With the improved suspension and chassis, exploiting the braking capabilities of the Z1000's radial-mount Tokico calipers gripping 300mm discs is far easier, and they proved more than up to the task of controlling the increased velocities the Kawasaki is capable of. Initial response is solid without being excessively grabby, with excellent power and decent feel (complemented by the same from the rear 250mm/single-piston brake setup) that enable you to bleed off speed without undue drama.
Try It, You'll Like It
As if its superb performance wasn't enough, making the new Z1000 even more appealing is its price: at just $10,499, the Z1000 offers a seriously fun and versatile package without breaking the bank. Even so, Kawasaki is taking a bit of a risk in bringing the bike to U.S. shores, given the past sales performance of naked bikes from the Big Four. The biggest obstacle in our opinion is convincing the American riding public not to brush off the Z1000 as just another naked bike from the Japanese-or just another naked bike, period. The new Kawasaki Z1000 has the performance goods; we think it just requires people to get over preconceived notions and take one for a spin to discover just how much fun it really is to ride.
| 2010 KAWASAKI Z1000 |
| TEST NOTES |
| + |
Very good midrange-strong engine |
| + |
Vastly improved chassis and suspension |
| + |
Nimble handling, strong brakes |
| - |
Maybe just a bit more top-end power? |
| - |
Tiny dashboard difficult to read at a glance |
| - |
Maybe drop off another 25-30 pounds? |
| x |
Finally, a naked bike from Japan with the
right combination of performance |
| SUGGESTED SUSPENSION SETTINGS |
| FRONT |
Spring preload: 10 turns out from full stiff; rebound damping: two turns out from full stiff; compression damping: 1.75 turns out from full stiff |
| REAR |
Spring preload: 25mm thread showing; rebound damping: 1.75 turns out from full stiff |