Kawasaki Zx-9r vs Kawasaki Zx-7r
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Kawasaki Zx-9r vs Kawasaki Zx-7r. 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. Kawasaki Zx-7r: 126 hp @ 11,000 rpm hp, 209 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 265 km/h, Motoryk rating 7.8/10.
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Kawasaki Zx-9r
Kawasaki Zx-7r
Horsepower (hp)
143 hp
126 hp
Torque (Nm)
103 Nm
84 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
270 km/h
265 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)
126 hp @ 11,000 rpm
Torque
103 Nm @ 8,500 rpm
84 Nm @ 9,000 rpm
Top Speed
270 km/h (estimated; electronically or mechanically limited depending on year)
265 km/h
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)
7.5 L/100km (approx. 13.3 km/L) — estimated 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
Kawasaki Zx-7r
7.8/10
"A flawed, magnificent analogue superbike that rewards committed, skilled riders."
Pros
+Screaming top-end power delivery
+Gorgeous aggressive period styling
+Teaches real riding skills
Cons
−Parts availability shrinking fast
−Brutal below 8k rpm
−Thirsty for a 750
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
