KAWASAKI Z1000SX (2017-on) Review

Kawasaki have lowered the rear by changing the shock linkage and modified the suspension at both ends. The lowered rear has slightly reduced ground clearance and slowed down the steering slightly compared to the previous model. The steering is ok, just not as neutral as I was expecting. But the feedback is actually impressive, more so from the rear.

As the old saying goes ‘if it ain’t broke don't fix it’, which is why Kawasaki have left the motor untouched from the old 2014 model. The bore and stroke and all internals are the same as the old 1043cc Z1000-derived motor. Kawasaki have been forced to clean up the fuelling for Euro 4 and added an eco-friendly exhaust, but essentially it’s the same with near identical power and torque. 

Kawasaki have retained a high quality feel while keeping costs low. The clocks now feature a gear position indicator, changeable rev limiter and ambient temperature. 

Prices haven’t been confirmed yet but are expected to be below £10,000 - only a few hundred more than the current model. Impressive considering the amount of rider aids and new technology. ABS now comes as standard, panniers are an optional extra.

Kawasaki have added traction control (KTRC), controlled by an integrated Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). This is also partnered to the new Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF) which modulates braking force, meaning the SX’s traction control and ABS are both lean angle sensitive for the first time; a very similar system to the current ZX-10R. Panniers don’t come as standard and are an optional extra.