2021 Kawasaki Z1000

LED HEADLAMP

This is first time for Kawasaki to use the reflector-less LED headlamp design.

Using LED lamps allows the design to be thin, the shape contributing to the more intense glare of the Z1000’s face, and the reflector-less design further enhances its predatory appearance.

BODYWORK

The bodywork of the Z1000 creates a lean image it compared to its predecessor.  The design trims bulk and unnecessary design flourishes to highlight the functionality of the bike’s parts.

The bodywork is fit to the bike with much tighter tolerances – space between the bodywork and engine/frame is minimised – adding to the high quality image

MIRRORS

Special mirrors have a sharp design that contributes to the aggressive image. Die-cast mirror stays contribute to a less plastic, higher quality feel of the cockpit.

SEATING WITH STYLE

The Z1000’s front seat features a “Z” pattern seat cover material, adding a high-quality touch.

Rear seat shape is integrated into that of the front seat.  The compact pillion pad was designed to have the appearance of a single-seat cover, adding to the sporty look of the compact tail section.

COMPACT INSTRUMENTATION

The Z1000’s compact instrument cluster is mounted directly to the handlebar, which added to design freedom and helped realise the compact headlamp cowl.  Its low position creates an unobstructed view of the road ahead. The futuristic design of the LED tachometer and LCD screen reflects the sport potential of the new Z.

RIDER EXHILARATION

It is important to note that the Z1000’s direct response and awesome riding exhilaration do not come at the cost of manageability.  Contrary to its aggressive appearance, the Z1000 is accommodating and enables riders of various skill levels to experience its highly stimulating engine and chassis performance.

ENGINE

Engine tuning focused on the feeling the rider gets when opening the throttle.  The strong torque feeling and mid-range hit of the previous model remains, but changes made to the engine and ECU settings result in a more direct throttle response.  Combined with the shorter gearing, acceleration feels noticeably stronger.

Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve 1,043 cm³ In-line Four offers impressive power (104.5 kW (142 PS)) and strong torque.

ASSIST & SLIPPER CLUTCH

Assist & Slipper Clutch was developed based on feedback from racing activities. The clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam), offering two new functions not available on the standard clutch of the previous model.

LIGHTER AND SPORTIER OPERATION

When the engine is operating at normal rpm the assist cam functions as a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever pull when operating the clutch. Fewer (3, vs 5 on the previous model) clutch springs translate to a 30% lighter clutch lever feel.

When excessive engine braking occurs – as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) – the slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and help prevent the rear tyre from hopping and skidding.

HIGH TORQUE ENGINE

Power delivery is quite linear, but the engine spins up noticeably faster from about 7,000 rpm onwards.  Silky smooth response at all rpm ensures excellent driveability.

COOL AIR SYSTEM

STYLISH QUAD OUTLET MUFFLERS

Revisions to the main and pre-catalysers contribute to cleaner emissions, ensuring Euro 4 regulations are cleared.

CHASSIS

The highly rigid aluminium frame features a high degree of mass centralisation, creating a balance between sharp turning and firm handling.

Aluminium twin-tube frame design features frame beams that go over engine, allowing a narrow construction between the rider’s knees.

Lightweight and highly rigid, the frame uses the engine as a stressed member.  The frame offers a firm, planted feeling, good stability and light, nimble turning.

MASS CENTRALISATION

The exhaust system, horizontal back-link rear suspension and the use of downdraft throttle bodies are the greatest contributors to mass centralisation. The horizontal back-link rear suspension arrangement frees up space taken up by the Uni-Trak suspension lower linkage, enabling a larger pre-chamber and allows the use of shorter mufflers to contribute to mass centralisation.  The result is light, sharp handling.

SEPARATE FUNCTION FORK - BIG PISTON (SSF-BP)

Revised front fork settings deliver suppler action. Aggressive riding feel is maintained, while the significantly improved shock absorption offers increased ride comfort. The settings also contribute to lighter, natural handling.

ABS FRONT AND REAR BRAKES

The Z1000 features Tokico monobloc calipers and larger 310 mm front petal discs.  Achieving the Z1000 braking characteristics required a redefinition of what Kawasaki’s “ideal” braking for a Super-Naked was to be. Revised rear brake pad material and optimised return spring offer improved control and increased overall performance.