Kawasaki Z1000 ABS review

THERE is no point getting all nostalgic about the Z series of Kawasakis. The 1970s Kwakas featured in films such as Mad Max and Stone, but the current Z1000 is as far from those films as Tron (the 2010 version). The Z series returned in 2003 but in 2012 the Z1000 is a thoroughly modern-looking, hi-tech bike with ABS as standard.

VALUE

In 2003, a Z1000 cost $15,490 and you can still buy them privately for just under $10,000 which is good retained value. That's surprising, as today, you can buy one for $16,499, just $1000 more and it includes a much more efficient and powerful engine plus ABS. 

It is a bit more expensive than the Japanese "naked" opposition and not far behind a Ducati Monster, but much cheaper than the KTMs. The 6000km service interval is a bit short, even by bike standards. 

TECHNOLOGY

The engine capacity was increased to 1043cc for 2010 and now there is more power and torque in the mid-range. Its air intake are not only stylish, but effective, providing more power with an insane intake howl at high revs, but quiet at low revs. 

The digital instrument panel includes digital speedometer, bar-style digital tachometer, odometer, two trip meters, fuel gauge and clock. It can also be moved forward or back with the adjuster on the left hand side so it is ideally set up for any sized rider. 

DESIGN 

While the Z1000 today looks nothing like the old Z models used in the 1974 cult Australian bikie movie, Stone, Kawasaki may be missing an opportunity here for a more traditional looking bike. Triumph, Ducati and Moto-Guzzi have traded well on their heritage, so there is no reason why Kawasaki can't do the same with the Z bike.

Honda has done a good job with its CB1100 and Kawasaki has also had a good go with its W800, but this model is crying out for a retro variant. However, there is nothing wrong with the look of the Z1000. It's lost that silly "helmet" on top of the headlight and is now a sleek-looking machine from every angle with stubby four-pot exhausts and angular features. 

While some naked bikes look messy around the engine this is neat with only a couple of bits of plumbing visible on the right side. In the new burnt-orange-and-black colour scheme the bike is simply stunning. 

Central to the Z look is the four-pot exhaust which is now mounted low with the pre-chamber under the engine for a lower centre of gravity which means more stability and a lighter, flickable feel. 

Ergonomics are neutral in the sit-up-and-beg style. The seat is flat, hard and high at 815mm, but it is narrow so most people will be able to get their feet flat on the ground while stationary. 

SAFETY 

Kawasaki has led the Japanese four with its widespread availability of ABS. The brakes are also powerful with big petal discs, radial-mounted front calipers and a radial pump master cylinder. The rear brakes are bigger than on most bikes, so there is plenty of control for trail-braking through corners. 

RIDING 

You don't need to spend a half-million dollars on a Ferrari. This bike will put a greater tingle in your trousers with its blistering acceleration and high-revving engine scream. It will hit 100km/h in first gear before you can take a breath. Then it simply takes your breath away as you rocket through the positive-changing gears. 

It will go straight up to sixth at 2500rpm doing 60km/h with plenty of roll-on acceleration available. In fact, it's close-ratio gearbox is probably a little too close. At 100km/h it's ticking over 4500rpm and will roll on to go-to-jail speeds in a couple of seconds. 

It might weigh 221kg fully fuelled, but it doesn't feel it. Even lifting it off the sidestand, it feels light thanks to the low exhaust and lightweight aluminium chassis. So when you start rolling along, it handles with nimble ease and quick steering. 

Accommodation is roomy with a slim-line tank so you can easily grip with your knees. Handling is light and nippy with plenty of adjustment for rider weight front and rear plus rebound damping. On the highway it's stable, but wind blast will make for tiring long rides. Pillion accommodation is a joke. There are grab holes underneath the rear cowl but they are better used for tying down a small rear luggage sack across the back seat. 

VERDICT 

The Z1000 is a modern interpretation of the Z tradition. It's a competent commuter, a worthy weekend warrior and a track day terror, but touring is out of the question.

Kawasaki Z1000 ABS 

Price: $16,499
Warranty: 2yr/unlimited km, roadside assist
Service: 1000/6000km
Engine: 1043cc 4-cylinder, 110Nm
Transmission: 6-speed, positive neutral finder, chain drive
Fuel tank: 17L
Dimensions: 140mm (Clearance), 815mm (Seat) 1440mm (WB)
Tyres: 120/70ZR17; 190/50ZR17
Suspension: 41mm inverted forks, monoshock rear
Kerb weight: 221kg
Colours: burnt orange and black, ebony, metallic black