2026 Kawasaki Z900 Launched in India at ₹9.99 Lakh

Kawasaki India has officially rolled out the 2026 Z900, one of its most popular streetfighters, at a price of ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The new model builds upon its aggressive legacy with refined aesthetics and improved technology, ensuring the motorcycle continues to dominate the litre-class naked bike segment in India.

While the Z900 retains its mechanical core, Kawasaki has refreshed the colour palette and enhanced its connectivity and rider-assist systems to appeal to both purists and tech-savvy riders. Let’s take a deep dive into what’s new for 2026 and why this motorcycle remains one of the best value-for-money performance nakeds in its class.

Refreshed Look: Subtle Yet Striking Upgrades

The 2026 Kawasaki Z900 carries forward the brand’s trademark Sugomi design — a philosophy that emphasizes a crouched, muscular stance symbolizing aggression and agility. However, the new model now flaunts two stunning dual-tone colour combinations:

• Candy Lime Green / Metallic Carbon Gray
• Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Metallic Flat Spark Black

These new shades lend a premium and futuristic touch to the Z900’s streetfighter aesthetic. Interestingly, the previous red colour option has been discontinued, streamlining the paint lineup for 2026.

Visually, the compact LED headlamp, angular fuel tank extensions, and sharp tail section continue to project a fierce road presence. Kawasaki has consciously decided not to alter the iconic design, understanding that its visual aggression is one of the Z900’s strongest selling points.

Tech Upgrades: More Smartness Per Ride

The Z900 was already one of the most technologically advanced bikes in its category when the MY25 version arrived with a major electronics overhaul. Kawasaki has retained and refined that same feature-packed tech suite for 2026, ensuring a balance between performance, safety, and rider convenience.

Here’s a quick rundown of what the MY26 Z900 offers on the tech front:

1. Advanced IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit)

The Z900 uses an advanced IMU-based system to monitor lean angle, acceleration, and braking data in real time. This allows the bike’s safety electronics to adjust traction and braking for maximum stability while cornering.

2. Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF)

This feature optimizes the bike’s performance while cornering by managing engine braking and traction control simultaneously. It ensures a smoother, safer corner exit, especially during spirited rides.

3. Electronic Cruise Control

Perfect for highway touring, the cruise control system lets riders maintain a steady speed without constantly working the throttle. It’s a rare feature in this price range and adds a strong touring appeal.

4. Power Modes

Riders can choose between multiple power delivery settings depending on road conditions and mood — whether they want the full 125hp unleashed or a more controlled response for urban commutes.

5. Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC)

The three-level traction control system keeps wheel slip under check, offering confidence across wet roads, gravel, or aggressive track riding.

6. Electronic Throttle Valves

Throttle response is managed electronically for precision control, improving performance, efficiency, and ride smoothness.

7. Assist and Slipper Clutch

This feature lightens clutch lever effort and prevents rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts — crucial for sporty riding dynamics.

8. Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS)

The bi-directional quick shifter allows clutchless upshifts and downshifts, enhancing both performance and convenience during spirited rides or heavy traffic.

9. Dual-Channel ABS

A must-have safety feature, the ABS setup ensures confident braking under all conditions.

10. Economical Riding Indicator

This display-based feature encourages efficient throttle use, helping riders achieve better fuel economy.

Enhanced Digital Interface: Rideology Connectivity at Its Best

The 2026 Z900 continues to feature a 5-inch full-colour TFT instrument cluster — one of the best displays in its class. The screen uses IPS LCD technology, offering vivid visibility even in bright daylight.

Through Kawasaki’s Rideology The App, riders can pair their smartphone with the motorcycle via Bluetooth. This opens up a range of connected features such as:

• Viewing call and message notifications directly on the screen
• Accessing vehicle data, including riding logs, service intervals, and trip statistics
• Adjusting instrument cluster themes and display preferences
• Using turn-by-turn navigation, which is seamlessly integrated into the TFT screen

These additions make the Z900 not only a thrilling ride but also a smart companion for long tours and daily commutes alike.

Engine and Performance: Pure Inline-4 Power

Underneath the refreshed skin, the heart of the Z900 remains unchanged — and that’s a good thing. Powering the motorcycle is the legendary 948cc inline-four, liquid-cooled engine, which continues to deliver exhilarating performance.

For 2026, Kawasaki claims a slight bump in output, with the engine now producing:

• Maximum Power: 125 hp (up by 1 hp)
• Peak Torque: 98.6 Nm (up by 1.2 Nm)

These figures keep the Z900 among the most potent middleweight nakeds on sale in India. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, complemented by the assist and slipper clutch and quick-shifter setup.

Throttle response remains razor-sharp, while the smooth, linear powerband ensures the Z900 can behave calmly in the city yet unleash fury on open roads. The bike’s characteristic inline-4 soundtrack continues to be a symphony for enthusiasts.

Ride and Handling: Confidence and Control

Kawasaki has not altered the Z900’s chassis or suspension setup, which remains a benchmark in the naked sportbike category. The tubular steel trellis frame provides exceptional rigidity and balance, allowing confident handling at both low and high speeds.

Suspension duties are handled by:

• Front: 41mm upside-down forks with rebound damping and preload adjustability
• Rear: Horizontal back-link monoshock, also adjustable for rebound and preload

Braking performance is managed by dual 300mm front discs and a single 250mm rear disc, both equipped with dual-channel ABS.

This combination ensures the Z900 maintains its characteristic agility and cornering precision — equally comfortable for city use, highway touring, or aggressive canyon carving.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Despite its aggressive looks, the Z900 offers a surprisingly comfortable riding posture. The wide handlebars, slightly rear-set footpegs, and well-padded seat create a riding triangle suitable for long rides without straining the wrists or back.

The seat height of 820mm makes it accessible to a wide range of riders, while the 17-litre fuel tank ensures a decent range between refuels.

Market Position and Rivals

At ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the 2026 Kawasaki Z900 continues to be one of the most accessible inline-four motorcycles in India. Its combination of power, refinement, and features gives it an edge against competitors like:

• Triumph Street Triple 765 R / RS
• BMW F 900 R
• Ducati Monster 937
• Yamaha MT-09 (expected 2026 launch)

While most of its rivals either cost significantly more or offer twin-cylinder engines, the Z900’s inline-four performance at sub-₹10 lakh pricing makes it a standout choice for enthusiasts.

Verdict: Same Soul, Smarter Head

The 2026 Kawasaki Z900 may not be an all-new motorcycle, but it is a refined evolution of a proven formula. By introducing new colours, maintaining a potent engine, and enhancing its connectivity and rider aids, Kawasaki ensures the Z900 remains the go-to choice for riders seeking raw performance with modern tech at a competitive price.

In short — it’s the same beast, now dressed sharper and thinking smarter.

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