General information Kawasaki Z 1000

The night before our Z1000 ride, Kawasaki reps reiterated that their naked literbike has become dramatically more dynamic. Perhaps because of my inherent skepticism (or the persistent tendency of PR people to tell tall tales), I didn't quite believe this chiseled standard was as tightly wound as it looked.

On a chilly Saturday morning, we set out from the small town of Cambria, California on a series of tightly coiled backroads that were slick with wet leaves and scattered with potholes and rough surfaces—not the most relaxing conditions, but a great way to test the Z1000's suspension and chassis. The first section proved challenging, especially because of the way my particular bike was setup; though the engine felt delectably strong, turn-in was skittish and the bike seemed unsettled in turns. My group's pace was lightning quick, but I couldn't wait for a break so I could have the suspension softened up a bit and ride more confidently.

When we finally rolled up to our lunch stop, I had a Kawasaki technician soften the front and rear rebound settings by several clicks. Right off the bat, the difference was perceptible; with more compliance, the bike settled into leans less nervously, which in turn inspired more confidence. The Z1000 still felt crisp and willing, though given the opportunity, I would have liked to experiment with more suspension settings.


General information Kawasaki Z 1000

Model: Kawasaki Z 1000
Year: 2005
Category: Naked bike
Rating: 70.6 out of 100.

Engine and transmission
Displacement: 953.00 ccm (58.15 cubic inches)
Engine type: In-line four
Stroke: 4
Compression: 11.2:1
Bore x stroke: 77.2 x 50.9 mm (3.0 x 2.0 inches)
Fuel system: Carburettor. Keihin CVK36 x 4
Fuel control: DOHC
Ignition: Digital
Starter: Electric
Cooling system: Liquid
Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type final drive: Chain

Physical measures
Dry weight: 198.2 kg (437.0 pounds)
Seat height: 820 mm (32.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall height: 1,054 mm (41.5 inches)
Overall width: 770 mm (30.3 inches)
Ground clearance: 145 mm (5.7 inches)
Wheelbase: 1,420 mm (55.9 inches)

Chassis and dimensions
Frame type: Diamond, high-tensile steel
Rake (fork angle): 24.0°
Front suspension: 41mm cartridge fork, rebound/spring preload adjustability
Rear suspension: UNI-TRAK®, rebound/spring preload adjustability
Front tyre dimensions: 120/70-17
Rear tyre dimensions: 190/50-17
Front brakes: Double disc
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm (12.6 inches)
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 250 mm (9.8 inches)