2018 Kawasaki Z1000SX Review
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- Опубліковано 1 жов 2024
- 2018 Kawasaki Z1000SX Review : A bike I've had a lot of requests to ride from the Kawasaki stable is the Z1000SX. For the 2018 model year it's had a number of tweaks, stay tuned to find out what I made of it....
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Thank the Lord somebody still makes a 'proper' bike. Not everyone wants a race missile, a retro or an adventure bike. Good review :)
Agreed!
Totally agree. We all don't want a retro or an adventure bike. The biking press [especially MCN] seem obsessed with said classes and generally ignore the good old sports -tourers.
Not sure why you credit a mythical being for something real humans achieve.
This bike is a perfect balance of sports and touring. This is a perfect bike if u want both
You wind that bike on and it will be a missile allright...
Sweet. I own a 2017 Kawasaki Z1000SX, fully outfitted for touring. This'll be a good watch. I'll give my long term feedback on it, if anyone's interested..
The bike is pretty good stock, but the seat and the grips benefit from a replacement. I bought the Kawasaki OEM gel seat on mine, and had Oxford heated grips installed. Supposedly the stock grips transfer quite a bit of vibration which is mostly eliminated when fitting heated grips. At least it did on the ones I have.
The riding position is perfect in my opinion, and this is coming from someone with severe wrist pains. Had to sell my Suzuki Hayabusa due to the riding position - and got a Z1000SX instead. The engine is a bit underpowered at only 142 bhp, but the torque curve is fantastic and roll on even in 6th gear is very strong. I barely ever have to shift down when I overtake someone (but obviously it's more fun if you do). Top speed is around 260 km/h (on the speedo), which is adequate for most. Some people change the sprockets to get a bit more speed, for more comfortable highway riding in the countries with higher max speed limits, like 110-120 km/h (70ish mp/h).
I went on a pretty long trip last summer, and the bike performed flawlessly. The stock bags look amazing, and I love that the rack is integrated so well with the bike. The asymmetric shape does make it a bit awkward to pack them though, unless you use the supplied inner bags. Still, in the looks department I have yet to see a better looking set. I got rid of the fugly rear tail with a fender eliminator kit with a new LED rear light with integrated blinkers. Looks so much better than stock.
Engine sound is severely lacking in stock form, due to the EURO 4 regs and the bogged down exhaust. I've ordered a set of Vance & Hines Urban Brawlers for my bike, which will make it sound much more lively.
All in all - I'd say that this is one of the better "mid class" sports tourers out there right now. It has a bit more emphasis on the sports aspect than on touring, but with some modifications (12V outlet, heated grips, better seat, tank bag) it is a very capable touring machine.
Pragmatic Tornado yes please give a long feedback on your bike. Bill chivers.
Interesting. Am looking at this, Gsxs1000f and R1200RS for my next, probably favouring this. I am surprised you mention taller gearing for 120kmph!!! Are the gears too small?
what about wind noise around the helmet with the stock screen?
3rd to 4th is very close so i tend to go from 3rd to 5th .. be nice if the mirrors didnt stick out as far and the tyres dont like the over banding or white lines .. apart from that the bike is awsome ...
142bhp underpowered? really? Its way more than enough for the road.
It's time for NEW 2020 model review :)
I picked up a new 2020 2 weeks ago, emerald green, beautiful in the sun. 1100kms on it so far, Absolutely love it. For me, would be nice to have a centre stand .
@@jasong728 That's one of the few faults I can see from the spec on this bike. I'm told its due to the size & location of the large catalytic converter to meet Euro 5 and sits directly under the engine, where the centre stand would be. I might be tempted to fit one of the exhaust kits, such as that from Akrapovic which can have a 'decat' pipe which removes the cat and additionally frees up extra power and reduces weight, but only if I can get a centre stand t then fit.
@@ful48j im exactly in the same boat. If removing the cat / headers im able to fit centre stand, ill do it. Incredible how Kawasaki did not design to add one, or make it an option. The H2SX models have it , Z900rs possible.
I've had my 2017 for 35k miles. Super reliable bike - it's been one of my favorites. I'm 6 ft tall and installed pegs that drop my feet an inch - bit more comfortable. Also have a Kawa's "gel seat" - don't notice a huge difference. Also went from 39 to 41 tooth rear and takes rpm down about 600 rpm at 75mph. It's a daily commuter for me. I have 2 aftermarket windscreens - one for cold days and one for "why am I riding" cold days.
How is the wind protection? I have hearing damage so looking for some wind protection on my next bike
Great review, i love my. 2017sx....for me it's the best of both world's ( kind of sportbike looking + up right seating position) 140hp is more then enough for every situation....greetings from germany (sry for bad english)
Does your bike have a centre stand as well as the side stand?
@@ful48j no they don't
I've just bought one today
Congratulations!
i must say that i love that bike. Brilliant engine and great value for money. I wouldnt ask for anything more to be honest.
You really don't need anything more do you.....thanks for watching...TMF
Heated grips are about A$130 or around 50 - 60 quid for Oxfords and take about an hour to fit, so not really gonna break the bank.
Come in handy in Melbourne on cold winter mornings.
I can’t believe I had to wait 18 mins before seeing the obligatory white van. 😂.
Great review. 👍
Sorry for the delay....
Just bought one and absolutely loving it, trying not to be too much of a hooligan!
The only competition to this that I can think off, which competes on price too would be the Suzuki and that looks like a scooter... This is going to be my second bike one day... Ridden it and was shocked at how big a smile this thing put on my face!
Only downside I found is it is quite slow to turn in... but its a sport tourer so that's kind of to be expected. Other than that it's fantastic. The engine is surprisingly sweet.
Had same impression for the turn in when i bought the bike, (2019) came with s20, after 4000km i bought the new michelin road 5 tires and it changed the bike into a sport machine, it now tips into the curves by itself and behaves totslly different. Just get new tires and the bike will turn with ease. 👍
I was tempted by this bike a few years ago but it didn't really have the comfort equipment I wanted (heated grips, cruise control, etc) and I went for the R1200RS instead, and am quite happy with it indeed. Still a good bike though, in a really under appreciated category.
It's a brilliant bike! I own a 2013 model ('14 plate), so I don't have the luxury of traction control so it has caught me out a couple of times, as I've never had a bike with anywhere near that much power before.
I always leave the screen in the lowest setting, occasionally the second notch up when on motorways, but all the way up, the wind wrecks my neck.
It's fit and finish is a bit of a pain, especially to keep clean and looking nice throughout the winter. I've never had to pay so much attention to absolutely everything, but that's not a bad thing. There's nothing better than spending a Saturday/ Sunday with some beers cleaning the bugger.
Mine weighs 231KG fully fueled, and I don't find it too heavy when riding. I actually find it lighter than my old BMW F700GS, to ride anyway. Moving it around is horrible, but that's because my collar bone got smashed into pieces and I've never really fully recovered.
The catalytic converter is the reason it's so bloody quiet. I take the cans off to properly get into the swing arm, and I started it up without the cans on, and it made no difference to the volume of the bike, amusingly.
The indicators are awful on mine, but the new ones look much nicer with them being far more flush with the body.
I do hate the exhausts though, especially because they get in the way of the sodding swing arm and chain. Easy to fix though, nice stainless 4-1 decat headers and a nice can on the back will sort me.
I love the bike though, it's too much power for the road, but the gearing is so well done, you can have fun at... PERFECTLY LEGAL SPEEDS...
Thanks for the real world feedback Matt - great stuff....
MrKdr500 have done an offroad course, ride offroad regularly actually.
I think you've missed my point. Nobody needs 140hp at all - I'm not saying it's an enormous amount of fun, because it is an enormous amount of fun - but with 140hp, the capability of going stupid speeds is too easy, and you just don't need it. I can have more fun on my mates Duke 390 on the road, and not need to break the speed limit.
As for being caught out by its power, as stated, I've never owned a bike with more than 75hp before. And I'd rather learn proper throttle control than be reliant on traction control, because I completely agree, if you need traction control, you shouldn't be riding a bike with that kind of power.
Edit: When I say I was caught out, I lost rear wheel traction while applying a small amount of throttle going around a roundabout. I can't say for definite whether there was gravel, fuel or oil there so won't blame that and take full responsibility for that incident. It was ludicrously wet and grip was very low. I don't ride fast, for that matter either. And I also never stated that I needed traction control (however it is a very helpful tool if you do caught out by something you aren't expecting, which can happen both to newbies and seasoned riders alike).
But yes, when I say its too much power for the road, you just don't need that much power, not at all.
But you absolutely don't NEED a bike that can do 165mph - wanting that much speed on the other hand, now that's a different story
MrKdr500: I kinda agree here. Electronic aids should be an emergency save more than anything. I remember when I had my previous bike - a 1300cc 200 hp Suzuki Hayabusa with NO rider aids, not even ABS (was a gen 1 with several tuning mods). That bike was so powerful, it took nothing to make it spin out on tarmac. But I am so glad I had that bike, because I had to learn some serious throttle control.
That said, I am very glad I have the aids now on my Z1000SX. I can live fine without traction control, but cornering ABS is definitely nice in a pinch.
Hmm, I traded it in this year, but pretty sure it was fairly smooth. It was the first model year with ride-by-wire, so it shouldn't be too snatchy. Don't take my word for it though.
Hi, I'm a big Kawasaki fan. The engine will be bullet proof like on my ZRX1200r which is a good old work horse. I do agree though the exhausts require a certain taste. Apart from Thant I think the bike looks the biz. Good review as usual, many thanks
I think the exhausts are possibly the best looking part!
TMF, I have a black 2018 in the States and love it. Very very little to gripe about...some extra contrast in the LCD display would be nice (but I prefer this to an all-TFT digital dash!). 5 U.S. gallons seems pretty generous for something with this level of sporting ability! I dig the angular mufflers, sort of a modern take on the original Z-1's, whereas in my eyes the 2020 lost some character with its bland single can. Out of curiosity the optional taller 2020 windscreen was tested but the extra coverage came with lots more buffeting and noise. I greatly prefer the oe 2018 screen in its lowest position for quiet, smooth laminar airflow!
I ran Metzeler M7RR (w/ 190/55 rear) from day one but just swapped them for Bridgestone S22s. These feel more agile, taking a very "on rails" set in corners. The difference in feel is appreciable! I like it.
I think the mufflers look like Icelandic dried and salted fish ... guidetoiceland.imgix.net/248990/x/0/saltfiskur-thorskur-jpg
Anyway, speaking of tires, I just finished the S22 on my new 2020 model after (only) 9000 km of touring and put on a pair of Pirelli Angel GT2, so I am curious to find out how they stack up in comparison. I haven't even run them in yet, so too early to tell.
I had the feeling that the S22 square off quite easily and they were not confidence inspiring in cold weather (5-10 degrees C)
After a LONG LONG brake from riding(around 15 yrs,and my last bike was Honda CBF600),i decided to go for it and thinking to buy a Z1000SX '14.Excellent condition,a real beauty.Now for the a million dollar question..Is it a good decision to proceed?Note that i m 49yrs old,and that model was a everlasting dream!!Thank you in advance for your reply,and everyone stay safe!!Greetings from Cyprus!!
As a newbie biker looking to move up from an SV650 in the near future, I lament the demise of the classic sport tourer. Back in the day my dad rode a CBR 750 and there's just nothing like that anymore (VFR 800 I suppose is the notable exception). They would make a lot of sense for those of us that want a "cool" looking, sporty bike that's more practical than a supersport. I'm just not sold on the adventure thing unfortunately, so the field is very much narrowed. Great video as always though!
Yes I think quite a few of us feel the same way (me included)...
Agreed Colin
Colin Burke buy a roadster.
I've worked a deal and pretty much decided on a new Z900RS, but the Ninja 1000 keeps popping up in my mind. I had a 2014, but the changes they've made supposedly really made a positive difference.
Boy oh boy does it look good... at least for me
Will you please fix the flap on your left sleeve TMF
I wish I could! Annoys the hell out of me too!!
A piece of heavy duty Velcro and some contact adhesive should fix it
Lol 😂
Pff he too good for gaffer tape then? :)
I'm glad it's not only my OCD this is interfering with 😂😂😂
God luv ya Mr Flyer! Ive always hated Kwakas, but watching you talk and ride about one just makes me want to go ride one now. Gift of the gab I reckon. Cheers groover ;-)
2015 full faired z1K: 4K
naked 2015 Z1000: 7K :L
Can you do a review of the competitor GSXS 1000 F please. Would be good to get a comparison to this as they're the only two bikes in this class really
I’m always looking forward to your reviews, cos it’s always sincere. I’ll need to own a Kawasaki in my lifetime & this definitely a contender.
Loved the Z1000SX, buttery smooth, comfortable, loads of tech but my only gripe was the lack of cruise control. Huge jump to the H2 SX which has it. Not that they have any trouble selling this bike, but if they added cruise definitely would see a considerable jump in sales. Awesome video as always.
Thanks for the comment and I completely agree! All the best - TMF
Excellent value for money, half the price of my Fatboy, nice looking as well, good review😎👍
Cheers Geoff - just shows that beauty is in the eye of the beholder!
Congratulations on reaching 60,000 subscribers TMF. This bike represents superb value for money. Thanks for a another excellent review.
Cheers - always good to have you along! All the best - TMF
Great Review.pls review the 2020 Ninja 1000 sx .
The price is actually really good compared to other brands. Even their own Z1000 costs £300 more which is essentially the naked version :S
Agreed.....
Good review,I have a 2012 version myself which I am perfectly happy with.
well its a ''sports tourer'' if you want full tourer take a versys 1000
I actually owned both of these at the same time for a few months last year. I didn't get on with the versys as found it too big and heavy. Oh and the wind noise off the standard screen was terrible. So sold it and kept the SX.
Love Sports Tourers. Had a try on one of these a while back, think it would make a good "owners" bike. Looks wise : good from the front, not so great from the side. Hate those joined together silencers.
In my perfect 3 bike garage, there is a slot for this beauty. Maybe someday.
and the other 2 bikes would be?
I love my Z1000sx glad you liked it i think it offers great value for money VS spec. me an the wife love touring on it the one thing i would say is the seat can be a tad uncomfortable if you go for the low seat (im 5'7" 29" inside leg and the standard seat is a we bit tall for me) so we had ours reupholstered and they are far more comfy. glad you liked it TMF if ever your over Hemel way drop me a line ill buy you a brew
One of the 2018 model upgrades is a slightly softer seat with rounded off edges.
Yeah that is one of the things the did with the 2017. i attended a Kawasaki research evening were the development team (from japan) cam and talked to us and i made the comment about the seat and the said they redesigned the main standard seat but never thought to touch the low seat i think for 2018 they may have taken that feedback and done something with it i must admit Kawasaki are good at listening to customers
Yes, several times, as well as the lack of a quick shifter, heated grips, larger capacity fuel tank, luxury padded seats, phone charger and other gizmos which would add £2k to the price. Maybe these people are looking at the wrong bike and would be better off with a BMW or a Honda Gold Wing.
Yeah lack of cruise control was brought up even the head of Kawasaki UK want CC on his Bike think he has the versys what I took away from it is Kawasaki are going to a-line them selves with other manufacturers in offering a broader range of models instead of the current two or three standard bikes with a couple of accessories and we are starting to see their with the H2SX in fact most of the stuff they asked our opinion on was on has now found its way onto the H2SX SE model I can see the next update version of this bike having an “SE” model with all the the extra electronics and gizmos. On the other hand It doesn’t bother me not having CC or a slipper clutch ad my father says “I have CC on all my bikes, it’s called my right hand” lol
Great review as always. Thank you. These bikes are tremendous bang for your buck, particularly in Oz. Styling much better in the flesh. Was on my short list. Ended up with Honda CTX1300. Sadly too much of a goliath to move around. Thanks to your review, now happy on the KTM 390 duke. Thanks again 👍
Ah the 390 - loved that bike....
Thanks for this review, been waiting
Thanks for your review on this bike. I’ve just ordered the 2018 emerald blaze green model from Bournemouth Kawasaki, hopefully this will be in my garage tomorrow. Personally I love the look of it but was however disappointed to find that I couldn’t have the side panniers along with the top box (it was either or) fitted together which I thought a bit odd on a sports tourer. I’ve gone with the tourer package which includes the side panniers however I’d be interested to know if anyone has any suggestions on extra luggage that can be fitted.
That is bizarre! What were they thinking??? ...oh, and congrats on the new bike by the way....
This is such a glorious bike. For years I was drooling on the Versys 1000 to upgrade from my ER6N, only to realise I missed the ER6N front-end and cornering sharpness. The Ninja 1000 fixed that, it's not nearly as comfortable or convenient but so much more fun, a "what-motorcycles-ought-to-feel-like" bike.
It is so cool that Kawasaki stills produces it now that this market as been cornered by midlife crisis blokes looking for German cars on two wheels.
This is not the 18 model...
6.30 in, noise on long journey... nothing can be worse than my 2018 BMW GSA. not really the engine more the awful OE tyres that BMW fit, they in for a change this week after only 600 miles ARRrghhh i cant stand it any more. Great review as always.
Entertaining and informative as always!
Kawasaki has recently captured my heart. In spite of my constant lobbying for small bikes, I think I'm in love with the Z900 (Both the 'standard' and 'RS' variants).
Rode the RS today - loved it!
What would you take, the z1000sx or the Z900RS for a commuter around urban roads and highway. My main concern is that the Z900RS doesn't have any wind protection but it has all the power I need and it looks gorgeous. -Thanks ahead
I test rode one of these earlier today. Beautiful bike and went very well but I found a few issues which put me off...quite disappointed actually. Firstly I found the the throttle to be a bit snatchy, however as the bike had only covered a few miles it may settle down. Also there were quite a lot of vibes through the bars and the pegs at times. Weather protection wasn't great either, very windy at "higher" motorway speeds. As guess as a weekend blaster it's a fantastic alternative to a sports bike, but as I'm looking to do longer tours it's probably not for me. Excellent value though.
My 15 model took me from UK to Austria last year, there were some vibes but nothing out of the ordinary. I've got Road 5's on so maybe that's why? Although the pr4's prior to them were as good. Suggest also it's better to position the screen at its mid point, I find there is greater buffeting at its highest setting.
I'd say as a sports tourer it delivers its design brief. Some go more touring and then get less sports as a result. It's all a compromise 👍
Love to see your thoughts on the new 2021 Ninja 1000 Sx. Great video!
I'm sorry mate but i think it's a 2017. I have a 2018 and the black pannels in the front are grey on the 18. Great revieuw. I'm enjoying mine to the fullest even when breaking her in
TMF when you do your reviews could you open the seats / storage areas. It would be nice to know if you can even carry your locks in it, or a tool kit
Good idea, I'll try and remember that!
Great second hand prices on these at the moment for some reason
It wouldn’t bother me that heated grips don’t come as standard, they very rarely do on any bike, let alone on with a list price of £10,000. The Kawasaki grips are a £240 extra that they would have to pile on top of the list price, and they are inferior compared to Oxford ones for £50. It gives the owner the chance to fit whichever they prefer without having to pay a premium for grips they may not even want.
The SX really is a cracking bike. Just acquired a mint 17 plate version, in the same colours. The SX Tourer, also just waiting on a set of akro slip ons. Sport when u want it, with the abilty to throw on luggage. What more could u want.
Totally agree with you regarding heated grips, they should come as standard. Kawasaki ask £260! Plus to fit a set at the dealers, which i think is outrageous. Considering they fit oxfords which cost 50.00.
Thanks for a solid review.👍
Great video, really enjoyed it. The bike is fantastic for the money. Ive been after a second bike, this unfortunately isnt it. I own an MT-10 and its difficult to find a bike that excites me as much. thats of a different calibre, ie faired, MT-10 is as fast as most faired...i could go on but you know what i mean. I may have to look vintage, RC51 maybe, id love an old mint ZZR or Thunderace but theyre all knackered. Any ideas?
holy moly, did you steal my bike, I have the same layout basically, except the heated grips, I live in florida…….
Thanks for reviewing my bike!! I agree the standard exhaust is ugly thats why I bought the sports touring version with Akrapovic cans. Comfort is 8 out of 10 over a hole days riding. 1 being ktm supermoto and 10
Anyone else had a prop with the gear selector on their sx??I,v had two issues on mine!and Kawasaki refused to fix if for free(according to my local dealer who"fixed it"back in Feb!!)be cause the warranty was up two months ago!surely the warranty should start from last Feb when the bike was "fixed!!"!!??👎💩😞😬
Have a 2017 performance tourer model .Loving it so far but the tank capacity and range is very poor for a bike with tourer in it's name. Mirrors seem very odd at first but I'm used to them now and they work very well. Good review as always TMF
I think I like the exhaust,it is different,just as long as it stays corrosion free,she sounds lovely,great review as always
Yes I actually quite like the exhaust too - I know it's not everyone's cuppa tea though.....
Love your review brother, I'm gonna go buy this one tomorrow in silver black. Been on the fence about it for a couple of months now, but I really think this is the one for me. I agree on the grip heaters, gonna have em installed for a couple of bucks more.. worth it. Well, thanks for the great review, got yourself a new sub :) cheers mate
Nice to hear you pronounce the brand name properly unlike some "pros" ( MCN ). :)
Did anyone else notice how filthy that Ford's number plate was around 1:10?
This makes me long for a review of the ZZR 1400, their ‘older school’ sportstourer albeit a lightspeed one. ;)
Funny I seem to be interested in the same 4 brands you review most: BMW, Kawasaki, Honda and Triumph. Add a Harley to that list in my case, but just one.
Love this bike I took a test ride last Saturday at Colchester Kawasaki it does everything bags power and smooth on my list to buy
Thanks for the review. Love the Kawasaki green. Classic color.
Touring machine in the old school style? Looks super modern against my ST1100. Very surprised at the price. The overtake power and sound reminds me of my old ZZR1100. If I had 10K I think it would be on my short list, sadly I don't. Since you mentioned the Suzuki rival, any chance of a future comparison? Another good review.
Generally speaking, the Suzuki is a bit more sporty. It outputs more power and I believe it weighs a little less. But the Z1000SX is quite a bit better for touring. I've watched and read countless comparisons of the two, and this seems to be the general consensus.
Edit: I went with the Z1000SX in the end. Prefer how it looks, the integrated pannier system and the fact that it's just more geared for touring than the Suzuki. But I don't think you can go wrong with either one if you're in the market for one of these kinds of bikes.
I own the Z1000sx on my second one now love it so much also had the pleasure of a GSXR 1000 K5 which the GSX-s1000 is based on the Suzuki is more sports than touring although looses top end as re tuned K4 K5 Same riding style as the Z but the Zed is a great all rounder stick the cases on and a great touring bike even full panniers on can keep up with a good few sports bikes . BTW the suzuki is a grand more The handling is heavy due to the more upright sitting position and the tyres that come with the Zed from factory really do let the bike down as it makes the bike feel not as stable as it should. Heated grips BTW 50 Quid at you local dealer
MrKdr500: And none the worse for it, I loved that engine. Thankfully, this new Kawasaki has traction control. My old ZZR spun up all too easily on any surface that wasn't grippy, then did it's best to kill me. Tried different tyres, but it was always waiting in the wings. Why they made a traction control version of the ST1100 I don't know. I've got the version without it and the engine so tame it borders on being boring.
It also has 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
Geoff: Haha, my Hayabusa did the same. Took every opportunity to punish me if I didn't ride it properly. Was a lot of fun though. :)
Yes Flyer heated grips as standard, if they promote a bike as a tourer.The front end looks a bit to extrovert for me. Does that white van carry your back up team, (nurse,masseur,stunt double, catering crew)😀
Now wouldn't that be nice...
Hi MF, another good review, but you forgot to compare it with one of your favourites! Tiger Sport 1050! Since your review of the TS that's what I shall be buying soon. I'm interested what you think as a comparison. Cheers.
...well I'd take the Tiger Sport - I love that bike and have a bit of a soft spot for it.....
[to finish last comment] 10 being gold wing comfort. Engine loves to rev yet produces bags of torque so you can be lazy with it or ride like a loony depending on mood or state of your licence. Fuel economy is low 40s mpg for me when running it in [sub 6000rpm] I was getting 60mpg. So about right for a litre sporty bike. My only issue is slow speed country lane riding it feels like its "wandering" a bit on uneven surfaces and I don't feel too confident in the wet.(no problem on my fzs1000 in similar conditions). Dry roads ridden hard are fine but it can tend to want to run wide. Will be setting up the suspension asap to see what happens I do love it honesty!!!
garry neads I put pilot road 4's on my 15 reg which sorted the slow speed turning and faster road work (road 5's now). Then got the suspension sorted for 50 quid and reupholstered the saddle which made mine a true all day tourer. 6k miles last year at iom tt, germany, NC500 and scratchin around. Proper job.
cheers for that got metz m77 on at moment might try pilots next. I did tt last year 1st time awesome. Going again this year too. I find Irish road racing is more scary as its mass starts on country lanes but the whole atmosphere and sense of history of the IOM is awesome. Getting overtaken on the mountain by a 125 was ebarrasing mind!!!
garry neads ha ha I wouldnt have mentioned that lol. Still, you dont know who it was under that helmet, could have been a racer taking the p*ss. That'd be my story 😉
Dark visor and dark glasses? The bike is cheap, cheap, cheap and for Folks who don't have a lot of income it's a good buy. you could throw heated grips and cruise control but it would ass an extra grand I reckon.
Haha, you consider this a cheap bike wherever you live? The Tourer version of this bike costs $32 000 new in my country. If you want more expensive, you'll have to look at the bigger Ducati bikes, KTM 1290 SA or stuff like that. What's an expensive bike for you, and how much does that one cost?
I'm saying it's a cheap bike in relative terms, you get a lot of bike for the money.
Well, you get a decent suite of electronics at least. Still find myself missing quite a few functions though. Which is why I'm heavily considering going from my 2017 model to an H2 SX SE in a couple years. I can't bring myself to pay $45 000 for a new bike, which is what the SE Tourer version costs - especially since the riding season in my country is only 6 months. But maybe in a few years when I can pick up a used 2018 model.
What about the BMW K1300 S .... also a sports tourer with around the 180 bhp mark.
Truly the worst bike I have ever ridden. Never felt anything like the shaft drive smacking back and forth in my life. Also no longer made.
Don't understand the heated grips thing. With winter gloves I'm fine basically all year round. Maybe for long motorway miles through winter, but for all other riding I don't think they're necessary. (I live in Oxford.)
Cheers for the review!
You must have very thick skin! I couldn’t do without them in winter.....
I'm on my restrictions now 2 years to go. The first day it's over I'm going to my ninja 1000
Nice review as usual TMF.I did take a quick look at one of these,the touring version that is.What kicked it into touch fairly quickly for me,was the the fact the thing did not have a centre stand.A supposed touring bike without a centre stand?? The dealer told me there was not an option for one and couldn't understand why I wanted one! Me thinks Kawasaki have missed the point here.
Yeah I just don't get that - they always used to be standard - even on 125s....
Brian smith yeah its a miss, the versys does have a centre stand and rumours are kawasaki will drip feed onto the zed as an option on next version.
339paulh I had read once that yhe no centre stand was to do with the bike being so low and the large bit of plumbing underneath. Might not be able to get one on there and still get the leverage to heave it up. We’ll see I guess.
Radioactiveslime that could be right but I'm sure I read on one of two kawasaki z1000sx facebook groups that someone has already fixed one on theirs!? I'd prefer a centre stand but thats adding weight and as you say there doesn't look to be a lot of space down there ha ha!
Good point. I have the 2012 model and it’s a great versatile bike; thinking of a tour across Europe but a chain driven bike without a centre stand could be a pain. At home I use a paddock stand, but en route will have to be push-and-spray every 500 miles or so with a visit to a bike shop halfway round for a proper chain service.
You had the perfect chance to fly by the rozzers mate! Really show how quick that bike is..
0-60 in 2.5
0-100 in 6.2
It is stunningly quick
I pick mine up in the morning, I've gone for the tourer version. I initially looked at the vfr800 but this seemed more bike for the money. Like you say there isn't much in this segment really but I didn't want the adventure style.
Congratulations!
Not ridden a Kawasaki in years but reminds me a bit of the old ZX1000 and ZZR in terms of function. Sports tourers with the emphasis on sports more than touring. At less than 10k it seems pretty good value for a litre bike.
Yes great value isn't it....
Do you think it's better than the Suzuki GSXS 1000F
No thanks I will keep my 2014 zx14r
Had my 2015 Z1000SX since new: 65,000km never missed a beat. Your review is spot on - custom seat, Yoshi cans, Oxford heated grips and she's all good. Nice to see you in my old home town - but come out NZ for some decent riding ;-)
I’d love too!
I had mine for 1400 miles and then decided I was a tad too big for it. It's a great value bike which is perfect if you use it for everyday transport,but if you just want a toy in the garage then I would recommend something else. It just lacks that X factor although it is a superb all round bike.
superbike1 what did you get in the end? I'm 6ft1 and looking to get this. Will I be to tall?
I love the 4 cylinder note of that engine.......Sal : )
I have to say TMF I use my back in conjunction with the front Also the back brake is a life saver if you have committed yourself to a bend that tightens up on you the back brake can save your life. So if it is rubbish on a bike I won't ride it.
Yes accepted, I do use the back brake too but in the main it's the front that does the majority of the stopping....
Funny thing, TMF. I've never considered sporty bikes, but this review made me think I'd like to have a test ride on one. Looks super smooth.
It is - luvin' those 4 cylinder machines....
Had the SX for a whole weekend as a rental last year and loved it, just a bit too sporty for my taste. Would say the BMW R 1200 RS is a competitor in this sport touring class. Rode both the SX and the RS last year and decided for the RS. The positive TMF review of the RS played no small part in that decision...
Good review and one I've been waiting for as I've just bought a new one which was delivered on Friday. I didn't get chance to take her out on Saturday due to the rain so we must have both been for a first ride yesterday. A few points worth mentioning.
Colour - The bike you're riding is the old 2017 Lime green, 2018 is called Emerald Blaze Green which is darker. Also, the black sections are now metallic carbon grey which is more silvery than grey and the shade changes depending on the angle and light. Heated grips are an option, as is an aux. port along with many others. I don't ride in cold weather so I'd rather not pay for something that I'll never use. I had the aux. port fitted for sat nav and battery charging during winter hibernation. The looks - Personally I love them from every angle, including the silencers which I see as a homage to the 1970s Z900...'Cor Mister, look, FOUR exhausts' :-D. Compared to other manufacturers standard missile launchers they're just fine. As for riding the bike, I've been trying to find fault found one so far, the rear indicators and number plate light wobble and there's no means of tightening them up other than sliding a 30mm O ring into the joints. Guess I'll be fitting a tail tidy so not an issue :-). Anyone wanting a long distance tourer capable of carrying a pillion and camping gear would be better off with a BMW or Honda Gold Wing. The Z1000SX is intended to be a comfortable sports bike capable of light touring, a roll it fulfills well.
Congrats on your new bike! Enjoy......
Thanks TMF....Absolutely loving it !!!
Just a note from someone who has done real touring on this bike - it's a good touring bike, at least if you ride solo. Combine the 2 panniers with a tank bag and a pillion bag and you're set to go anywhere. A light tourer would be the MT-10 tourer version, in my opinion. This bike has a 300+ km range, good comfort (at least with the gel seat), good electronics and is proven to be a very reliable machine.
I went from a Hayabusa (which is also a sports tourer), to this, and this bike is every bit as good as that one for touring, except it has less power, which you only really benefit from when riding with a passenger.
Obviously, if you're 80 years old and have 100 physical ailments, you might be better off on something like a Goldwing (outfitted with training wheels so you don't drop it :P ).
I am on my second one now, I had a 2015, now got a 2017, the best advice I could ever give is get rid of the stock tyres and replace them with almost any other decent sport touring tyre. It completely transforms the bikes handling and stability, I had Dunlop Sportsmart 3 fitted, and they are night and day different from the Bridgestones.
I think the post 2010 Z100's are one of the sexiest bikes made.
hi mate Bill Chivers here, I think i may well buy this bike next. personally, I find it beautiful and 18 months ago had a good test ride on the earlier model.
Welbilt beauty is in the eye of the beholder they say and it is a great bike to ride. I don’t think you can go far wrong with this one, enjoy! Good to hear from you again, all best, TMF
for some reason i am bothered that it doesn't say "2018 Ninja 1000" lol.
Two opportunities to rev it in rhe tunnel and you didn't lol.
Good review though much prefer the Suzuki GSXS1000F you reviewed.
Which did you prefer Andy?.
Keep well Regards Andrew
I think the Suzuki...
Nice review - will you be reviewing the 2020 ninja 1000SX?
I'd love too!
Have you had a chance to ride the newer NINJA 1000SX?
It's the bike I'm looking to buy to replace my 2000 VFR800 FiX.
Not yet no - sorry!
Litre Versys for me next.
I bought the 1000 Versys last Sept (2017) and have to say what a lovely bike it is to own. I had a sports tourer before that (In the Guise of a Suzuki 1250 Bandit) and it ticked a lot of boxes but not as many as the Versys does. I found the 'Sport' Emphasis made the Bandit a tad uncomfortable on longer rides and it left me wanting the same powerful yet silky smooth four cylinder engine but with added comfort. I went for the Grand Touring version which gives me the option of the Full Luggage Pack when I want to go away for a break with the wife however to be fair I ride without it most of the time which works well. I utilise a Givi Tanklock bag for the bits and bobs on routine rides out. Adding extras like the Rad Guard and a Front Mudguard Fenda Extenda are an absolute must. I've also added Heated grips, Puig Light Smoked Screen, upgraded the standard Horn to a 3 Horn system that is bloody marvellous and not forgetting the Sat Nav Mount and a waterproof Usb charging system under the seat out of the rain's way to keep my phone/Sat Nav topped up. She's really complete now to enjoy this year's jaunts in style.... good luck with yours.
The current Versys 1000 is a far superior bike to the Z1000SX and thankfully not nearly half as ugly. Only shaft drive could make it better.
Hello mate, I’d love to hear your opinion on the updated 2020 z1000sx.
It's actually called Ninja 1000SX now. :)
As always a great review thank you. As you say, not many sports tourers left to choose from now at a reasonable price and with a good specification.
Cheers Kevin - all the best - TMF
Hi, just reserved one of these in the same spec and colours. I am 5’7 with 29’ inseam. Would you reckon i will be fine with even balls of my feet on the floor or should i consider a custom seat which is slightly lower? Thank you
Custom seat I reckon….
I had this bike for 3 years from new and had many problems. It definitely looks great but is not comfortable for long distances for someone 6 up. Bad on fuel, bad weather protection and not reliable. I had several issues with reliability to the point that I sold it. I'm thinking of buying the 2022 model cause I like the look but all the problems I had put me off
Oh dear! Sorry to hear that!
really enjoying videos keep it up dude
Will do as long as you keep watching...
can you do a review on the new gsx1000f if you get a chance?
Yes I'd love too...
Anybody else think this guy sounds a bit like Spider from Bad News?
Is that a good thing?
Just needs a shaft drive but there is the gtr for that
Great review thanks. Deposit paid today! Pick up my 2019 Z100SX on the 12th April. Bring it! And yes, paid extra for the heated grips as is a must!
Congratulations!
TheMissendenFlyer - Thank You Very Much Sir! It’s a beauty.
Love mine.. got Oxford heated grips on her, great for a bit of fun when you wind her on a bit 👍
Really nice and useful review! Bought mine yesterday, 2017 ninja 1000 (North America), 3500 km's, drives like a butter, smooth and plenty of power, the only thing i could think about, is the weight
Did anyone follow Simon Weir's massive trip last year on a 2017 Z1000SX? I think he covered it in MCN. The guy who piled on five-digit mileage all over the USA in summer heat. When I had coffee with Simon in California he was already 12K+ miles into it after five weeks. Truly a properly mad Englishman and a super nice guy.
Certainly a lot of Bike for the not so much price tag. I was expecting you to say 12 or 13 k.
Yes no doubt outstanding value this one....
All things considered, there's nothing on the market comes close.