Kawasaki Z900: The Kawasaki Z900 is regarded as one of the greatest naked street motorcycles in its segment and that is due to the fact that it has managed to blend power, aggression and everyday usability into one intoxicating mix.
Bolstered by a strong, 948cc, in-line four cylinder engine and 41mm USD forks, the Z900 has a streetfighter-style stance and responsive no-nonsense attitude that’s neither too intimidating for novices nor too boring for experienced riders.
For those Indian fans looking to get a taste of the performance segment without burning a hole in their pockets, the Z900 is the only one that comes close to providing a balance of both.
Bold Styling with Sugomi DNA
The “Sugomi” styling of the Z900 was modelled after a predatory animal.
It appears muscular at any angle, the tightly sculpted fuel tank, exposed trellis frame and minimalist tail section are all on point.
The LED headlamp is sharp and aggressive supported by the new timber wolf inspired headlamp cover and the new body works add a sportier edge to the bike.
This bold attitude is further exaggerated by a wide handlebar, short overhangs and a little exhaust pipe which elegantly insinuates the bike’s aggressive nature.
Even on the centre stand the Z900 looks like it is in motion, like it is straining at the leash.
Smooth Yet Ferocious Engine
Powering the Z900 is a 948cc in-line four, liquid-cooled motor that puts out 125 PS and 98.6 Nm.
This engine is paired with 6 gears, and power transmission is buttery smooth, courtesy advanced engineering.
The Z900’s special sauce is its split personality. And it is serene at low RPMs — perfect for city riding and stop-and-go traffic.
Twist the throttle, however, and the bike springs to life, bounding forward with a rush of torque and a howl from the intake, a sound that’s music to any rider’s ears.
Whether I’m doing a weekend highway blast or carving on twisty hill roads, the Z900’s power plant has remained consistently predictable, while at the same time exciting, with enough flexibility to accommodate various styles of riding.
Excellent Ride and Handling
The Z900 may look like a big bike, but it feels light and stable.
The high-tensile steel trellis frame together with sporty upside down front forks and a rear horizontal back-link monoshock, which is placed low to improve handling and deliver a comfortable ride.
The bike feels quick in turns and stable at the highest speeds. The weight is fairly reasonable at 212 kg, lighter than many in the segment.
The ergos are upright but sporty, so there’s long-haul comfort without surrendering control.
The seat is plush, and the assertive footpeg position helps the rider feel in control.
Additional Features and Technology
The new Z900 isn’t just a brute, it also packs in plenty of modern tech.
There is a TFT digital display that comes Bluetooth enabled for phone connectivity, ride info, gear position, and navigation inputs via a Kawasaki made smartphone app.
Riders are also treated to four riding modes (Sport, Road, Rain, and Rider custom), as well as two power modes and a three-level traction control system (KTRC).
These can be used to provide a customized ride experience according to weather, road conditions, or how you feel that day.
LED headlight, dual-channel ABS and clutch, and assist-and-slipper make the list complete, demonstrating to the world that the Z900 isn’t just mean, it’s also smart.
Efficient as well as Good on Maintenance
Being the segment that it is, the Z900 manages to give return good fuel efficiency — about 15-17 km/l in mixed driving conditions. It’s not a commuter bike, but for weekend rides and long tours, the range suffices.
Regular service and power petrol are recommended, but with Kawasaki’s extensive service network in India, help is never far away.
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Pros
Incredible and Smooth Inline-Four Engine
Great balance, with an impressive ride and handling characteristics
New high tech electronics package including riding modes and traction control
Stylish design Really stands out on the road
The premium naked segment bike for value-conscious customers
Cons
Nothing to shield you from the wind at all at high speeds
Not too firm as city potholes go
No cruise control, an option that competitors are starting to offer
Limited pillion comfort on long rides Pillion’s comfort restricted for long journey
Kawasaki Z900: Verdict
The Z900 from Kawasaki combines speed, sound, handling and looks but, as always, complemented by Euro4 constrictions.
For those who want a ballistic machine that also makes some sense on Indian roads, the Z900 strikes a fine balance of being useful on a day to day basis while delivering unadulterated riding pleasure.