BMW R 12 G/S vs Kawasaki Z900RS
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The BMW R 12 G/S and Kawasaki Z900RS are among the most cross-shopped modern classic bikes of 2026. The Kawasaki Z900RS undercuts the BMW R 12 G/S by about $3,746, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Kawasaki Z900RS leads on power with 111 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
BMW
BMW R 12 G/S
Our pickKawasaki
Kawasaki Z900RSThe verdict
The Kawasaki Z900RS is our pick of this group on the numbers, scoring 8.5/10.
Kawasaki Z900RS
111 hp.
Kawasaki Z900RS
111 hp and 0.52 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Kawasaki Z900RS
Our 8.5/10 at $12,649, the most bike per dollar.
Kawasaki Z900RS
215 kg with an 800 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Kawasaki Z900RS
Our top score in this matchup at 8.5/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
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BMW R 12 G/S vs Kawasaki Z900RS: your questions answered
Which is faster, the BMW R 12 G/S or the Kawasaki Z900RS?
The Kawasaki Z900RS makes the most power at 111 hp and 98.5 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the BMW R 12 G/S or the Kawasaki Z900RS?
The Kawasaki Z900RS is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $12,649.
Which is lighter, the BMW R 12 G/S or the Kawasaki Z900RS?
The Kawasaki Z900RS is the lightest at 215 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the BMW R 12 G/S or the Kawasaki Z900RS?
For a new rider we'd point to the Kawasaki Z900RS: 111 hp and 215 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
