Kawasaki Z900rs vs Norton Commando 961
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Kawasaki Z900rs vs Norton Commando 961. Kawasaki Z900rs: 111 hp @ 8,500 rpm hp, 214 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 220 km/h, Motoryk rating 8.5/10. Norton Commando 961: 79 hp @ 6,500 rpm hp, 198 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 195 km/h, Motoryk rating 7.5/10.
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Kawasaki Z900rs
Norton Commando 961
Horsepower (hp)
111 hp
79 hp
Torque (Nm)
98.5 Nm
90 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
220 km/h
195 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
214 kg
198 kg
Type
Classic
Classic
Horsepower
111 hp @ 8,500 rpm
79 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque
98.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
90 Nm @ 5,200 rpm
Top Speed
220 km/h
195 km/h
Weight
214 kg (wet/curb weight)
198 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
5.5 L/100km (approximately 18 km/L)
6.5 L/100km or approximately 15.4 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Kawasaki Z900rs
8.5/10
"The retro bike that actually earns its premium asking price."
Pros
+Stunning retro styling holds value
+Engine smooth yet genuinely exciting
+Surprisingly comfortable all-day ergonomics
Cons
−Pre-2020 fueling can stumble
−Stock suspension underwhelms heavier riders
−Headers rust quickly if neglected
Norton Commando 961
7.5/10
"Magnificent when sorted, but budget for inevitable remedial work upfront."
Pros
+Intoxicating twin exhaust note
+Genuinely exclusive hand-built feel
+Strong used value retention
Cons
−Inconsistent factory build quality
−Dealer support patchy nationwide
−Parts sourcing can frustrate
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
