Motorcycle specifications KawasakiZ 900 SE 2026 Sortie Espiègle

Can you smell the Öhlins? That's what most Kawasaki SE models smell like. In renewing its Z 900 for 2025, the Akashi-based brand didn't forget to add a better-equipped version. The rear suspension has been given an attractive gold color and higher efficiency specifications, with the installation of an Öhlins S46 element.

The fork also moves upmarket, but remains from Kayaba. For the Z 900 Special Edition, it gets a gold treatment and can be adjusted in all directions (preload, compression, rebound). As the SEs have a more striking and qualitative design, it's only right that the handling should be improved too.

In keeping with this philosophy, the brakes are stepped up a notch, with Brembo calipers. The Italian calipers are top-quality, and the braided hoses will be much appreciated in intensive use. The installation of a sport brake jar suits the underlying edginess of this Z rather well. But the M4.32s are getting old; it's about time Kawa installed an M50 or Stylema.

To round off its added value, the Z 900 SE adds a USB-C port and a two-tone seat. All in all, this roadster is a vindictive machine in good measure, with a slightly lighter cheek than its predecessor.

Naturally, the SE benefits from all the improvements of the Z 900 sauce 2025. The engine upgrades to Euro5+, improves mid-range availability and reduces fuel consumption, but loses a flicker of power and torque. Electronics are upgraded with cruise control, an Up&Down shifter, an IMU to make ABS and traction control active when cornering, and a new instrument panel. The TFT screen increases from 4.3" to 5", with all-new graphics and turn-by-turn navigation. Underneath, there are still 4 Driving Modes (Sport / Road / Rain / Rider) to supervise the two power levels and the 3 traction controls.

Chassis-wise, there's a stiffened steering column and minor frame modifications. Tires are by Dunlop, with their new Q5A - about which we don't know a great deal. A word of clarification: the SE will not be available in an A2 adjustable version.

Whether in normal or Special Edition form, the new Z 900 is refreshed rather than changed. Enough to keep it in a good position on the French market, but the new Hornet could hurt its legs.

M.B. - Manufacturer's photos