SuperBike Magazine June 2020

50
2020 KAWASAKI Z900
Z familiar engine configuration in this 948cc
inline-four with 73,4 x 56,0 mm (bore and
stroke), 11,8:1 compression, 36mm downdraft
throttle bodies and a stainless-steel 4-into-1,
pre-chamber-into-silencer exhaust system.
Let’s give you 6 quick facts on the 2020
Z900.
1. A stiffer steel twin-spar frame is part
of the 2020 package. This year, the Z900
sports a revised chassis, with added
strength in crucial areas, such as the
swing-arm pivot point.
2. Suspension settings are revised.
Featuring the same fork and shock with
spring pre-load and rebound-damping
adjustments as previous iterations of
the Z900.
3. Selectable ride and power modes
will be available on the 2020 Kawasaki
Z900. Three selectable riding modes are
available—Sport, Road, and Rain. The
ride modes alter the levels of traction
control and ABS intervention, with Sport
being the least restrictive and Rain being
the most. Riding modes are adjustable
on the fly, rain drops power to 55%
availability.
4. The tech doesn’t stop there—Bluetooth
connectivity supports Kawasaki’s
Rideology app. Kawasaki has riders
covered who happen to enjoy staying in
constant contact, even when behind the
handlebars, thanks to the new Bluetooth
connectivity. To utilize this feature,
owners must rely on Rideology. The app
enables users to answer incoming calls,
view ride logs (route, distance, time traveled),
and tuning settings. We even got
the TC to be switched off via our phone
once connected for the wheelie shots.
5. Refreshed, sharper styling is applied
to the 2020 Z900. Although very subtle,
the changes can be seen and the new
colours with sticker kits will appeal to
the youngsters.
6. A new LED headlight shines much
brighter than before. LED lighting is a
noticeable improvement and one welcome
for riders who get out when the
sun goes down. All other lighting is LED,
as well.
The new TFT display
with Rideology mobile
connection
In summary, the Z900 now completes
Kawasaki’s Z offering and might be the
pick of the bunch. It has sweet handling
with a very comfortable riding position,
maybe for long trips I’d opt for a small
wind deflector but for the rest, it is still a
wheelie machine and at risk of repeating
myself, the engine is a gem, the induction
sound is additive and the basics of
just enjoying a fuss free two wheeled
machine is very emphasised.