Kawasaki Zx-9r vs Honda Cbr900rr Fireblade
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Kawasaki Zx-9r vs Honda Cbr900rr Fireblade. 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. Honda Cbr900rr Fireblade: 122 hp @ 10,500 rpm hp, 185 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 270 km/h, Motoryk rating 8.5/10.
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Kawasaki Zx-9r
Honda Cbr900rr Fireblade
Horsepower (hp)
143 hp
122 hp
Torque (Nm)
103 Nm
92 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
270 km/h
270 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
196 kg
185 kg
Type
Supersport
Supersport
Horsepower
143 hp @ 11,000 rpm (2002–2003 F series; earlier models ~125–136 hp)
122 hp @ 10,500 rpm
Torque
103 Nm @ 8,500 rpm
92 Nm @ 8,500 rpm
Top Speed
270 km/h (estimated; electronically or mechanically limited depending on year)
270 km/h
Weight
196 kg (wet/curb weight, 2002–2003 F series)
185 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
6.5–7.5 L/100km (typical real-world average)
6.5 L/100km (approximately 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
Honda Cbr900rr Fireblade
8.5/10
"A genuine legend that still rewards experienced riders enormously."
Pros
+Bulletproof Honda reliability record
+Legendary handling still impressive
+Strong parts availability overall
Cons
−Fairing panels costly and scarce
−Hard seat on long rides
−Carb versions need attention
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
