The Yamaha MT-09 and the Kawasaki Z900 are two of the main choices in the middleweight naked bike class, and they get there with different engines: a three-cylinder for Yamaha, a four-cylinder for Kawasaki. Here's how the MT-09 vs Z900 compare on engine, weight, electronics and price, based on Yamaha's and Kawasaki's published US specifications.
Quick Answer
- The MT-09 is the lighter bike, with a punchy three-cylinder and an IMU-based electronics package.
- The Z900 has a bigger four-cylinder engine, a lower seat, a larger tank and, since 2025, an IMU, quickshifter and cruise control too, at a lower price.
Specs Compared
| Yamaha MT-09 (2025) | Kawasaki Z900 ABS (2026) | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 890cc inline three | 948cc inline four |
| Power (claimed) | 117 hp (as reported by Rider Magazine for the 2024 model) | 123.0 hp at 9,500 rpm (Kawasaki, ISO 4106) |
| Torque (claimed) | 69 lb-ft (Rider Magazine, 2024 model) | 73.1 lb-ft at 7,700 rpm |
| Weight | 425 lb wet | 467.5 lb curb (49-state model) |
| Seat height | 32.5 in | 31.9 in |
| Fuel capacity | 3.7 gal | 4.5 gal |
| MSRP | $10,799 (2025) | $9,999 (2026) |
Sources: Yamaha Motor USA 2025 specifications (Yamaha's 2026 spec page was not yet populated when we checked), Kawasaki USA 2026 specifications, Rider Magazine.
Engines: Triple vs Four
The MT-09's 890cc three-cylinder arrived with the 2021 redesign. For reference, Cycle World's dyno test of a 2021 MT-09 SP measured 107.21 hp and 63.32 lb-ft at the rear wheel.
The Z900's 948cc inline four has been the heart of the bike since its 2017 launch. For 2025, Kawasaki revised the cams for more low-end torque and added ride-by-wire.
Weight and Ergonomics
The MT-09 is the lighter of the two on paper: 425 lb wet versus 467.5 lb curb for the Z900, a difference of about 42 lb. The Z900 has the lower seat (31.9 in vs 32.5 in) and the larger tank (4.5 gal vs 3.7 gal), which means more range between fill-ups.
Electronics
MT-09
Six-axis IMU, lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, wheelie control, brake control, ride modes, up/down quickshifter, cruise control and a 5-inch TFT.
Z900 (2025 onward)
The 2025 update brought a six-axis IMU, lean-sensitive traction control, cornering ABS, an up/down quickshifter, electronic cruise control, power modes and a 5-inch TFT with turn-by-turn navigation through Kawasaki's Rideology app. The Z900 SE adds an Öhlins rear shock and Brembo front brakes.
Price
Based on the prices we found, the 2026 Z900 ABS lists at $9,999 and the 2025 MT-09 at $10,799. The Z900 SE ABS is $11,999 for 2026.
Accessories for Both Bikes
Yamaha MT-09
- Frame crash protectors (current CP3 generation)
- Aluminum radiator guard (2014 to 2019)
- Front windshield wind deflector
- Side spoiler fairing wings
Kawasaki Z900
- Radiator guard grille (2017 to 2024)
- Exhaust crash sliders with a CNC aluminum body and POM tip
- Downforce spoiler winglets for the Z900 / Z900SE 2025+
- Fixed winglets for the Z900 (2020 to 2025)
Curious about winglets? Read motorcycle winglets explained. For MT-09 protection, see our MT-09 crash protection guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more powerful, the MT-09 or the Z900?
On claimed figures, the Z900 is rated at 123.0 hp (Kawasaki, ISO 4106) and the MT-09 at 117 hp (as reported by Rider Magazine). Claimed figures use different measurement methods, so treat the gap with caution.
Does the Z900 have a quickshifter?
Yes. Since the 2025 update, the Z900 has an up/down quickshifter and cruise control.
Which is lighter?
The MT-09, at 425 lb wet versus 467.5 lb curb for the Z900.
Shop MT-09 accessories and Z900 accessories.