Kawasaki has unveiled the 2017 Z1000 R edition for the European markets. This Euro IV-compliant streetfighter now features a slew of cosmetic and technological updates including Ohlins rear suspension and Brembo brakes.
While it was necessary to update the engine of the Z1000 to make it Euro IV compliant, Kawasaki has gone a step ahead and upgraded its cycle parts too. It now gets fully adjustable Ohlins S46DR1S rear monoshock, and the Showa Big Piston forks up front have been retuned to improve handling. Brakes have also been upgraded with Brembo M50 monobloc callipers with stainless steel braided lines. The ECU has been revised to deliver a smoother power curve, while the instrument cluster now gains a gear position indicator and programmable shift light. Power output from the 1043cc inline four engine is the same despite it meeting the emission norms - 142bhp and a 111Nm of torque. To set it apart from the older bike, the Z1000 R edition gets new decals which contrast with the bike’s paint scheme.
The Kawasaki Z1000 R edition will be showcased at the Motorcycle Live in the UK, in November. It will be offered in three paint schemes – black, green and orange. We can expect this bike to be launched in India in the first half of 2017, in just the green paint scheme. It competes with the Suzuki GSX-S 1000, Honda CB1000R, Triumph Speed Triple and the Benelli TNT R.
