Kawasaki Z900 Price in Almora

Hi all,
Hitting 36, I have got the urge to live my dream of owning a naked inline-4. As the years pass, life gets busier and hence it is more like a now or never decision.
I have set my eyes on the MY22 Z900, but the reviews about the after-sales support do not add confidence. Spoke to the Chennai dealer and they have shared the price list right away. I will be visiting the showroom this Sunday to speak to them with my better half.
Before finalising, I need guidance from the experts on the below questions.
I, for one, used to ride adequately. It was about 5 years since life has gotten very busy, but itching to ride again since the kids have grown up to a manageable age. Is Z900 a good machine for long tours? I mean 5-6 day tours? I understand that tourers like Versus are better but always wished to own an inline-4.
How are the fuel demands of the motorcycle? Does it always have to be 95 RON? Since I like to ride to less commercialized places, what alternative is possible, like the octane boosters are mandatory? How does it affect the health of the motorcycle?
Planning to go for the K-Care package, which covers the basic maintenance by Kawasaki for 3 years. Is it a good idea or is it better to give it to the specialists outside?
Having no grab rails, how easier is it to get one as I intend to ride with my wife?
Apart from frame sliders and a better windshield, what other basic accessories should I budget in? I am not a big fan of aftermarket upgrades and like to keep the bike as close to stock as possible.
I ride a 390 Duke, which has a good GC. Kawaker is 145 mm. How difficult is it to manoeuvre around the speed breakers?
I am 169 cms tall and I believe Z900 would be better suited considering my height. My budget is around 10L.
Eagerly looking for guidance.
Thanks and ride safe.
Here's what BHPian neil.jericho had to say about the matter:
I think you should go through this (Honda CB650R Review) very informative post from GoBlue before you make a final decision. Also, what sort of touring are you going to do? Is all of it going to be two up? How many kilometers will you ride in a year?
As I see it, the constraints of inline 4, two-up touring, naked and budget don't fall into place for you. One factor has to be eliminated or compromised on. A more logical way to look at it would be:
Versys 650 / V Strom 650, if you are willing to compromise on the 4 cylinders. You and your wife can tour in comfort. Head - 1. Heart - 0. Wallet - 1.
Z900 / CB650R, if you are willing to compromise on the touring part. The Honda might be a better big bike for you to ease back into motorcycling and it is probably roomier compared to the Kawasaki. Head - 0. Heart - 1. Wallet - 1.
Versys / Ninja 1000, if you are willing to compromise on the budget part. Head - 1. Heart - 1. Wallet - 0.
If you will do a lot of touring, I would suggest that you go with a bike that doesn't demand 95 RON and ride with complete peace of mind. That is where the Versys 650, V-Strom 650, CB650R and Ninja 1000 score very strongly.
On the accessories front, your number one purchase should be a radiator guard. Get it fixed before taking delivery.
Here's what BHPian Rachit.K.Dogra had to say about the matter:
Before I say anything, most motorcycles can do most things. You can tour on a Z900 too. However, it wouldn't be as comfortable for a pillion and luggage mounting will be a challenge. People say on long-distance touring, the wind blast of a naked bike can also be tiring.
If you want an inline-4 and you really plan to do 5-6 day tours, Versys 1000 should be a better option. Z900 is more of a street bike.
One thing I will add is where do you like to go touring? If it is hills, typically narrow hilly roads of our country tend to suit lighter bikes more. I am in no way suggesting that big bikes wouldn't do narrow hilly roads, it's just smaller bikes can be more fun and satisfying to ride. If it's long highway miles, something with wind protection might be better.
Here's what BHPian rb2399 had to say about the matter:
Please don't overlook this important aspect. Contrary to what others say, if the engine is designed to run on at least RON95 fuel, you better run it on RON95. Why'd the manufacturer put the minimum RON rating sticker on the tank if that's not needed?
This is based on my personal experience of owning and riding a Z800 that needs minimum 95 octane fuel. It knocked like hell during my ride to Sikkim thanks to the lower octane petrol she's fed with (albeit from a reputed brand/pump). Mind you, I don't flog my bikes and in spite of being easy on the throttle, the Z used to ping even on slight acceleration.
RON95 is more like an exception in India than a norm. If you are serious about going to faraway places, please keep this factor in mind.
This was THE deciding factor for me when I moved from the Z800 to the V-Strom 650 as the V runs on RON 91 which is widely available in India.
You may want to confirm with the Kawasaki guys if they've retuned the engine for our kind of fuel but I have my own doubts about the same!
Carrying octane boosters is highly impractical for outstation rides in my opinion. You just want to enjoy the ride and don't want the hassle of measuring and pouring the octane booster during every pit stop.

About the Reviewer

1. Buying Experience
Buying New:
Availability: The Ninja 900 was produced in the late 1980s and early 1990s, so finding a brand-new one is virtually impossible. However, if you’re looking at a new model or an equivalent in the current lineup, such as the Ninja ZX-6R or ZX-10R, the process typically involves visiting a Kawasaki dealership.
Financing and Dealerships: For a new bike, you’d discuss financing options, warranties, and additional accessories. Dealers often provide test rides, which can be crucial for assessing comfort and handling.
Buying Used:
Where to Look: For a used Ninja 900, check classic motorcycle marketplaces, online classifieds like Craigslist, or dedicated motorcycle forums and clubs.
Inspection: When buying a used Ninja 900, it’s important to verify its condition carefully. Check the frame for any damage, inspect the engine and transmission for leaks or wear, and ensure that the bike has been well-maintained. A pre-purchase inspection by a knowledgeable mechanic is advisable.
2. Riding Experience
Handling: The Ninja 900 is known for its agile handling and sporty feel. While it's not as nimble as more modern sportbikes, it still offers a responsive and engaging ride.
Comfort: The riding position is sporty but not as aggressive as more recent supersport models. It strikes a balance between comfort and performance, making it suitable for both spirited rides and longer journeys, though it may still be less comfortable than more touring-oriented bikes.
Power Delivery: With a 908cc inline-four engine, the Ninja 900 delivers robust power, especially noticeable in the midrange. It’s a thrilling ride with a strong pull throughout the rev range, though it might feel less refined compared to modern bikes.
3. Details about Looks, Performance, etc.
Looks: The Ninja 900 has a distinctive 80s-90s sportbike aesthetic with sharp angles, a prominent fairing, and a classic color scheme often featuring green, black, or purple. Its design reflects the era's racing inspiration.
Performance: The bike’s performance is characterized by a high-revving engine and good top-end power. It was considered a strong performer in its day, with a top speed that would be competitive even by today’s standards for its class.
4. Servicing and Maintenance
Parts Availability: Finding OEM parts for a Ninja 900 might be a bit challenging due to its age, but aftermarket parts and specialist suppliers can be helpful. Websites specializing in classic bikes or Kawasaki enthusiasts' forums can be good resources.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance includes checking the oil, inspecting the chain, and ensuring the brake pads and tires are in good condition. Given the bike’s age, you might need to pay extra attention to components that can wear out, such as the suspension and electrical systems.
5. Pros and Cons
Pros:
Classic Appeal: The Ninja 900 has a strong following among classic motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors.
Performance: For its time, the bike offered impressive performance and handling, which can still be enjoyable today.
Comfort: Compared to modern supersports, it offers a more comfortable riding position, making it more versatile for different types of riding.
Cons:
Parts Availability: Being an older model, finding parts and getting service can be more difficult compared to newer bikes.
Technology: It lacks modern technology such as advanced electronics, modern suspension, and braking systems, which might affect performance and safety.
Comfort for Long Rides: While better than some sportbikes, the riding position can still be a bit cramped for extended journeys.
The Ninja 900 is a revered model for its blend of performance and classic styling. If you’re into vintage bikes, it offers a great mix of historical charm and engaging riding dynamics.

About the Reviewer

The Kawasaki Ninja Z900 is a sleek, high-performance motorcycle that blends style, power, and agility into one exhilarating package. As a member of Kawasaki's renowned Ninja family, it carries the legacy of speed and precision that riders have come to expect from the brand.
At the heart of the Z900 beats a liquid-cooled 948cc inline-four engine, delivering an impressive 125 horsepower and 99 Nm of torque. This engine provides exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling riding experience, whether cruising on the highway or carving through twisty mountain roads.
The Z900's aggressive styling reflects its sporty nature, with sharp lines and a dynamic profile that exudes confidence and athleticism. Its compact dimensions and lightweight chassis make it nimble and responsive, allowing riders to effortlessly navigate tight corners and weave through traffic with ease.
One of the standout features of the Z900 is its advanced electronics suite, which includes Kawasaki's proprietary traction control system and selectable riding modes. These features enhance safety and performance, giving riders the confidence to push the bike to its limits while maintaining control in diverse riding conditions.
The bike's suspension setup, comprising adjustable front forks and a rear shock, provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even over rough terrain. This makes the Z900 equally suited for spirited canyon carving and long-distance touring.
In terms of practicality, the Z900 offers a comfortable riding position, with an upright stance that reduces rider fatigue on extended journeys. It also comes equipped with a range of modern amenities, including a full-color TFT display, LED lighting, and optional accessories such as saddlebags and a tank bag for added convenience.
Overall, the Kawasaki Ninja Z900 is a versatile and thrilling motorcycle that delivers an adrenaline-fueled riding experience without compromising on comfort or practicality. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for an exhilarating sportbike or a newcomer to the world of motorcycling, the Z900 is sure to impress with its performance, style, and value.

About the Reviewer