Kawasaki Zx-9r vs Ducati Supersport 950
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Kawasaki Zx-9r vs Ducati Supersport 950. Kawasaki Zx-9r: 143 hp @ 11,000 rpm (2002–2003 F series; earlier models ~125–136 hp) hp, 196 kg (wet/curb weight, 2002–2003 F series) weight, top speed 270 km/h (estimated; electronically or mechanically limited depending on year), Motoryk rating 8.2/10. Ducati Supersport 950: 110 hp @ 9,000 rpm hp, 209 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 240 km/h (estimated), Motoryk rating 8.2/10.
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Kawasaki Zx-9r
Ducati Supersport 950
Horsepower (hp)
143 hp
110 hp
Torque (Nm)
103 Nm
96 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
270 km/h
240 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
196 kg
209 kg
Type
Supersport
Supersport
Horsepower
143 hp @ 11,000 rpm (2002–2003 F series; earlier models ~125–136 hp)
110 hp @ 9,000 rpm
Torque
103 Nm @ 8,500 rpm
96 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
Top Speed
270 km/h (estimated; electronically or mechanically limited depending on year)
240 km/h (estimated)
Weight
196 kg (wet/curb weight, 2002–2003 F series)
209 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
6.5–7.5 L/100km (typical real-world average)
6.5 L/100km (approx. 15.4 km/L, typical real-world average)
Fairing
Yes
Yes
Individual Reviews
Kawasaki Zx-9r
8.2/10
"A raw, rewarding sportsbike that punishes complacency but rewards commitment."
Pros
+Monstrous midrange torque delivery
+Comfortable enough for touring
+Parts still reasonably available
Cons
−Cold start cam chain rattle
−Fairings scarce and pricey
−Thirsty above 8,000rpm
Ducati Supersport 950
8.2/10
"The most liveable Ducati you can buy used today."
Pros
+Torquey, usable V-twin character
+Surprisingly comfortable ergonomics
+Stunning Italian styling
Cons
−Expensive mandatory valve services
−Heat soak in traffic significant
−Premium parts and labor costs
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
