2020 Kawasaki Z900

2017 was the year that the Kawasaki Z900 replaced the outgoing Z800, the increase in displacement and chassis developments gave its fellow naked bike competition a run for the money. Seriously, the Z900 is a capable motorcycle.

Now for 2020, the Z900 continues to see styling, chassis, and tech updates that further enhance this naked supersport. New and notable features include ride modes, traction control, improved suspension, strengthened frame, and more. Powering this exhilarating Z is the 948cc inline-four mill and as one of the higher-displacement models in the Z lineup, it is designated for those seeking to put the improved chassis to use slaloming up and down the asphalt or racing the clock at the track.

The Z900 spent some quality time with our in-house rear wheel dyno to prove that it can and will deliver the beans by measuring an impressive 113.96 hp at 9,710 rpm and 67.30 pound-feet at 7,990 rpm.

When we spent some time on the machine we found “one of Z’s real strong points is its versatility. A comfortable commuter or a quick canyon carver—this bike can do it all well and a lot of that is thanks to the suspension. On highways and straight roads, the bike is a little stiff and the ride can be slightly harsh, but it’s a worthy trade-off for the way it performs through a canyon.”

A supernaked bike showdown can be had between this $8,999 machine and similarly priced Yamaha MT-09 or the slightly more expensive $10,500 Triumph Street Triple R or $11,699 KTM 890 Duke R.

A number of updates are featured on the 2020 model. In addition to the revamped styling, new chassis updates are seen in the strengthened frame and improved suspension settings. The Z also sees a new LED headlamp and new Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires. New tech includes the 4.3-inch TFT dash, smartphone connectivity, traction control, new power mode and integrated riding modes selection.

For Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Spark Black the MSRP starts at $8,999 otherwise the Candy Plasma Blue/Metallic Matte Fusion Silver starts at $9,299.