Last Update: 6 December 2022

You might think when looking at the Kawasaki Z1000 ABS Streetfighter – its intimidating design – that it’s a challenge to handle. But this Kawasaki defies those assumptions and is in fact, one of the easiest manoeuvrable, adrenaline thrilling motorcycles I’ve tried.  Its naked styling and simple chassis puts you “out there” and with the feeling of full control.

Its body is compact and the styling bold.  Kawasaki’s engineers concentrated on making the Z1000 ABS potent and capable for any rider. With an inline-four 1043cc engine there’s power enough to take you away be it from the stop light or the mountainside.   Its power was a discovery I quickly made with the first turn of the throttle.

The Kawasaki  Z1000 ABS rides comfortably and is equally low to the ground.  The seat height is fairly standard 81.5 cms and weighing just 221kms (full gas tank). I enjoy the sit comfort on this model’s upright riding position. Equally an important feature is a good turning radius; as a city rider it is important for sharp turns and small space manoeuvrability. The Z1000 ABS has a wide stance handlebar making this quite possible.  It’s also equipped with an assist and slipper clutch another featured I love as is easy on the clutch hand in stop and go traffic.

Its front end is characterised by the stunning plunging headlamp cowl with a narrow ultra-bright LED headlight. The LED lamps are compact low energy, long-life units employing the inner two bulbs for low beam and all four units for high beam.

When riding city, highway or countryside, I found that it didn’t matter where I twisted the throttle, there was power all through the rev range. I found too Kawasaki Z1000 ABS doesn’t have a gigantic “kick” anywhere when the power was dialled on. It seems as though the power builds and this can actually surprise you.  The transition through the rev’s are so smooth you’re not aware at how quickly you end up at speed.

Interesting Tip! The Kawasaki Z1000 was first introduced as a successor to the early-1970s Z1 and Z900 machines.

Kawasaki Z1000 ABS Key Features

• Reliable four-cylinder water-cooled engine by way of legendary Kawasaki reliability, durability and quality
• Light, sporty steering
• Stopping power plus by way of the Kawasaki Z1000 ABS
• Upright “streetfighter” riding position provides outstanding leverage on the controls for most manoeuvrability. Terrific view for back-road fun or city commuting
• Aggressive, stripped down streetfighter styling.
• Smooth power delivery with strong performance at high RPM
• Adjustable KYB front and rear suspension for easy rider tailoring/handling
• Lightweight supersport style aluminium six-spoke wheels
• Short final-drive gearing provides quick response and enhanced riding excitement, while a tall sixth gear helps maintain highway comfort
• Modern instrumentation providing plenty of information with stylish design
• Electronic immobiliser built into standard ignition key. Key operates conventionally, but the engine won’t start without the correct key being used.

 Kawasaki Z1000 ABS Sexy Exhaust System

• Exhaust system offers excellent mass centralisation and contributes to a low centre of gravity
• Brushed-metal finish on the silencers enhanced visual appeal
• exhaust a 4-into-2-pre-chamber-into-2 layout to provide ample silencer volume without requiring excess bulk in the rear muffler
• Main and pre-catalyzers help ensure clean emissions

Kawasaki Z1000 ABS Favourite Features

• Seat Height: 815 mm (32.1 in.); Curb Weight: 221 kg (487 lb.) *curb weight= Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied)
• Larger Fuel Tank – 17L (4.5 gallon) fuel tank offers generous range
• Horizontal Back-Link Rear Suspension: Rear suspension design positions the shock unit and linkage above the swing arm where it’s less exposed to exhaust heat and contributes to mass centralisation
• Easy rebound damping adjuster allows damping characteristics to be tuned to match changes in spring pre-load and/or loads
• LCD functions include ABS and Economical Riding (ECO) indicators
• Additional LCD functions along digital speedometer, odometer, dual trip meter, clock is instant and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, and low-fuel warning lamps.
• Stopping Power Plus on the Kawasaki Z1000 ABS

Conclusion

The Kawasaki Z1000 ABS is easy to like, not because of how it looks or rides, but because the whole package is simple and effective. Especially when compared to other motorcycle models. I think the Kawasaki Z1000 ABS sets a new standard in terms of style, technology and performance. It’s light, easy to ride and fast.

Kawasaki Z1000 ABS Who Is It For?

The Kawasaki Z1000 ABS is definitely for the rider who wants to feel the full effects and sensation of motorcycling – at its best. This is generally the goal of naked bikes or streetfighter styled motorcycles. It’s comfortable for long distances and ideal for sporty weekend fun. It’s a great bike for track days or commuting.
It’s not a model I’d recommend for starter riders namely due to the skills needed to handle its prompt power. But definitely for those with a few years’ experience and/ or reasonable advanced skill sets.

Visit Kawasaki to find a dealership near you and to view the full specs.