The Kawasaki Z900 has firmly established itself as one of the most exciting middleweight naked motorcycles on the market. Known for its aggressive styling, powerful engine, and balanced handling, the Z900 is a favorite among riders seeking a thrilling yet versatile bike for daily commutes and weekend rides. Since its debut, Kawasaki’s Z900 has continually impressed with its blend of raw power, comfort, and technology.
In this comprehensive review, we will explore the Z900’s performance, features, pricing, and how it compares in the competitive 900cc naked segment in 2025.
Design and Styling
The Kawasaki Z900 boasts a sharp and aggressive design language that appeals to enthusiasts who want to stand out. Its muscular fuel tank, LED headlamp, and minimalistic tail section contribute to a sporty yet aggressive posture. The bike’s signature “Sugomi” design philosophy emphasizes a predator-like stance, enhancing its streetfighter appeal.
Key design highlights include:
- LED headlamps with distinctive daytime running lights (DRLs)
- Sculpted fuel tank with knee recesses for a better grip
- Exposed trellis frame painted in metallic green
- Sharp, minimalist tail section with integrated LED indicators
Overall, the Z900 carries a modern and muscular look that commands attention wherever it goes.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Kawasaki Z900 is a 948cc inline-four engine that delivers a compelling blend of power and torque. This liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve engine is finely tuned for both performance and usability, making it suitable for riders who want exhilarating speed as well as manageable daily rideability.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 948cc, 4-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled |
| Maximum Power | 125 PS @ 9,500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 98.6 Nm @ 7,700 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Fuel System | Fuel injection |
| Exhaust | 4-into-1 exhaust with catalytic converter |
| Frame | Trellis frame |
| Suspension (Front) | 41 mm telescopic fork, adjustable preload |
| Suspension (Rear) | Horizontal back-link monoshock, adjustable preload & rebound damping |
| Brakes (Front) | Dual 300 mm discs with radial-mount calipers |
| Brakes (Rear) | Single 250 mm disc |
| ABS | Dual-channel ABS standard |
| Weight | Approx. 212 kg (wet) |
Power Delivery and Riding Experience
The Z900’s inline-four engine delivers 125 PS of peak power, making it one of the most powerful bikes in its class. The power delivery is smooth yet aggressive, offering strong mid-range torque that enables swift overtakes and exhilarating acceleration.
The 6-speed gearbox is slick and precise, enhancing the sporty character of the bike. The bike’s throttle response is sharp but predictable, making it manageable for riders of varying experience levels.
Handling and Suspension
Kawasaki has equipped the Z900 with a trellis frame that balances rigidity and weight, resulting in a chassis that offers sharp handling without compromising comfort. The bike feels nimble in urban traffic and stable at high speeds, making it versatile for different riding scenarios.
The suspension setup includes a 41 mm telescopic fork up front and a horizontal back-link monoshock at the rear, both offering adjustable preload to cater to rider preferences. This setup provides a well-rounded balance between sporty handling and comfort.
Braking Performance
Safety and control are paramount on the Z900. Dual 300 mm discs with radial-mount calipers upfront and a 250 mm disc at the rear provide confident stopping power. The bike comes with dual-channel ABS as standard, ensuring enhanced safety by preventing wheel lock-ups during sudden braking.
Features and Technology
While the Kawasaki Z900 focuses on performance, it doesn’t compromise on technology and rider aids:
- TFT Color Display: Provides clear visibility of speed, rpm, gear position, fuel level, and trip information.
- Riding Modes: Multiple riding modes allow riders to adjust the bike’s performance according to road conditions.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Enhances stability during acceleration by preventing wheel slip.
- LED Lighting: Improves visibility and adds to the modern aesthetic.
- Slipper Clutch: Reduces rear wheel hop during aggressive downshifting.
These features make the Z900 not only thrilling to ride but also safe and user-friendly.
Fuel Efficiency and Mileage
Given its high-performance engine, the Kawasaki Z900 offers a reasonable fuel efficiency for a bike in this segment. On average, riders can expect:
- Mileage: Approximately 15–17 km/l depending on riding conditions.
While not the most fuel-efficient bike, it balances power and economy well for its class.
Pricing and Variants
The Kawasaki Z900 is competitively priced in the middleweight naked motorcycle segment. In 2025, the ex-showroom price typically ranges between:
| Variant | Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Standard Z900 | ₹11,50,000 – ₹12,00,000 |
| Z900 SE (Special Edition) | ₹12,50,000 – ₹13,00,000 |
The Special Edition usually features enhanced graphics, upgraded components, and additional features such as adjustable suspension and premium finishes.
Pros and Cons of Kawasaki Z900
Pros
- High power output for thrilling performance
- Excellent handling and balanced chassis
- Advanced rider aids and safety features
- Modern, aggressive styling
- Comfortable ergonomics for longer rides
Cons
- Slightly heavy compared to some rivals
- Fuel efficiency could be better
- Premium pricing may be a barrier for some buyers
- Limited wind protection at high speeds
Competitors in the Segment
The Kawasaki Z900 competes with several notable motorcycles in the 900-1000cc naked bike category, including:
| Motorcycle | Engine Size | Power (PS) | Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Z900 | 948cc | 125 | ₹11.5L – ₹13L |
| Yamaha MT-09 | 889cc | 119 | ₹10.5L – ₹11.5L |
| Triumph Street Triple RS | 765cc | 121 | ₹11L – ₹12.5L |
| Honda CB1000R | 998cc | 143 | ₹13.5L – ₹14.5L |
Each bike has unique strengths, but the Z900 remains a favorite for those wanting raw power paired with a versatile riding experience.
Conclusion
The Kawasaki Z900 is a powerful, well-rounded naked motorcycle that offers a perfect blend of aggressive performance, stylish design, and modern technology. Its 948cc inline-four engine delivers thrilling power and torque, while the nimble chassis and advanced suspension make it fun and comfortable to ride in various conditions.
Although priced on the premium side, the Z900 justifies its cost with class-leading features, build quality, and a trusted brand name. Whether you are a seasoned rider looking for an adrenaline-packed bike or someone wanting a versatile streetfighter with cutting-edge tech, the Kawasaki Z900 is an excellent choice in 2025.