2016 KAWASAKI Z1000 ABS

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1 Contact: Kawasaki Media Relations ext KAWASAKI Z1000 ABS Kawasaki s naked street bike with Predatory Power and Sugomi Style The Kawasaki Z1000 motorcycle is both potent and capable, thanks largely to its impressive 1,043cc inline-four, in a manner that lesser powerplants simply cannot match. The Z1000 engine produces strong, instant thrust capable of embarrassing many hardcore sportbikes, while offering a more comfortable, upright riding position to give the rider greater leverage on the handlebar, allowing the motorcycle to excel in the corners. New for the 2016 model year is an assist and slipper clutch as well as a new color scheme, which combines Golden Blazed Green with Metallic Matte Graphite Gray to create a dramatic machine that sets the stage for the excitement to follow. The Kawasaki Z1000 was joined by the new Z800 for 2016, and you can learn about this model in a separate press release that can be found at The Z1000 motorcycle remains the flagship model, featuring Sugomi design language, which is intended to invoke a crouching predator, while painstaking details include the special Z ignition key, machined aluminum steering stem bolt and the intricate Z motif seat cover. The 1,043cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, 16-valve engine features impressive low- and mid-range torque where most street bikes spend their time. It also uses cylinderconnecting passageways to strengthen the performance in the mid- and high RPM range by reducing the pumping losses associated with displacing air inside the crankcase. Digital Timing Advance further contributes to the increased low- and mid-range power, while spark plug-mounted ignition coils help ensure perfect and powerful timing for each cylinder Kawasaki Z1000, page 1 of 5

2 It s the ideal engine for a road-going naked sportbike aggressive, powerful, flexible, and delivering the legendary reliability associated with Kawasaki. In the transmission, short overall gearing complements the responsive engine to deliver astounding thrust at the rider s command. When the road opens up, this stylish streetfighter can stretch its legs thanks to a tall sixth gear that maintains comfortable cruising RPM for highway riding. The new assist and slipper clutch was developed from Kawasaki s experience on the racetrack. The clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam), allowing it to provide two new functions, not available on the standard clutch of the previous model. When the engine is under load, the assist cam functions to pull the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever pull. Fewer clutch springs (three replacing five springs on the previous model) translate to a 30% lighter clutch lever feel. When backload is applied (i.e. excessive engine braking occurs), perhaps as the result of quick downshifts (or even an accidental downshift), the slipper cam then comes into play. It forces the clutch hub and operating plate to separate, relieving pressure on the clutch plates and reducing back-torque. This helps to reduce the rear tire from hopping and skidding, allowing the rider to retain control of the motorcycle. The Z1000 features an advanced aluminum frame, similar to the Ninja ZX -10R superbike. The lightweight assembly curves over the engine, cradling it from above and solidly bolted to it in three places. The fourth mount is rubber-backed to provide added vibration isolation with torsional rigidity. The frame design allowed the engineers to keep the bike s waist narrow for superb rider interface, maximum comfort and control. The main frame and swingarm pivot pieces are cast as a single unit. Its subframe tapers to a very shallow cross-section at the rear, allowing the bodywork to take-on an aggressive, minimalist profile. Suspension is handled by a fully adjustable 41mm inverted Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) up front. It has springs in both tubes, with dedicated preload adjustability in the left tube and dedicated damping pistons and 2016 Kawasaki Z1000, page 2 of 5

3 adjustability in the right. The Big Piston design provides smooth action during the initial part of the stroke and contributes excellent feel during heavy braking. The horizontal back-link rear shock is mounted above the swingarm to move it away from the exhaust heat and centralize its mass. The single-shock damper is mounted almost horizontally above the swingarm for optimal mass centralization and heat resistance. The gas/oil shock offers superb wheel control whether you re hammering along deserted backroads or prowling pothole-infested city streets. Great-looking, one-piece monobloc radial-mount front brake calipers offer worldclass stopping power and feel. The ABS-equipped brake system uses 310mm petaltype front rotors and a radial pump master cylinder. The sculpted styling of the Z1000 motorcycle is one of its most stunning aspects. The thin, compact headlight housing was positioned as low as possible, extending the line that starts from the top of the tank. Slim, futuristic-styled radiator shrouds partially surround the Z1000 s powerful engine, and an under-cowl contributes greatly to the aggressive appearance. The slender tail section further contributes to the bike s crouched-forward appearance. The compact passenger pad was designed to integrate with the rider s seat and gives the appearance of a solo-seat cover, adding to the sporty look of the tail section. In keeping with its radical looks, the Z1000 offers a superlative riding position. The wide, large-diameter aluminum handlebar offers great leverage for aggressive maneuvers, and the knurled metal footpegs grip the rider s boots to provide a directconnection to the chassis. It all adds up to the perfect ergonomics for maximum agility without sacrificing comfort. A large selection of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories is available through authorized Kawasaki dealers, including a meter cover, tank pad, frame and axle sliders, crankcase protector and a cover. Color: Metallic Matte Graphite Gray / Golden Blazed Green MSRP: $11,999 Availability: Now 2016 Kawasaki Z1000, page 3 of 5

4 For a full spec sheet on the 2016 Kawasaki Z1000, visit To download high-resolution images or to view the full length MY2015 press release, log on or register for the Kawasaki media site at ABOUT KAWASAKI Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI) started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki's commitment to maintaining and furthering these strengths will surely give birth to new legends. Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and Jet Ski watercraft through a network of approximately 1,100 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,700 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 300 of them located at KMC's Irvine, California headquarters. Kawasaki s tagline, Let the good times roll., is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at # # # 2016 Kawasaki Z1000, page 4 of 5

5 Engine: Displacement: Bore x stroke: 2016 Kawasaki Z1000 ABS Specifications* Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, inline-four 1,043cc 77 x 56mm Compression ratio: 11.8:1 Fuel injection: Ignition: Transmission: Final drive: DFI with four 38mm Keihin throttle bodies, oval sub-throttles TCBI with digital advance Six-speed Sealed chain Rake / trail: 24.5 degrees / 4 Frame type: Front tire: Rear tire: Wheelbase: 56.5 Front suspension / wheel travel: Rear suspension / wheel travel: Front brakes: Rear brake: Overall length: 80.5 Overall width: 31.1 Overall height: 41.5 Seat height: 32.1 Curb weight: Fuel capacity: Color choices: Aluminum backbone 120/70 ZR17 190/50 ZR17 41mm inverted Showa SFF-BP fork with stepless compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability / 4.7 Horizontal monoshock with stepless rebound damping, adjustable spring preload / 4.8 Dual 310mm petal-type rotors with radial-mount four-piston monobloc calipers and ABS Single 250mm petal-type rotor with single-piston caliper and ABS lb 4.5 gallons MSRP: $11,999 Warranty: Kawasaki Protection Plan (optional): Golden Blazed Green / Metallic Matte Graphite Gray 12 Months 12, 24, 36, and 48 month plans are available *Specifications are subject to change. Media are encouraged to visit for most current specifications Kawasaki Z1000, page 5 of 5