Kawasaki Z1000 review - Telegraph That's a fairly modest total by 2014 super-naked standards, but it's enough to make the Z1000 both fast and fun. Kawasaki declined to opportunity to give the bike ride-by-wire throttle control or multiple engine modes, and they're not missed. The engine is pleasingly strong, happy to respond cleanly from as low as 2,000rpm, then pulling smoothly and with increasing force towards the redline at 11,300rpm. That means the Z1000 always has punch for overtaking, cruises effortlessly at the legal limit, and delivers arm-stretching acceleration on demand as it heads towards a top speed of about 150mph. Few riders will approach that speed but one feature of super-naked bikes - and a reason for their popularity - is that the lack of wind protection enhances the excitement at lower speeds. This is particularly true of the Z1000. Its one-piece handlebar is a few millimetres lower, giving a slightly more leant-forward riding position, but the dramatically low-set headlight combines with the small instrument panel to give almost no protection. Chassis changes are mostly intended to give sportier handling. Front suspension is provided by Showa's Big Piston Forks, which give firmer damping than the previous model's. The rear shock linkage is revised, and rear wheel travel reduced. The result is impressively taut, well controlled handling, along with respectable agility. With a wet weight figure of 221kg, the Z1000 is heavier than most naked bikes, though lighter than Kawasaki's own Z800. It can't match the poise or manoeuvrability of its most accomplished rivals but corners with impressive precision and ease. Inevitably comfort on bumpy surfaces is reduced, however. Braking is impressive, thanks to new Tokico Monobloc front calipers and larger, 310mm discs. Stopping power is ferocious, with minimal lever effort. Although the system is very controllable this makes ABS, a £400 option that works well, especially useful. Naked bikes aren't bought for their versatility but the best of them are reasonably practical. The Z1000 is improved, although far from an all-rounder. Fuel capacity is increased by two litres to 17 litres. The bike is not particularly economical, averaging just under 40mpg on the launch, and just 35mpg with hard use. Even so, the new tank should give most owners a realistic range of 130 miles. The new instrument panel supplies fuel consumption and remaining range information. But there's no gear indicator or self-cancelling indicators, and you can't toggle through the information from the handlebar. The pillion seat is neatly disguised as a cover, but is not designed for carrying either a passenger or luggage. Kawasaki might reply that the closely related Z1000SX sports-tourer covers the practical side, leaving this bike as a raw, entertaining machine for short distances and fine weather. The Z1000 is certainly quick, fun and slightly improved over the outgoing model. At £9,499 for the base model it's reasonable value, too. Given the quality of its rivals, whether it has the performance or personality to match its predecessor's impact is another matter. Kawasaki Z1000 (2014) Tested: 1,043cc four-cylinder four-stroke, six-speed transmission Price/on sale: £9,499 (Special Edition with green paint £9,699; £10,099 with ABS) /now Power/torque: 140bhp @ 10,000rpm/82lb ft @ 7,300rpm Top speed: 150mph (estimated) Range: 130 miles @ 40mpg (estimated) Verdict: Aggressively styled naked superbike with a responsive engine, reasonably agile chassis and sharp brakes, but lacks practicality and faces fierce opposition Aprilia Tuono V4R ABS, £12,432 In many ways the class yardstick, the updated 170bhp V4 is a brilliant bike combining exhilarating performance with character, agility and sophisticated electronics. Kawasaki Z1000SX, £9,299 It can't match the Z1000's aggressive styling but the sensible sibling offers similar performance plus a fairing, more comfort, luggage carrying ability and a cheaper price. Triumph Speed Triple ABS, £9,599 Slightly less powerful than the Z1000 but lighter, sweet-handling and bursting with character. Triumph's naked triple is also less expensive and still a force in the class.