A comprehensive technical comparison of these high-tech naked sportbikes, highlighting advanced electronics, digital displays, smart control systems, and performance technology.
Engine & Performance Technology
Yamaha MT-09
Engine: 890cc CP3 inline-triple, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Power: 117 hp @ 10,000 rpm Torque: 93 Nm @ 7,000 rpm Compression Ratio: 11.5:1 Fuel System: Fuel injection with YCC-T ride-by-wire throttle |
Kawasaki Z900
Engine: 948cc inline-four, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Power: 125 hp @ 9,500 rpm Torque: 99 Nm @ 7,700 rpm Compression Ratio: 11.8:1 Fuel System: DFI with 36mm x 4 throttle bodies, ride-by-wire |
Yamaha MT-09: Features a crossplane crankshaft for linear torque delivery and distinctive sound. Equipped with ride-by-wire throttle for precise electronic control, advanced ECU mapping for multiple riding modes (including a customizable mode), and a 3rd-gen quick-shifter for clutchless up/down shifts. Its 6-axis IMU integrates traction control, slide control, and lift control that adapt dynamically to lean angle for cornering safety.
Kawasaki Z900: Utilizes a horizontally mounted back-torque limiting slipper clutch for smooth downshifts. Features an updated fuel injection system with dual injection technology (4 main + 4 sub-injectors) for better throttle response and fuel efficiency. The selectable power modes (Sport, Road, Rain) adjust throttle response and power delivery. ABS integrates with Kawasaki's 5-axis IMU to provide cornering stability and braking control.
Digital & Smart Features
Yamaha MT-09
Display: 5-inch full-color TFT display with adjustable brightness and orientation Connectivity: Yamaha Motorcycle Connect via Bluetooth Features: Navigation alerts, phone notifications, music control, track recording Instrumentation: Gear indicator, shift lights, fuel consumption data, battery voltage, coolant temp |
Kawasaki Z900
Display: 4.3-inch TFT LCD with automatic light/dark mode Connectivity: Kawasaki Rideology app integration via Bluetooth Features: Bluetooth call/message alerts, ride log, vehicle info, custom settings Instrumentation: Gear position, fuel gauge, range, average consumption, eco indicator |
Yamaha MT-09: The system allows for two smartphone connectivity profiles with different notification settings. The display shows incoming calls, messages, and app notifications. The navigation function provides turn-by-turn directions through the app. Riders can customize which information is displayed prominently based on preference.
Kawasaki Z900: The Rideology app enables riders to check vehicle status (fuel level, battery voltage, mileage), log riding data, and change electronic settings remotely. The TFT display changes color themes based on riding mode selection, and the SE model includes additional connectivity features for performance tracking.
Safety & Control Systems
Lean-Sensitive ABS | Both bikes feature cornering ABS with IMU integration |
Traction Control | MT-09: 6-level adjustable + off | Z900: 3-mode + off (SE model has additional adjustability) |
Wheelie Control | MT-09: Lift Control System (adjustable) | Z900: Indirect through traction control |
Engine Brake Management | MT-09: Adjustable through riding modes | Z900: Not explicitly adjustable |
Launch Control | MT-09: Available on SP model | Z900: Not available |
Emergency Stop Signal | MT-09: Standard | Z900: Standard on SE model |
Advanced IMU Technology: Both motorcycles utilize sophisticated Inertial Measurement Units (IMU) that measure pitch, roll, and yaw rates along with acceleration forces. The Yamaha system uses a 6-axis IMU that enables more precise cornering-aware safety interventions. Kawasaki's 5-axis IMU focuses primarily on cornering ABS and traction control functions.
Chassis, Suspension & Braking Tech
Frame Type | MT-09: Diamond-shaped aluminum frame | Z900: High-tensile steel trellis frame |
Front Suspension | MT-09: 41mm USD fork, fully adjustable (Öhlins on SP) | Z900: 41mm USD fork, adjustable preload and rebound (fully adjustable on SE) |
Rear Suspension | MT-09: Link-type monocross shock, fully adjustable (Öhlins on SP) | Z900: Horizontal back-link shock, adjustable preload and rebound (fully adjustable on SE) |
Front Brakes | MT-09: Dual 298mm discs, 4-piston calipers | Z900: Dual 300mm discs, 4-piston radial calipers |
Rear Brakes | MT-09: 245mm disc, single-piston caliper | Z900: 250mm disc, single-piston caliper |
Wheels & Tires | MT-09: 10-spoke cast aluminum, 120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear | Z900: 6-spoke cast aluminum, 120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear |
Yamaha MT-09: Features an aluminum swingarm for reduced unsprung weight and improved suspension response. The chassis is designed with optimized mass centralization for agile handling. The SP model features premium Öhlins electronic suspension with automatic preload adjustment and manually adjustable damping.
Kawasaki Z900: Utilizes a lightweight trellis frame that contributes to a low curb weight of 212kg. The SE model features fully adjustable Showa suspension front and rear with a BPF (Big Piston Fork) for consistent damping performance. The braking system uses radial-mount calipers for improved rigidity and feel.
Performance Metrics & Testing Data
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | MT-09: 3.2 seconds | Z900: 3.4 seconds |
Top Speed | MT-09: 225 km/h (140 mph) | Z900: 240 km/h (149 mph) |
Fuel Consumption | MT-09: 5.2 L/100km (45 mpg) | Z900: 5.5 L/100km (43 mpg) |
Fuel Capacity | MT-09: 14 L | Z900: 17 L |
Curb Weight | MT-09: 189 kg | Z900: 212 kg |
Power-to-Weight Ratio | MT-09: 0.62 hp/kg | Z900: 0.59 hp/kg |
Performance Analysis: While the Z900 produces more peak horsepower, the MT-09's lighter weight and torquier engine configuration give it an advantage in acceleration tests. The MT-09's CP3 engine delivers strong low-end and mid-range torque, making it particularly responsive in urban environments and canyon riding. The Z900's inline-four character provides smoother power delivery at higher RPMs, favoring top-end performance and highway riding.
Pricing (USD & BDT)
Model | USD | BDT (Approx.) |
---|---|---|
Yamaha MT-09 Standard | $10,799 | ৳1,312,000 |
Yamaha MT-09 SP | $12,099 | ৳1,470,000 |
Kawasaki Z900 | $9,899 | ৳1,202,000 |
Kawasaki Z900 SE | $11,299 | ৳1,373,000 |
Conversion rate: 1 USD ≈ 121.5 BDT (Aug 2025). Local taxes and import duties may affect final pricing.
Technical Advantages Summary
Yamaha MT-09 Technical Advantages:
- More sophisticated 6-axis IMU enabling advanced cornering-aware safety systems
- Lighter weight chassis (23kg lighter than Z900)
- More adjustable electronics with greater customization options
- Quick shifter for both up and down shifts
- SP model features premium Öhlins electronic suspension
- Crossplane crankshaft for unique power character and sound
Kawasaki Z900 Technical Advantages:
- Higher displacement engine with greater peak horsepower
- Larger fuel tank for extended range
- Smoother inline-four engine character
- SE model offers fully adjustable suspension at a competitive price
- Traditional analog throttle feel with ride-by-wire precision
- Proven reliability with established engine platform
Verdict for Tech Enthusiasts
The Yamaha MT-09 leads in advanced electronics, ride-by-wire agility, and smart display integration. Its comprehensive suite of electronic aids, lighter weight, and more sophisticated IMU make it the choice for riders who prioritize cutting-edge technology and customizable performance. The CP3 engine's character provides instant response and exciting power delivery.
The Kawasaki Z900 offers raw inline-four power, a more traditional riding experience with modern safety nets, and excellent value. Its slightly more basic but effective electronics package appeals to riders who want essential rider aids without complexity. The SE model's fully adjustable suspension and additional features bridge the technological gap at a competitive price point.
For connectivity and tech features:
For engine performance and character:
Frequently Asked Questions (Tech-Focused)
Q: Which bike has more advanced electronics?
A: Yamaha MT-9 with its 6-axis IMU enables more sophisticated lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, and lift control systems compared to the Z900's 5-axis IMU.
Q: Can I track my riding data with these motorcycles?
A: Both offer smartphone apps that log riding data. The Yamaha system provides more detailed analytics while Kawasaki's app focuses on essential ride information and vehicle status.
Q: Which bike offers better suspension technology?
A: The MT-09 SP features premium Öhlins electronic suspension, while the Z900 SE offers fully adjustable Showa suspension. Both are high-quality, with the Öhlins system being more advanced but also more expensive.
Q: How do the riding modes differ between these bikes?
A: The MT-09 offers more granular control with multiple levels of intervention within each mode, plus a fully customizable mode. The Z900 provides three distinct modes with less customization but simpler operation.
Q: Which bike has better cornering ABS?
A: Both systems are highly effective, but the MT-09's 6-axis IMU provides slightly more precise cornering braking intervention due to its ability to measure more parameters.