2010 Kawasaki Z1000 ABS preview
15-12-09 by Mark M
It’s no big secret that Kawasaki will be releasing a new and improved Z1000 with ABS in 2010 and on paper it looks as though the bike could have the goods.
A new engine that focusses on torque will surely win over naked fans with a 90cc increase. The crankshaft was lowered to allow for the longer stroke and the engine’s dimensions are about the same despite the increase. The bore is slightly smaller than the 2009 Z1000 but larger than the ZX-10R. Vibration is kept to a minimum with a secondary balancer driven off the crankshaft.
New EFI with ultra-fine injectors and small bore throttle bodies with oval sub-throttles promise a very smooth response across the rev range.
The fuel tank has been redesigned as is more flared on the sides for better control when sports riding.
Kawasaki have obviously been listening to what customers have been saying for years – they love the Kawasaki sound! So for the 2010 Z1000 model, the new cool air system not only routes cool air to the airbox from the ducts above the shrouds, it encases a resonator that reduses noise at low rpm and enhances the intake sound at high rpm. The ducts have also been positioned so the rider can better experience the sound.
The exhaust system visually might not be to everyones taste but getting all that EU approved material in there is a tricky job, particularly when the goal is to improve mass-centralisation. A device upstream of the right silencer helps tune back pressure waves for enhanced response in the low-mid range.
The chassis is all-new and purpose built for quick steering and light handling, with the same philosophy as the ZX-10R in construction. Torsional rigidity is up around 30% with the frame tipping the scales 4kg lighter and four engine mounts (instead of three) all help handling and stablilty. The new 3-piece rear sub-frame made out of aluminium also helps to reduce weight. The new swingarm features eccentric axle adjusters.
The suspension is new with fully adjustable 41mm front forks while the rear uses a fully adjustable unit that sits above the swingarm and away from exhaust heat.
The petal brakes now feature ABS as standard while the larger rear disc adds more control.
The new handlebars are wider, higher and slightly further forward which may be a benefit depending on your height. The instrument panel features all the usual information such as speedo, bar-style tacho, odometer, two trip meters, fuel gauge and clock. What’s really cool though is the panel can be tilted to suit every rider.
Colours are Pearl Stardust White with Candy Burnt Orange or Metallic Spark Black with Atomic Silver. Price is TBC.
Specs next page.
Pages: 1 2
