- Online rumour suggests the new Z900 is in the pipeline
- Versys 1100-based Z1100 is also a possibility
- Kawasaki might bring back the Z1000
The Kawasaki Z900 is one the highest-selling big bikes, not just in India but also in many international markets. It’s undoubtedly a great value with a price tag that’s too attractive for the kind of package it offers. However, according to an online rumour, Kawasaki sees a scope to improve it further and might already be working on a heavily updated model of the Z900. That said, there are other possibilities as well, including the return of the Z1000 or a completely new Z1100.
While the Z900 has already been accepted as one of the most value-for-money big bike propositions, it has its shortcomings, with heavy kerb weight than its closest rivals being one of them. At 212kg, the Z900 is significantly heavier than the competition, including the Triumph Street Triple RS and the Ducati Monster. As a solution to this, Kawasaki might replace the Z900’s tubular steel frame with a lighter unit, maybe an aluminium monocoque chassis similar to the Ducati Monster. Even the sub-frame could be different to further reduce weight. If a heavily updated Z900 is in the pipeline, a fresh design is certainly on the cards. If not as outrageous as shown in the design render attached above, it should have a more contemporary appeal.
Another possibility is the return of the Z1000 which has not been on sale since 2021. It could either be the only new Z model or be introduced alongside the new Z900. If that happens, the litre-class Z will have an enlarged version of the Z900’s 948cc engine with higher power output and a fancier design. Furthermore, the introduction of a completely new Z1100 model is also being speculated. After the recent registration of the new Kawasaki Versys 1100 with the Australian transport authority, the idea of a Z1100 seems realistic. It should be a much more powerful alternative to the Z900 and capable enough to compete against the likes of the Ducati Streetfighter V2 and the Triumph Speed Triple. Now, whether this online rumour turns out to be true and which Z is exactly waiting to be unveiled, only time will tell.
