- Gets the same engine as the Ninja 1100SX
- SE variant gets higher-spec suspension and brakes
- Significantly more feature-loaded than the Z1000
Kawasaki has brought back its supernaked with a bigger engine and many other updates over the Z1000. The company has taken the wraps off the new Z1100 standard and SE models for the international markets, and one of them will probably come to India as well.
The Z1100 looks visually identical to its predecessor, the Z1000, and we are not complaining as it still looks like a novelty. The original ‘Sugomy’ design has been retained with a stance that lends it a read-to-charge, predator kind of look. From the sinister-looking twin-pod LED headlamp to the pointed tail section, the design flows seamlessly with lots of cuts and creases.
Now, while the design is familiar, the new Z1100 is technologically a major departure from its predecessor, which is quite bare bones. The new five-inch TFT screen shows and allows one to tweak all the rider aids it has, including five-axis IMU-based two power modes, three levels of traction control, bidirectional quick shifter, cruise control, and dual-channel ABS. The screen is Bluetooth-enabled as well and gives access to turn-by-turn navigation and call and SMS alerts.
Powering the Z1100 is the same 1,099cc, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which does duty on the Ninja 1100SX. The tuning and performance numbers have also been kept the same as the sport tourer. That means the Z produces 136bhp and 113Nm. Underpinned by the same aluminium main frame as the Ninja, the Z1100 standard is suspended by fully-adjustable Showa springs, while the SE trim gets Ohlins S46 monoshock with remote preload adjuster. Braking hardware on the standard is sourced from Tokico, while the SE variant gets higher-spec Brembo callipers. The tyres, meanwhile, are the Dunlop Sportmax Q5As from the Z900.
If the Kawasaki Z1100 comes to India, it will compete against the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP, which costs Rs. 13.29 Lakh, ex-showroom.
