2024 Kawasaki Z900 SE or Z900? Which One Is Best For You?

The 2024 Kawasaki Z900 SE has arrived! Is it right for you? That's what I discuss in this video! Check it out for yourself at Jim Gilbert's PowerSports here: powersports.wh...

[@MrJonesy]

Z900 is best bang for bucks. Looks are insane. Put Michelin Road5/6 on and you got a bike that you will never want to change. I’ve had 2020 from new and there is not another bike out there that I want. SE not required. It’s just a great great bike.

[@sonny_z900]

Looks like the 2024 SE does not differ much from the older models or do they? IE 2022 I've got a 2022 Z900 (red/white) version. I came from a 2014 MT-07 and what I miss on the dash is a temperature gauge for the outside temp which I had on my MT-07. It's a bit heavier than the MT-07 but still manageable with my short frame of 5.5 (1.63M). I have the thin saddle on it though.

[@ToyLegend]

How sad, 2024 z900 SE still doesn't have cruise control standard. This has to be a joke. I own a 2022 z900 and I love the bike. However, sometimes I find myself wishing it had the cruise control on the longer trips.

[@jdfpjdisddhlrudueieo]

Why you keep comparing the z900 SE to your 900RS is to different stile bike

[@NPurvis7622]

Not everyone understands that and he is addressing the confusion. Happens a lot in bike world...

[@1974Wilky]

Great video. Also whilst adjusting the clutch lever you showed me that I had been adjusting it incorrectly! I’ve just been in my garage and adjusted it the way you did and I’ve now got the lever just where I want it to be! Thanks from Paul in the UK!

[@RobertHiggins-gv5jc]

Hey Peter do you know what is going on for the 2025 model se ?? And would they order one for me and can I have it delivered or would I have to pick it up?? You are the reason I would buy one from them.... please let me know and thanks so much for the video I watch allmost All of them and you do an incredible job telling us about them.... I try and catch you slipping and I just can't you do your homework on these bikes.............

[@realJust4You]

Why dont compare with Z900 green color?

[@Kwikasfuki007]

Emission controls on a modern, clean-running 4-cylinder motorcycle - these people are insane! Political rant aside lol, it's a great-looking bike. I have the 2023 SE version that I have yet to experience, as I bought it in November last year, but I'm sure it will perform well. Needless to say, I was all over this as riding season is almost here and I'm anxious to get out (as is everyone with winters)! And given your approach to reviewing these bikes, it's a no-brainer to watch. Another good one Peter, thanks! 🐺

[@PeterLoweOne]

I stay out of the political points in these reviews, but that is the reason that 4 cylinder bikes are disappearing. I'm also waiting for the riding season! I've been out for two good rides this year, but we had a dump of snow over the weekend, and have heavy rain expected all week. Still waiting to get the temperatures warm enough to properly go out! Thanks for watching!

[@Snotroggel453]

I almost bought the ‘23 SE as well, until i saw the 2024 SE with the green frame.. waited for that one 😂

[@joeking4206]

The new generation of big fours look great. Except for those tail pipes. Man they are ugly!

[@PeterLoweOne]

Haha. I have the Z900RS SE, I think the pipe fits the look of that bike well. Styling is so subjective though. It's impossible to make a bike that pleases everyone.

[@seethingsclearlyawaken3424]

I prefer the S.E. thank you. The looks are better and like the better brakes and suspension. Kawasaki green is nicer than the red too.

[@BotGamer-nc8vf]

Zx4rr or z900 i really dont like naked bikes but confused between them because the price is almost same

[@PeterLoweOne]

Z900 for outright power with lots of torque so you have good grunt in every gear. ZX4RR for outright handling while having a great sound and superbike feel. I own the Z900RS SE but I'd be just as happy to own the Ninja. Both are great bikes.

[@derrickw5214]

Appreciate the review on the whole. That discussion of the front suspension (teased throughout like what... 3 times?) was practically non-existent though

[@MrJonesy]

When mt09 park near you know they wanna look but can’t bring themselves to.

[@ryancreamer7853]

I have one, 30 year rider. Got a few miles on it already. It’s been an amazing bike for me! Handles like a dream! Pulls like a train. The TFT ease of use is a little complicated but once you figure it out, it’s awesome what it can do digitally! The Kawasaki in-line 4 has a 50 year track record of being a work of art! Don’t be afraid of these bikes. The SE is also worth it if you’re a bike person. You’ll see it’s value pretty quickly

[@byronrussell8792]

Great review! Thank you sir. I have a 2004 z750 I have loved since 2008.. Z900 may be the one to convince me to upgrade! 👍

[@raphaelfernandez3693]

Any idea if a Z650 SE is due to release any time soon? Seeing the Z500 and now z900 have SE? Thanks

[@Kephers7]

Could this be a beginner bike for a big guy? 5'11' - 6 ft 320 lbs? Would it have a little get up and go while at the same time not having me worry about the bike flying out from under me? I do enjoy tech. I wish manufacturers would add a little tech to these bikes, personally.

[@dnbsoldier7259]

This bike really isn't built with someone your size in mind. Your height is not an issue, and the bike would fit you just fine in that regard. But you're a big dude as far as weight goes. It's unlikely that this would be a comfortable ride for you. Not that you couldn't do it, but that seat will probably be miserable for anything more than a short trip around town. Also, that engine isn't exactly for beginners. This is a fast bike. You might want to start with something a little more tame. A high displacement cruiser would be a much better starter bike for you, in my opinion. I'd find something 1600cc - 1800cc. You'll have a lower seat height that will be easier to swing your leg over. You'll have a much wider seat. The cruiser riding position is much more accommodating for big boys. Cruisers are not set up to be super torquey like naked bikes, which for beginners can be a bad idea. You'll have a lot more space between gears on a cruiser, which will make riding for a beginner, easier. Metric cruisers (Japanese cruisers) can be found with low miles for cheap. You can find something like a Yamaha Roadstar or a Honda VTX with low miles for under 5k if you look around (especially during the winter). These bikes will have plenty of power, but are much easier to handle and will be way more comfortable. You can ride it for a season or two and sell it for about what you bought it for and move up to a big sport bike if that's what you really desire. Sport bikes are a lot of fun, and if you've got your heart set on one, then give it a shot. But I would definitely go sit on one and then sit on a cruiser and get a feel for the difference because it is significant. I would definitely get the SE with the more adjustable suspension and better brakes (weight significantly adds to stopping time) if you do decide to go with the Z900. But you should definitely get into riding because it's awesome and will bring you a lot of joy! The best therapy I've ever encountered!

[@patrickagan1071]

Still no cruise control well that was stupid

[@exe16]

Throttle is operated by cable.

[@sambaez]

Yeah the answer to that is XSR900. Is honestly what I'm inclining to get. Quickshifter up/down, cruise control, all the techs etc.

[@Piyawat555-m7y]

This video form USA. right?

[@BlackArroToons]

Great review, thanks. I didn't realize the emissions were tougher to achieve on 4 cylinder bikes than 2 cylinders, like my Ninja 650, or other parallel twin Kawasaki bikes. Thanks. Are two cylinder engines generally more fuel efficient than 4 cylinder bikes?

[@benlaseter7719]

Yes, but they can hit mileage targets fairly easily. Manufacturers struggle heavily to reduce the hydrocarbons that are produced by partially unburnt fuel in small capacity engines.

[@BlackArroToons]

@@benlaseter7719 Thanks. I'm able to get 50+ mph on my '21 Ninja 650 for a range of 200 miles from a full 4.0 gallon tank, but at the same riding speeds, I wonder what a 4 cylinder 900 might get. Sounds like a bit less fuel savings perhaps.

[@FilipLaurentiu]

Drive by wire ?

[@exe16]

No, throttle is operated by cable.

[@drady8541]

With raid modes and without ride by wire ?

[@Rickmac22]

Really really great detailed review! I learned so much from this compare and contrast video... Excellent work!

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to share your thoughts!

[@Xerdoz]

Neither. Get the MT-09. Z900 doesn't have a quickshifter or a cruise control.

[@sleeper.simulant7327]

For very few people those aren’t deal breakers… I like the more aggressive ergonomics and I like the extra power for my 50 mile interstate commute, makes taking wind a bit nicer. Also the ergo’s and longer swingarm I find a little more confidence inspiring when hitting the mountain roads.

[@seth3000gt]

Had to chime in. I test rode the 2024 MT-09 and the Z900SE. I bought the Z900SE. Couple reasons why. Cable actuated throttle is pure, more analog, you feel more connected with the bike than the odd disconnect you have with a electronic throttle by wire system. The MT-09 has this huge tumor on the right hand side of the engine down by your shin bone that sticks out a ridiculous amount. I kept banging my shin on it at every stop light! It's all I could pay attention to after seeing and feeling it. (A shin guard should be included with the purchase price) Cruise control is great for a cruiser, not an around town fun bike so that's not a big deal to me, the quick shifter is a cool option and one that the Z definitely should have. But, I don't miss a quick shifter because I've never owned a bike that had one. It was cool to play with on the MT but. I kinda like shifting. Part of the reason for owning a motorcycle. The MT-09 exhaust is FUGLY!! It's an unfinished ugly chunk of metal under it that looks horrible, what was Yamaha thinking?? They could have rattle canned it at least! The looks on the MT are, odd. It's ugly still. Then the three cylinder.....yes it's a torque monster and has a unique sound. I liked the engine power. But, there just is no match to a 4 cylinder sound. Right when I got on the Z and pulled away on my test ride, I was quickly reminded as to why the 4 cylinder reigns supreme. I did like the MT and it has a lot going for it yes, I actually would like to own both the Z and the MT. But for now, I went with the older technology, heavier and brutally powerful Z900. It's not perfect for sure, but it is awesome once you start riding. Especially the SE edition. Have a good day.

[@sleeper.simulant7327]

@@seth3000gt see, to me the Z900 feels torquier, but in a smoother fashion. It just feels like it pulls harder pretty much everywhere in the power band. The triple has that immediate punch when the throttle is touchy in the sportiest selected mode, but it by no means feels like it pulls harder than the Z900… for me, I commute 100 miles round trip a day, 2/3’s of that is on the freeway. The more tucked riding position on the Z900 is far more preferred for freeway riding, it also feels more stable. The MT09 is just so upright almost dirtbike like as my scrambler was prior, which I hated on the freeway. For a naked bike, the Z900 excels on the freeway. I don’t have the SE model, I have a ‘22 Z900 ABS, which is good enough for me…

[@seth3000gt]

@@sleeper.simulant7327 I rode the standard Z900 before the SE and honestly didn't notice a difference other than a little bit of braking initial feel. But otherwise they were the same. Actually my SE has more vibration than the standard Z above 5k rpms for some reason. I am taking it in for it's first service this Friday coming up and having them check into the vibration, and my clutch shudders in first gear when it engages. Does your clutch shudder in first gear as it engages?

[@herrtomas6729]

Hi Peter - "not first"!

[@PeterLoweOne]

Haha! Thanks for watching!

[@donniebaynard8430]

Whuts that all aboat aye?

[@PeterLoweOne]

I'm guessing you're not Canadian. 🇨🇦

[@donniebaynard8430]

@@PeterLoweOne naw. I'm merican. Allegedly

[@adrianhall210]

Hey Peter , I was wondering if you could please do a review on the Yamaha V Star 250. If possible I would appreciate it. Thank you for all your great work.👊🏻🙏🏻

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yes! I actually was talking to the dealer about doing that review very soon. I can probably get to that this week. I'm glad to hear there's some interest in that bike!

[@adrianhall210]

@@PeterLoweOne That would be awesome, I’m 63 and for years I have been dreaming about a bike , so I’m taking the plunge, my heart is set on the V- Star. Just something to boot around town with and have some fun. Hopefully I’m not too big for it . I look forward to your review of it. Take care Peter.

[@Bluecollarguy87]

I would have to say this compared to the MTO9 SP Yamaha is leaps and bounds ahead of Kawasaki

[@PeterLoweOne]

The quickshifter and some of the other tech definitely have its advantages, but there really is nothing like a 4 cylinder and there's a BIG price gap between the MT-09 SP and this. But I hear what you're saying.

[@kwakithailand]

The best sounding and lookin Yamaha are Pianos 👍

[@thejaysun]

Leaps and bounds is a stretch.it's just missing some tech. The kawi looks way better too.

[@exe16]

Extra cylinder > electronic baby monitors

[@Bluecollarguy87]

@@exe16 come up for air once in a while!!!

[@1stfrompuertorico568]

First!!!

[@PeterLoweOne]

It helps when I post earlier in the day!! Hope you're well!

[@tg8150]

The Z is old, heavy, under-equipped and overpriced for what you get vs Yamaha & Triumph. The Z900, SE or not, is like Kawasaki’s sportbike version of the KLR650- nothing ever REALLY changes except for the stickers and increase in price. It’s laughable at this point to hear fanboys still brag on what essentially is a Z800 from the early to mid 2010’s. MT-09 is the class benchmark. Kawi couldn’t build anything to compete even if they tried. The Z900 isn’t even made in Japan. It’s cheap Thailand built garbage.

[@ridepastu1418]

Interesting, I was about to pull the trigger on a Z900 SE. So difficult to find a few months ago. Thought it would be a great addition to my zx10r SE. Bought a Triumph Street triple 765 instead.

[@jonathancoley974]

Uhhhh... NOPE! You have absolutely NO CLUE what you're talking about!!?! I have the 2020 Kawasaki Z900 & it's a BEAST! I absolutely LOVE this bike! It also sounds SO GOOD stock, too! They designed it to be an exhilarating ride experience... the handling is superb & just STICKS to the pavement, giving the rider that planted, confidence inspiring ride and feel. The exhaust note is heavenly, not to mention the sound of the air intake that deepens the more throttle it's given. It stays planted until you decide otherwise & raise the front wheel up for a wheelie. The clutch lever is as smooth as butter & shifts even smoother! It's a slightly heavier bike but somehow is made to feel as light as a feather when moving. It easily holds its lane position through any curves you may encounter and does so naturally! 0-60mph in 3-seconds flat & then it just keeps on pulling HARD throughout the ENTIRE rev-range & seems to do so effortlessly too! You can roll on the throttle in ANY gear and pass just about anything on the roadway with ease. From the handlebars to the seat to the foot pegs, has me feeling comfortable & pretty much sitting upright & alert.

[@sammi5281]

A 4 cylinder all ways wins in my book

[@RobertHiggins-gv5jc]

What are you talking about...... I've got both bikes and I ride with a few yams also and I'm all over them as a matter of fact they are selling them One of them still owes The bank some cash so he's waiting for the 2025 ... mine is in the garage more than on the road Yamaha we are talking about right now it's a good bike don't take me wrong but it just can't compare to the KAW...and on top of things it's ugly as hell Yamaha Mt models need some help period.......... sounds great but that's All...poor thing...

[@MillsapView]

Why is this guy so angry at kawasaki z900...😢