Z900 Supernaked (MY21) – Kawasaki

Updated in 2020, the Z900 maintains the “Exciting & Easy” concept of its predecessor. while offering the next step in aggressive Z sugomi styling. A host of advanced features – including intergrated Riding Modes (combining KTRC and power modes), TFT colour instrumentation, smartphone connectivity, all LED Lighting. Key sugomi design elements, like its crouching stance, low positioned head and upswept tail, give the Z900 a distinct silhouette, making it instantly recognisable as Z Supernaked model. Designed to make viewers fall in love at first sight, the Z900’s aggressive Z styling is complemented by elegant bodywork flowing from head to tail, combined with minimalist cover in the engine area devised to draw attention to its functional beauty. A condensed appearance emphasised by slim, close-fitting bodywork gives the bike a light, agile image that reflects its sporty performance.

ENGINE

With Digital Fuel Injection the powerful 948 cm³ liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-line Four engine has a quick-revving character and a strong mid-range hit that pulls strongly to the redline. Adding to rider exhilaration, a distinct intake note encourages you to twist the throttle. Silky smooth power delivery facilitates control while contributing to rider comfort and confidence. Kawasaki Advanced tration control system provides both enhanced sports riding performance and the peace of mind to negotiate low-traction surfaces with confidence. 3 rider-selectable modes offer progressively grater levels of intrusion to suit the riding situation and rider preference.

Revised internal construction for the pre-chamber and silencer contributes to a more voluminous exhaust note – much more audible on startup, when idling, and when snapping the throttle. After the 2014-2017 Z1000, the Z900 is the second model to benefit from “sound research” in crafting its intake note. Shape of the airbox was designed based on acoustic tests. The distinct intake note of the Z900 is clear and exhilarating. The frequency of the note varies with engine speed, adding to riding impact – especially at high rpm. Airbox inlet faces upwards, making the intake note easier to hear for the rider.

Assist & Slipper Clutch was developed based on feedback from racing activities. The clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam), offering two functions not available on a standard clutch.

SUSPENSION AND BRAKES

Rear suspension positions the shock unit and linkage above the swingarm. This arrangement contributes to mass centralisation, while ensuring that the suspension is located far enough from the exhaust that operation is not affected by heat. 41 mm inverted front fork features stepless rebound damping and spring preload adjustablility in the left fork tube. Adjusters are conveniently located on the fork top cap. Extruded aluminium swingarm weighs only 3.9 kg, contributing to low unsprung weight, which in turn contributes to the bike’s light, nimble handling.

Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tyres contribute to the Z900’s superb handling, matched to dual ø300 mm front petal disc brakes deliver plenty of braking power. Dual opposed 4-piston calipers with resin brake pads offer a linear brake touch, facilitating control for both new and experienced riders. ø250 mm rear petal disc brake provides stopping power at the rear. The Z900 features a compact and lightweight Nissin motorcycle ABS unit. Stylish star-pattern 5-spoke wheels contribute to light weight.

FRAME

While maintaining the Z900’s highly acclaimed handling, revisions to the frame add strength to the swingarm pivot area. Front and rear suspension settings were updated to match the new frame. Bluetooth technology built into the instrument panel enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP”. a number of instrument functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience, features include, Vehicle log, Riding log, Telephone notices, tuning and General settings. Houses a dual-bulb headlamp with single position lamp. Sharp meter cover contributes to the aggressive Z styling. Close-fitting bodywork with minimum overhang contributes to a slim appearance and a high quality image. Sharp front and rear turn signals complement the aggressive Z styling.

A choice of Full Power or Low Power modes allows riders to set power delivery to suit preferences and conditions. Low Power modes limits output to 55% of Full Power. Along with Intergrated Riding modes, riders can choose from 3 settings (Sport, Road, Rain) or a manual setting (Rider) In manual Rider mode, each of the systems can be set independently.

The 4.3″ all-digital TFT colour instrumentation gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance. The meter also offers additional feature unavailable on the previous model. LED headlamp, position lamps, license plate lamp and turn signals add to the Z900’s sharper new styling. the tail lamp is the same LED unit as before.