Kawasaki certainly made a statement when it created the outstanding Z1000. The sportbike immediately attracted the looks of all motorheads, no matter if they were into sports bikes or not. Colored in elegant black with a touch of vibrant green, orange, or red, Z1000 was a refreshing model on the overloaded market. It still is - thanks to the few tweaks over the years.
First introduced in 2003, Kawasaki Z1000 is a great successor of the Z series from 1972. We all know it for immense power and impeccable design, but there's much more to it than the looks. In this article, find out why we still love the great Kawasaki Z1000 and what are the reasons to get one even after all these years.
We break down all the important specs and guide you to the newest models of this great sports bike.
Throwback To History And Kawasaki Z1000 Models
It's quite interesting to observe the evolution of the Z1000 over the years. The model saw quite a few style changes but always preserved its impressive sports looks that continue to amaze riders all over the world. That's the number one reason why we love it, and we haven't even come to half of our list.
Following the introduction of the Kawasaki Z series in 1972, the Z1000 made a great entrance in 2003 as a streetfighter. Until 2006, the model featured a total displacement of 953 ccs, a maximum torque of 71 lb-ft, and a top speed of about 158 mph. These were impressive specs Kawasaki changed only slightly from 2007 to 2009, introducing higher torque and cast aluminum engine sub-frame along the initial high-tensile steel tubes.
If we look into the period from 2010 to 2016, torque was even more increased to 82 lb-ft and design boosted with the aluminum twin-tube frame. Most importantly, the liquid-cooled four-cylinder engine remained the same over the years, ensuring swift performance at all times.
A Naked Version Of Wild Design And Affordable Price
As far as the design goes, the Kawasaki Z1000 is bold and attractive at first glance. This naked bike appears lower than it sits, providing an upright riding position and sleek looks at the same time. Then, there's also a front headlight console with a set of LEDs to resemble the human eyes. Add into the equation the even lower indicators, and you get a really intimidating street bike.
Now, what actually makes this story even better is the price of the Z1000. You can find these anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000, which is quite reasonable considering the competition. Surely, newer models are pricier, but you can enjoy the older ones for about $5,000. They are by no means less impressive in design and performance.
Kawasaki Z1000 Ride And Handling
Considering the design, it's not hard to conclude the Z1000 provides easy handling and an enjoyable ride. The fact that the bike is not as bis as some other similar-class motorcycles only means it is simpler to maneuver, especially around the city. Moreover, the bike doesn't sit too high or low, ensuring a comfortable seating posture for most riders out there. As long as you don't plan cross-country touring, you'll be more than satisfied with it, although the Z1000 may just surprise you in this area as well.
Taking all of this into account, we love the Z1000 model both for its power and design. Purring on the streets with a liquid-cooled four-cylinder engine and drawing the eyes of other riders with provocative design, the Kawasaki Z1000 is still the choice of many motorheads.
What To Expect from Kawasaki In 2021?
The big Japanese manufacturer introduced the newest version of the Z1000 in 2021, and it looks good to all sportbike fans. The updated version doesn't differ too much from the previous ones in power, featuring a liquid-cooled four-cylinder engine, a maximum torque of 82 lb-ft, and a total displacement of 1,043 ccs. What we love about it is the provokative design.
The 2021 Kawasaki Z1000 also called Z Spirit, comes with a new paint scheme. It's complemented with red pinstripes on the side and both wheels, making the initial fierce design even more effective. If you're up for making a change in your life but not switching your favorite motorcycle brand, this updated model could be a perfect choice. Indeed, it goes above $10,000 but is well worth the extra penny.
Although there are many things to like in the models of the Z1000 until 2016, the Z Spirit is brutal in looks and functionality. Those who seek adventure in this time of global uncertainty will definitely enjoy the ride on the newest Kawasaki sportbike.