Kawasaki Z900

The heart of the Z900 is its 948 cc inline four engine, a configuration that delivers a smooth yet thrilling rush of power. The motor produces around 124 PS at high revs and close to 98 Nm of torque in the mid range, which means the bike responds instantly whether you are cruising or accelerating hard.

Inline four engines are known for their silk like feel and the Z900 stays true to that reputation. The throttle response has been improved in recent models with more precise electronic control, making low speed rideability easier while still offering a sharp hit at higher revs. 

The six speed gearbox shifts with a reassuring mechanical click and the ratios are spaced to keep the engine in its sweet spot without constant shifting. Real world top speed sits just under the 200 kmph mark and the bike pulls strongly well past highway speeds. Despite being a performance oriented motorcycle, fuel efficiency is surprisingly reasonable for this engine class and the 17 litre tank offers good range for long days of riding. 

The Z900 manages to feel both eager and predictable, a combination that gives confidence to newer riders and excitement to experienced ones.

The Z900’s riding posture is one of its biggest strengths because it blends comfort with sportiness without forcing the rider into extremes. 

The seat height of roughly 830 mm keeps most riders well balanced at standstill and the slightly rear set footpegs give enough leverage for spirited cornering without compromising long distance comfort. The handlebar sits wide and upright enough for daily commutes yet drops low enough to help you lean into fast corners. This mix makes the bike feel natural the moment you start rolling. 

The steel trellis frame adds rigidity while keeping weight distribution neutral. With a wheelbase around 1450 mm, the Z900 stays composed during quick direction changes and remains stable at high speeds.

The suspension tuning strikes a practical middle ground where potholes and bad roads are absorbed without sacrificing the connected feel that sport riders crave. At around 212 kg kerb, the bike is substantial but never clumsy, thanks to Kawasaki’s smart weight placement. In traffic the Z900 feels surprisingly nimble and on open roads it fully transforms into a machine that encourages flowing lines and confident lean angles.

The Kawasaki Z900 carries a design language that feels alive even when the bike is standing still. The bodywork hugs the trellis frame in a way that makes the machine look compact but muscular, and the wide tank flows naturally into the rider seat. The latest update sharpens the face of the bike with a more modern LED headlamp profile that gives the front a focused and almost predatory look. 

The radiator shrouds flare out aggressively, highlighting the inline four engine rather than hiding it. The rear section stays minimal, with a tight tail and a slim LED lamp that keeps the bike looking light from behind. Kawasaki chooses paint schemes that emphasise the exposed frame with contrasting colours, which enhances the mechanical character that the Z series is known for.

Small touches like the tidy exhaust placement, cleanly machined footpeg brackets, and premium switchgear give the bike a more refined appearance than many rivals. Overall, the Z900 feels like a blend of raw energy and controlled design, a motorcycle that looks ready to sprint the moment you swing a leg over it.

Ride by wire technology supports selectable power modes and multi level traction control, letting the rider tailor the motorcycle to road conditions or personal comfort. 

Cornering sensitive ABS steps in gracefully when the bike senses instability, helping control the braking force during panic stops or low grip situations. The front brakes use dual 300 mm discs with radial calipers that deliver strong bite and smooth progression while the rear disc handles moderation with consistency. 

All lighting is LED which improves visibility at night and sharpens the bike’s presence in traffic. Kawasaki has calibrated the electronics to intervene smoothly rather than abruptly. This allows the Z900 to remain fun and energetic without sacrificing safety on unpredictable roads.

The Z900 competes in a segment where every motorcycle has a distinct personality. The Honda CB650R offers a refined but milder inline four experience, focusing more on smoothness than outright punch. 

The Triumph Street Triple comes across as razor sharp and track oriented, ideal for riders who prioritise agility and advanced electronics. 

The Ducati Monster delivers strong torque from its twin cylinder engine along with premium Italian styling and a more compact stance. 

Compared with these options, the Z900 stands out by offering a bigger engine, a smooth and thrilling power delivery, and a balanced chassis that performs well both in the city and on open roads.