Kawasaki Z 1000 (2004-2006): The design of the first Z1000 is still considered to be attractive.
Engine: The four-cylinder liquid-cooled engine of 953 cc, which is fed via injection, produces 125 bhp at 10000 rpm and 95.6 Nm / 8000 rpm torque, nominal values.
Actually up to 5000 rpm there is just adequate thrust. Definitely its less than the expected from a naked bike 1000 c.c.. For a rider accustomed to the Kawasaki Z750 power output, the performance of this engine at the lower power band would be a surprise. Specifically, the torque produced is not as great as the expected, according to the volume difference between these two engines. Compared with the latest top models at the 1000 cc class, the difference in performance in this lower power band, is obvious.
From 5000 rpm upwards, there is adequate torque to make things look interesting. Power output at 5000 rpm is smooth, there is not any threshold noticed. However linearity is not achieved yet. There are two specific points at the power curve that the increase of the power output is obvious. This occurs at 7000 rpm and 9000 rpm. Linearity is evident at the highest part of the power band, between 9000 rpm and 12000 rpm, where the rev limiter intervenes. There is a considerable amount of power on tap, it should be expected as top power figure is 125 bhp.
Consequently despite the 1000 c.c. of the engine capacity, engine requires some revving in order to produce adequate thrust. Power delivery is great at the top of the power band.
Riding position: The seat for the rider is relatively high. The front section of the seat is narrow, the width increases towards the rear. This will help average height riders to step a firm foot on the ground. Tall riders will feel very comfortable on the bike.
The weight of the bike is relatively increased. The center of gravity is relatively high. This is something to be expected from a naked 1000 cc bike, regardless of year of manufacture.
The dimensions of the bike are average for the standards of the category, the width is increased at the front part of the tank. The handle bar is also wide. The rider is placed mainly on top of the motorcycle, riding position is neutral and comfortable.
On the road: Suspension stiffness is moderate. Specifically, the front feels relatively firm, while the rear slightly to the soft side.
City rides will be comfortable for the rider due to the neutral riding position. Z 1000 is a really good bike for urban rides. Short or long commuting will be really easy, as long as there is no traffic congestion.
Steering lock is just good for the standards of the category. This combined with the large handle bar width, will not allow the rider to easily maneuver the bike in congested traffic. Also the height of the handle bar is about the same with that of car mirrors. Again because of the handle bar width, some caution is required in the process of filtering.
Any imperfections of urban streets are absorbed adequately, although rider will notice. Some vibrations are felt at the handle bar, pegs and rider¢s seat, originating from the engine.
On B-roads, riding on a medium pace, its a really good bike. The agility of the bike is increased. The wide handle bar creates great leverage to change direction. The increased agility is combined with increased stability during the turn. So it will easily meet the expectations of average riders who will appreciate the neutral handling of the Z1000.
However at a nimble-fast pace, feedback to the rider is adequate. Engine revs should be kept higher than 5000 for a pace like this.
On the highway, if speed is close to the law restrictions, the Z 1000 is a very comfortable bike. At a higher pace, the naked bike disease will strike the Z rider, despite the extra screen.
Regardless of the rider's height, air resistance is great for a cruising speed of 160 km / h. At 180 km / h, rider mimics the inflated sail of a boat. So any discussions on the top speed will satisfy just riders searching for theoretical conversation. Consequently, rider cannot take advantage of the engine capacity and power produced, to maintain a high travelling speed.
There are two disc brakes at the front and one at the rear, that will meet the expectations of every rider. Braking is powerful, providing decent feedback to the rider.
Reliability: No reliability problems for this model. From 2007 to 2009 a new model was introduced. That was replaced in 2010.
Comments: It was a very important bike when first introduced in 2004, now beginning to show its age, mainly due to performance. The design of the bike was the most prominent feature then. It still looks modern, thanks to the 4 mufflers at the rear. The two-tone wheels give the impression of an aftermarket touch, while the plastic covers at the sides of the engine are somewhat…tacky.
The sales competition from the Z 750 is fierce. Riders who are not interested in performance may go for the smaller bike, while Z 1000 will be desirable for higher pace riding.
Price Z 1000 ABS 2010/11:12890 ¤
+ Top power figure
+ Urban use
+ Design is still modern
- Lower rpm torque
Thanks to the motorcycle shop Tsetselis, tel. +302105737379, Thivwn 103, Peristeri, Greece for the test ride.