Kawasaki Z 1000  ABS

The Z1000 was conceived in complete design freedom for a completely unique experience. Each part of the Z1000 was meticulously designed with a dual role in mind: individual functionality and realization of a condensed mass-forward image for a truly unique riding experience.

The Kawasaki Z design language was elevated to a higher level with the Z1000’s “Sugomi” styling, which combines its sculpted shape – invoking a crouching predator – with painstaking details like its special “Z” ignition key, machined aluminum steering stem bolt and the intricate “Z” motif seat cover. This is wrapped in a new color scheme for 2015 that combines Golden Blazed Green with Metallic Spark Black to create a dramatic motorcycle that sets the stage for the excitement to follow.

The Kawasaki engineers concentrated on making the Z1000 sportbike more potent and capable. Its impressive inline-four produces power to launch you away from stoplights and out of corners in a way lesser powerplants simply cannot match. The Z1000 engine produces strong, instant thrust capable of embarrassing many hardcore sportbikes.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The 1,043cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, 16-valve engine features intake cams that boost the low- and mid-range torque – where most street bikes spend their time.

Cylinder connecting passageways strengthen performance in the mid- and high RPM range by reducing the pumping losses associated with displacing air inside the crankcase.

The pronounced intake growl at low RPM, combined with its intoxicating howl on full-song, will put a smile on any rider’s face.

Four 38mm Keihin downdraft throttle bodies inject the optimal mix of fuel and air into each combustion chamber thanks to the advanced ECU. It is supplemented by a cool air intake system that routes fresh air to the airbox via extra ducts in the front fairing. The airbox is fitted with a non-woven filter element that improves flow at high RPM, while four equal-length velocity stacks help provide snappy throttle response to further increase the engine’s fun factor.

Digital Timing Advance contributes to the increased low- and mid-range power, while spark plug-mounted ignition coils help ensure perfect and powerful timing for each cylinder.

It’s the ideal engine for a road-going sportbike – aggressive, powerful, flexible, and blessed with the legendary reliability associated with Kawasaki sportbikes.

A beautifully styled 4-into-2-pre-chamber-into-2 exhaust offers a growl that is well-matched to the aggressive tone of the Z1000’s intake system. A butterfly valve in the right-side muffler not only helps reduce noise at low speed, but tunes back-pressure waves to further enhance low-speed engine response.

In the transmission, short overall gearing complements the more responsive engine to deliver astounding thrust at the rider’s command. When the road opens up, this stylish streetfighter can stretch its legs thanks to a tall sixth gear that maintains a more comfortable cruising RPM for highway riding.

CHASSIS

The Z1000 features an advanced aluminum frame that is similar to the Ninja® ZX™-10R superbike. The lightweight assembly curves over the engine, cradling it from above and solidly bolted to it in three places. The fourth mount is rubber-backed to provide added vibration isolation with torsional rigidity.

The frame design allowed the engineers to keep the bike’s waist narrow for superb rider interface, maximum comfort and control. The main frame and swingarm pivot pieces are cast as a single unit, eliminating welds wherever possible for seamless aesthetics. Its new subframe tapers to a very shallow cross-section at the rear, allowing the bodywork to take-on an aggressive minimalist profile.

Suspension is handled by a fully adjustable 41mm inverted Separate Function Fork – Big Piston (SFF-BP) up front. It has springs in both tubes, with dedicated preload adjustability in the left tube and dedicated damping pistons and adjustability in the right. The Big Piston design provides smooth action during the initial part of the stroke and contributes excellent feel during heavy braking. The beauty of the Big Piston design is it allows the fork oil to act on a larger surface, so damping pressure can be reduced without compromising the effectiveness. Reducing the pressure allows the slider to act more smoothly, giving greater control as the fork compresses and a calm response under braking, leading to greater stability.

The horizontal back-link rear shock is mounted above the swingarm to move it away from the exhaust heat and centralize its mass. The stepless rebound damping adjuster allows the shock’s performance to be tuned to match changes to the spring preload or passenger loads.

The single-shock damper is mounted almost horizontally above the swingarm for optimal mass centralization and heat resistance. The gas/oil shock offers superb wheel control whether you’re hammering along deserted backroads or prowling pothole-infested city streets.

Great looking one-piece “monobloc” radial-mount front brake calipers offer world-class stopping power and feel. The ABS-equipped brake system uses 310mm petal-type front rotors and a race-spec radial pump master cylinder.

The monobloc front calipers are machined from a single piece of aluminum, delivering both increased stiffness and reduced weight compared to standard calipers. Riders will love the responsive braking power and tremendous feel at the lever.

A 250mm petal-type rotor and single-piston caliper provide good rear brake feel for maximum finesse. The power and feel of the brakes at both ends provides supreme confidence when slowing the bike from speed. The Z1000’s standard anti-lock brake system (ABS) promotes additional rider confidence when riding in slippery conditions.

The wheels are lightweight six-spoke supersport-style units that are manufactured using the latest lightweight production technology. Not only do they reduce unsprung mass, which allows the suspension to function better, but also carry the latest radial tire technology. The result is superb grip, precise handling and extended tread life.

BODYWORK & CONTROLS

The sculpted styling of the Z1000 is one of its most stunning aspects. The thin, compact headlight housing was positioned as low as possible, extending the line that starts from the top of the tank.

The reflector-less LED headlight uses four LEDs that enable the housing to be shaped so it contributes to the intense glare of the Z1000’s face. All four of the long-life, low-energy LED bulbs (two low-beam center, two high-beam outer) illuminate when the high-beam is used. A separate LED position lamp is located on the instrument cover.

Slim, futuristic-styled radiator shrouds partially surround the Z1000’s powerful engine, and an under-cowl contributes greatly to the aggressive appearance.

The slender tail section further contributes to the bike’s crouched-forward appearance. The compact passenger pad was designed to integrate with the rider’s seat and gives the appearance of a solo-seat cover, adding to the sporty look of the tail section. The LED tail light design also adds a futuristic touch to the rear end.

In keeping with its radical looks, the Z1000 offers a superlative riding position. The wide, large-diameter aluminum handlebar offers great leverage for aggressive maneuvers, and the knurled metal footpegs grip the rider’s boots to provide a direct-connection to the chassis. It all adds up to the perfect ergonomics for maximum agility without sacrificing comfort.

As a package, the Z1000’s engine and chassis are tuned to act like European “streetfighter” models in both looks and feel. This innovative bike marks a significant step forward, providing an overall experience that is very different from other Japanese motorcycles, with a quicker, more direct feel that is sure to please experienced riders.

A large selection of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories is available through authorized Kawasaki dealers.
 

ABOUT KAWASAKI

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI) started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, speed, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki's commitment to maintaining and furthering these strengths will surely give birth to new legends.

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and Jet Ski® watercraft through a network of almost 1,200 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,400 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 300 of them located at KMC's Irvine, California headquarters.

– Uniquely aggressive “Sugomi” styling gives the Z1000 a distinct predatory look

– 1,043cc inline-four with DFI® offers sharp response that enhance the impressive mid-range and top-end power

– Showa Separate Function Fork - Big Piston (SFF-BP) front forks offer light weight, easy adjustability and excellent wheel control to cope with the high forces associated with aggressive riding

– One-piece “monobloc” radial-mount front brake calipers offer superb braking power and control, along with a premium laser-etched Kawasaki logo and black alumite finish

– Supersport-style six-spoke lightweight aluminum wheels contribute to the Z1000’s sporty image while reducing rotating inertia

– Short final-drive gearing provides quick response and enhanced riding excitement, while a tall 6th gear helps maintain highway comfort

– Analog + Digital instrument cluster includes a large tachometer and a digital display offering a wealth of information on current bike conditions and settings

– Compact subframe design is slender and short

– Upright “streetfighter” riding position provides excellent leverage on the controls for maximum maneuverability, coupled with a commanding view of the urban jungle

DOHC, 16-valve, 1,043cc Engine

– 1,043cc liquid-cooled inline-four offers true open-class power from idle to redline

– Cylinder connecting passageways reduce pumping losses and improve mid-to-high RPM performance

– Intake cams provide improved low-to-midrange torque for instant thrust and maximum rider satisfaction

– Aggressive ECU settings provide sharp throttle response

– 38mm Keihin throttle bodies cram the air/fuel mixture directly into combustion chambers via downdraft intakes for maximum power

– Oval sub-throttles help keep the engine slim, and a slim midsection allows an ideal bike/rider interface for maximum comfort and control

– Engine’s rev limiter comes into play “softly,” providing usable over-rev character because power doesn’t drop off suddenly at high RPM

– The engine’s relatively low crankshaft position allows a moderately long stroke without adding engine height

– A secondary engine balancer, driven off a gear on the sixth web of the crankshaft, eliminates excess vibration and contributes to rider comfort

– Short gearing provides quick acceleration and riding excitement, while a tall 6th gear maintains highway comfort

Digital Ignition

– Individual spark plug-mounted ignition coils fire each of the four spark plugs independently to achieve the optimum timing for that cylinder

– ECU includes an idle speed control system for easier starting and warm-up

Cool Air System

– Intake system routes cool air to the airbox via ducts in the fairing, minimizing performance loss due to heated intake air

– Airbox features intakes that enhance the engine’s intoxicating intake howl

– Non-woven air filter element provides better flow for enhanced high-RPM performance

– Velocity stacks are equal-length to enhance throttle response

– Intake ducts are positioned close to the rider to allow the intake howl to be heard and enjoyed

Exhaust System

– The exhaust system features a 4-into-2-pre-chamber-into-2 layout to provide ample silencer volume without requiring excess bulk in the rear mufflers

– Large oval-shaped connector tubes help improve engine response for heightened excitement at all RPMs

– Main and pre-catalyzers help ensure clean emissions

– A butterfly valve in the right-side muffler not only helps reduce noise, but also tunes exhaust back-pressure waves to help enhance low-rpm engine response

– Brushed-metal finish on the silencers provides enhanced visual appeal

– Exhaust system offers excellent mass centralization and contributes to a low center of gravity

Larger Fuel Tank

– 4.5 gallon (17L) fuel tank offers generous range

– Radical shape and two-tone finish complement the Z1000’s Sugomi-inspired styling

– Slim-type fuel pump features an integral fuel level sensor with enhanced accuracy

Monobloc ABS Brakes with Petal-type Rotors

– One-piece “monobloc” radial-mount front brake calipers offer superb braking power and control, along with a premium quality look from their laser-etched Kawasaki logo and black alumite finish

– Opposed four-piston radial-mount monobloc calipers with differentiated diameter (32mm upper, and 30mm lower) pistons provide excellent feel and progressive braking response

– A radial-pump front brake master cylinder contributes to the superb control and feel offered by these high-end monobloc calipers

– ABS pump features a fluid pressure sensor that allows precise control of line pressures and also provides data to the ECU to help suppress rear lift under braking

– A low-battery mode helps preserve ABS effectiveness when the battery charge is low (although riders may notice that ABS operation is not as smooth as in normal mode)

– Petal-type 310mm front brake rotors are full-on sportbike hardware

– Pad compound has a high coefficient of friction that contributes to the front brake power and sensitivity

– A single-piston rear caliper grips a 250mm petal-type disc. This compact caliper is mounted below the swingarm, and located by a torque rod

Aluminum Backbone Frame

– Aluminum backbone frame is similar in concept to the Ninja ZX-10R’s, and helps make the bike narrow and easy to grip with the knees for maximum rider comfort and feedback

– The frame is lightweight and highly rigid, and uses the engine as a stressed member for solid handling and optimum stability

– Frame elements are tuned to transmit optimal engine feedback to the rider

– The frame uses four engine mounts, three of which are rigid, one of which (the upper rear crankcase mount) is rubber

– Compact subframe design is more slender and shorter to match the new styling

– The sub-frame is an example of form and function combined, negating the need for side covers and allowing underseat narrowness for a shorter reach to the ground

Separate Function Fork – Big Piston: (SFF-BP)

– SFF-BP fork combines the features of Showa’s big piston and separate function forks, featuring springs on both sides, with dedicated preload adjustability in the left tube and dedicated damping pistons and adjustability in the right tube

– Big Piston design provides smooth action during the initial part of the stroke and contributes to excellent feel during heavy braking. The large-diameter damper piston is much bigger than those used in traditional “cartridge” forks

– Big Piston design allows the fork oil to act on a much larger surface area, so the damping pressure can be reduced without compromising effectiveness. Reducing the damping pressure allows the slider to react more smoothly, which is especially noticeable during the initial part of the stroke. The result is greater control as the fork begins to compress and very calm response during braking-induced weight-transfer, for greater chassis stability on corner entry

– Fork settings were tuned to cope with the extreme forces of aggressive use, while still providing a comfortable ride

– SFF-BP design offers easy adjustability, by locating all adjusters in the caps at the top of the two fork tubes: preload on the left; compression and rebound damping on the right.

Horizontal Back-Link Rear Suspension

– Rear suspension design positions the shock unit and linkage above the swingarm where it’s less exposed to exhaust heat and contributes to mass centralization

– Stepless rebound damping adjuster allows damping characteristics to be tuned to match changes in spring preload and/or loads

Rider Interface

– A fat solid-mount tubular aluminum handlebar contributes to the Z1000’s quality, top-shelf feel

– Double-taper grips, like those used on supersport models, offer a more direct feel than traditional designs

– Intricately textured seat cover features a distinct Z-logo pattern

– Ninja ZX-10R-style footpegs with knurled surfaces offer good grip, direct feel and control, and purposeful looks

Instrumentation

– Extremely compact dual-element digital instrumentation keeps the front of the motorcycle as compact and unobtrusive as possible, making the bike almost disappear from the rider’s field of vision

– Dual element bar-graph tachometer with 0-4,000rpm indicated vertically along the left edge of the lower display and a larger 4,000rpm+ tachometer filling the entire horizontal upper display

– LCD functions include ABS and Economical Riding (ECO) indicators

– Additional LCD functions include a unique digital speedometer, odometer, dual trip meter, clock, instant and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, and low-fuel warning lamps