Kawasaki Z900

Introduction

The 2021 Kawasaki Z900 ups the naked game with a lively, smooth engine, impressive handling along with all-round road manners. However, the bike does not feature any type of electronic rider aid, and neither does it come with a fairing or windscreen, and long before the rider starts to explore the touring potential, and top end performance of the bike, it will have the wind blast get to the rider. Even though it is not a perfect bike, it is designed for easy traffic use. 

How is the design? 

The 2021 Kawasaki Z900 comes with a new headlight cluster, which is similar to the ‘Z’ series. While it shares the same Sugomy Styling with its predecessors, it sports an all-new bikini fairing, along with a new exhaust design and tail section. A fluid look has been added to the bike’s twin headlight, and the forward-jutting jaw line of the Kawasaki Z900 is mated with its aggressive look. The blacked-out windshield is positioned right above the headlight, and it offers wind protection to some extent. Another exciting new feature integrated in this bike is the negative-lit LCD Speedometer, which is similar to the likes of Ninja 650 and Z650. It also features a cascading, semi-circular tachometer, a large centralised digital speed readout and a gear indicator. The organic shape of the fuel tank fits well with the Sugomy design philosophy. 

How is the performance?

Powered by a 948cc inline-four engine, the Kawasaki Z900 has the capacity to produce a peak torque of 98.6Nm at 7,700 rpm and a maximum power of 125ps at 9,500rom. The engine’s refinement level is simply exquisite. The engine has the capacity to offer a nice mid-range with a noticeable kick right after 6,000 rpm. To match with its street fighter character, the Kawasaki Z900 features a short-ratio gearbox and the gears are all closely stacked until fifth, while the sixth gear being relatively taller. The cooling system of the Kawasaki Z900 is absolutely noteworthy, and while cruising through heavy traffic roads, there would not be any noticeable heat from the engine, and this is believed to be commendable for a heavy displacement motorbike. 

How does the Kawasaki Z900 ride? 

The frame of the Kawasaki Z900 is new as well The Z800’s Cast-Alloy Backbone Chassis has been replaced by the new tubular steel trellis unit that weighs around 13.5 Kgs, 1.5Kg lighter than that of the Z650. Besides the low weight, the seat height of the Kawasaki Z900 is also low at 795mm, making a good proportion even for short riders. Coming to the suspension setup, the front features a 45mm up-side down fork, which comes with stepless adjustability for spring preload and rebound damping. The rear still sports the same horizontally mounted linked monoshock. Overall, the ride quality of the Kawasaki Z900 is good for imperfect road-conditions of India, and bumps at high and low speed and handled well in a predictable manner. 

How comfortable is the Kawasaki Z900?

The Kawasaki Z900 comes with wide, well-cushioned seats, which is just big enough to accommodate two adult riders. The seats on the bike are reasonably comfortable for short as well as long rides. The pillion seat is positioned higher; however, it does not come with a backrest. The riding stance is not comfortable enough, with the rider having to bend forward to reach the handlebar. The massive fuel tank gives good support to the knees. The footpegs are positioned a little backward than was necessary. Overall, it can be said that the bike is designed for enthusiasts, rather than daily commuters, as it might be a little uncomfortable for long drives. 

How's the tech? 

For its price, it is not a surprise that the Kawasaki Z900 comes with a range of interesting tech features. Some of the standard features of the bike are listed below:

• Digital Speedometer
• Low Battery Indicator
• Fuel-Warning Indicator
• Pass Light
• Clock
• Power-Mode Section
• Digital Tachometer
• Fuel Gauge
• Smartphone Connectivity
• ABS
• Digital Trip Metre
• Gear Indicator
• Engine Kill Switch
• Low Oil Indicator
• Trip Metre Count
• Integrated Riding Modes

How's the mileage of the Kawasaki Z900? 

The fuel efficiency of the Kawasaki Z900 is between 15.26 to 17.5 Km/L. 

Is the Kawasaki Z900 good value for money? 

With a hefty price tag, there is a lot to expect from the Kawasaki Z900 in terms of designs, ergonomics, fuel efficiency, and performance. Overall, it can be said that the Kawasaki Z900 is able to exhibit a fair performance. Even though it comes with an aggressive design to attract young enthusiasts who want to get the feeling of a race track, better performance is expected in terms of mileage and comfort. Despite all the shortcomings, it has much to offer. It gives the feeling of a superbike and there are very few reasons to not buy this machine. The bike has much potential to offer value to its buyers. 

How is the after sales service? 

Kawasaki Z900 is a high maintenance bike, and in five years it is expected that the total maintenance cost of the bike would be around Rs. 9,09,425. This is supposedly higher than most of its rivals competing in the same segment. Kawasaki has no free service for its Z900. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

There are many other motorbikes competing in the same segment as the Kawasaki Z900. To name a few, BMW R NineT Scrambler, Suzuki V Strom 650 XT, Triumph Street Twin, Ducati Scrambler 800 and so on. 

Verdict (Value for money)

For people looking for a superbike equipped with modern tech features, Kawasaki Z900 is an ideal choice. However, superbikes are available for a more affordable price range. Coming to its designs, ergonomics and comfort, Kawasaki Z900 has done a decent job. In terms of fuel economy, it needs improvement. However, it should also be kept in mind that the Kawasaki Z900 is a high-maintenance motorcycle. People fascinated with superbikes and racing bikes can still buy one at a much cheaper price than the Kawasaki Z900.