Another pillar of Kawasaki's 2017 'Z' offensive is now on sale locally – the Z900. Price is $12,499 plus on-road costs.
The bike, unveiled at the 2016 EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, will replace the Z800 in Kawasaki's line-up, using a 948cc version of the Z1000 engine. In its Z900 guise, the in-line four-cylinder engine produces 125hp (92.2kW) and 98.6Nm, and there's an assist and slipper clutch added into the mix as well.
According to Kawasaki, the Z900 is the second Kawasaki model (after the Z1000) to benefit from “sound research” in crafting its intake note. To that end, the shape of the airbox was designed based on acoustic tests carried out in a sound room. Kawasaki says the intake note on the Z900 is "clear and mild" compared to "edgy and powerful" on the Z1000.
The 210kg Z900 continues in the same vein styling vein as the Z800, complete with an LED taillight lights up in a “Z” pattern.
The chassis includes an all-new steel trellis frame. The suspenders are 41mm upside-down forks and a horizontally mounted shock, both adjustable for rebound and preload. Anti-lock braking is standard.
The seat height is 794mm, and the sole livery is Pearl Mystic Gray/Metallic Flat Spark Black.
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