Kawasaki 2010, Z1000 Rode Test
Maverick - Jun 30, 2010

The redesigned 2010 Kawasaki Z1000 features more horsepower and torque, less weight, new bodywork, and modified riding position for increased rider comfort and control.  Midrange torque makes carving a canyon a blast! 

Whether a casual rider relying on horsepower and torque, or intense rider adding in transmission, throttle, and handling features; this is a fun ride!

Our test ride was made possible through the collaboration of Kawasaki Motors Corporation and Rocky Mountain Kawasaki.  

Click here for more information on Rocky Mountain Kawasaki. 

The Cycle Matters test rider’s intent was to experience this motorcycle in as many different road and environmental conditions as possible (exceptions being water, ice, and gravel), so we are able to describe handling and performance of the Z1000 on a variety of roadway surfaces and when encountering a variety of roadway challenges. Examples were: 5300 to 7000 feet of elevation, canyons with intense and blind curves and potential for wildlife, stretches on flat, hilly, and mountain accents and descents, city streets, etc. 

We did not ride the bike on wet surfaces and extended unpaved surfaces. The thought process was this: no need to test power and performance parameters in these conditions using a manufacturer’s motorcycle.  With curb weight of 481 lbs, 136 hp and 91 lb-ft of torque; losing contact with the road surface requires little effort. And, most motorcycles handle pretty well at slow speeds – wet or dry. 

Rode test speed ranged from 20 mph zones to 65 mph zones. Actual speed exceeded 75 mph on straight-aways – including rapid acceleration and deceleration. 

Check out the collective backgrounds in the accompanying photos to visualize the Rode Test. 

The Z1000 feels light and nimble. It not only looks like fun…it is fun! It has a low center of gravity, is compact weighing in at 481 lbs., and it is easy to manage the extensive array of rider controls.  

The 2010 Z1000 comes in two color choices: Pearl Stardust White, Metallic Spark Black and as you see in the photos, we rode the latter.  For our purposes, either color works equally well however, I think the Metallic Spark Black is a little bit faster. 

The new angular front cowl and fork covers help provide a low, centralized center of gravity profile.  

Instrumentation, including LCD display for tachometer, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, water temperature, fuel gauge and clock, is highlighted with an orange lens for visual impact. The instrumentation panel can be adjusted to three positions to enhance visual access. A clear and unobstructed view of the instrumentation panel is enhanced by location of ignition switch at the front of the fuel tank.

The Z1000 is designed and manufactured using lightweight materials to add strength to the frame and components while centralizing weight for handling and stability. An example is the aluminum twin tube frame, which provides 30 percent greater torsional rigidity. The engine is used as a stressed frame member. Engine and frame are integrated to add strength thus reducing the need for side covers while adding a subtle naked appearance.  

• 1043 cc 4-clinder, DOHC engine provides low and mid-range torque with power throughout the power band.
• Crankshaft and transmission shafts are arranged in a line to maintain unique Z1000 appearance.
• A gear-driven –off crankshaft– engine balancer helps eliminate engine vibration.
• Camshaft profiles enhance low to mid-range torque.
• Liquid cooled with water jacket designed for optimum cooling.

• 38 mm Keihin throttle bodies help provide superb low to mid-range response.
• Oval sub throttle valves help reduce overall throttle body width and keep the overall package narrow and compact.
• Sub throttle valves are controlled by the ECU to provide precise response and make DFI performance similar to constant velocity carburetors.  

• Air intakes are located above the radiator shrouds so the engine heat has minimal effect on operation.
• The intake tract is designed to provide a menacing howl for the rider, further enhancing the unique Z1000 riding experience.

• High-speed 32-bit processor provides precise engine management.
• Spark plug-mounted ignition coils are compact and help reduce weight.

• 4-into-2-into-1-into-2 exhaust utilizes a pre-chamber to help centralize the weight.
• Pre-chamber integrates smaller mufflers creating enhanced appearance and less weight.
• The right muffler has a butterfly valve that tunes back-pressure waves for improved low-engine response.
• Honeycomb catalyzers meet EPA standards without compromising power.

• Frame is lightweight and strong.
• Engine and frame work together to form the Z1000 backbone.

• Inverted cartridge adjustable front fork that provides extra rigidity for improved handling. 
• Horizontal back-link rear suspension places the linkage atop the swingarm to contribute to mass centralization and to make room for exhaust pre-chamber.
• Shock absorber location prevents exhaust heat from affect on operation.
• Pressed aluminum swingarm is lighweight and rigid.

Brakes, Wheels and Tires:

• Four-piston calipers’ radial design utilizes integrated mounting points at top and bottom of caliper with mounting bolts inserted through the rear of the caliper. Increases caliper rigidity and braking.
• Radial pump front brake master cylinder improves brake performance and feel at the lever.
• Dual 300mm front discs with 4-piston calipers provide exceptional stopping power.
• Single 250mm rear disc with single piston caliper.
• Petal design improves cooling and resists warp.
• Five-spoke cast wheel design has machining of each spoke near the rim to enhance the unique appearance.

Click here for Z1000 specifications and printable specification sheet. 

The Z1000 is categorized as a “sportbike.” It is lightweight, nimble and has plenty of power to negotiate any of the roads we faced. You can go fast quickly…in any direction! It stops, nearly on a dime, and before expected - without any tire slip. 

The bike’s responsiveness provides a feeling of control at all times. Turns or twisties are effortless due to a low center of gravity and design concept known as; “mass centralization.” Riding weight is centralized right under the operator’s body and engine, suspension, brakes, and tires do the heavy lifting. 

Assuming the operator anticipates the moves of surrounding vehicles, road curvatures, ascents and descents, and intersections; a rider on this motorcycle can pretty consistently complete each maneuver at the head of the pack. This is not to say; “we are racing.” Rather, this is a fun and safe way to ride and the Z1000 is right there: responding to operator commands.

The rider is positioned right down in the middle of the Z1000, mostly upright but with upper body leaning forward just a few degrees. Again, rider feels in control, can easily see and feel the road, can read the instrumentation, and focus on the ride.

Before you mount a Z1000, you will want to strap on a full-face helmet designed to fit according to manufacturers recommendations. The bike’s cockpit offers little to no wind protection: i.e., no wind protection, so a fitted helmet eliminates wind as a distraction from an otherwise adventurous and aggressive ride. 

This bike is not pretentious. The sleek, streamlined exterior is matched by the bike’s performance and manners. Whether you are going from 0 to 65 or 65 to 0, the Z1000 is aggressive and intended to be ridden that way. However, rider will be more satisfied to save the substantial performance reserves for remote areas unfrequented by Constables on Patrol, automobiles, and trucks. 

The Z1000 is a naked sportbike. With an MSRP of $10,499, the bike is perfect for commuting. Throw on a backpack and you are on your way to work or to completing multiple errands with class. 

At those times when you have a half-day or more, gear up and go for the twisties, and beyond the reaches of urban density.   This is where the real adventure begins!  

The rush will continue beyond the ride largely due to the “mass centralization” of rider and motorcycle.