2018 Kawasaki Z900 from Belgium

Summary:

Sporty and powerful

Faults:

Jerking or lack of power at low speeds or when accelerating can be solved by adjusting the clutch sensor.

Shifts to higher gears are sometimes abrupt or "sluggish", although not dangerous.

Very light clutch, but in rare cases, melted discs or problems with the clutch switch sensor that affect the electronics.

Warning lights on, also certain ABS or traction mode problems, often due to historical codes or low voltage.

General Comments:

Starting the engine of the larger Z900 connects you directly with the purest Kawasaki four-cylinder tradition. The moment I sit down, I realize the obvious. The riding position isn't going to be a walk in the park for someone 1.90 m (6'3") tall like me. What matters here is that the bike lets you play with your body, dance from side to side through the curves, and position your rear end towards the back of the seat if you need to adopt a more aerodynamic position on the road... without ending up with a sore neck.

But when you open the throttle, the pleasant hum you hear gives way to its 125 hp, allowing it to accelerate powerfully yet smoothly.

The bike has plenty of power, of course, as you'd expect. To top it all off, the electronic throttle response is simply perfect. The twin-throttle fuel intake really shines here.

The gears are well-spaced, and, although it might sound strange, this translates into greater comfort when moving around the city and pulling away from traffic lights, even for the most everyday errands. Therefore, paradoxically, the bike allows for a fairly relaxed and economical ride.

On winding mountain roads, you find yourself drifting almost unconsciously to one side or the other. Here, you can see how much better the chassis works than on its predecessor, the Z800. The braking is effective; the slipper clutch, very good; the engine response, excellent: unlike the four-cylinder Kawasakis of yesteryear, here you don't need to keep the revs high all the time, because the low-end torque is powerful.

Another important point to consider: this engine has surprised me with its excellent fuel economy (5.5 l/100 km). However, my recommendation is that you don't buy this bike to constantly ride at a snail's pace, as you'll be wasting technology and performance that you should at least be using on weekend rides.

It's far superior to the Z800 I had previously. It's much more refined, and when you're pushing the limits, that's something you really appreciate in terms of comfort and, above all, safety. Does it need any more electronics—for example, traction control and a different engine map? I like it just the way it is, because it's perfectly capable on its own.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th December, 2025

2017 Kawasaki Z900 from United States of America

Summary:

More than an absolute beginner should get, but so well designed that only an idiot can mess it up

Faults:

The left rear view mirror was loose when I first got it. That has been the only issue yet with this bike.

General Comments:

Great acceleration, amazing handling. It's small and light, making it very easy to move around in a pinch, and excels in weaving through traffic.

The biggest downside would definitely be the seat, being that it's not really comfortable for 100+ mile trips. Braking is solid, but requires at least 3 fingers.

All in all, an amazing motorcycle.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 23rd March, 2019