THE RIDE VERDICT
IF YOU WANT a really practical milemunching sports tourer that will also whisk you to work every day AND deliver a big grin when you wind the throttle on at the weekends, the Z1000SX has a lot going for it. It’s a relatively simple, low-tech beast, but that’s a sizeable plus point for many owners who don’t want the distraction of 21st-century gadgets and gimmicks.
True, the suspension on early models is a bit on the budget side, and the seat is a bit minimal for true long-distance comfort, but these things are easily sorted with simple modifications.
There are plenty around (more than 100 on www.mcnbikesforsale.com at the time of RIDE going to press), and with the new 2017 version meaning dealers are heavily discounting unsold 2016 bikes, that’s having a knock-on effect on used values. Obviously, that’s bad for sellers, but excellent news for potential buyers, so now’s the time to strike a deal. Don’t get too hung up on mileage – Z1000SX owners tend to look after these bikes well and that detuned sportsbike engine will be good for many tens of thousands of miles. Condition is a much more important consideration, along with useful accessories, especially touring luggage.
USEFUL CONTACTS
www.mcnbikesforsale.com www.kawasakininja1000.com www.z1000sx.co.uk www.kawiforums.com
“The detuned sportsbike engine is good for many tens of thousands of miles”