Yamaha XSR900 vs Kawasaki Z900RS
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Yamaha XSR900 and Kawasaki Z900RS are among the most cross-shopped modern classic bikes of 2026. The Yamaha XSR900 undercuts the Kawasaki Z900RS by about $2,050, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Yamaha XSR900 leads on power with 117 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.
Yamaha
Yamaha XSR900
Our pickKawasaki
Kawasaki Z900RSThe verdict
The Kawasaki Z900RS edges it overall at 8.5/10, but the Yamaha XSR900 wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Yamaha XSR900
117 hp.
Yamaha XSR900
117 hp and 0.61 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Yamaha XSR900
Our 8.4/10 at $10,599, the most bike per dollar.
Yamaha XSR900
193 kg with an 810 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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Yamaha XSR900 vs Kawasaki Z900RS: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Yamaha XSR900 or the Kawasaki Z900RS?
The Yamaha XSR900 makes the most power at 117 hp and 93 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Yamaha XSR900 or the Kawasaki Z900RS?
The Yamaha XSR900 is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $10,599.
Which is lighter, the Yamaha XSR900 or the Kawasaki Z900RS?
The Yamaha XSR900 is the lightest at 193 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Yamaha XSR900 or the Kawasaki Z900RS?
For a new rider we'd point to the Yamaha XSR900: 117 hp and 193 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
