Highlights
- The Duke 890, on the other hand, has a more futuristic and aggressive styling, with a sharp-edged headlight and a sculpted fuel tank.
- The Z900 is a more comfortable and affordable option, while the Duke 890 offers more performance and a more aggressive riding position.
- However, the Z900 is more comfortable and affordable, while the Duke 890 offers more performance and a more aggressive riding position.
The Kawasaki Z900 and KTM Duke 890 are two of the most formidable naked bikes on the market. Both machines offer blistering performance, sharp handling, and aggressive styling. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll put the Kawasaki Z900 and KTM Duke 890 head-to-head to help you make an informed decision.
Engine and Performance
The Kawasaki Z900 is powered by a 948cc inline-four engine that produces 125 horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque. The KTM Duke 890, on the other hand, features an 889cc parallel-twin engine that generates 119 horsepower and 67 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the Z900 has a slight edge in power and torque. However, the Duke 890’s lighter weight (by about 40 pounds) gives it a better power-to-weight ratio. This translates to quicker acceleration and more responsive handling.
Handling
Both the Z900 and Duke 890 are renowned for their agility and precision. The Z900’s steel trellis frame provides a solid foundation for its suspension, which is fully adjustable and offers a wide range of settings. The Duke 890’s chromoly steel frame is equally impressive, and its WP suspension is also fully adjustable.
In terms of handling, the Duke 890 has a slight advantage due to its lighter weight and shorter wheelbase. It’s more flickable and easier to maneuver, especially in tight corners. However, the Z900’s longer wheelbase provides greater stability at higher speeds.
Electronics
The Kawasaki Z900 comes standard with a suite of electronic rider aids, including traction control, ABS, and a quickshifter. The KTM Duke 890 offers a more comprehensive electronics package, which includes lean-angle sensitive ABS, cornering ABS, traction control, and a quickshifter.
The Duke 890’s electronics are more sophisticated and offer a wider range of customization options. However, the Z900’s electronics are still very good and provide a good level of safety and convenience.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Kawasaki Z900 is a relatively comfortable bike for its class. The seat is well-padded and the riding position is upright and relaxed. The KTM Duke 890, on the other hand, has a more aggressive riding position. The seat is firmer and the handlebars are lower, which puts more weight on the rider’s wrists.
For long-distance riding, the Z900 is the more comfortable choice. However, the Duke 890’s more aggressive riding position is better suited for spirited riding.
Styling
The Kawasaki Z900 and KTM Duke 890 have very different styling. The Z900 has a more traditional naked bike look, with a round headlight and a muscular fuel tank. The Duke 890, on the other hand, has a more futuristic and aggressive styling, with a sharp-edged headlight and a sculpted fuel tank.
Ultimately, the choice between the Z900 and Duke 890’s styling is a matter of personal preference. However, it’s worth noting that the Duke 890’s more aggressive styling may appeal to a wider range of riders.
Price
The Kawasaki Z900 has a starting price of $8,999, while the KTM Duke 890 has a starting price of $11,999. The Duke 890 is more expensive, but it also offers a more comprehensive electronics package and a more aggressive riding position.
Which One Is Right for You?
The Kawasaki Z900 and KTM Duke 890 are both excellent naked bikes. The Z900 is a more comfortable and affordable option, while the Duke 890 offers more performance and a more aggressive riding position.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. This will give you a firsthand experience of their performance, handling, and comfort.
The Bottom Line: The Ultimate Showdown
The Kawasaki Z900 and KTM Duke 890 are two of the best naked bikes on the market. They offer blistering performance, sharp handling, and aggressive styling. However, the Z900 is more comfortable and affordable, while the Duke 890 offers more performance and a more aggressive riding position.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. This will give you a firsthand experience of their performance, handling, and comfort.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which bike is faster, the Kawasaki Z900 or KTM Duke 890?
A: The KTM Duke 890 is faster, thanks to its lighter weight and better power-to-weight ratio.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable, the Kawasaki Z900 or KTM Duke 890?
A: The Kawasaki Z900 is more comfortable, thanks to its more upright riding position and well-padded seat.
Q: Which bike is more expensive, the Kawasaki Z900 or KTM Duke 890?
A: The KTM Duke 890 is more expensive, with a starting price of $11,999 compared to the Z900’s starting price of $8,999.
