Kawasaki Z900 Vs Suzuki gsxr1000 k5

[Neon88Flex]

Hi, I currently have a 2017 Z900 and would like to hear how it compares to a gsxr1000 k5. Specifically the k5/6 models because they don't have all the modern technology and stuff like modern bikes do (my z900 only has abs).


I know they aren't the same category of bike but I've never ridden one or any true sport bike for that matter so where else to ask?
All of my riding is for fun and leisure, not track or commuting.

Will the gsxr be much quicker? Horribly uncomfy? Twitchy and unpleasant in traffic and around town? I can't afford both and don't know anyone who owns one to try it out.

Any input would be great,

Cheers

[MarJay]

Jeez. Apples and oranges much? The K5 is a 'comfy superbike' but that doesn't make it a comfy bike. Your Z900 will be a sofa by comparison, and in the real world it'll be just as quick I'm sure. On a track, the K5 will waste the Z900, but on a road? ehh... I doubt you'll notice.

Why not look at something like a GSX-S1000? Most of the power, all of the comfort?
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British beauty: Triumph Street Triple R; Loony stroker: KR1S; Track fun: GSXR750 L1; Commuter Missile: GSX-S1000F
Remember kids, bikes aren't like lego. You can't easily take a part from one bike and then fit it to another.

[Neon88Flex]

Thanks for the reply. I assumed the 1000cc would be night and day difference in any scenario regarding power/performance. Is the extra bhp of the 1000cc only there once speed limits are being broken? (I'm not particularly interested in top speed)

Reason I haven't looked into the naked version is I've already got a naked bike and wanted to see what all the fuss is about regarding sports bikes. I had a cruiser before and that was..interesting.. but I blew a head gasket after a few thousand miles and wanted a change i.e the Z900.

I have considered going for a shock upgrade and a new high flow air filter and an ECU flash and tune for my bike as it already has a full scorpion exhaust but it seems like throwing money at something that won't hold it's value quite like a collectable bike is a bit wasteful for what might not even make a big difference in ridability or enjoyment.

Cheers

[Kawasaki Jimbo]

K5 is a similar era to my ‘03 R1 so I’d say it’ll be nimble and flexible around town but slightly uncomfortable on wrists, hips, knees (I’m 61 you know!) for long periods in that environment. The R1 is a bit buzzy and sometimes vibey. Not sure about the Suzuki. I commute on it though. Looking over your shoulder for lifesavers is slightly more difficult when ‘tucked in’ compared to a more upright stance.

On the open road you might find yourself 50p-ing corners at first because it steers quickly and you’ll be tipping in too early. Power-wise, unless you’re cack-handed you take only as much as you need but you’ll notice the extra torque, meaning it’ll pull at lower revs/gears (although 900cc is already big, and gearing plays a part).

Posture and handling are probably going to be the biggest difference. Check out the two bikes on https://cycle-ergo.com/. Also the Suzuki is noteably lighter, I believe.

[Polarbear]

I hope you are more flexible than I was at that age. I had a Busa gen1 and that killed me. Loved the bike, hated the riding position. I would presume the GS is more extreme than a Busa.
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[UncleFester]

[The Tot]

It's probably the most practical sportsbike you can imagine, from an era that produced balanced litre bikes. Given that the S1000RR was a faximile of the K5 is testament of the pedigree of that bike.

You'll have the characteristics of a well oiled Suzuki; slick gearbox and finely fettled fuel injection, but you'd have all the grumblings of any noughties thou such as cramped ergonomics, which are quite tolerable on the open road, but a ballache in town.

Having "1000cc" is advantageous in that you can be absolutely lazy with your gear changes. The roll on torque of that K5 motor with the gearing will mean that you can get away with leaving it in 6th for a roll-on overtake.

That being said, not IL4 engines are created equally. My Fazer 1000 has oodles of midrange and low down grunt, but my 4C8 R1 has a very peaky powerband that boots you once it hits 6k Rpm. The former is perfect for the road, whereas the latter will be better suited down the back straight at Snetterton.

Trust me when I say, you won't need any more power from that era litrebike. Dyno it by all means. The K5's power delivery is very linear for a thou.

Have a sit on one and convince yourself that you can filter one through traffic. If the answer is yes, then it's well worth a shout. Have you also considered a 954 FireBlade?

Both would be good contenders for roomy supersports, with good mannerisms for British roads.
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The Tot 2007 Yamaha R1 4C8 2002 Yamaha FZS1000 Fazer &
www.youtube.com/Titot182 for your bike gear reviews and pop punk covers
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[MarJay]

[MyBi]

I've had a gsxr1000 k5 and was an awesome bike! I never had a single issue and I put 24k miles on it

Only maintenance I ever did was oil, and tires. Never even changed the plugs. And even after 24k and me absolutely abusing it! It didn't even burn oil.

Im more of a Honda guy myself and my cbr1000 burned some oil after 18k
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