2014 Kawasaki Z1000 SE
Radically restyled, and embodying Kawasaki's sugomi design philosophy: the energy of a predator stalking its prey. It goes alright as well…Kawasaki’s 2014 model Z1000 ABS SE is now available for $16,799, plus on-road costs.
The restyled 221kg machine is being put down to sugomi, a Japanese word that describes the “intense aura or energy given off by a person or object of greatness and felt by the viewer”. Someone, or something, possessing sugomi inspires awe, leaves an indelible impression, is imposing in stature or ability, and commands respect.
Sounds like sentiments which would have been uttered at Woodstock – you know, palpable energy and all that stuff – but what has Kawasaki actually done to the styling?
The new headlamp cowl, positioned as low as possible, extends the line running down from the top of the tank, while new bodywork fits much closer to the engine and frame, “reinforcing the condensed, dynamic form”. Mass is concentrated at the front, and there’s a more aggressive riding posture.
The engine has new intake cams, revised velocity stacks and different ECU settings, and there’s shorter final drive gearing (but with a taller sixth for highway work). The latest iteration of the Showa Separate Function-Big Piston Fork is now in position, while monoblock radial-mount, four-piston front brake calipers and a revised anti-lock braking pump should improve braking performance, while cast-aluminum supersport-style wheels reduce unsprung weight by 1.5kg.
Fuel capacity is up to 17 litres from 15.5, and other fresh touches include new exhaust silencers, a new aluminum handlebar, textured seat and redesigned dash and information interface.
The SE refers to the Special Edition livery -- Gold Blazed Green with Metallic Graphite Grey.
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