Ducati Monster versus Kawasaki Z 900

Make
Model
Make
Model
Make
Model
Ducati

Ducati Monster

Naked
Kawasaki

Kawasaki Z 900

Naked

Year of construction / RRP / Test report

Built von 2021 bis 2024~
Built von 2020 bis 2024~
RRP 12.390 €
RRP 10.295 €
waveform
waveform
Pros:
  • Fun
  • good standard equipment
  • Lighter, stronger, better to handle and still cheaper than the previous model
  • A2 version with 35kW available
Pros:
  • Powerful engine
  • Precise chassis
  • Easy-to-control brakes
  • Value for money
Cons:
  • More expensive than most competitors
  • lots of plastic on the sides
Cons:
  • Pillion comfort
  • Partial operation

Dimensions & Weight

Wheelbase: 1.474 mm
Seat :
820 mm
Weight :
188 kg
Wheelbase: 1.455 mm
Length :
2.070 mm Height : 1.080 mm
Seat :
820 mm
Weight :
212 kg

Engine

Motor design: V2 2 Cylinder
Displacement: 937 ccm
Hub: 68 mm
Hole: 94 mm
Cooling: flüssig
Drive: Kette
Aisles: 6
Motor design: Liquid-cooled four-stroke in-line four-cylinder 4 Cylinder
Displacement: 948 ccm
Hub: 56 mm
Hole: 73 mm
Cooling: flüssig
Drive: Kette
Aisles: 6

Performance

Maximum speed: 226 km/h
Performance: 111 HP at 9.250 U/Min
Torque: 93 NM bei 6.500 U/Min
Tank contents: 14 Litre
Consumption:
5 l
Reach:
280 km
Maximum speed: 240 km/h
Performance: 125 HP at 9.500 U/Min
Torque: 99 NM bei 7.700 U/Min
Tank contents: 17 Litre
Consumption:
6 l
Reach:
315 km

Chassis

Frame type:
Cast aluminium (aluminium)
Front suspension:
Marzocchi USD fork 43 mm (travel 130 mm)
Rear suspension:
Mono strut (travel 140 mm)
Rear suspension:
Alu two-arm swingarm
Tyres at the front: 120/70 17 inches
Rear tyres: 180/55 17 inches
Frame type:
Tubular space frame (steel)
Front suspension:
41 mm upside-down fork (travel 120 mm)
Rear suspension:
Mono strut (travel 140 mm)
Rear suspension:
Two-arm swingarm
Tyres at the front: 120/70ZR17M/C (58W)
Rear tyres: 180/55ZR17M/C (73W)

Brakes

Front brake
Double disc, Brembo with radially mounted four-piston calipers ( 320 mm) Rear brake
Single disc, two-piston ( 245 mm)
Front brake
Double disc ( 300 mm) Rear brake
Disc ( 250 mm)

Conclusion - what gets stuck

For so many years, Ducati stuck to the typical appearance of the monsters that change was really time. But how many monsters are still in it? We find a lot when you are open to change. You'll see how well the new monster will sell. In any case, however, the target group is likely to have become much wider. The new monster is also interesting for holders of the A2 driving licence, because after 2 years you can not open the 35 kW to the full 111 hp, but at least to 95 hp. And that should ensure many years of driving fun. In short, the reworking of the monsters seems clear and thoughtful to us and could give a new lease of life to the monsters' success story.

Our thanks go to Ducati-Hamburg for the test bike.

Price/Availability/Colours/Years of Construction

  • Price: 11.250€
  • Years of construction: from 2021
  • Availability: from 2021
  • Colours: red, grey, black

Good - if you like athletes

What remains? At 9,845 euros, the Kawasaki Z 900 of the 2020 vintage has become more expensive, but with its electronic equipment it has also become considerably more valuable, especially in the area of security. She has lost nothing of her qualities – at least for sporty riders.

However, it is a very animating motorcycle: the bike appeals to the rider on an emotional level. Only the message is always the same: finally turn to the stop! If you like this and don't need a socioseat, you have a fully everyday athlete colleague here. If this is too hectic, the new features will not convince you either.

The test bike was provided to us by Heller & Soltau in St. Michaelisdonn.

Price / Availability / Colours / Years of Construction

  • Price: 9.845€
  • Used (3 years old): 6.500€
  • Years of construction: since 2017
  • Availability: good
  • Colours: red, bright yellow