutch makes down shifting so much smoother don't even really have to Rev match. Engine has plenty of pull even in the lower RPM range which is great for a road bike but would also be a blast on the track.
Great review and FINALLY someone who goes over both ergonomics and body size to give us a good perspective on fit!
I bought a 2020 z900 last month and have zero regrets. I really like the smooth predictable power delivery, it’s comfortable, has really good brakes, and you don’t feel the heat from the engine, even on a long ride in hot weather. Also the suspension soaks up the bumps nicely.
can/will you share cost?
@@BS-np7ms The 2020 model I purchased in Candy Plasma MSRP was $9299, but I paid $8799 because it was on sale.
I get my 2021 delivered in 7 days is traction control on all the time or can it be disabled
@@elvisthewart670 There are four modes. Rider mode is the one you will be able to turn the traction control off. Rider mode in full power and KTRC (traction control) off. Man i almost shit my pants the first time I tried that. Its a torque monster so be careful on the throttle.
@@One_Less_Thing
Nice! Me too. Same color as well.
I was looking for an mt09 but I'm leaning towards the z900 now! Looks awesome, better gas mileage, keep hearing how comfortable it is, smoother throttle, etc. So excited to find one!
I don't really want a ton of tech in my bike. Fuel injection, ABS/traction control, ,and cruise control are all I really want
"I want all the tech' - guy who says he doesnt want a lot of tech.
@John Doe no, it doesn't have cruise control
@No_Name Depend on your type of bike and riding I own Tuono 1100rr and cruise control is a must for me when I ride on the highway for few hours
Also, if you're riding superbikes on the street it's a life savior.
@No_Name
I just told you how. Even on my Tuono 1100 riding just on the straight roads for a long time is very boring and fatiguing when cruise control is engaged you can stretch and rest and you'll save a lot of energy.
Also, just because someone riding a superbike on the street doesn't tell you if the rider takes the bike to the track or not nor it must take the bike to a track some just enjoy it riding on the straight really fast, or canyon roads.
I have a lot of fun commuting on my r1 the issues start when I need to take a long trip like the local track is 110 miles away and it's very boring to get there.
You're obviously never ridden on a straight road for a long time if you're talking like that.
BTW supersport and superbikes are totally separate categories.
"Supersports" are 600cc to 750cc race replica bikes and superbikes are 1000cc race replica bikes so it least get the category right before you call someone an idiot.
@@Fearless154 The Aprilia Tuono 1100rr is an amazing bike. Way out classes both the z900 and the MT09. I own a Kawasaki ZRX1200R and a 2017 Yamaha FZ-09. If I had the $15,000 to spend on the Tuono I would in a second. The Tuono is an Italian master piece.....
Couldn’t agree more, I love launching my naked bike at traffic lights and fine tuning my launches. There might be a time here or there I wish I had more top end pull like a supersport, but far more often, I appreciate the low end pull and grunt my bike offers.
Agree, it's super fast but you kinda expect that top end hit like other inline4s but it's just linier. But i love the everywhere torque. It's almost a perfect engine. I haven't ridden a bike with a better engine TBH. I own an 1190adventure which is a smaller version of the 1290 duke and that is considered one the the best engines out there. In fact seat of the pants they feel similar but the z900 is way smoother.
Love the in-line four sound.
The Z900 looks 50x better than the mt 09. I personal have a Z650 and it’s more than adequate for me. As much as I love the look of the 900, I already feel the 650 has more than enough power for everyday riding, even on the highway I reach 150-160kms with ease
I agree. Even the 2024 models, the entire subframe (tail) is just ugly on the MT-09 while it’s pointy and aggressive on the Z900.
About to pick up my Z900 this afternoon, can't wait!!
Got a 2022 z900 and am impressed every time I ride it . Plenty fast and comfortable cruising around .
Another quality review. I get the impression this bike is good for those that are switching from dedicated cruisers to a naked sport bike. The comfort you praised it for would def. give a new rider to this style something familiar to enjoy.
This is also for those switching from sport bikes to nakeds.
I have a 2019 Z900 ABS. Got it for a great price with just over 2k miles on it. It has the older style gauge but I don't need all that fancy stuff. It has more than enough power at just about any point in the rev range but it is actually very manageable/friendly in the lower revs. I moved to this bike from a 300 and it's still amazing how easily it cruises at higher speeds. I will say that I feel the seating position in my back (between my shoulder blades) right around the 2.5 hour mark - other than that, I couldn't be happier with it.
I 100% agree. Hard to believe just how smooth and punchy it is at low rpm. it's great. And that back issue could be the bars. They have a strange bend to them which forced my wrist inwards. I've noticed a few other reviews saying the same thing. Changing out the bars is cheap mod to do, could help your back with a bar that doesn't force you elbows in so much.
It's a great bike. I have the 2020 model and I absolutely love it.
biggest thing I loved about the z900 is how comfortable it was. at 6'1, and um....."hefty".... it was surprisingly comfy. I felt much more comfortable than on my friends mt09 he owned a while back.
Bought a 2019 z900 Jan 2019. Love this beast. Sounds AMAZING with full exhaust
z1000 owner here, same engine basically. that motor is a tower of power and doesnt need and fancy electronics its right in the sweet spot
I have the 2019 Z900rs, I love it. Little over 1 year and zero issues.
I’ve got a 2018 with 45,000 km and no issues yet as well
Great choice! Enjoy the bike life...
I’ve had my 2020 z900 about 6 months now & love it. Did a full system, tune, BMC air filter & gearing change. With those 4 things the machine is a true beast & still smooth as butter
Get Chris Moore to flash it. Big gains
I have an sc project slip on and it actually sounds very good. But when you remove the db killer does that change the way the engine behaves, like stalling?
@@Snotroggel453 you have nothing to worry about with a slipon. Honestly you don’t get much out of a slipon on a Z900 because of the breadbox. Only time I’d really recommend tuning is with a full system.
I have the 2018 no tech, just start and go, real fun bike!
Great review, I have the 2020 model and absolutely love it. Dial in the suspension, get a better seat, and an ECU flash and this bike REALLY comes to life.
What seat do you recommend?
@@strahlemann6248 I used the Luimoto gold gel seat kit, pretty easy to re- upholster. took me about 2 hours total I would say...makes a hell of a difference. www.luimoto.com/?my=623
@@strahlemann6248 check out Sit and Fly seat covers if you wanna be cheap on it. I love mine and just bought a replacement seat for track days
I just got mine. 150km in 3 days so far, love love love it.
when i got mine in april i made the 1k Inspection after 3 days i love this Bike
I have a 2021 model with red frame and wheels. I added a full titanium SC Projects exhaust and Translogic quickshifter and those two mods make it a great bike, rather than just very good.
Bought brand new last year bought a sc project full exhaust...what a difference bike rips ....I just dropped it off for ecu flash power commander and Dyno....can't wait to get it back....love this bike
The only reasons I’m getting the mt09 over this is the quick shifter and the rising position for a tall person on the z900 is brutal
Great review!
I was gonna get a MT09 i was pretty deadset on it then i seen the Z900, rode both and have absolutely zero regrets picking my Z900 its an insane Bike for Cruising as well as getting into some fun !
This bike simply doesn't need all the tech, the first version of this bike proved that. The chassis on a z900 is sublime.
I totally agree! ..but nerds love tech and a lot of nerds are buying bikes these days. Kawasaki is just being smart by widening their sales demographic. Plus side you can turn off what tech you don’t want on.
that sell bikes.. 21 century must have something like yamaha and others
It has less tech than the Yamaha 900 and more power.
Where are the potholes? I've quit riding on the road because the combination of idiots and craters took the fun out of riding. What a strange land you've found. Good review Alex, getting very smooth and consistent in your reporting.
Thanks for the review! I had a 2007 Z1000 (953cc) years ago and I suspect this bike has a similar feel.
Thank you great review in-line four all the way!
bought the 2022 B/W z900 last week. 300 miles in I LOVE IT. came from FZ07. pulled muffler as it interferes with my right foot positions and gave it just the right exhaust note. Gone to 133 so far with ease. Ordered a minus 5 rear as it seems to only be geared for 160 at red line. Puig biggest windshield for this model is too tall. makes it hard to tuck in as my helmet hits. need to buy the middle screen now(sadly no returns on puig)
Exactly what I’m looking at. Coming from an R6 and 2 Ninjas.
But I’m an old guy looking to change it up a bit.
I have the RS version. Love it.
Excellent video and nice bike!
Great review
I’ve done just over 9,000 miles on mine. I’ve never wished the bike had more tech. I’ve nothing on mine, no rider modes, no ABS and I don’t feel the bike is any the less for it. I prefer the seating position of this than the MT09. I felt way too upright on the MT09. The Z feels a much sportier ride, IMO. It’s a great bike with just the right amount of power for the road.
Great bike, Z900 always in my heart.
I just picked up one of these bad boys 3 weeks ago. Coming from a CBR600RR this thing has been the comfiest/smooth bike i've ever owned.
How does it compare power wise? I'm coming from a 650 granted its no super sport like the RR but I've been craving something more powerful
@@Mackathne I would say its on par speed wise with a 600RR. The Honda rips at higher RPMs whilst the Z900 is super quick off the line. Mine is fully bolt-ons now and I'm just waiting on the tune so hopefully it fixes that high RPM power loss. I don't regret not getting another supersport though, naked bikes are plenty fast and so much easier for me to corner quickly.
@@FoolishTunings beautiful thanks for the response. Definitely been eyeing naked bikes and the Z seems like a beast for the price
Cant wait to get mine, this thing is just as fast as the zx6r
Got a 2022 ...big fun ...no regrets
Love my Z900. Best all round bang for buck sportsbike on the market ...
I had a 250r many years ago and I just bought a '22 Z900 to get back into riding again, bit worried I bit off too much but cant wait to get back on a bike
I really love this bike and cb650r. I wish to own one in the future. I will keep it forever.
As a Kawasaki owner and tech enthusiast, I honestly don’t want them adding more tech into their mainstream bikes and raising the prices and maintenance up. Regardless of how much tech has been on a street bike that I’ve owned, I set things up the first time, adjusted as needed, then I forgot about them after that.
same here, it was the raw nature of kawasakis bikes that attracted me in the first place.
competions is problem .. i like this one enouf tech dosent need anything else anymore but it will be.. everybody put it.. so kawasaki must folow
They didn't raise the price at all and everything they added was worth it. Btw ive a 2020 and tc save my ass already
@GregAndr well what matters most that is light when you ride..
I have the non-abs, one rider mode version and I wouldn't change a thing. It's like riding a modern throwback.
Next time you test ride Kawasaki’s in FootHill Ranch,and you’re on the road that you were riding turn right at Cook’s Corner bar, it’s the best part of riding in that area 😎👍🏼👍🏼. Loving all these TFL Bike reviews!
Yup, that's a sweet road! That's where I took the KLX300SM which is already live on the channel.
I went to the Kawasaki Let the God Times Roll tour this summer and rode several of their bikes; my aim was the Z400 and the three 650's: Z, Ninja and Z-RS and I rode and loved them all. I had NO wish to ride the 900's; too big for me and my lack of experience. but after trying the others I was happy and comfortable and had a go on first this, the Z900 then the Z900 RS and I was struck by the ease of riding both bikes, the astonishing smoothness of the engine and how compact they both were. The straight four is ridiculously smooth and powerful; I fell in love, I will admit.. I shall start with a smaller bike to learn, but I may end up with this..
Have a 2017 z900 with no tech or abs and I love it just as much as my friend loves his mt 09. Both are great bikes but that 4 cylinder. You never want to go back. Plus my exhaust is almost completely gutted cuz there is no emission testing where I live so I really hear it. Lol
Hopefully getting this for my next bike
Good review
I have a 2019 Z900, So I have had it for about 4 years. I love it, I don't think I'll ever sell it, that being said I commute over mountain roads 75% of the year and I feel like I am missing some of the hardline performance when I'm hitting the twisties super hard. It's too much power in the city and more than enough on the highway, but it's not a super sport and the only time you really notice is when your going hard in the canyons.
Thinking of getting one of these as a 2nd bike next to my dyna street bob!!!
I'm thinking the same thing except to put it next to my fatboy
Just picked up a 2020 z900 and I absolutely love it! I was also in the market for an mt09 but got a great deal on the z900 that I couldn't pass up. I got this to replace my cbr600rr, I wanted something with similar power but comfortable enough for longer rides. the z900 ticked off everything I was looking for. The only thing that would make it perfect is a better pillion seat, that thing is horrible!
The MT09 sounds so good but I got my 2023 Z900 I commute from Coney Island to Long Island City. A 1.5 hour train ride I get it in 25 mins. Love my Z
I was between 2020 Z900 and 2020 MT 09, i ended to get the MT09 simple fact i like the torque of the bike and it is a very fun fun bike to ride, i had a 2012 Z1000 that I love, but i like the looks of the mt09 little better!! when i sell my mt i would buy a Z900 for sure!! sweet bike!! I forgot, the resale value is better in the mt than the z900 !!
I agree with just a little more effort this bike could be unstoppable. Thank you!
Just bought my 22’ z900 after I was set on the zx6r lol. At my dealership the mt09 was a few thousand more
I'd really like to see fuel mileage added to your reviews like they do in the other TFL videos
Just cruising I have an AVG of 60.9 MPG
I can only get 40 mpg, joy riding
@@bansu6726 Sounds about right. I did reset my MPG and I’m m at 36.2
@@daleplay5915 Managed 63 MPG but it was literally a snail trail...... Average fun ride is 35 mpg.
Good review. I like the Z900 and the MT-09 but I can't get past the ugly headlight on the MT-09. I prefer the Z900 although in previous years I have usually preferred the color combo on the MT-09. They are both great motorcycles and whichever one people buy I am sure they won't regret it.
@GregAndr That's not accurate. Most people buy a specific motorcycle based on looks which is why Harley Davidson sells the most motorcycles in the USA.
@GregAndr LMAO. That was funny!
"I can't get past the ugly headlight on the MT-09."
I had the original. The next gen was okay. The latest one is hideous. But still a great bike.
i recall a time when it was the fairings that were rare
I love riding Santiago
Great review! I'm really starting to enjoy these. One thing I'd like to see would be to have the bikes ridden at night to see the light pattern from the headlights. Some are so abysmal that it would make me very concerned to riding it at night. But you guys are doing a great job!
I've seen others do this. Their cameras never pick up the light pattern very well, you don't learn a lot.
@@TerenceKaplan awe hell, I never thought of that. Appreciate the comment.
@@christopher9626 Plus there is also the fact that even is someone tried to give you their opinion on the headlight performance, if they are taller or shorter than you, you might have a different experience with how your eyes perceive the light out in front of you, because of the difference between your typical riding position versus theirs.
@@bladecutter1 Absolutely true. I hadnt thought of that. Always something knew to learn and consider. Thanks for the lesson
The rear running/brake light is super cool. Makes a z pattern when you’re not braking.
Good one ❤️❤️
What about the close together transmission ratios? Is it fast enough? This or 2021 MT-09 with up down quick shifter? Thinking about 2021 Mt-09 but unable to get test ride so far in Houston.
I have the previous gen (2018) and wouldn't change. Why? Just ABS, nothing else. Everything is on you. Just perfect, like good all times - jump in the seat, start and go. Comfy while sporty suspension, great in twisties, great for commuting, adaptable for cruising and travelling. More than enough torque down low and horses up there. Dunno about better street all-rounder with sporty character, especially for the $$$ at that time.
i dont think theres anything really between the mt09 the z900 and the street triple r. theyre all blinding machines with rocket ship speed on tap. i own and mt09 and i nearly traded it for a z900 but i recently went on a group ride with a triple r and that thing was super fast. theyre all great machines, id probably own all of them over the next four or five years one at a time.
great bike, awesome
I was torn, but ended up going with new MT09. Can't pass up that quick shifter
Z900rs Cafe Lime Green South Australia! Slipper clutch and traction control heavier flywheel with better low midrange torque!
It is an easy choice for me to make. Z900 even compared to the new MT-09. The price difference is about two and half grand.
Mine sounds sooo good with a full system
I had a new 2019 Mt09 my experience with it in the lower and mid rpms.a beast. Not so much after 7000 rpm. I traded it with regrets.
WD Holm
"I had a new 2019 Mt09 my experience with it in the lower and mid rpms.a beast"
The only sub 1000 cc bike in the sub 3 sec range 0-60. I hade one. The torque from such a light bike was just unworldly. Light. Upright seating position. But the seat was a pos. Needed the comfort seat.
@@SamIAm-kz4hg Yep, I had to change the seat and get some kind of shield because 70 mph was uncomfortable on the highway
5:25 -5:35 hold in the clutch lever.
You've mentioned before the MT-09 (gen 1 & 2) had some head shake when under hard acceleration, did you notice any with the Z900?
Nope, you won't get that with the Z900, that's for sure, smoothest engine I have ridden
If you are looking for a smooth bike, this is your bike.
MT09 is great for the grunt, but this one is on rails on the twisties.
Brakes need an upgrade :))......if you're railing it on the track (or on the road for you illegal guys), brakes will give you enough scares to change the brake lines and pads to say the least.
Other than that, it's a beautifull bike to ride.
will it power wheelie in the first couple gears like the MT09 ?
nice bike boss🤓
Bad ass bike, I like it!
You said the right word : REFINED !
Last summer I test drove an MT09, GSXS750 Duke 790 and a Monster (all 2020 models)
When I got on the Z ... I was pleasantly surprise with the smoothness and refinement of the powerband
Still don't know what to buy, tho ! 😫
Street triple!
@@toddlehman1 I couldn’t last year ... I will try again this summer 👍🏻
I found the same thing with the Z900. So super smooth. A great commuters bike cos you can be lazy with the gears but it rips when you want to. I liked it more than the MT09. Couldn't justify the difference between it and the STRS or the MV... I haven't ridden the Duke 790, how does it compare?
@@Whos-That-Guy Definitely sportier, lighter. Mind you, these are personnal taste, but I found it rougher (engine, transmission) and not as confortable, for me, as the Z. I'm a more mellow rider. Commuting more than canyon carving. So the Duke, as beautiful as it is, was out of my list being the last one in my rating. But it is still a beast.
Me too. Although I liked the Suzuki GSX-S1000 the most.
My 2019 zed900 hasnt got all that traction control etc.
Doesnt need it.
Bike ROCKS.
I just bought one haven't put alot of miles on it I just wish I could find a taller seat I have a longer inseam and the fit could be taller but otherwise I like it alot
Is the wind not a problem at high speeds on a naked bike? On my ninja 400 I feel like I'm going to get blown off and I have some amount of wind screen to work with.
If in-line four cylinders are your thing, then check out Suzuki’s GSX-S 1000.
Best bike for the money.
Looks awesome too.
The MT09 requires high revs to get any performance out of it. Once you find it, it's only around fir a short time before dropping off. The Z900 has a real and usable powerband for daily riding, something the competition lacks.
That foot peg location, knees all bent up like a sport bike...no can do. Nice machine tho.
This bike is like a hot V6 sport sedan. Like a KIA stinger. The stinger is not a mustang, but it's better than a mustang in many ways. I haven't driven a Stinger but I have ridden a z900 and I owned a 2010 XR6 Flacon for 10 years (g'day to the aussies out there). The Z900 is very much like a XR6T (yes I have drive the Turbo version of the xr6). Super fast, comfortable, practicable and under the radar. kinda. It's both a bogan dropped on it's guts kinda bike and also a grown up "Shela told me I gota give up the sauce and the farkin XU Torana cos of the kidz" kinda bike...
I had a stinger and it definitely beats a mustang GT off the line and in corners. I also have a z650 and z900 and would definitely compare the 900 to being an underdog and not noticeable out there.
Tried it, liked it, went the with the GSX-S750: Does everything for thousands less.
As said in other comments this bike doesn't need all the tech.
Why does the opening sound remind me of star wars🤔
Would you add a screen for a bit of wind protection above 60mph? The larger Kawi screen or puig?
I am also wondering...
I hope the 2023 SE model gets quick shifter and cruise control.
yea same
im doing z900 rs cafe vlogs, (could use views n likes!) id love to see the inside of the airbox on yours, does it have 4 equal stacks or 2 long ones in the middle, id like that extra 20hp yours has
looks like ecm flash is the only way, hopefully dont need that thousand $ pipe
Hey what do you think about long trips on this bike? Cheers
Yeah most people got it in the comments but I just got a 2024 z900 and that's the whole reason I got it because of its lack of tech
I really don't agree with all moto journalist asking for more tech every single year. I would ask for full adjustable suspension and Lean-ABS for added security. I love shifting gears that's one of the fun things riding. To much automation and you can ride a s Maxi cooter instead.
Yeah never wanted a quickshifter. It's redundant on the street really... Changing gears and feeling the clutch is part of riding bike!
@@NooDLES411911 i disagree, i have QS on my bike and do & enjoy both: regular shifting and QS too, each has its place/time
I want this or a Honda CBR 650R for my first bike. Maybe both. Moving to North Carolina from Long Island so I am going to wait until I am somewhere with more room to ride. I am sure you guys wanted to know this.
Better bike than the new Yamaha 900
Can you look into the csc sg250 and sg400?
the mt09 is a best seller for a reason, the engine is magical, in terms of charisma and fun factor its up there with the supernakeds.
Quick shifter auto blip cruise control and it’s a contender to the new MT09
Z900 is already way better then the MT09
Quickshifter is useless outside of competitive racing for anyone that knows anything. Just bang bumpshifts, you’re doing the same thing a quick shifter does yourself then.
I wanted an MT-09 or a Z900. Got the Z900 for almost $2,000 less than what the Yamaha dealer was asking. Easy decision.
Would you suggest a wind screen?