The all-new Kawasaki Z1000 2014, the benchmark super naked

Kawasaki unveiled its new and magnificent gem, the all-new Z 1000 2014, to the European specialist press. A model that has generated enormous anticipation and, as was to be expected, has enjoyed tremendous success in these first few days.

Kawasaki has named its thoroughly revamped super naked Sugomi. This Japanese word, which refers to the intense energy emitted by a person or object of great significance and that can be felt by anyone standing before it, perfectly defines the Z1000. Its design, so wildly intense, and its extraordinary performance mean that no one can remain indifferent to it.

Changes compared to the previous model are evident: it is much more muscular, more dynamic, more sporty, more aggressive. The headlight is smaller and has been positioned lower, giving it a feline, unsettling look, and it features reflector-free LED lights. Futuristic, streamlined guards frame and enhance the engine. The fork covers of its predecessor have been eliminated to focus all attention on the front fairing, and the wide aluminum handlebar has a polished finish and a black alumite coating. The new mirrors have a more defined design that enhances the bike’s aggressiveness.

The streamlined tail unit used in this version is more compact than that of the previous Z1000, allowing the mass to be centered even further toward the front. The new LED taillight design gives the rear of the motorcycle a futuristic touch. The front seat design is completely new, and the seat cover material features a “Z”-shaped pattern, lending a touch of high quality. The rear seat shape is integrated with that of the front seat. The new rear fender design moves the license plate away from the bodywork to achieve a light, compact rear section.

The riding position is greatly improved, more aggressive, and with a seat height that allows the feet to touch the ground easily. When pulling away, the throttle response stands out; it is much more immediate thanks to an intake camshaft with greater lift for better cylinder filling, and a different injector management to suit this new intake. Another change from the previous model is at the base of the cylinders: the openings that facilitate gas flow between them are larger, which results in lower power loss.

Its 1,043 cm³ engine, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, with 4 cylinders in line, delivers more power across all rev ranges and does not fall off before reaching maximum acceleration. Its gear ratios are shorter, achieving a sportier ride in the city. Its wheels are lighter, and its fuel tank holds 17 litres (larger than its predecessor’s).

The suspension is far from soft, as is often the case with this type of model. Another improvement over the previous model is the brakes: it now mounts monobloc calipers that offer a perfect feel and allow the bike to stop in just a few metres, brakes that can be compared with those of any other sportier motorcycle. And its double-spar aluminum frame makes maneuvering the Z 1000 a breeze.

A unique machine.