2014 Kawasaki Z1000 unveiled

The new 2014 Z1000 is an embodiment of Kawasaki's 'Sugomi' design language, which is intended to produce an imposing motorcycle that exudes real presence.

It's certainly an aggressive-looking bike, with the most dramatic element being the small, low-mounted front cowling that houses four LED headlights. Visually, the fuel tank might appear to be smaller than before, but capacity has actually risen from 15 to 17 litres (3.3 to 3.7 gallons).

Chassis highlights include a Separate Function Fork - Big Piston (SFF-BP) for the front wheel. With this set-up, each fork leg incorporates a spring, however one handles preload adjustment while the other is used for damping. It's complemented by dual petal brake discs and radially-mounted monobloc calipers.

Powering the Z1000 is still a 1,043 cc, four-cylinder motor. Output is up by 4 bhp (3 kW / 4 PS) to 140 bhp (104 kW / 142 PS), while peak torque is virtually unchanged at 111 Nm (81 lb/ft). Changes to the engine management system promise a sharper throttle response, although there's no traction control.

UK pricing for the 2014 Z1000 has yet to be confirmed, but buyers will have a choice of either Flat Ebony / Metallic Spark Black or Candy Burnt Orange / Metallic Spark Black colour schemes. A Special Edition model, which is distinguished by its Golden Blazed Green / Metallic Graphite Grey paintjob, is also going to be available.

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