Z900 or Z900 SE - help me decide

[OldGuyZ]

I'm set on a new Z900.  Trying to decide between the ABS and SE.  At 5'8" with a short 29 inseam and a rider weight of 250lbs (that's a lot of stones for you brits), the adjustability is going to be key.  I called Ohlins and they told me the shock in the SE is good for 308lb - rider and gear so that's good. As an alternative, I'm thinking Z900 ABS adding adding a KTECH Razer R, and new springs in front.  Recently learned about KTech.  Turns out KTech USA is only a few miles from my home on Long Island, NY.

Spoke with Ken at Ktech and they have choices R or R-lite in a 240-270 rider weight spring and either heavier springs or cartridges up front.  Decision comes down to adjustability and budget.  I'm thinking whichever way I go is way better than stock and better dialed in for me for than the SE.

Would appreciate input on my logic and experience with KTech.  I can get past the red spring...

[Led Zed 70]

  While I have nothing to complain about with my Ktech suspension If it were me I would go with the SE model because you also get other upgrades like Brembo brakes, braided lines (I think?), quick shifter (I think?), and ohlins suspension. Price difference is probably about what you will pay to have the Ktech done. Good luck. Edit no quick shifter but still all other goodies.

[zed9]

I’d go with the SE edition. The Brembo brakes and Ohlins tip the scales. Plus fully adjustable golden forks. What’s not to like?
Plus.. If those are braided lines it’s a no brainer. The standard front brake setup with rubber lines is spongy. They stop alright, just spongy.

It’s not terribly much more money over the standard version.

[kevperro]

I'd buy the standard version and send out the suspension to have it custom dialed in based on your weight/riding style.   Having it set up right is about 90% of the performance you are going to get out of the system.    That means springs that are based upon your weight, and the valving/rebound optimized to that spring rate.    The rest of the suspension mojo can really only be appreciated by people who track it.   If you race all the suspension clickers and such would be helpful.   I think for most riders, they do more harm than good.   

The stock brakes are great.  I guess if you were buying a bike to track then you might want the best money can buy but you wouldn't be buying a Z900 for that situation.   

[JordiR]

I know for sure, due to the difference in price, a "normal" z900 with andreani cartridges, ohlins shock absorber, MCS brembo, sintered brake pads, braided lines... and you have plenty left over for new tyres and quickshifter!! you will get a much better bike than Z900SE. 

[OldGuyZ]

Appreciate the insight and perspective.  For sure no track days for me!  Looks like a split decision so far 

[zed9]

It depends on how much of the work you can or are willing do yourself. The SE version is $1600 over the base model. You will not be able to upgrade the base model to what the SE has for $1600.

[Lcfour]

I'm kinda in the same boat as you. I'm undecided on which bike would fulfill my needs. I'm  200lbs without gear 5' 8" tall, I want a bike that will hold its value better also. I'm  leaning towards the SE or 50th anniversary,probably used now.  I have a 13 Goldwing F6B to sell first.

[OldGuyZ]

Just to add to my confusion I took a look at the Ninja 1000sx.  It got the bits the Z is sadly missing (cruise control, quick shifter ad heated grips) not to mention the windscreen which I’d definitely add to the Z for longer rides and summer commute on the slab

[Lcfour]

Too many choices is not a bad thing. Maybe the Harley guys are on to something by buying the same thing over and over again. Personally,  I like buying different brands or types of vehicles.