Kawasaki Ninja Z 1000 SX: review and technical specifications of the model

Japanese motorcyclesKawasaki motorcycles

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000, like the rest of the models in this series, has qualities that give this motorcycle maximum sportiness.

Both the appearance and technical performance are perfect here.

The bike itself looks futuristic.

The appearance is aggressive, as befits a sports model, the details are expressive, and the silhouette leaves no doubt that this model is destined to become a master on the road .

The most successful color options for a motorcycle are black, gray, green and ebonite. When combined with black metal parts, they all stand out well.

Kawasaki has improved its motorcycle well. A powerful four-cylinder in-line engine is installed here, providing two power modes.

The new model does not have rear spring preload adjusters. Also new is the monoblock, new digital and analog instruments, and radially mounted front brake calipers.

The rear subframe has been completely revised . All these innovations ensured good popularity of the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 motorcycle, making it more comfortable to ride.

Kawasaki designers updated the power unit to a unit with medium and low torque.

This was achieved by using a liquid-cooled DOHC and 16-valve engine.

In addition, the motorcycle is equipped with digital advance, resulting in increased mid and low power.

But spark plugs are still capable of delivering perfect timing to each cylinder.

Often professionals choose this motorcycle because of the ABS with a new caliper. itself is not afraid of dirt or wet roads .

The chassis of the new model also has impressive capabilities. Taking their design as a basis, the developers created a body silhouette that is directed forward.

All this, together with other modern features, makes the Ninja 1000 a modern, versatile motorcycle.

The inevitable preface

After another round of suffering with the letter x... an evening of reading reviews to choose the “next ideal”, I came across an article about the Kawasaki Z1000SX and the amount of positivity made me think. It was evening, I was pretty tired, and so, without thinking twice, I went to the Kawasaki website and, “without any hesitation,” clicked on signing up for a test drive. The nearest dealer is just a walk away (half an hour), why not have your own...

A couple of days later a call. An absolutely indifferent voice explained that you can ride whenever you want, they give you half an hour and you need to have your license and passport with you. Hmm, the license is clear, but a passport? Well, that's the thing.

I made an appointment right after the next meeting at work, set a reminder to “get my passport” and successfully forgot about this whole event. In the morning on the day of the test, I frantically tried not to forget my passport (it’s a shame after all!) and that I needed to install a navigator. As a result, already halfway to work, the thought came to me: “Do I have a wallet with me with such a little thing in life as my license.” Okay, we’ll figure it out as we go along (it turned out that I figured it out when I was almost at the dealer :)). I tried not to think about the test, as a result I let myself get caught up in work and only at the last meeting I remembered that it would be nice to go on time! Fortunately, the meeting ended ahead of schedule and I “handled everything” at a pace that indicated that I had absolutely no time :).

On the way, a funny detail emerged - I only had enough gas. Okay, let’s make a face like a brick and don’t “angry” the fuel gauge. Only at the entrance to the dealer did I glance at the arrow “lying around from idleness” and, oh joy, I immediately saw the familiar Shell colors. Somehow I turned towards her and realized that I still had some luck left. It was not possible to get there the way I wanted because it was a bicycle. Why am I not a giraffe bike? The aunt from the service staff didn’t even move when I, following the same “smart” scooter, climbed into a hole in the fence for pedestrians. Here I finally checked my wallet (I already filled up without it once) and, at the same time, my license. “Idiots are lucky” - everything turned out to be in place. Full tank, +29C outside, no sign of the rain promised in the morning - let's go for a ride!

The Van der Pol Motoren dealer in Helmond turned out to be more like a bike shop, but in this case I didn't really care. As it turned out, however, the owner is not only indifferent, but also in no hurry. As a result, I had to undress so as not to “dissolve in a puddle” before it was my turn. OK, we filled out the “paper” (by the way, 1,500 euros at our own risk), scanned our license, and left our passport “as collateral.” In the meantime, the motorcycle was brought out and started at the same time (a pleasant rumble came from the street). Well, let’s see what this “beast” is.

Specifications

When you first look at the Ninja 1000, you'll notice its sporty, low-slung stance .

The engineers did a good job and it’s difficult to come up with anything new here.

Well, the low landing is dictated by the strong speed pressure. And it becomes clear why the body of the bike was worked out so carefully.

The spatial tube made of aluminum alloys , which is at its core, effectively distributes the air flow, thus reducing aerodynamic drag.

However, despite this, the handlebars are mounted higher here than on racing motorcycles and this was done in order to increase comfort when traveling at low speeds.

The tilt of the three-position windshield can be adjusted manually. As a result, it always matches the riding style and height of the rider.

As for the seat height, 0.82 m helps to improve aerodynamic properties.

The rear sprocket teeth were reduced by one, the gears were stretched, and the top speed increased.

Now, if the motorcycle is properly equipped with an aerodynamic body kit, you can try to overcome the mark of 200 km/h , which is quite a high figure for a naked bike.

The manufacturer provided the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 motorcycle engine with the following technical qualities:

• Power unit P4, 16-valve, four-stroke, liquid is used here for cooling;
• Engine capacity – 1043 cc. centimeters;
• The highest power at 9600 rpm reaches 101.5 kW (138 hp);
• Compression ratio – 11.8:1;
• Limit torque at 7800 rpm – 110 Nm;
• Starting system - electric;
• The lubrication system operates under pressure, the crankcase is wet;
• Multi-disc clutch;
• The carburetor operates by fuel injection;
• Digital ignition;
• Six-speed transmission, constant clutch;
• Chain drive type.

On the Kawasaki Ninja 600, the pilot can easily climb a couple of steps onto the podium.

To achieve good results, you also need to take care of high-quality equipment, and learn about one of them from our article.

The technical characteristics of the frame also deserve special attention :

• Double-tubular aluminum construction;
• Front suspension – telescopic forks, 41 mm in diameter. The spring load here can be pre-adjusted;
• The front suspension provides 120 mm of travel;
• The rear suspension is horizontal, Back-link type. A gas shock absorber is provided here, and the spring load can be pre-adjusted;
• The rear suspension provides 138 mm of travel;
• The fork is tilted at 24.5°C;
• The front brake is semi-floating double, has a 300 mm petal disc, four piston calipers have radial mounting;
• Front tire size 120/70ZR17M/C (58W);
• The front brake is single-disc, single-piston caliper, 220 mm in diameter;
• Rear tire size 190/50ZR17M/C (73W).

As for the overall dimensions, the manufacturer provided the Ninja 1000 model with a length of 2.1 meters.

The width of the motorcycle is 0.79 meters and the height is 1.07 meters.

If we take the height of the saddle, it is 0.8 meters. The minimum ground clearance is 0.135 meters.

The fuel tank holds 19 liters of fuel.

When fully equipped and with all technical fluids, the motorcycle weighs 228 kg .

Despite the fact that the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 has sporty characteristics, 13.5 centimeters of ground clearance makes you drive carefully.

But still, bad roads can be passed without complications. An almost one and a half meter wheelbase and a 31-degree turn of the front wheel in both directions, together with other parameters, provide this vehicle with excellent maneuverability and ease of control.

Therefore, we can say that the Ninja 1000 is a versatile motorcycle to use.

The engine volume can be compared to the unit volume of a small car . But, taking into account the mass of the motorcycle, it can be argued that its towing capacity is quite high.

The engine's traction characteristics are improved by using long-stroke pistons. Also impressive is the high power of the power unit , which has a great impact on the overall performance of the motorcycle.

The Honda Steed 400 motorcycle has not been produced for a long time, but its popularity has not yet decreased, and this is largely due to the successful design of the motorcycle.

Whether you're an aspiring biker or a motocross guru, gear for this exciting activity is essential.

First impression

Uh, do they come in gray too?
Well, that’s also an option, but I was expecting green! What kind of Kawasaki is it if it's not bright green?? Then I decided for myself that this was on purpose so that people would not be killed right away. Because the green ones go faster :))). Another annoying little thing - no bags. Is this a tourer or just for show? Okay, let’s not bother with bags, but I wanted to feel it in full uniform. The brief briefing boiled down to the fact that “you can, of course, switch the traction control, but you have to nafik.” OK, I'll figure it out. Thank you anyway. Then they tried to give me money “if the gas runs out” (the level is almost zero). I actually flinched. Well, I’ll give him a drop if necessary, why do that... Brrrrr. Let's go. By the way, on the way, out of nowhere, a second “cube” magically appeared on the fuel indicator. After 10 km it disappeared again, so the linearity of the pointer is still the same.

When you stand next to the motorcycle, the size seems to be visually comparable to the CBF. But that's until he sat down. As soon as I sat down (at the same time raising my leg decently - my “butt” turned out to be raised higher than usual) I realized that there was actually “less” of a motorcycle under me. The instrument panel is “bottom” and to see it you have to slightly lower your head down. In general, it’s a slightly civilized streetfighter with a windshield and a couple of plastic panels. The tourer is only in the form of bags. OK. I immediately realized that for some reason the footrests were bothering my legs. The legs normally reach the ground, but at the same time they constantly rest against the legs. Okay, let's consider it a matter of habit. The footrest is only side, simple and very reminiscent of the Dukatievskaya. The same lack of rigid springing, although with a hint of a “catch” for ease of extension. There is no central pillar, and it seems that there are no additional accessories. “Very convenient” for servicing the chain in “field” conditions. Let's consider it a habit too.

Another adjustment

The rear suspension can be tightened right on the go - with a handle under the saddle.
Other important features that appeared on the Z1000SX were three-mode KTRC traction control and two engine power output options. After playing with the settings, I realized that these were the features I was missing in the Z1000. During my three-day test ride, these electronics saved me from dangerous situations more than once. On a sports tourer it is simply necessary, as is the ABS braking system. There are no complaints about the brakes, although, fortunately, I never had a chance to test them at maximum load. But in the rain they performed great. Although the aforementioned mode switches make no less of a contribution to safety - you just need to remember to move them to the position of maximum assistance to the pilot...

TEXT: LIU WASEDA

On the run

Give a little gas, clutch... oops, a little more gas. Behavior is the same as the 600. Either the clutch grabs quickly, or there is still no power at very low revs, but I immediately remembered the 600 cc “cat” (Yamaha YZF600r Thundercat). But this is an honest liter!

Regarding the landing. For me this is one of the important criteria. On the “cat” the landing was already something between sporty and flat, but here it is something between the “cat” and the CBF road bike. The feeling is strange, it seems to be smooth, but it seems not. But the very first couple of traffic lights put everything in its place. I clearly felt the long-forgotten sensation of heaviness in my wrists. Ha! So, after all, it’s more of a sport, not a tourer. And now we imagine doing this all day without getting off the motorcycle. Hm. I must say that the time I chose for the test was just crazy, not very good due to the large number of cars. Moreover, not knowing the road and getting used to the motorcycle, I managed to get stuck at every intersection. In the end, I got tired of it and began to “filter” between machines. And here the absence of side luggage, a short wheelbase and the presence of decent audio support from four futuristic-looking exhausts helped me a lot. They heard me in advance and squeezing through was no more difficult than on foot. But the stress on my hands began to make themselves felt almost immediately. I completely forgot about such a little thing. Well, half an hour is not a problem.

In general, the sound is simply a song, especially in the upper range of the tachometer. On each side there is a specifically Star Trek design with two holes. For some reason, before I saw the bike, I was 100% sure that the exhaust was only on one side :). In principle, I love symmetry, so I was not disappointed :), but it was strange since recently there has been a tendency to do only on one side. At the same time, the sound is quite aggressive (for me), so I wouldn’t rush to change it to something else. Maybe as you become deaf :). But sound is sound, but what I want to note separately is the engine. This is a real sport. I don’t know how the “donor” ZX-10R behaves, but the behavior of the detuned version with 142 horses amazed me in a very positive sense. In stretches, it hums peacefully, while you can quite switch to a higher gear - no jerking or “choking”, at the same time, the reaction to the gas is not so frisky. But as soon as I “squeezed through” and broke out into a more or less free area. Agagagaga...Who should fly there? The slogan from the advertisement “Wanna play?” immediately came to mind. (do you want to play?). This miracle of Japanese technology simply drags you along with you to play. It was only when a turn formed in front of me and I, having given a little gas, lay down in it, leaning slightly forward into a more sporty “stance”, I literally heard in my head “Fuck, here goes my driving license” (say goodbye to your license), BUT HOW IS IT IT WAS FUN! Nah. “Finishing the game” is a matter of one or two seconds. But what about the tourer component? Due to the short wheelbase, turning into a turn is just baby talk. I suspect that putting it on the rear wheel is just as easy, but I had no desire to check. I'll believe it.

In general, the engine is very responsive and torquey. With a slight movement of the hand you can send up to 10,000 revolutions. In my opinion, the 600 cc “cat” didn’t spin like that, and CBF generally smokes nervously on the sidelines. At the same time, there is not more than enough traction, I would even say more than enough that the presence of speed limits becomes a thorn in the side.

There was no shaking at all while driving. Or rather, I simply didn’t notice her. On CBF there is a clear range that specifically tickles the butt, but here there is not a hint. It’s just that at idle the mirrors actually become cloudy. But at idle you can even turn your head :). The box is short-stroke. It switches easily and without problems (although a couple of times it turned out to be jerky - probably I didn’t adapt well to the character of the moto), but I kept missing neutral - the second one immediately stuck to the first one. This is not observed on the Honda (I specially checked it on the way home). The brakes are flawless. I used both front and rear (out of habit I used the foot brake). After this, the Honda seemed particularly sluggish - that means everything is in order :). Sedushka did not evoke any emotions. What can be said is good - I would immediately feel the bad :). I wonder how it feels after at least an hour. Honda turned out to be very successful in this regard, but this can only be found out in practice.

2022 KAWASAKI Z1000SX REVIEW

The KAWASAKI Z1000SX , which appeared in 2010, immediately aroused public interest. The liter sport-tourer was created based on the angry street, but rather impractical KAWASAKI Z and the radical KAWASAKI ZX10-R sportbike and took the best of both. Thoughtful wind protection, a reinforced subframe for attaching luggage cases, a comfortable fit designed for a long journey, and an informative dashboard determined the direction of the new model.

In addition, significant modernization was carried out in 2022 - improved ergonomics for both the driver and passenger, the appearance of the fairing and windshield was changed, and the electronics and instrument panel were updated.

LED headlights not only shine well, but also look great

And the new LED headlight optics have no analogues in its class. Currently, the KAWASAKI Z1000SX successfully occupies the company's production niche between the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 all-round touring bike and the KAWASAKI ZX10-R sportbike.

Engine KAWASAKI Z1000SX

The 1,043 cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine has 16 valves (4 per cylinder) and produces 142 horsepower at 10,000 rpm. The maximum torque of 111 Nm is achieved at just 7,300 rpm, which is very conducive to intense acceleration even without turning the motorcycle into a screaming low-flying rocket.

KAWASAKI Z1000SX is a real sportbike that successfully “pretends” to be a tourist

A quartet of 38 mm Keihin throttle valves with additional oval valves and a digital injection control system is responsible for high-quality “feeding” of all the horses in the engine. And for the most precise engine control, KAWASAKI engineers have provided 2 custom settings modes - full power and reduced, about 70%, for a smoother response when driving around the city or in conditions of poor grip on the road surface (for example, at low temperatures, during rain) .

The exhaust system requires special attention. The design with dual mufflers symmetrically located on both sides of the bike looks extremely impressive.

Quad silver tailpipes are a nod to the classic 1972 KAWASAKI Z1

Slipper clutches on high-end track bikes are already perceived as something commonplace, although for touring motorcycles this is rather an exception. However, in many respects the KAWASAKI Z1000SX is more “sport” than just “tourist”.

Chassis KAWASAKI Z1000SX

The dual cast aluminum frame with welded steering column uses the engine as a load-bearing element, giving it the necessary rigidity while maintaining reasonable weight. The steering column geometry represents the sportiest option allowed on the stability scale and has a 24.5-degree rake. Additional rigidity is provided by invisible cross-shaped reinforcements on the internal parts of the frame; this solution contributes to better cornering, as befits the sporting origin of the bike.

New aerodynamics guarantee comfort for pilot and passenger

With the latest modernization of the KAWASAKI Z1000SX, the appearance of the fairing was noticeably changed; now its outlines and some details indicate commonality with such models as the KAWASAKI H2 and KAWASAKI ZX10-R, and in general with the modern Ninja series. In addition to the style, the shape of the fairing has also been changed; it has become slightly wider and now divides the air flow to create a large air pocket that protects from wind and weather problems. In addition, the windshield, which is taller than before, is height-adjustable to accommodate the height and build of the pilot.

Suspension KAWASAKI Z1000SX

The inverted fork with 41mm legs has a full range of adjustments - stepless adjustment of compression and rebound damping, as well as spring preload. This is enough even for a full-fledged sportbike, and without any compromises.

The right fork is the key to comfort on the highway and fun in corners.

The rear monoshock of the KAWASAKI Z1000SX is no worse; it successfully absorbs all the blows of fate and the road that the aluminum pendulum of the suspension throws at it. Its arsenal includes settings for rebound damping, spring preload and a large, comfortable remote stepless handle to control all this abundance.

Any experienced hiker is familiar with the problem of frequently adjusting the rear shock absorber for different load weights. Remote adjustments can make life a lot easier.

Brakes KAWASAKI Z1000SX

At the front, the braking system uses Tokico's track-tested four-piston radial calipers, which grip 300mm wave-shaped cross-drilled discs. The rear part of the system is traditionally simpler; here the choice fell on a single-cylinder caliper with a 250 mm disc.

Rear caliper with wavy brake disc. The fine notch for the anti-lock braking system sensor is also clearly visible.

The safety of using the KAWASAKI Z1000SX braking system is ensured by the intelligent anti-lock braking system KIBS (KAWASAKI Intelligent Anti-Lock Brake System), which came to the model directly from the race track. Actually, the best recommendation for the brake system on the KAWASAKI Z1000SX is the fact that exactly the same one is installed on the company’s oldest production models - KAWASAKI H2 and KAWASAKI ZX10-R. This is an excellent choice for both sports trails and long-distance travel.

Electronics KAWASAKI Z1000SX

The “gray eminence” of the KAWASAKI Z1000SX can undoubtedly be called the new IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) from Bosch. This block has at its disposal all the data about what is happening with the motorcycle in real time. This information is used by the KAWASAKI Cornering Management Function, KIBS, KAWASAKI Traction Control, and with its help the ICU (main computer) links the operation of the engine, suspension, braking system, etc. It also monitors the results of the pilot’s actions and, if necessary, corrects his mistakes.

Smart electronic systems perform best in combat conditions

For example, the intelligent anti-lock braking system in its actions takes into account not only the state of the braking system, but also engine speed, motorcycle speed, tilt, throttle position and many other parameters of the KAWASAKI Z1000SX, most of which are provided by the IMU unit. This is what allows the system to be considered truly intelligent, and in addition to the basic anti-lock functions, it can also combat such ailments as lifting of the rear suspension when braking or jerking of the suspension when braking simultaneously with downshifting.

The new KAWASAKI Z1000SX LCD instrument panel shows everything you need and then some. A large analog tachometer, warning lights, speed, time - this is what everyone is already accustomed to. But the number of the current gear, an improved fuel indicator and a sensor that displays the most economical driving mode are more typical of the dashboards of touring motorcycles.

Large and easy to read dashboard

But there is one more small “trick” that attracts attention - the analog tachometer needle smoothly changes color as the engine speed increases, it looks very unusual and nice.

Peculiarities

Overall, the motorcycle looks very well thought out down to the smallest detail. For example, the air flows that cool the engine are removed in such a way as not to heat the pilot’s feet. The clutch and brake levers offer multiple positions to suit any hand size. And the pilot’s seat became lower and wider, which added to his comfort on long trips. The subframe is reinforced to accommodate loaded panniers, and there are also special hooks for attaching luggage straps. The seat has been improved, and special passenger handles have become even more comfortable.

New back seat, new comfortable handles - your passenger will be happy!

The mirrors are placed a little wider, the aerodynamics have been improved to perfection, and many other small but important points, each of which makes the KAWASAKI Z1000SX unique.

The KAWASAKI Z1000SX's incredible combination of sporting capabilities, directly inherited from the Ninja family, combined with touring potential will satisfy your craving for long-distance travel in comfort, while simultaneously delighting the true speed enthusiast.

In our showroom you can purchase KAWASAKI Z1000SX green, KAWASAKI Z1000SX black and KAWASAKI Z1000SX silver.

Equipment

Along the way, I regularly tried to evaluate the instrument panel. So-so. Readability is normal as long as there is no direct light coming from the back. Then only the classic analog tachometer remains readable, and everything else is illuminated in full. Due to the fact that I did not want to be left with an empty tank in the middle of an unfamiliar city, I regularly tried to make sure that there was something to drive, but half the time I saw only a bright spot :(. By the way, regarding readability - I only discovered the presence of a watch end of the trip. Before that, I looked around and decided that it was “out of luck.”

At the end, I looked at Kawa again and stared at the rear wheel mounting structure. In one word, “strange.” And it is not clear whether it is possible, for example, to tighten the chain without visiting the dealer. Looks suspicious.

Model features

The most significant feature of the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 is without a doubt the 16-valve, four-stroke 1034 cc engine equipped with DFI fuel injection.
High torque is provided here, and this makes the motorcycle easy to start and accelerate.

However, other features need to be highlighted:

1. lightweight and narrow aluminum frame that optimizes driver feedback;
2. The inverted fork is fully adjustable and has settings designed for quality ride and sporty performance;
3. the rear suspension has a horizontal linkage mount, which allows you to centralize the mass;
4. The brake calipers at the front have a radial mount, as well as the radial mounting of the main cylinder of the front brakes. The result is a great sense of control.

Of course, one cannot help but include the super sporty, sophisticated appearance of this vehicle among its advantages. While riding, the motorcyclist's body occupies a free vertical position .

Thus, even a whole day spent behind the wheel will be as comfortable as possible. And three positions of the windshield allow you to create the most optimal barrier from external influences and wind.

A spacious fuel tank helps overcome long distances.

Conclusion or Afterword

The overall feeling from the motorcycle is positive. It’s interesting that while sitting on it, the world “expanded”, there was more space, it became easier to “squeeze through”. When overclocking, you can generally get a tunnel effect :). So, as a way to “play” with a more comfortable fit than on the street, it’s just great. The presence of a tourer component for long-range shooting remains a big question. I understand the option of getting to the track with luggage and taking it for a ride. Going on a long journey, where regularity and comfort are more important, rather than aggression and speed of cornering... This is not Kava’s element, as for me. I wasn’t able to get onto the autobahn, but the power should be enough. That would be enough for me in a semi-sports landing for 800 km a day. I'm afraid not. I would like to.

Total. I liked it - yes! Would you buy it? I don't know. If it were not for the touring plans, then one might think, but... Or rather “BUT”. It’s much easier to lose your license (and your head) in such a car, rather than to take advantage of the opportunities - then why ask? In general, the device is still lower on the list of candidates, but does not disappear from view :). For now I want something big touring. We will search further.

Good roads and weather to everyone!

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Photo gallery

This bike combines an aggressive look with everything you need for long-distance travel. Want to admire Kawasaki's two-wheeled dream? Then look at our photo selection.