Suzuki Z1000 (MY21) – Kawasaki

Z1000 strips off all unnecessary equipment. A true Super-Naked motorcycle that is raw and bold. Sculpted bodywork brings the sugomi inspired design to the next level. All unnecessary flourishes have been stripped away to highlight bold functionality. The 1,043cc engine produces big power while a stiff chassis delivers responsive handling performance. Pure supernaked thrills is the result of this unique combination of power, performance and style.

The Japanese word sugomi describes the intense aura or energy given off by a person or object of greatness and felt by the viewer. Something, possessing sugomi inspires awe, leaves an indelible impression, is imposing in stature or ability, and commands respect. In the Z1000, sugomi is evident both in its fiercely intense design and the exhilarating performance it delivers, radiating as a palpable energy.

ENGINE

Engine tuning focused on the feeling the rider gets when opening the throttle. Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve 1,043 cm³ In-line Four offers impressive power (104.5 kW (142 PS)) and strong torque. It is important to note that the Z1000’s direct response and awesome riding exhilaration do not come at the cost of manageability. The Z1000 is accommodating and enables riders of various skill levels to experience its highly stimulating engine and chassis performance.

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), for smooth riding. 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. When excessive engine braking occurs, 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.

Power delivery is quite linear, but the engine spins up noticeably fast from about 7,000 rpm onwards. Silky smooth response at all rpm ensures excellent driveability. The Cool Air system routes cool air to the airbox from ducts at the front of the side fairings, minimising performance loss due to heated intake air. Revisions to the main and pre-catalysers contribute to cleaner emissions, ensuring Euro 4 regulations are cleared.

SUSPENSION AND BRAKES

Revised front fork settings deliver suppler action. Aggressive riding feel is maintained, while the significantly improved shock absorption offers increased ride comfort. The settings create a light, natural handling. 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.

FRAME

The bodywork of the Z1000 creates a lean image trimmed of any bulk and unnecessary flourishes to highlight the functionality of the bike in raw form. 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. Special mirrors have a sharp design that contributes to the image. Die-cast mirror stays contribute to a less plastic, higher quality feel of the cockpit.

The Z1000’s front seat features a “Z” pattern seat cover material. The compact pillion pad was designed to have the appearance of a single-seat cover. Mounted directly to the handlebar with a low position to create an unobstructed view of the road ahead. The futuristic design of the LED tachometer and LCD screen reflects the aggressive riding style of the Z1000.

The highly rigid aluminium frame features a high degree of mass centralisation, creating a balance between sharp turning and firm handling. The frame offers a firm, planted feeling, good stability and light, nimble turning. The exhaust system, horizontal back-link rear suspension and the use of downdraft throttle bodies are the greatest contributors to mass centralisation. The result is light, sharp handling.