Kawasaki Z1000 Bike Overview
Things are always so much better when they’re naked and the Kawasaki Z1000 is no exception. The performance of this bike has been labelled as one of the best on the market and its handling is simply beautiful. It is heavier than some of the others on the market, such as the Ducati Streetfighter, but, when you’re comparing prices, it certainly does give you a lot more for the price tag.
The Z1000 has had a superbike make over with a twin spar frame made from aluminium. This die-cast frame, that consists of five pieces in total, is around 4kg lighter than the previous steel mix frame; this change has increased the rigidness of the bike by a staggering 30%.
The structure of the frame goes over the engine to make it more slimline while the aluminium makes the whole bike more lightweight. The engine of the ZX-9R has been replaced in this model with a 1043cc, liquid-cooled, four cylinder 135bhp masterpiece. It harbours between 4500rpm and 10,000rpm to give incredible midrange power. However, the power at the lower end isn’t as quick as you would expect.
The bike itself is stunning with an impressive attention to detail, smart lines and sexy curves that would make any motorbike lover drool. The only let downs are the weak brakes, which are a recurring theme with Kawasaki bikes, and the Dunlop tyres which are really disappointing for a motorbike of this calibre.
Kawasaki Z1000 Bike Spec
- Capacity1043cc
- Top speed147mph
- Weight221kg
- Average fuel consumption36mpg
- Seat height815mm
- EngineLiquid cooled, 16v
Kawasaki Z1000 Bike Insurance
Kawasaki Z1000 Bike Gallery
Owner Reviews
Pros
The noise, it's red.
Cons
Standard exhausts are boring
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Very fun
Standard exhausts are boring
Nothing is broken
Pros
The side style and versatility of the bike are great for every day riding. Come rain and shine it handles consistently.
Cons
Throttle dead spot is the most irritating part when riding. The accessories from Kawasaki are very expensive and they do drive customers to after market options. Also found that their are limited options available for my model, which I assume is due to the age.
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I am fairly new to riding and find that my bike seems to have a bit of a dead spot in the throttle either pulling off and if you release the throttle. Has a strange 'drop off' on the issues
For a 650 I am able to keep up with family on bigger and faster bikes without much hassle.
Throttle dead spot is the most irritating part when riding. The accessories from Kawasaki are very expensive and they do drive customers to after market options. Also found that their are limited options available for my model, which I assume is due to the age.
Never had a day of trouble, although I did buy it news
Not had any issues although being my first bike I don't have much to compare to
Pros
This bike was love at first sight for me. Fell in love with how it feels, sounds and looks. Best bike I have ever owned so far. I highly recommend this bad boy!
Cons
Not the most fuel efficient bike.
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Not the most fuel efficient bike.
Pros
Perfect for fun and commuting
Cons
Usable mirrors, you can see through really well but there fixed In position meaning tight squeezes can be difficult
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Great balance makes turning very easy
Usable mirrors, you can see through really well but there fixed In position meaning tight squeezes can be difficult
NO issues so far
Pros
2nd Kawasaki i have owned, very good quality and price, dynamic looks and excellent handling. Nimble, agile and lots of low end grunt.
Cons
Front screen is very small and provides no wind deflection.
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Front screen is very small and provides no wind deflection.
Pros
Reliability and looks
Cons
Gearbox is a bit clunky
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Bit skippy on the back on bends but good power
Not as powerful as some others but it gets you up to speed quickly
Fuel economy is fairly good and only running costs are usual servicing parts which can be a bit more expensive than other makes
Never had a problem with the bike and I have 45000 on the clock
Brakes could be better which is why it will have an upgrade soon
Pros
The engine & handling
Cons
Softer suspension
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So easy to flick about for a big bike
Awesome engine & just keeps pulling
Guzzles fuel when opening up the throttle but still good.getting anywhere from 42-50mpg
1 finger braking no problem.starting to get soft with a few miles on now but still good
Pros
Styling, upright riding position, stability and mid range power. The air intake also makes a lovely howl when pushing hard.
Cons
Breaks could be better and a gear change indicator in the digital clocks would be good.
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Bike has plenty of power on tap in the mid range and handles the corners well. Breaking is a little soft as standard but can deal with most that a beverage rider can throw at it. The bike is quick to turn in and stable carrying speed through the corners. The small fairing also manages the worst of the wind whilst still giving mean naked styling
Bike is great in the mid range, giving oodles of power and making it great fun on a roads. It lacks s little at the top of the Rev range but plenty of fun for the average rider.
Running costs are relatively low. Tank is very small so to fill up is cheap but frequent. Fuel efficiency is about what I would expect based on riding style.
I have not owned the bike through a British winter yet. However everything I hear about Kawasaki says that build quality is very good and my bike has certainly lived up to this. It is 7 years old now and hardly had a mark on it.
Brakes could be sharper, they feel a little spoungie as standard. However I am sure some braided lines and performance pads would solve this.
Pros
Rides great, looks great
Cons
Quality of oe fasteners.
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Smoothest bike I've ridden since having the ECU flashed
After ECU flash the power is unbelievable
Just over 100miles to a tank so not the best but sufficient
No problems at all apart from minor issues with a few fasteners.
Standard braking is good, however I've upgraded to braided lines, ASV levers and Rizoma reservoir.
Pros
Its mine.
Cons
The time I spend in it.
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Mid weight. Nibble on any corner we dive through.
1000cc the biggest I've had since passing. Worked my way up from a DA session to a 600 - 700 - 900 - 1000.
More economical.
Never had any issues.
I have the non abs version . But it still feels safe and stop s well when asked to.