Kawasaki brings us the Z1100 and Z1100 SE, more powerful but with few technological changes

The “Z” family from Kawasaki is of great importance to the Japanese brand, comprising a wide variety of engine ranges to meet the needs of its customers. These bikes have been updated over recent months, and now it is the turn of the supernaked Z1100 and its top-of-the-range version Z1100 SE, a bike one step above the recently updated Z900, without the exotic and exclusive pretensions of the Z H2.

The most significant change for the Kawasaki Z1100 and Z1100 SE lies in their heart, an engine similar to the one fitted to other models in the brand’s range, such as the Versys 1100, and which was already updated last year. This means that this inline four-cylinder engine increases its displacement to 1,099 cm³, which has been achieved thanks to a 3 mm increase in the stroke of its cylinders, with a bore now standing at 59 mm, a heavier flywheel and optimised intake ducts that improve the engine’s response at low and medium revs.

All these changes mean that the Kawasaki Z1100 and Z1100 SE deliver a maximum power of 136 CV together with a torque figure of 113 Nm, which can now be controlled in a more comfortable, rapid and effective way for the rider thanks to the arrival of the new electronic throttle. This increase in displacement and power has also led Kawasaki to update the gearbox, with all the ratios optimised but also with longer 5th and 6th gears. Finally, in terms of mechanics, the bike had to comply with the strict Euro5+ regulations, with a new exhaust in a 4-2-1 configuration that creates a pre-chamber before merging into a single exhaust.

In terms of styling, the new Kawasaki Z1100 and Z1100 SE are not a great revolution. In fact, the Japanese brand has limited itself to introducing new LED headlights with a more aggressive look and aerodynamic solutions that are so fashionable right now, namely fins located at the lower front of the fairing. They have also changed the handlebar position compared with the outgoing model, now sitting 13 mm further forward and being 22 mm wider, so the bike becomes more agile and precise while also more comfortable, improving the response to the rider’s inputs as well.

The Z1100’s chassis still consists of a high-rigidity double aluminium spar frame, to which are attached at the front SFF-BP forks and a horizontal back-link rear monoshock, not forgetting the 310 mm front discs with monobloc calipers. Technologically, it features Cruise Control or the latest version of the bidirectional KQS quickshifter, as well as a 6-axis IMU which allows it to boast technologies such as Cornering Management (KCMF), Traction Control (KTRC), Integrated Brake System (KIBS), various power modes and riding modes. All of this is managed through a 5-inch colour TFT with navigation and smartphone connectivity, allowing control of various functions via Kawasaki’s Ridelogic app.

Finally, regarding the Kawasaki Z1100 SE, it differs by coming as standard with items such as a brake system with discs and radial monobloc calipers signed by Brembo, braided steel brake lines and an S46 rear shock signed by Öhlins, as well as being fitted with Dunlop Sportmax Q5A tyres.