In-depth comparison of the new Z900RS vs. CB1000F: A close examination of the details of the two rivals!
3,647
0
Share 
Copy link
X
Facebook
Save
The two heroes stand side by side! To match Honda's CB1000F, which has finally arrived on the scene, Kawasaki's Z900RS has also been updated with a new model. We compare the two bikes in detail, from style to details to specs, using photos as a basis! Which would you choose between the eternal rivals, the CB and the Z?
Table of Contents
- 1 Style: Contrasting! The square, modern CB and the curved, retro-style Z
- 2 Both are equipped with liquid-cooled straight-four engines, with the CB having the advantage in power and torque.
- 3 CB is sportier and more compact, with a lower seat height.
- 4 [Electronic Controls] The CB has plenty of driving support, while the Z has cruise control and a shifter.
- 5 The CB has a functional full LCD meter, while the Z has a traditional bullet-shaped twin-lens analog meter.
- 6 Grade and price comparison: CB's STD is the only one in the 1.3 million yen range, while the cowl version is cheaper than the Z.
Style: Contrasting! The square, modern CB and the curved, retro-style Z
The Z900RS has been a dominant force in the Japanese big naked market, and since its debut in December 2017, it has been a bestseller and has been the No. 1 selling bike in the large class in Japan for seven consecutive years. To compete with this champion, Honda has sent in the new CB1000F. The Z900RS Café with a bikini cowl is available for the Z, and the SE with a cowl is also available for the CB. This one will go on sale on January 16, 2026. The Z900RS will also undergo its first big change for the 2026 model year. The exterior is almost the same, but the electronic control has been enhanced, and the SE, the higher grade, is now available in a black and red "fireball" color for the first time, which is attracting a lot of attention. Let's start with a comparison of styles. The CB1000F pays homage to the famous CB750F/900F launched in 1979 by introducing a rearranged square form, while the Z900RS is inspired by the Z1 introduced in 1972, with its curved design teardrop tank and tail. If anything, the CB is more modern, while the Z is more original.
The CB1000F, in contrast to the Z, has a square shape and, like the CB750F/900F, follows the stream line from the tank to the tail, but it is more modern than classical.
The new Z900RS SE, with the tank and other exterior features of the Z1's rounded, retro design; the exterior of the 2026 model is the same as the previous model, but the main exterior changes are to the seat and muffler.
The CB1000F has an extended tail and compact side covers for a sportier image.
The Z900RS has horizontal lines including the tail area, giving it a nostalgic 70's style mood.
The CB1000F's fuel tank has a raised edge and is wider. However, it is less angular and more refined than the CB750F/900F.
The Z900RS has a streamlined teardrop tank. Although voluminous when viewed from above, it is made to appear thinner in the side view.
The CB1000F features a round-eyed LED headlight with a CB750F-style double horn. A signature light with a glowing outer perimeter is positioned, with the upper side on low and the upper and lower sides on high. Blinkers are located on the bottom of the headlight.
The Z900RS features a 170mm diameter headlight, which appears to be smaller than the CB's, and a single horn. The inside of the lens is divided into six chambers, four low and two high, but the entire lens always appears to be lit. Blinkers are located next to the lights.
The tail cowl and lamps on the CB are also "angular," with a slight curl at the rear end, similar to the CB750F/900F. Emergency stop signals are standard equipment. All lights are LED.
The Z features a curved tail and oval taillights reminiscent of the Z1. The retro glow is achieved by using a single LED bulb with a surface emission. Full LEDs are used, including the blinkers.
The CB1000F's mirrors are pentagonal in shape, the same type as the Hornet's, with no awareness of the CB750F's round mirrors.
The Z900RS has round mirrors reminiscent of the Z1; the Z900RS Cafe has shortened mirror stays to match the style.
Both are equipped with liquid-cooled straight-four engines, with the CB having the advantage in power and torque.
Both Z and CB are based on street fighters, Z900 and CB1000 Hornet, respectively, and both are equipped with a downdraft-intake DOHC 4-valve liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder engine. The CB1000 Hornet, in particular, is newer, debuting in 2025, and is powered by a 999cc engine derived from the supersport CBR1000RR (SC77). It produces a high power of 124ps while reducing maximum output by 28ps from the Hornet. On the other hand, it has fatter low- and mid-range torque for the street. The Z was based on the 948cc unit of the 2017 Z900, but newly complies with Euro 5+ regulations. It gained an electronic throttle and 6-axis IMU, as well as a newly designed cam profile and lightweight flywheel. Specifications for the domestic version have not yet been announced, but the European version produces 116ps, up 5ps from the previous model. The maximum power output generated was increased by 800 rpm, making it a higher-revving model. Both the CB and Z come standard with an assist and slipper clutch that reduces excessive engine braking and clutch lever pressure. The engine specifications are as follows ( CB/Z * The Z specifications below are for European specifications). Displacement = 999cc/948cc - Maximum output = 124ps/9000rpm/116ps/9300rpm - Maximum torque = 10.5kg-m/8000rpm/9.48kg-m/7700rpm - Bore x stroke = 76.0 x 55.1mm/73.4 x 56.0mm - Compression ratio = 11.7: 1/11.8:1 7:1 / 11.8:1 ・Fuel tank capacity: 16L / 17L ・Gasoline: high octane / high octane The Z900RS has increased power, but the CB's maximum output and torque are both higher than the Z due to its larger displacement.
The CB1000F is based on the 999cc straight-4 unit from the CB1000 Hornet, with a new camshaft and transmission. The bore x stroke and compression ratio are the same. The main three axles are in a triangular arrangement, which is typical of the SS.
The Z900RS's 948cc straight-four engine features air-cooled fins on the cylinder head reminiscent of the Z1. The covers are also traditionally designed in the Z1 motif. The three main axles are arranged in a straight line, also in a retro style.
In addition to the newly designed air funnels, the CB also changed the valve timing for each of the two cylinders on the left and right: only the 3rd & 4th intake cams have delayed valve closure, creating the right amount of variability, similar to a carburetor car.
The new Z900RS has more power in the high-rpm range, with the #1&4 intake funnels being half the length of the previous ones to achieve top-end power. On the other hand, the #2&3 funnels have been lengthened to support low- and mid-range performance.
The CB's exhaust pipes are similar to those on the Hornet, with a 4-in-2-in-1 assembly system; the Hornet SP's exhaust valves are not equipped.
The Z has a revised exhaust pipe shape and layout with a stronger forward protrusion. In addition, the pre-chamber was downsized and a sub-catalyst was added. The assembly system is 4-in-1.
CB's megaphone muffler is a three-chamber design that amplifies the engine's pulse-pounding sound; it is longer and more voluminous than the Z's. [caption id=49915 align align aligncenter width=1200"] [/caption
The new Z's megaphone muffler is 70mm longer than before. Newly designed bolt-on end pieces were also adopted. The STD shown in the photo is a black finished header pipe with a hairline finish and a hollow double-layer structure that resists discoloration.
CB is sportier and more compact, with a lower seat height.
The CB1000F's chassis follows the Hornet's tubular steel diamond frame. However, the rear frame is specially designed to enhance the F's unique style and tandem comfort. The Z900RS is similar to the Z900 with a conventional tubular steel diamond frame, but with an extended stem section for natural handling that is well received. While the Z's frame uses a trellis structure for the head pipe, the CB features a gusset (reinforcement) and engine hangers extending from it to increase rigidity. The framework around the swing arm pivots is also wider, which seems to have been designed with a sportier ride in mind. The CB weighs 214 kg and the Z 216 kg, and both have the same caster/trail of 25°/98 mm. Body dimensions are as follows ( CB/Z Z specifications are for European specifications). Overall length: 2135/2100mm, overall width: 835/865mm, overall height: 1125/1150mm, distance between axles: 1455/1465mm, seat height: 795/810mm. The seat height is 15mm lower than that of the CB. However, the Z's seat height is 10 mm higher than the CB's, but the leg room is said to be almost the same as the CB's, so the difference in real terms is about 5 mm (see below for details on the seat).
CB frame. The emphasis was placed on the supple characteristics of steel as well as sufficient rigidity.
The Z's frame is made of pipes that are as straight as possible to distribute stress. The area around the pivots is reinforced with sub-frames.
The CBs feature φ41mm Showa SFF-BPs with φ310mm discs + Nissin opposed 4-pot radial-mount calipers. Both the CB and Z have rebound and compression damping force and preload adjustment.
The Z900RS STD (Black Ball Edition) has φ41mm inverted forks with φ300mm discs + Tokico opposed 4-pot radial mount calipers. The calipers are anodized aluminum coated and laser engraved.
The CB's master cylinder appears to be a standard horizontal push type, but it is a radial pump.
The Z's master cylinder is a separate radial pump from Nissin. The cylindrical reservoir tank adds to the retro look.
The CB's rear shock features a newly designed separate pressurized single-tube unit and a special link ratio. Rebound damping force and preload are adjustable.
The Z introduces a horizontal back-link rear suspension familiar from Kawasaki's Supersports and other models. The STD shown in the photo has stepless adjustment of rebound damping force and preload.
The CB's swingarm is asymmetrical and tapered, made of die-cast aluminum. The clearance between the arms and the muffler is narrowed, allowing sufficient bank angle while concentrating mass.
The Z's aluminum swingarm is symmetrical and has a simple straight shape. The weight is kept to a mere 3.9 kg.
Standard tires on the CB are high-performance street-sport BS S22 (pictured) and DL Road Sport 2. The wheels are Y-shaped 10-spoke, similar to those on the Hornet. Rear brakes are ø240mm discs with Nissin 1-pot calipers.
The Z wears Dunlop GPR-300s, which are touring-oriented and suit the retro model; the 20 spokes are machined for a premium look. The rear brakes feature a ø250mm disc and single-piston caliper.
[Electronic Controls] The CB has plenty of driving support, while the Z has cruise control and a shifter.
Next, let's compare the electric brain devices: the Z900RS is new and has an electronic throttle, and gains a 6-axis IMU (inertial sensor), cruise control, cornering ABS, and KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter) for up and down support. Still, the CB's electrics are more abundant than the Z's. In addition to the Z's brains, the CB has riding modes, as well as emblem control, wheelie control, and rear lift control, since it is equipped with a heart derived from the supersport CBR1000RR. It even comes standard with a smart key that eliminates the need for a physical key. However, the CB is not equipped with cruise control. The quick shifter is standard on the Z, but optional on the CB at an additional cost of 33,880 yen. A summary of the electronic controls is as follows ( CB/Z ). Riding mode: 3 modes + user x 2 / None - Power mode: 3 patterns / None - Traction control: 3 levels + off / 3 levels + off - Engine brake control: 3 levels / None - Wheelie control: 0 / X - Rear lift control: 0 / X Cruise control: 0/x - Quick shifter: optional/standard - Emergency stop signal: 0/x - Smart key: 0/x - Smart phone integration: 0/x - ETC 2.0: 0/x
CB's Riding Mode collectively controls a variety of electrics in three patterns. Two optional modes can also be set.
A quick shifter is optional on the CB. It is standard on the SE grade with cowl. Shift touch can be set on the meter to three levels each, both up and down.
Z is standard with up/down compatible quick shifter. The non-contact sensor is highly reliable. It also features a specially tuned autoblibbing function.
The CB has a functional full LCD meter, while the Z has a traditional bullet-shaped twin-lens analog meter.
The main difference in equipment is the meter: the CB1000F has a 5-inch TFT full-color LCD, while the Z has a traditional analog twin-lid meter plus a monochrome LCD panel. The CB has a design that is controversial when viewed from the front side (the impression is that the naysayers are in the majority). This is because of its square, tablet-like design, as opposed to the classic Z's bullet-shaped meter. Nevertheless, the CB has an overwhelming amount of information and display patterns, as it is an all-LCD panel. It is a question of whether to go for atmosphere or substance. The new Z model is capable of smartphone integration, but its appearance remains unchanged from the previous model.
The CB uses a 5-inch TFT color LCD, which is often used on Honda vehicles. The unit is similar to the CB1000 Hornet.
The Z has a monochrome inverted LCD panel set in the center of two analog eyes. A new smartphone linkage feature allows phone calls and e-mail notifications to be displayed on the meter. The navigation system does not appear to be able to display on the meter.
An animation of the "CB1000F" plays when the key is turned on (top left). There are three types of display methods: CIRCLE, BAR, and SIMPLE, and the background color can be white, black, or auto.
The CB links phone calls, music, and other functions to your smartphone via a dedicated Honda RoadSync app. A simple turn-by-turn navigation system is also displayed in the meter.
The Z can connect to the vehicle via the smartphone app "rideology the app motorcycle" to record driving logs and vehicle information. Navigation and voice commands are available through the app, but these functions are only available to license holders.
The CB features a tapered bar handle with a thicker clamp. Combined with the semi-gloss black finish, it has the look of the superbike racers of yesteryear.
The Z's tapered bar handles are chrome-plated. The narrow handlebars are new for a lower, more compact position, and the grip position has been moved 50mm inward and 38mm downward for the comfort of smaller riders.
The CB has a four-way switch on the left side of the steering wheel for switching displays and performing various operations. The ETC antenna is installed on the right switch box. The brake lever can be adjusted in five positions, but the clutch lever has no adjustment dial.
The Z has a new cruise control switch. The starter and kill switch is integrated on both cars, push type on the CB and slide type on the Z. The brake lever has six levels of adjustment, and the clutch lever has five.
The CB's seat has a three-dimensional pattern reminiscent of the original CB750F/900F (FA and FZ). However, unlike the original, there is no pattern on the tandem side; it is flat and has a large area. Recycled materials were also used for the rear fenders and seat bottom plate.
The Z uses old car-style tack-roll seats. The new model has an ERGO-FIT low seat as standard equipment, bringing the seat height to 810 mm. Although the seat height is 10 mm higher than the previous model, the footing is almost the same as before due to a review of the tuck roll shape and urethane placement, as well as changes to the suspension settings.
The CB's cargo hooks are located behind the side covers and under the taillight. A hook for a helmet lock is provided under the seat.
The Z is equipped with cargo hooks behind the side covers and on the underside of the tail cowl. An external helmet lock is standard equipment.
The CB features a smart key that allows the driver to turn the ignition on and off and lock the steering wheel without having to remove the key from his or her pocket. It also has an answer-back function that flashes the blinker to inform the driver of his or her vehicle's location. A physical key is also built in.
The Z features a new high-security internal-cut key (reference photo: Z650RS).
Grade and price comparison: CB's STD is the only one in the 1.3 million yen range, while the cowl version is cheaper than the Z.
From here, we would like to compare prices and grades. First, in addition to the STD, the CB1000F offers the "CB1000F SE" with a bikini cowl. It is equipped with a radiator grille, heated grips, a quick shifter, and an exclusive color-stitched seat. The new Z900RS is available in three grades, and for now, the STD in the domestic version is the Black Ball Edition. It is based on glossy black with a metallic fireball pattern, and all parts are black. The side cover emblems are "DOUBLE OVERHEAD CAMSHAFT" just like the Z1, and the left and right engine covers also have "DOHC" aluminum emblems. The Z900RS SE features a Brembo brake system and Ohlins rear shock, and for the first time on the SE, it also comes in a black and red "fireball" color scheme. A GPS-enabled drive recorder and USB power port are also standard equipment. The Z900RS Café features a bikini cowl, lower handlebars than the STD, and a unique single-seat style seat. The Z900RS Café also features exclusive Mach-style graphics and colors.
CB1000F Wolf Silver Metallic (blue stripe)
CB1000F Wolf Silver Metallic (gray stripe)
CB1000F Graphite Black
CB1000F SE Wolf Silver Metallic with Blue Stripe
Z900RS Black Ball Edition Ebony
Z900RS SE Metallic Spark Black
Z900RS Cafe Ebony
The SE, the higher grade of the Z900RS, features Brembo M4.32 radial calipers and discs, with a smaller-diameter Nissin master that differs from the STD, and stainless steel mesh hoses for high maneuverability.
The Z900RS SE is equipped with Öhlins S46s in the rear, which bring more supple handling. Separate adjusters are also useful. The front settings have also been optimized to match the rear.
The Z900RS SE's silencer is made of plated stainless steel from the pre-chamber to the center pipe.
The CB1000F SE's cowl has a slightly angular shape and straight lines that contrast favorably with the Z900RS. The side vents are also distinctive. It is available as an option and can be installed on the STD.
The Z900RS Cafe's cowl features a rounded, retro design. It emphasizes the café racer character.
The CB1000F SE's color-stitched seats are exclusive and not available as an option. The stitching is gray as opposed to the STD's black, and it comes with a tab with a logo.
The Z900RS Café's seat is an exclusive rounded rear seat. It amplifies the cafe style. The seat height is 820mm, 10mm higher than the STD.
![[Austrian GP] Acosta sets the top time in FP1! KTM starts 1-2 at home](https://img.webike-cdn.net/@news/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MGP_FP1_AUT.jpg)
![The satisfying points are definitely the size, presence, and power! KAWASAKI ZZ-R1100 [Webike My Bike Pickup]](https://img.webike-cdn.net/@news/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/1779326238344L.jpg)
