New in every aspect, the bike is now being powered by a 1,043cc. inline-four developing an impressive 136bhp and 81lb/ft of torque. The all-new engine makes this the most powerful Z1000 so far and we expect it to turn the new generation model into also the fastest Z1000. The chances for that to happen are quite big because the new aluminum frame reduces overall weight, about which Kawasaki hasn’t yet mentioned a word. Yet they do brag about better mass centralization and the ZX-10R cast aluminum frame, which makes its way around the top of the engine, keeps overall width at a level that allows even female riders to ride the Kawasaki Z1000 easily. Also, aerodynamics should be significantly improved, but we’ll get to that later.
Meanwhile, it is a must mentioning that the engine is now a much greater source of low- and mid-range power thanks to the 77.0 x 56.00mm bore and stroke. It is supposed to sound better as well and it isn’t mainly the 4-2-2 exhaust system’s music that you’ll be hearing, but also the intake sound because the ducts are now positioned closer to where the rider is sitting.
Kawasaki doesn’t mention much about the new bike’s riding position, but they make sure we find out about the tapered-type grips and Ninja ZX-10R-style footpegs. Still, it shouldn’t be a killer for the rider’s back.
Speaking of comfort, the suspension equipment is soft and while the 41mm USD forks are fully adjustable, the new horizontal rear shock apparently isn’t.
Even if Kawasaki says something else, this is a bike built with performance in mind and the brakes aren’t forgotten. We’re talking about 300mm front petal brake discs gripped by opposed four-piston radial-mount calipers up front and 250mm disc gripped by a single-piston underslung caliper at the rear.
Overall, the bike sounds like a totally enhanced riding experience and it has come a long way since its 2003 debut.
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