Page 54 - BAM Chain Link Issue 61 - February 19

KAWASAKI Z1000SX SPORTS/TOURER

In October 2018 I decided that after nearly three years riding my Honda 600 Hornet it was
time for an upgrade.

I knew I wanted something with more power but still provided a touring option for my TT
trips and future rides in Europe.

I’d test ridden the BMW F800 GT Tourer. This was the first time I’d ridden a bike with ABS,
heated grips and electronic suspension adjustment. It also featured wet and dry riding
options. It was also the first time I’d ridden a belt driven bike. I enjoyed the test ride and
experiencing for the first time how bikes have changed with the technological advances.

I then ventured over to Bristol Kawasaki where I had booked a test ride on the Z900RS. I
think I just did this to see what the hype was on a retro bike. Don’t get me wrong another
great bike to ride but a naked and I wanted to move away from a naked bike. This would
make a great second bike for the fun factor and if the funds permitted.

So, while I was at Bristol Kawasaki, I booked in a test ride on the Z1000SX, a combined
sports/tourer with loads of extras and not far off what I was going to pay for the Z900RS!

I got back after the test ride and my mind was made up. With the panniers included I had
the bike I had been looking for.

Spec: 1043cc – 235kg – 140bhp – 815mm

Kawasaki have added a few extras such as the traction control (KTRC), driven by an
integrated Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). There is also the new Kawasaki
Cornering Management Function (KCMF) which modulates braking force, simply put the
traction control and ABS are lean angle sensitive for the first time.

The screen is 15mm taller and the mirrors are wider by 20mm giving a clearer view behind.
It is being labelled the best sporty tourer available and a superb all-roads bike.

Don’t take my word for it though, if you’re looking
to change and the change is sports/tourer then test
ride one of these soon.

Tony (Ed)

Bristol Kawasaki - Z1000SX

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