2021 900ish Middleweight Nakeds Shootout

Don’t look now, but the field of naked bikes slotting in just below the 1000cc mark is starting to rise - and we’re all the better for it. Maybe the OEMs have figured out that those big beasts in the upper echelons of naked bike performance are just too much for the more sensible among us. They’re too big, too fast, too powerful, with too much electronics, and too much of a price tag. For those of us still with a desire for naked bike fun, but at a slightly more moderate pace, we bring you the assembly of motorcycling you see before you.
What you get from the BMW F900R, Ducati Monster, Kawasaki Z900, KTM 890 Duke, Triumph Street Triple R, and Yamaha MT-09 are six of the hottest bikes in the sub-1000cc category today, and a nice step up from the middleweights we recently tested. And before any Suzuki fanboys (or girls) grill us, yes, we extended an invitation for the GSX-S750. Unfortunately, one couldn’t be provided for us in time. In all honesty, its inclusion wouldn’t have made an impact on the overall winner, but we’re getting a bit ahead of ourselves.
All that's left to do now is shake these bikes out to see where they stand!
Be sure to read the written review at Motorcycle.com here: www.motorcycle...
Subscribe!
www.youtube.com...
KZbin - / motorcycle
Facebook - / motorcyclecom
Twitter - / motorcyclecom
Web - www.Motorcycle.com
Established in 1994, Motorcycle.com is the premier online resource for motorcycle and scooter enthusiasts. With hundreds of high-quality, detailed video reviews on bikes from Harley-Davidson, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and just about everybody else, it's the best place to go to learn about the latest and greatest two-wheeled creations. There's simply no better resource if you're planning on buying or if you just want to check out some awesome machines.

[@briananderson2219]

I am so glad you brought the older fellow, no denying his age bracket is part of the purchasing demographics, but more importantly his experience level can rule out all of the ego testosterone BS of the younger fella’s and leave left what is good about riding a motorcycle. Do us all a favor and keep him in the further video reviews as well. Excellent video by the way

[@johnburns8956]

older?

[@TheMalhavoc]

@@johnburns8956 “more seasoned” or “higher level” perhaps.

[@dbauernf]

Agreed, I appreciate the comments on Z900 being smooth as that's of HUGE importance to me for example. I'm too old for bikes with character. 🤣😂

[@jfess1911]

@@dbauernf Huh!? What did you say? Speak louder Sonny, don't mumble. (ding-dang kids these days.....)

[@drachwitz]

@@johnburns8956 pay no attention to the whippersnapper 😀

[@davidnacy1324]

I want to see the same test, but with the premium versions...MT-09SP, Monster+, Street Triple RS, & Duke R!

[@jfess1911]

I agree. It would be interesting to see if the improvements are worth the premium price. I am not certain that I ride hard enough to notice the difference. Also, it is pretty sneaky for Yamaha to only offer cruise control on the SP.

[@rjwz28]

Monster + is an accessory package that simply adds a fly screen and cowl… There is no “premium” (performance) version of the new Monster yet. I expect an S model will come next year. My suspicion is Ducati waited to release the new Monster S because they had an overstock of leftover 1200/1200S models to sell off and didn’t want to to hurt their ability to do that. Otherwise, I agree… We’ve already seen the 890 Duke R vs 765 STriple RS head to head last year, but a re-do including the new MT-09 SP would be great.

[@johnridesadv2512]

The Duke 890R and MT09 SP gotta be pretty damn close. Can't go wrong with either bike, but I'd go Yamaha only because of better overall reliability and much closer dealer.

[@rjwz28]

@@johnridesadv2512 My gf likes Yamaha a lot (she currently rides an R6), and went in preferring the looks of the MT-09 SP, but after riding both back to back, she came away a lot more excited by the 890 Duke R. That's a pretty good endorsement from somebody who was actively avoiding the Duke because she didn't want to match bikes with my Super Duke. I've ridden both as well, and the KTM has a notably more fun personality. Also, the KTM gives you a MUCH better braking system versus the Yamaha. Honestly, though, any of the three will be a riot on canyon roads and the track, and I'm excited to see an S version of the new Monster come along as well.

[@johnridesadv2512]

@@rjwz28 Damn. Hard to believe the engine in the Duke would be more exciting than Yamaha's triple with the quick shifter. My XSR900 is great, but if it had a quick shifter, wow wow wow. I will need to test ride both!

[@mathiashammar1]

Great breakdown! i think there are a lot of readers that are searching for the intermediate priced best "bang for the buck" motorcycles. Well done.

[@Sinister_fartbox]

#yamaha

[@gonzozil]

Thank you, guys. I am going to get a 2021 MT09. Stay safe and more power to you guys!

[@indubitableafmf1759]

You won't regret it. I have an all black one, fucking love it

[@spoor24]

I just bought the 2022 MT09SP. Absolutely love it

[@greyanaroth]

I own a 765RS 2019 but I was literally rooting for the yamaha. They blew this upgrade out of the park, listening to all the feedback over the years.

[@sikolikhole]

I bought the z900 because of this video. It's my daily, I love it, its more than enough bike for me. I go on 4 hour rides every other week. Its not until hour 3 start getting cramped. I'm 5'10" with long legs and longer arms.

[@jesparon]

I laughed so hard when John mentioned that the KTM looks like a power tool.

[@1985GusT]

Now I can’t unsee black&decker power tools when I look at it 😂

[@NudaMan]

😂😂😂 idk any other brand that actually sells tools too to work on your bike though

[@johnburns8956]

did i say power tool or gardening tool? I was thinking more weed whacker, or that headlight looks like a hedge trimmer. Great bike tho!

[@tammy1001]

Funny cause true.

[@godzillacat1291]

Home depot bike 😂

[@wowguy3562]

I would call myself a senior rider, and gave a huge amount of weight to your review of these bikes. I would say I have pretty much to this point 99.9% dual sport experience, with the exception of riding a buddies gold wing. I ended up buying a used 3rd gen mt09sp. Thank you guys for helping me make the decision, it was between the mt09sp and the z900. Excellent video

[@FoiMal123]

The old man was on point on every aspect of the bikes characteristics and dynamics. The other two not so much.

[@FoiMal123]

@Pete how’d you know?

[@ts03227648]

totally agree with you.

[@bikenbush]

I have to agree 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽!

[@mykolapelyp9065]

I agree, editor was too cocky and disrespectful, I don't believe A WORD from him, Guy near ducati seemed to be in little conflict/dispute with guy who rated kawa third

[@peterjordansonthe2nd731]

That's only "if you're talking 'neck-eds'" Otherwise false

[@awesomesauce1400]

Couldn't agree more. And as one of the gentleman said, if you got the SP MT-09, it would have much better suspension and cruise control and still cost the same as the KTM. Great video guys!

[@SirMountainpass]

Spot on - and very reliable indeed - as opposed to the KTM😉🏁🏁

[@florme6494]

That hurt, I love my z900 until I listened to this. Nah, I still love it!

[@zack8819]

Unfortunately this channel loves everything I hate and hates everything I have loved. I have owned plenty of motorcycles and my opinion has always been opposite of theirs. I bought a Yamaha FJ-09 due to great reviews and it was the worse motorcycle ever and I owned a Honda VFR800 after and it was better even though it lost in the same comparison video. I knew this video was going to swing in Yamahas favor before it even started.

[@wildbillslickdog]

Mickey Mouse is something chose not to listen too. I am wondering how this grown child has been put in the position he is in.

[@arielrosenthal_]

The z900 is my favorite here!

[@frenchonion4595]

@@zack8819 They are probably the worst motorcycle reviewer's on youtube to be honest. Just messy all over the place journalism

[@chillgaming3197]

Two of the guys had negative reviews about the ergonomics, but one said they were great. Body types are different so they should not have made ergonomics the basis of their review. It seemed like that was their only complaint, as long as you feel comfortable then it's a great bike.

[@andyl344]

The Z900 gives you exactly what you want when you want it. I recently tested it against the S1000R and walked away thinking I'd take the Z nine out of ten times.

[@ravenmoto5948]

That's impressive

[@michaeljohnson2922]

Yamaha kills that Kawasaki in every category. Especially the SP.

[@Snotroggel453]

@@michaeljohnson2922 nah the mt09 has the looks that only a mother can love.. its hideous.

[@Antonio_zx6r]

@@michaeljohnson2922 no, it doesn’t. The Z900 is faster and has a higher top speed.

[@barryvenison6803]

Andy L The BMW S 1000 R is a fantastic bike .. I have not had the pleasure of riding a Z900 but given that I believe the BMW is a better bike and better value than the Aprilia Tuono V4 and MT-10 ( both of which I’ve spent lots of time on ) I struggle to believe that the Z900 is superior to the S 1000 R .. however all bikes are very subjective .

[@MrYashwant1991]

Z900 wins for most of us...most VFM...and Japanese so reliable and cheap to maintain, more power ...soo

[@markfs]

I keep hearing reliability issues with KTM and problems with transmissions and then with the Ducatis it's heat, which is glossed over with the scrambler too. But these guys prefer these kind of bikes to the ones that just work, which might be okay for them because they test a bike and then it's on to the next one. So bike testing becomes more of a show-pony event than a consideration of what might be best for someone who buys a bike and rides it everyday for 4 or 5 years. The reviews are entertaining though, just not that relevant unless you've got 4 bikes in the shed and can pick one to ride depending on your mood

[@timbakker7248]

So Ive not even finished watching the video and Troy is already bashing the BMW F900R whilst he preferred it over the Kawasaki Z900 in the 1v1 comparison video on this channel? How does this make sense?

[@董家琪]

The Triumph Street Triple would be my pick. It ranks low in this class because it simply doesn't belong in this class… a 765cc triple has no business competing with 900cc bikes. But then again you buy a street triple not because it's a good 900cc bike, you buy it because it's a street triple.

[@avrc9285]

none of them is a bad pick if its for the right reasons .. certainly not however just because its a street triple IMO you should buy it cause it excites you when you ride it or when you look at it or cause it suits your "needs" etc .. not only the street triple but any bike. Also, either you like it or not it competes with the 800-900 cc bikes, because that is the category Triumph put it in (middle class naked) Displacement increased already from 675 a couple of years back, in a try to remain competitive as EU regulations on emissions where becoming tighter...My guess is that they could be increasing the displacement again (as they did it with speed triple). For what is worth, if i was buying a street triple, the latest SP would be the only model i would be considering, otherwise if you follow the "because its a street triple" approach, buy an older 675 one and save yourself lots of $'s for upgrades

[@patthonsirilim5739]

@@avrc9285 i think the lower spec one is deffinitly not the one to get the street triple rs is the one to get with its ohlins shock perfromance brembo and autoblip quickshifter suits the bike better when you strip the street triple of its bling there really no point in paying more for the bike then say a z900/mt09 bikes.

[@Ghutton505]

It makes the most power of the bunch! It's biggest downfall is it's relatively low torque specs, as they mentioned. They also say nothing about finish of the motorcycles. A Triumph has an overall nicer "feel" than a Yamaha and it's reflected in the price. Plus the Yamaha makes barely any more torque with a much larger motor

[@dominee93]

I understand the reason, it's a street triple And I think it can compete these 900 cc easily, cos of how it's rides, it's really light, steering so sharp and the engine is so smooth and the intake sound is fantastic And on the road you don't need the power and you don't need the tork, cos you use mostly a fraction and because you ride mostly with higher rev, the power and tork of the 3 cylinder engine makes it really smooth And for tork you use the speed triple, but a street triple rides better

[@PMitchell106]

@@Ghutton505 I'm surprised by the way they just glossed over everything but their emotional review of peak performance. Fit & finish completely unmentioned, brakes glossed over and not taken into serious consideration, likewise for suspension, electronics packages thought of as 'Yes or No' questions rather than comparing their performance, switchgear and instrumentation treated as somehow frivolous or unnecessary, ergonomics described arbitrarily rather than comparatively, and optional equipment never discussed. The MT-09 has an exciting power plant for sure, but it doesnt seem to outshine the others in any other way.

[@toofastnobrakes]

Hey I love my z900, favorite bike I’ve owned 🤷‍♂️

[@spokplumpen123]

I have one to. Great engine and fun to ride! Just tweak the suspension a bit and a set of Great tires thats it!

[@Ali-mf7cg]

@@spokplumpen123 just put a full sc-project exhaust system under that thing and trust me she won’t be ‘boring’ anymore 😅

[@spokplumpen123]

@@Ali-mf7cg thinking about exhaust and a ecu-flash. But i am getting old, dont like it to loud. But stock is to quiet..

[@Ali-mf7cg]

@@spokplumpen123 stock just sounds too feminine, like a happy bumble bee. You can also put a slip on instead of full system. Just take the db killer out and it will sound alot deeper and meaner. I put a full system on it last month and it is very loud, but it just puts a smile on my face every time when i rev it hard☄️ 😩 it adds so much character to that kawi it almost makes it necessary in some way..

[@memereview5836]

cope

[@tejinderchatha1060]

I waited more than 3 months for my MT09SP in Australia, finally received it yesterday, i was soo exited, i couldn't sleep the night before, i love the bike

[@TheImtoomuch]

Fun review to watch and we all have opinions, but… …I’m tired of hearing about engine character bullshit. If it vibrates it’s too buzzy. If it doesn’t vibrate it’s a boring motorcycle with no character. If it’s a buzzy KTM that has a notchy transmission and leaks oil it has “great character”. Riiight. The Triumph looks dated, is dated and is way overpriced. The Ducati is also way overpriced. The whole premise of a naked bike was to have a comfortable sport bike. To have a performance motorcycle with comfort and around town ridability. The KTM and Triumph don’t live up to this. It is completely insane that the Z900 is a great naked bike, but everybody except Burns knocks it for doing everything well. The Kawasaki is also comparatively cheap. It should be ranked top 3. Oh by the way, I hate Kawasaki. The only major issue with the Kawasaki is its weight, but I’m sure a lot of that has to do with the larger gas tank. Then Ryan says the Monster got rid of the “dumb” trellis frame yet he ranks the KTM higher. No mention of the low seat and super bent knees on the ugly Ducati? What is going on with this review? Burns, who is surely the oldest by a few years, is the only one that isn’t going senile. So much hypocrisy in this review. At least the Yamaha won because the Ducati and KTM don’t deserve it.

[@gut45]

You are indeed too much.

[@MachoMadness69420]

I've got a 2021 Z900. The weight is only an issue on paper really. The center of gravity is low and I honestly don't feel that it's any heavier to push around than a SV650. Once your on the move it's light on its feet and very stable at lean. Got no problem with being cramped either - mine does come with the 825mm seat height as standard though. The only thing I would really knock against it is that the OEM Dunlop Roadsport 2 tyres leaves a bit to be desired. Any way, I complete agree with you. Naked bikes need to be more than just a sport bike without a fairing. With the current trend of naked bikes getting more and more sporty (as in track toy) we will reach a point of them being too extreme to actually be enjoyed on the road without doing stupid speeds.

[@MrB590]

Right kawasaki is the best in my opinion , does it all right. Not boring at all. The other reviews are idiots

[@w00ey21]

i dont get how he can say the KTM looks like a tool and then turn to the MT09's headlight and Paint scheme, that primer grey and orange wheel's combo is vomit inducing

[@machos]

Dude, that is so we'll written and I agree 100%. I love this channel when they do first rides or 1 on 1 comparisons but these shootouts are all over the place. They raise a score for "character" because a buzzy engine but then say a bike that has a smooth engine is better because it's easier on the hands and butt but it has no "character"!? Like what.

[@mcmcmorris]

They say the z900 has no character, but it looks similar to the others. Its way better looking then the street triple.

[@andrewwillcox5252]

Character is about the engine, not the looks. It’s an i4 which are generally a bit boring, not as exciting when just pulling back on the throttle…just a bit too smooth.

[@mcmcmorris]

@@andrewwillcox5252 traditional character is only about the looks and style. Thats why Harleys are considered the bikes with the highest character even though they are easily beaten on performance.

[@andrewwillcox5252]

@@mcmcmorris yeah that’s not the character I’ve ever hear anyone ever talk about. In England I have never heard a Harley called anything but a bit shit, to be completely honest.

[@mcmcmorris]

@Andrew Willcox British, that makes a lot of sense.

[@Villani_AV]

​@@mcmcmorrisas a Harley owner: they're shit

[@jayrock497]

Wowzer, these dudes really hating on the Z900 !

[@Baste_Bastesen]

Bougth a Z900 (2017), in 2018, best bike for me. 69.000 km so far, no prob at all. Like the KTM 890 Duke, maybe thats my next bike.

[@roKr55]

Agreed

[@sensocaredelhi2292]

Coz it's not the updated version with TFT dash and all led. They are using the previous generation

[@cozme28]

but somebody said something nice about it, he said it has a "smooth engine"

[@marcz9482]

I have the 2017 no driver aids. Just you and the bike, just like it should be.

[@redsox418]

For $9399 you get a 6-axis IMU, quick shifter up/down, TFT display, 417 lbs wet weight, torquey/great sounding triple engine, radial master cylinder and more. All wrapped up with Japanese quality and reliability. Nothing can top the MT-09 for the price. I know the headlight is pretty polarizing but don't have to worry about how it looks when you're riding and it's a great headlight for actual light output.

[@sleeper.simulant7327]

And terrible, pogo-stick-like suspension in the MT09. Also, I think you mean radial calipers, not master cylinder… typical of cheap Yamahas, stellar engine wrapped in a crappy chassis

[@redsox418]

@@sleeper.simulant7327 aw where did Yamaha hurt you? you’re free to change the suspension. You’ll probably still be under the price of the triumph.

[@iodineclip]

i want to see some drag race just to have an idea how each of them compares.

[@vincegunz]

John is the best. Lol I really value his opinion and tend to lean towards his viewpoints on what issues are important.

[@Reapwhatsown]

Not really sure how the Z900 is suddenly at the bottom here. A bit harsh. Same guys gave it tops a few years ago.

[@mogthemoogle_160]

It hasn't had much in the way of updates in a while, but it's still a great bike.

[@adamk116]

Look at the updates on the Yamaha and KTM from a couple years ago. I love Kawasaki, but they need to keep up in this sector.

[@sleeper.simulant7327]

The most current Z900 is much better in terms of tech per $ spent. Plus it’s faster then the MT09

[@Snotroggel453]

@@adamk116 i have a z900, the last thing thats on my mind when i ride are all these electronics lol..

[@BartholomewSmutz]

A lot of other reviewers really like the BMW so I think Motorcycle reviewers are like movie critics. In other words each to their own tastes.

[@woodworking4459]

I did ride triple rs, mt 09, z900. I liked the suspension triple rs, but I understood the price was too high. I liked the design mt09 and quickshiftter, but I wouldn’t say I liked the traction control and response of high rpm. I felt much safer at z900 in high rpm and stable response, but z900 has no quick shifter. I bought Z900, and I installed the quickshiftter. In my opinion, price, stability, reliability, Z900 is better, but all bikes are fantastic.

[@578_]

Was it tough installing said qs? And what one did you get? I got the 22’ z900 and I love it

[@woodworking4459]

@@578_ I installed healtech. You can do by yourself, it is easy, you can watch videos on KZbin showing how to install it. I am so happy with my z900 and quickshiftter. Because I do understand that the traction control is perfect

[@578_]

@@woodworking4459 ok cool thanks again man! Yea me too love the z9!

[@DB-sd3cw]

You bought the most boring bike lol

[@578_]

@@DB-sd3cw unfortunately I’m not a millionaire and it’s the best bang for my buck after buying a house for 150k. I can go 150mph for 10k I’ll take it

[@The330racing]

Is predicted reliability part of the scorecard? :)

[@FadilKarim]

It hardly ever is but should be!

[@morley3810]

My guess is that it would just increase the score differential between the Yamaha and KTM, if each bike lives up to their manufacturers usual reputation.

[@morley3810]

@@remster1159 why do you say that?

[@The330racing]

@@remster1159 it isn't pointless at all. Past performance is an indicator of future performance.

[@marcz9482]

Nope, they rather be repairing instead of riding

[@TJP23]

These guys don't knowt what they saying about the Z900 (only the older one knows)!

[@punkrockdidi]

You are absolutely right,I own my 2019 z900 for 6 months now and what a great bike it is.Having owned Yamaha,Triumph and Moto Guzzi I think it's fair to say nothing beats the price/quality on this bike.The only few things that bother me are solved on the updated model,so I think after the summer I will be ordering a new one 😅

[@jeffie0]

Man, when counting down bikes based on the spec sheet, make sure you got the spec sheets right.

[@lovelessissimo]

The Kawi is more powerful, less expensive, and will spend less time in the shop than the others.

[@marcelltoth1302]

But you only get its peak power on high rpms, which is not usually manageable between two red lights or very twisty roads

[@lovelessissimo]

@@marcelltoth1302 the z900 has an ideally flat torque curve. Everyone who reviews it lauds the engine for being able to be in third or even fourth gear all the time on twisty roads.

[@ColoradoS14]

These all sound like great features of your daily driver car... I want my motorcycle to excite the soul, even if from time to time it has an issue. I also don't know how often you think European bikes spend in the shop. In the 12,000 miles I have put on my Aprilia it had a radiator hose start to leak a little and I had to replace a starter solenoid which was getting finicky; of note, the solenoid was made my Hitachi and not some obscure Italian supplier... If that is the penalty I have to pay over the much less interesting/lustful Z1000 then so be it...

[@lovelessissimo]

@@ColoradoS14 what features are you referring to? My post was not intended to bash on euro bikes, but reliability is something that needs to be considered when selecting a bike.

[@TJP23]

@@ColoradoS14 the Z900 will excite your soul, belive me, i know what i'm sayinng!

[@elianderson3956]

My 2018 z900 is the best bike I’ve ever owned

[@mrzeke4413]

How many bikes have you owned?

[@elianderson3956]

@@mrzeke4413 cbr 400, sv650, Honda shadow 1100, klx 230, r6 and now my z900

[@Dranreb865]

@@elianderson3956 no chaaaneeese scooter?!

[@elianderson3956]

@@Dranreb865 shit lmao I did have a shitty Tao tao 125 cc dirt bike🤣

[@christopherking9338]

Agreed!!! My '21 Rips!!!! Past rides....... '73 Yamaha DT 250 '74 Kawasaki H1 500 '77 Yamaha RD 400 '79 Yamaha XS 750 Special '82 Kawasaki GPZ 750 '91 Yamaha FJ1100 '06 Kawasaki Z 1000 '04 Kawasaki ZRX 1200r (twice) 😎🔥😎

[@jieme6397]

Dont get how with so much more power the kwack is forget able, it smokes the bmw,triumph,mt i love it

[@elvisthewart670]

They was wrong on the horsepower the 21 model z900 has 125bhp

[@PMitchell106]

@@elvisthewart670 They are quoting measured rear-wheel horsepower, not manufacturer spec crank horsepower. They should be more explicit about this in their presentation, the rest of their comments are a bit too sloppy to take their pseudo-objective ranking seriously.

[@TheAsheybabe89]

A channel on KZbin called full gas has videos of a Z900 gapping all kinds of things through a quarter including an MT 10. It even pulled on a Duke 1290 R until wind made the power difference apparent at around 100mph and the duke passed it.

[@shittywheelies7403]

There is a lot more to a motorcycle than power

[@512mbflashdrive]

I'm glad I picked up a naked as my first bike but I'm ready for some wind protection 😌

[@jfess1911]

Sometimes an inexpensive bar-mounted windscreen can make a big difference. Just be aware that a 'universal" one may need a little bit of trimming to fit around the headlight and turnsignals.

[@stefihardin9492]

Good day gentlemans. I know the comparison was a year ago, but i notice that the BMW F900R only has 85 bhp instead of 105 bhp. I just read the test, my apologize. But, how come the bike only has 85 bhp, because in Europe outside the A2 driving license, it normally has 105 bhp??

[@cp4512]

Interesting that each reviewer has very different opinions on each bike. There isn’t a best bike here, this just shows that the key thing is try the bikes yourself to pick the best bike for you as a rider (not the best bike for a random journalist rider and their needs). However, I still really enjoyed this review!

[@puneetsehgal8200]

I have a BMW for a year now. And I love bikes. The way it looks, sound and power delivery is adequate for me. I guess in the end it all comes to personal preference and requirements. Most of the reviews I see are mostly focused on speed and horse power. I believe bikes are more than that. It all count what particular person want and what are there requirements and experience are. All things matter The way bike looks, the sitting, comfortable, handling, built quality, safety features and so on and all these work differently for different people. Having 10-15 bhp less or more doesn't make the bike bad or better. Plus if numbers are higher but you are getting those power at 9000 rpm whats the point for that power in city ride. Also in another comparison between Z900 and F900R one of the journalists praised the F900R and took the F900R over the Z900. So reviews are a good reference and getting better understanding and knowing what is out there. But you have to test ride the bike before making the decision. You may go for the z900 test Ride and after that you don't want to try anything because it is giving everything you were looking for. It happened to me with Suzuki Gladius. I had a test ride book for Ducati Monster but I didn't bother to go after testing Gladius. And one time I just went with my gut feeling for the z800 no test ride no reviews just bought the bike.

[@ALIARSIWALA]

Bro stop trying to convince yourself the bmw sucks. Having 10-15 bhp yes its true doesnt mean alot but its an important factor and more is always better. U writing this comment makes u look like a butt hurt bmw bitch

[@Krom1hell]

Wait, what? my Z900 has 126 hp stock :)).....probably we have better fuel or something is wrong. I find that the Z900 is the limmo of the bunch, if you set it up decent enough, it's so smooth.

[@marcz9482]

They said 108 up, all wrong brother, we have 126!💪🏼

[@zubtubetube]

Kawasaki z900 ❤️❤️❤️😍

[@hornet224]

Who cares which is better? It's not about the bike, but the trip. As long as your ride is in good mechanical condition and you've got a interesting road trip ahead, you got everything you need to have a great time.

[@kenross9026]

Great review guys , gotta say I had the 2019 Mt09 and definitely loved great torque . Hooligan feel to it , but then I rode the 2020 Z 900 and hands down blew away the MT 09 . Again just my opi ion felt like I was part of the bike and way more confidence for me personally. Felt like I was gonna fall over the front of The Yamaha. Z 900 was way smoother and way better power delivery. Have not ridden any of the others but would like to.I suppose if the bike has a proper setup for the rider it would make all the difference.

[@brianpeterson9290]

Different strokes...but speaking as someone who's always been an inline-4 guy, I feel like a lot of the apparent journalistic bias against them now is just because they were the standard for so long.

[@Adamn58]

Currently own a 2020 Z900. It’s been a fantastic bike. I’ve actually enjoyed it so much I’m in the process of upgrading to the ZH2. Kawi really won me over with the Z line. I was an MT die hard but damn the Zs are phenomenal.

[@kenross9026]

@@Adamn58 yeah buying the z900 . Super fun and smooth

[@Adamn58]

@@kenross9026 I highly recommend tuning the bike. Kawi has a restriction flash on it that mutes the top end. After my full system and flash it has a top end rush like no other middleweight naked I’ve rode.

[@kenross9026]

@@Adamn58 yeah I have 2 friends that own them and both had it flashed, said it made a huge difference . Very glad to see they did away with the old screen and went to the tft they have now. Very fun bike. Zh2 looks crazy fast

[@mathiashammar1]

Z900 is deceptive "sleeper" and best bike if you like smooth and fast with long range. Like 20:10 praise the lowdown torgue of Ducati. But 16:49 shows the truth its down by alot vs Kawasaki. 1.MT-09(SP), 2.Z900, 3.Triumph, 4.KTM, 5.Ducati, 6. BMW

[@jfess1911]

Sadly, a smooth torque curve is now seen as "boring" by many (like some of the testers). A bump in the torque curve that causes a sudden increase in power is often viewed as providing "character," even if it results in slower overall acceleration.

[@johnburns8956]

@@jfess1911 Z900 motor is the winnah here, tied for most torque and for most horsepower too, at only 9600 rpm... alas...

[@董家琪]

"The word 'agricultural' just kept popping up in my head." 😂😂😂 brutal

[@akashadahallikar66]

Doesn't the z900 make 125 hp ?? Atleast that's what the catalogue says

[@MachoMadness69420]

Damn, the torque curve on the BMW is absolutely atrocious 😵

[@PMitchell106]

What's especially weird is that every torque curve that anyone has for this bike is profoundly different, this one being the worst of them by far. In their own "First ride" dyno chart, the numbers are quite different. Meanwhile Ridermag's torque curve is completely smooth and flat for this motor. Not sure if that's variability in testing and environment, or variability from one motor to the next.

[@sleeper.simulant7327]

@@PMitchell106 I’d say you hit it on the head with variability in testing/environment. I did some research myself and this is the only test with these issues. Everyone else says the engine is smooth as butter with torque everywhere. Also the videos I saw it out down like 95ish at the wheels…

[@walterjohnson2031]

I have had the opportunity to ride 4 of the six bikes tested here. I personally feel you guys were mostly on the money in your evaluation and fair. Each of these bikes are focused to either track, sport and some track or lower price daily riders intended for brand loyal/ first time buyers. The winner MT09 is unusual in that it isn’t an over priced exotic or a track focus primarily bike. I finally bought a 2022 MT09 and have found it to be the best in many ways. Price for what you get in a motorcycle makes the MT09 winner. Then you find on track it will stay with the big dollar exotics with non pro riders on board. I find it works perfectly as a commuter/ even in town. It does a fair job as a sport touring motorcycle because of riding position. What you wind up with in a MT09 is a very good do everything bike at a fair price point. I might mention after market support is excellent for whatever mods you wish to tailor your MT09 to do. The looks will grow on you!!

[@DarthVader-1701]

The FZ-09's headlight looks like the TNG phaser emitter.

[@rajsteint6487]

The top 3 is legit. I bought a Ducati Monster 937 Plus Dark Stealth. If you put the black bike in the video instead of the basic red it would beat those others in looks. I love all 3 bikes but I bought the Monster because of quality, sporty and it has class. It's best to go see it in person.

[@luckypenguin5372]

I agree seeing it pictures and videos isn’t the same as real life, it’s looks blew me away

[@JohnRidesMx]

What a line up 👍🏼 And such a shame the BMW motor, cause it looks great…

[@chirag4]

German Bike but Chinese Motor (Loncin Holdings, Ltd.) ? YES

[@jfess1911]

To put into perspective though, it is still lighter and more powerful than the 1970's superbikes like the Z1 R that I lusted after as a teenager.

[@shrijanaryal4923]

Also the weight on that bmw is a bit too much

[@THEREALZENFORCE]

In Europe the F900R has 105hp not 85hp, optional heated grips and electronic suspension and other stuff. And the next year model could have the maintenance free M endurance chain, the same they have optional on the S1000R and S1000XR.

[@jfess1911]

@@THEREALZENFORCE It looks like we got the A2-capable version, which is limited to 70kw (94hp) at the crank (80-something at rear wheel). These can be "restricted" to the 35kw A2 standard in the EU and UK for people with restricted motorcycle licensees, then "un-restricted " to full power later.

[@TheChewbaca69]

Glad you guys like my bike. Mt09 is sooooooooo dope. I love it and will keep it till she blows.

[@mrbookends]

I haven't looked at this segment of bikes in a long time, but holy shit the Monster's styling downfall is staggering. It looks like something you'd see in a generic Bollywood action movie out of India..... not featured mind you, just something parked on a sidewalk and the main character walks by it. Keep in mind this is coming from a guy with a 2015 R Nine T and a 2008 Hypermotard so take that with a grain of salt lol

[@num1sooner]

Looks better than the old dated trellis frame!! Lighter, more horsepower, more torque, 40 pounds lighter, better handling etc etc etc

[@mrbookends]

@@num1sooner I definitely get what you're saying and I'm sure they struggled with compromising styling for development in all other aspects but that aerial shot from 20ft out makes it look like a Suzuki SV650 or at the very least, NOT identifiable as a Ducati, and that's got to be a punch in the gut for the Italians 😢

[@weed46]

@@num1sooner More HP? More Torque? Are you fucking stupid? 1200R has 30% more torque and 160hp. Also had fully adjustable ohlins suspension. The new monster is a budget bike.

[@MachoMadness69420]

@@weed46 He's probably comparing it to the old 821.

[@weed46]

@@MachoMadness69420 But the 821 is a 1200 with a smaller engine. 821 is heavier because it's based on the 1200 that's a chassis build to handle bit power and torque. If the 821 was a bespoke bike like the 2021 model, it would be much lighter too.

[@milaoloading]

It's funny how the z900 is the faster better bike but the other guys just won't admit it. Plus the z900 SE is even better.

[@andrewdugdale7043]

I test rode the KTM and MT09SP and I ended up buying the Ducati. The MT I was out off by seat height and position isn't sporty, it's very supermoto style. The screen is tiny also. The KTM is excellent but you have to pay for a lot of the extras to be activated. The Ducati was as quick, it made me feel more special than the others and residuals will be a lot stronger

[@Slopes27]

Hey I am looking to also get the Monster. Beautiful bike but I am concerned which what he said about the plastic quality fading away. Any issues with yours? What about the heat any issues as well?

[@MrSparksNJ]

Get a Hypermotard , you'll never look back. Most fun you can have on 2 wheels

[@578_]

Ktm is gay with that pay to activate bs, it reminds me of video game you pay 60$ for but if you wanna play it you need to spend another $60 on dlc’s. Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Honda all come with exactly what you pay for no need for extra $1000s to “unlock” something. Ktm’s suck ass imo just based on that

[@adamk116]

I love the Yamaha and KTM, and I don’t love the look of either. 2022 XSR900 for me. Best look and longer stance than the MT09 Sibling. The perfect bike.

[@1MrBryn]

Had the BMW for over a year now. It's just been an incredible ownership experience for me. Out of the box, the quick shifter was rubbish, but with some K's on the clock and an SC Project pipe, it's buttery smooth. The Yamaha is exciting, but (at least the old one) felt half finished. The Kawasaki was great, but just too small for me. The previous model Monster felt like a tractor. And service costs are insane. The Triumph is great but expensive and dated looking. The KTM is just constant hard work to ride slowly. Also, the general ownership of a BMW is in another league with cheap servicing, long warranty and a bunch of other perks.

[@wirenut3020]

So get the new Yamaha.!

[@Rick1984FL]

Could you elaborate on that BMW cheap servicing please?

[@travisclarkin4277]

Nothing cheap about servicing a bmw lmao

[@OmegaxPrime]

I sort of feel bad for John, he looked so hurt that the guys not only didn't agree with him about the Kawi they down right did a segment on why John is wrong lol.

[@marek19922209]

but BMW has 105hp while you are showing only 85hp are you providing it in kw or km?

[@drewmorg.]

Middlweight Adv Sport Tourer's next please!! Finally Shootouts are back!!

[@mtdew992]

Funny thing is an R9 wouldve made a lot more sense as an R6 replacement than the R7 did too

[@addicted2baseballrgd21]

It's to bad that Harley Davidson axed the Bronx. I would love to see how it would stack up against this bunch.

[@CptSlow89]

Any channel that test old bikes today and its not just about new things which most people can't afford? Great review btw

[@mrzeke4413]

Srk cycles

[@Firestorm637]

I like the new Ducati! Change is good!

[@patw9175]

Kinda bummed you couldn't score a gixxus for this one. I absolutely loved mine when I had it and would love to see how it stacks up to the others in its class.

[@bwxmoto]

Would be cool to see that new MT09 engine/ electronics in an XSR

[@gray7890]

Well do I have good news for you lol

[@bwxmoto]

@@gray7890 😆 Yeah welcome to last week. Too bad it got hit with the Yamaha ugly stick. 😖

[@gray7890]

@@bwxmoto I can only hope there's a seat fix.. if so I'm getting one. The all black with a seat will look great

[@bwxmoto]

@@gray7890 Yeah the all black one looks pretty cool actually. Not pretty but kind of menacing / tough looking.

[@Jb-qx7mj]

The fact that a junk Ktm was placed higher then the z900 is just mind blowing

[@BgXaTy]

Well I don't really see how the KTM ,Ducati, Triumph and MT are better than the Z900 ... Character you say... Come on... It must be kind of joke I guess... Z is by far the most complete bike out there. Especially comparing it with your so called winner the JokeT-09.

[@88888888Rocket1]

100% agree. Thank you for speaking the truth. The Z doesn’t have any of the complaints they gave the winners.

[@marks938]

First time watching you guys, impressive video. I'm in the market for a mid range motorcycle and the Yamaha MT09 is now at the top of the list. Greetings for Victoria, Australia.

[@PMitchell106]

High pegs at 7:02 "Squatty potty." High pegs at 29:52 "Attack position!" 😂 Really though, talking ergos and not mentioning your height, or the available seat height options on the bikes, 🤷

[@killerdeviant]

The Kawasaki’s pegs are really high

[@Stclairm1]

The BMW "starts" at $8999. Then you look at the bike at a dealer........Loving my used low mileage FZ-10! Really considered the Z900. I need to look and see if you did a 890R vs FZ09SP. I just can stand the looks of the KTM nor the headlight designed by another company look on the FZ.

[@imaloztcause]

Get the SP, bike slaps

[@TheAsheybabe89]

This is true. I wanted the BMW, but couldn’t lay hands on one for less than $11k. Then I researched it more and found out that it was an underpowered porker with a Chinese engine. So I bought the Z and have no regrets.

[@Stclairm1]

@@TheAsheybabe89 I think the Z900RS Cafe/Rs, Z900, FZ-09, or Street Triple are all better choices than the BMW.

[@Supernova12034]

As a former ktm super duke owner, 100% agree with the old man, I dont want 'ready to race' all the time.

[@jaiminpatel5700]

A new video for comparing MT-09 SP VS Street Triple RS !!

[@wirenut3020]

Or MT-09 Sp vs KTM 890 Duke R

[@SquireSCA]

The Street Triple R is down on power, due to software. Prior to 2020, the R and RS motors were different. Different cam profile, different fuel and ignition maps, etc... For 2020, the motors are the same. Same cam, same tune, same everything... The only place that they differ, is in the ride by wire tables. On the R model, when you give it 100% throttle, it only delivers 100% throttle until 7500rpm, and from there to redline it drops down to 81%. That's how they castrate the top end power, to create the performance difference between the two bikes. The good news is that you can use TuneECU to change those tables from 81%, to 100% and push them to the ECU. Your R model, will then be an RS model, at least as far as the engine and power are concerned. There is 8-10hp just sitting there, waiting to be unlocked.

[@wirenut3020]

You’re a good man for posting that tutorial.

[@SquireSCA]

@@wirenut3020 Thanks man. I made the video showing how to do it. It's very easy, and almost foolproof. And all the dealer can see, is how many times the ECU has been written to. So they can't even see what changes were made. And there is zero risk of hurting the engine by doing this... It's the RS motor, that is simply held back by a setting in the software. Undo that setting, and it just restores the motor to full power.

[@Mr7O5]

I can’t wait to see how the 2024 mt09 stacks up

[@Szlejer]

Faith in objective journalism restored! The fake BMW with the chinese Loncin engine comes in last!

[@Joric78]

"It didn't inspire anything in me except the willingness to get off" - savage. I guess for BMW this is considered a cheap or entry level machine.

[@LyuboslavPavlov]

I have question regarding the BMW. As they complained about the engines faults - in Europe the new 2021 F900R is 105 hp with 66.3 lb-ft (90 nm) , why the big difference with their bike?

[@thijsploumen2518]

indeed strange that they didn't compare a full spec 105hp version

[@Mr450pro]

Just bought a 2023 Yamaha mt09sp. I wasn’t even thinking of the KTM. I have friends that owned KTM and all the trouble they went through, I was like hell no.

[@abexuro]

they really should've added the scores for each bike too. If the BMW still gets an 8/10, but it's the "worst" of the 6 bikes, it's still a great bike.

[@calipulaco2440]

I am waiting for my 2021 MT09...Look Great Like A GUNDAM MECHA

[@diamondmidnightgardener]

Great comparison..... but now that you've got your top 2, can you please compare the MT09-SP vs KTM Duke 890 R?... I'll be in the market in March next year. Cheers and thanks for the great work!

[@crazyrebl]

Sp has better suspension then the standard and cruz control thats it No need for another video.

[@diamondmidnightgardener]

@@crazyrebl killjoy

[@crazyrebl]

@@diamondmidnightgardener haha sorry Didn't mean to be. Just get a mto9 ive rode a ton of bikes and the mto9 is by far the Most fun i have ever had on 2 wheels!!

[@diamondmidnightgardener]

@@crazyrebl cool, thanks for saying… I’ll put that as another tick in the 09’s favour 🤙

[@ulaskvlcm]

890 Duke R is the best. More power-torque, less weight, Brembos as well. İt has not rubbish Nissins as Yamaha.

[@durgeshnagaraj7863]

Monster looks fab

[@moomoodeadcow]

sub liter bikes. A FUEL GAUGE! On a Ducati! I'll be damned.

[@cliveomahoney4096]

That was a pretty comprehensive test of the bikes. When I read the reviews on your website, I'll expect to see affordablility: insurance and servicing costs - which, in the UK, vary a lot and reliability. Which, with a KTM on one side and Kawa and Yam on the other (good side) will be all the things that potential buyers need to know. I'm so tempted to get the MT. Fortunately, there are none around at the moment.

[@Coldee777]

YAAY I GOT THE 890 DUKE. LOOK AT THE STYLING, SO SHARP AND AGILE, YEAH ITS THE SCALPEL

[@peterm348]

Adam Waheed tested the F900R last year and loved it. In the US they all come fully loaded with options - amazed that you could even find this bare naked lady anywhere. Electronics are stellar for this class with lean sensitive Brembos and connectivity. The display is absolutely class leading. Fit and finish is way better than the competition. I don’t need a bike like this and wouldn’t buy one but it is certainly way, way better than an age old Kawasaki or Triumph. Sadly, your comparos are getting very silly and misleading.

[@wirenut3020]

I test rode the both triumph R vs the F900 BMW. The BMW was a clunky shifting, low rpm dog compared to the triumph. That’s how I saw it. I was wayyy more excited by the Triumph.

[@Milen4u]

I have it for 1 year, 14000km. The gearbox is OK, neutral is hard to find, quickshifter is bad when unshifting 1 through 4. The engine in EU spec has 77 KW and lots of torque, i like it. The seat is bad. The fuel economy is really good no matter how you ride it, I got it below the official numbers on a couple of occasions. Connectivity, electronics, gadgets are all top of the top. But...a lot of technical issues. The cold start issue that everyone around the world has and BMW denied at first, it's burning a lot of oil and BMW deny the problem, people had clutch issues and replacement under warranty, oil leaks from the seals...

[@aaronbritt2025]

With the Z900 SE (with Ohlins suspension) out now in '24, I think the Z900 has moved up the rankings quite a bit. I may be biased though because I don't like twins or triples. I want an inline 4.

[@neoons]

Great insights!

[@abymathew295]

THE ONE I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR AGES....😍😍😍😍 CANT WAIT TO SEE THE HYPER NAKED AND SUPERSPORTS COMPAROS....🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@chris_rides_kawasaki]

Sorry gents .. I couldn't disagree more... I love my z900... Put it in rider mode, turn the traction control off... Then say it's not memorable...

[@cuzimaluzer777]

I own a duke 890 and I agree with you. Z900 is an outstanding motorcycle for the money.

[@THEREALZENFORCE]

In Europe the F900R has 105hp not 85hp, optional heated grips and electronic suspension and other stuff. And the next year model might perhaps have the maintenance free M endurance chain, the same they have optional on the S1000R and S1000XR. In Europe the Z900 has 125hp and for the price of a KTM 890 (over 13k full options) i would take the new 13k Suzuki GSX-S1000 (152hp, better quickshifter, more comfortable and most of all unlike KTM, the Suzuki is reliable. In Europe the Ducati Monster 950 has 114hp. And the R9 is not a first on your channel, it's spoken about for months especially since the release of the R7 specs, also many other channels made that R9 claim. Great video quality and good sound quality on your channel and some refreshing diverse opinions on the same bikes from different riders. Continue the good work.

[@minhucinh3716]

they measured rwhp in this test, haha

[@tomhallsonics]

Where did you shoot this? trying to recognise the road.

[@kleinbottled79]

John Burns is my motor journalism spirit animal. His opinions count double for me.

[@grahamhamilton7875]

Great commentary guys-no bullshit and nice relaxed delivery. I loved the riding footage too. Great roads for riding. I’d love to ride in some of those tunnels. Keep up the good work.

[@dylankeenan1590]

The 2021 MT09 is seriously one of the best bikes on the market for the money

[@luckypenguin5372]

Idk about best looking but specs yes

[@briananderson2219]

No denying which of these bags you choose if you have a good local dealer, that is the clear choice

[@elgar6743]

Great review. Shame that the only, to me, coherently styled bikes are the BMW and the KTM...the others are simply 'fugly', especially the MT-09 and it's Italian clone. Well, as they say, you can't see the styling when you ride it...ha!

[@drgunit893]

should have gotten the 890 R the difference is only about 1500 USD but you get a completely different beast the 890 R is so much better than the standard 890 they feel very different. How do I know this ? I've ridden both. Anyways fun review either way Edit: I know ppl will say well then you also need to get the MT 09 SP, Street Triple RS and Monster +. I agree with that, would love to see those be put against the Beast that is the 890 R :DD

[@briananderson2219]

By the way just got back from LA rented a motorcycle from EagleRider and Road that same road! Needless to say it was nothing less than epic

[@1991julez]

Great balanced video as always. Keep doing what you’re doing

[@alndi3]

Great line-up fellas!

[@bryansullivan9588]

the z900 will out run the other bikes in top end for sure