A review on kawasaki z1000sx sports tourer kindly loaned by bournemouth kawasaki www.bournemout... PLEASE LIKE,SHARE AND SUBSCRIBE THANKS :) Any donations greatly appreciated to help me produce these reviews www.paypal.me/...
Bought one last year. Absolutely love it. Great value for money too and the panniers clip onto the passenger grab rails with no other scaffolding. You can also buy the Performance model which comes with an Acropovic exhaust if you don’t like the standard one, but I love the look. Personal taste I suppose.
Love the new green color and the exhaust is the main reason why I would not buy any aftermarket even if it saves 10kg weight or gives more performance. Looks so great and sounds nice!
My view is this, ive ordered my new one for March first 2019 based on these considerations,, awesome looking aggressive style, twin led headlights best on the market, the new 2019 model has new metallic paint that looks fantastic when the sun comes out, new softer comfy seat, new clearer dash that you can see in sunshine, fantastic value for sport and tourer..cant wait..best panniers on the market
@@markmottershead646 I also own a 2018 Tiger 800XRT that fills the touring role superbly and does most other things quite well as it happens :0 Wouldn't swap either of my bikes atm, horses for courses [thumbs up]
Great review! It's so good to see you test the constant-throttle fuelling - that's so useful. So many modern bikes seem to be very bad at this, and most reviewers don't test for it as well as you do.
Thanks richard , yes im very picky about that ,as you might know here in the uk we have to do lots of 30 mph limits and it really annoys me if the bike is hunting/surging , all the best mark
Great review. new rider turning 40 soon. was going to get a cruiser until i saw this bike and fell in love with it. Kinda intimitating but i am a careful driver and the driver aids in this bike put it ahead of anything else for me at the moment.
Good review. Bought mine last May and the only things I don't like are the ugly cans and the firm seat. I might be tempted to check out the new seat if it's as comfortable as you say it is. I also bought the touring kit, (panniers) and they are a great addition, with room enough to stow helmets if you need to, (1 in each pannier!) and quick and easy to fit and remove. Thanks for sharing and ride safe.
I bought my performance version with panniers just after you made this video. It is a superb sports tourer, love it. Your test is spot on. Excellent. Thank you.
I bought a new one in March 2018 and absolutely love it. Even more so since fitting a taller smoked screen, tail tidy, rear seat cowl and SP Engineering carbon end cans. They're a civilised pokey all rounder at a sensible price. I wish you'd mentioned a few more important features such as the IMU (lean sensitive ABS), 3 position adjustable screen and convenient remote knob for adjusting the rear spring pre - load.
In the past I’ve always felt that these powerful four cylinder bikes could do with another overdrive gear. I used to hate the Kawasaki green but the new metallic version looks great.
Hi Peter yes this shade of green looks amazing ,it's interesting how over the years Kawasaki have changed the shades ,and yes agreed about the extra gear all the best mark
The review I've been searching for. Hard to find any video about the bike, without the indian accent behind it. Ordered exact same one, for the 31th of March 2019. My only complaint about 2019 model would be, that the only difference between it and 2018 one, is the sticker on the side. Everything else remains unchanged. Thumbs up, for the good review. Best regards, from Slovenia :)
2017 and 2018 Model had negative dash board (white on dark background) which is difficult to read out in sun light. 2019 Model had normal display (Black on light background)
Done 12.000 km (7.500 miles) so far and love the bike! Super comfy, even when I did 680km in one day. Would recommend changing tires tho, for the Dunlop Sportsmart Mk3 (I ride on the sportier side). Highly recommending it :) Cheers!
I had a street triple r and a nc750x and decided to go down to one bike and got one of these. Really pleased I did. It's a practical mile-muncher with the panniers on and can still be a good fun bike without them. Not sure how long I'll only be on one bike though, I do like the Z900rs....
Bought my Burnt orange (gasp) in 2017, fantastic bike, just consumes miles with ease, and whilst the new seat may be comfy, the older (non gel) seats is okay for the first 100 miles, but can be an ache for longer rides. Compared to my previous steed (Hornet) people seem to notice you much more with the twin LED, which at night, are like flood lights. Amazing bike. Nice review mate.
Hey Great review. I like that during the ride you explain everything is happening, the drive feeling, sounds, vibrating,... perfect. Makes me feel I want to ride this bike right now. Great pictures. Cheers by a German living in AMS
Just revisiting this video Mark as the 2020 model was released yesterday. Looks like Kawasaki have listened to its customer base. We now have a colour TFT, electronic cruise control, quick shifter and no more mini twin exhausts.
Almost bought one, called Ninja 1000 in the USA. Called insurance and found out they rate this bike like the ZX10r. Extremely expensive to insure, it's a shame because it's such a good all rounder.
Hated my 2014 model uncomfortable horrible upright riding position seemed a bit unstable at higher speeds. Sold after only putting 1000kls on the bike much happier on a zx14r.
Had a 2017 model which I bought brand new, but traded it in the following year. It's a good bike, all in all, but I found it a bit boring. Changing the exhaust helped, but not enough. Doesn't look like they have made any changes whatsoever to it since then, apart from the colors. Anyway, I can see why many people love 'em, it just wasn't for me.
Hi kevin thanks ,yes looking forward to the versys ,i rode one a while ago and loved it ,but the new 2019 model is looking to be amazing all the best mark
Season's greetings to you, just rerunning this and the 636 vids to remind me of your choice. I'll spend xmas dreaming up ways to get both. Looking forward to 2020 postings.
I have a 2016 model in red color, and aside from the color this bike looks exactly like mine. If you crank up the revs in 3rd or 4th gear the the bike transforms into a rocket. It holds curves very well so it's a fun bike. :)
I test rode a new one a few months ago. Really liked the bike but I did find it had quite a few vibs around the 5.5 to 6k revs. This and the screen put me off as I was looking for something to cover big miles on. I may have been a little hasty in dismissing it so quickly. I do agree it's a very nice, good value bike and I may be tempted again...
I bought one brand new last May. Vibes not an issue at all, especially after I fitted Oxford heated grips. I fit a Puig dark tint screen, slightly taller than stock and gives great wind protection and also looks very cool. 400 mile days not an issue for me on this bike. BUY ONE.👍
can go wrong with kawasaki i have the gtr 1400 or kawasaki concours here in canada and the motor is smooth as butter and boys is it a beast on the road if you needed just a great bike. safe ride mate
Was gonna trade in my Zx10r for one of these couple of yrs ago, but my heart attack spoiled them plans , recovery etc and not working meant had to sell most of my prized possessions, and my bike, just picking up were I left of and bought a 20 yrs old fazer off my son as featured on my RU-vid channel ,, good review and feel free to reply to my comment , cheers Shane uk 🇬🇧
Found you by accident looking for vids on the Suzuki gsxs-1000f and really enjoyed that video. I appreciate this one because I’m trying to decide between Kawasaki’s option and Suzuki’s. Which did you enjoy more? Maybe a comparison review?? Cheers from Florida!!!
Hi I preferred the Kawasaki... especially the new 2020 model it's a big improvement on this model I have a review on that one too Hi to Florida ! Best regards mark
Nice vid well delivered with some good useful comments and not a load of old pish as is often found with test rides. I also like the sensible approach toward the car transporter staying well back for a clear view of the on coming traffic, didn't try chancing it . I had the 2013 version and loved the bike Ive just bought a Tracer 900 GT and that's another great bike however I only have one arse and cant ride two at a time ,but am tempted towards buying it as a second bike for the bigger touring or maybe go for the 900 retro 70s look alike the proper name of which escapes me but I'm sure some one will put me right . Thanks
I may have to trade my 2016 Gsxs 1000f for this... looks like a better option for distance. Great video as always. You have ridden both bikes how does this compare to the GSXS1000F?
Hi,,smoother engine ,not as raw feeling as the suzuki,very comfy seat as i remember ,yes probably the better choice for distance ,let me know if you get one :) all the best mark
For those of your N1K owners out there, does yours run very hot? My 2019 N1K seems to always run 4/5 temp gauge bars with the fan coming on when 5 bars are hit. Recently did a coolant flush and replenish with Engine Ice coolant. Everything burped and topped off. Still a "hot" running bike!
It just occurred to me how much I would like it if Kawasaki updated bike with the z900 chassis as it's base. It would probably drop 30+ lbs, gaining flickability as well as that silky smooth 948cc mill. Might even see a price cut. I would happily trade the weight for the power, even at the same cost. 2021 Ninja 900 please. I want more sport out of my sport-tourer.
Enjoyed the review, but inside leg measurement would be more useful than overall height, when talking about seat height, feet on the ground and bent-knee in the riding position.
My friend changed to a 2017 z1000sx from a zzr1400, he's not pleased about the vibration through the bars and the less planted feel, so much so, he's thinking of changing back to a zzr, 2019 model may be better? Or maybe he was spoilt with the smoothness of the zzr?
Hi john ,i found the 2019 sx to be very smooth ,but i think your friend was spoiled by the zzr1400 smoothness ,i owned a 2011 model and they are butter smooth all the best mark
I think if i bought one it would have to have a tail tidy and deffo different exhaust on it... Not sure if to buy gsxs1000 or one of these bad boys I like both
Its on the list shaun ,itll prob be the new 2019 versys with tft dash !,the dealer said it would be in feb,they also do have a 2018 versys 1000 which i may take out next week all the best mark
Have a zzr1400ps 2014, thinking of changing but love it, I heard the z1000 revs high? Think its more comfortable than the zzr thou and also the only bike I think looks good with panniers, Dont like the look on H2sx thou so maybe just keep the zzr. Great review
Hi nitram yes definitely. The dealership told me they should have them in February. It should be great with all the new features like tft screen , electronic suspension etc all the best mark
Thanks for the great test ride video Mark, Can you tell me what inside leg measurement you are as I might be interested in one of these bikes and wondering if will be o.k as I'm only a little bit taller than you. A.J
Hi Mark, as you've just ridden the 2020 version of this bike (the video was great by the way) did you find a big difference in the handling between this '19' and the new '20 model?
Just ordered the performance edition, I’m not a fan of the factory fitted rocket launchers, part ex my Z900 which was also a great bike. Ride safe, cheers Mark
I was looking at the Aprilia RS660 price range competition and this motorcycle came up so now I am comparing this bike, the KTM 890 Duke R and Aprilia RS660. Any thoughts on those bikes?
Hi the ktm 890 is a pure fun bike from what I've heard...the latest model z1000sx ,not this one...is an utterly brilliant all rounder probably the one I'd go for ,I'm looking forward to seeing the new 660,tricky choice so many good bikes ...try and get a test on the Kawasaki All the best mark
@@markpulling12 yes pretty awesome year for motorcyclists given the circumstances. I am leaning towards the kawasaki a little bit too because of the ride I would be doing (commuting 1hr) most of the time. Thank you for the insight.
I hope cruise control and new LCD display is coming for 2020 model. (It´s seems kawasaki is doing a "bigger" upgrade , after 3 yrs) Im going to wait for the 2020 model ,, (Have now z900 .2018)
Hi it would be z1000sx first place the new 2020 model I reviewed,r1200,gsxs1000 and then the vfr ,all winners in their own right but just my personal choice regards mark
Hi ...I would say absolutely no difference ...they are both comfortable and refined ...but me personally I'd go for the latest ninja 1000 sx see my review Cheers mark
Nice review Mark. I looked at this bike so much but decided against it. Why? No centre stand and no heated grips. I was informed that grips could be fitted but they were the ugliest bolt ons I have seen. Unfortunately it's looks alone don't sell it as a tourer.
Hi will ,i owned a zzr1400 2011 for six months ,amazing grunt , you ll just find the 1000 sx a bit more nimble and smaller physically and obviously less power but still very fast all the best mark
I have a 2016 Zed and want to change to something a bit less crazy cray, so picking my new Z1000sx up on the 12th April. Love the Zed, an EPIC machine, but something just a little bit lighter, more upright and versatile (for commuting for example) is appealing. That said, when I rode the ZZR home yesterday after signing up for the new machine, I know I'm going to miss it when it's gone!
I have ridden one of these a couple of times and it is a lovely bike... I noticed you keep saying its chuckable though... I actually found the steering to be quite heavy, I mean it will corner... but you have to give it quite a bit of input to get it to go. I hope to pick one of these up as my second bike soon though! (1 is never enough :P)
Was the fueling as smooth as the zx-6r 636 you rode? Did you find it a little hard to turn or heavy in the corners? I rode a 2012 or 2014 and it was a little hard to turn or corner.
Hi, id go for the suzuki ,because i just found it to be more comfortable,it fitted me better at 5ft7 and its got the awesome gsxr engine all the best mark
Can't comment on the gsx1000r Daryl but I'm thinking it would be very similar specs price etc ,just depends on what you like the look of best and what fits you better all the best Mp
Mark , I returned to biking Jan 19 after 30 years away , I bought a beautiful 06 Bandit 1200s that is immaculate . Only did 1000 miles and love the bike but would love a Z1000sx , what should info and no the wife won't let me have two ?
Well the z1000sx is a brilliant all round bike , you'll probably find it smoother and more refined than your bandit ,but you still have a great bike there ,tricky one ,get a test ride on the new ninja 1000 sx and I'm sure you'll be smitten good luck ....mark
Thank you it is tricky one isn't it . I managed to get out today to collect a work laptop . The bandit is a beast , a interesting return to biking after 30 years .
The Indian review's are way more entertaining........How could they not be on the 'whacky races roads'........But when ya want to make a purchase.......For Rep of Ireland and UK roads........Tks, Mark Pulling..........
Exhaust is gastly!!! Not a fan of the wind screen either!!! The rest of the bike is very sharp!!! Why Kawi, why are you so close ! Next years model may fix my visual assault!!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Hi lots of differences for the better ..single exhaust,much better steering,tft screen,cruise control quickshifter the list goes on ..im getting one as my next bike all the best mark
@@markpulling12 Sorry Mark, I hadn't seen your latest review for the 2020 model! Sounds like a fantastic package for the price, I've recently moved to an area where Im using dual carriageways and motorways everyday, and the MT09 Im on feels lethal on those kinds of roads past 60mph so looking for a sports tourer- this seems to have everything I need. One question, what does the weight feel like? I owend a Z900 last year, but after being on 188kg Mt09 Im not sure if Ill be looking at a shock to the system Cheers
@@markpulling12 I actually bought this model new late 2019 and still have it. I agree the new model is better but I paid £9000 with the touring kit and you can still find this model new for that price. The new one with the touring kit is £3000 more. Also the two bikes in green look almost the same. Only the single side exhaust and the TFT are obvious differences on the Ninja version. The engine power is the same. Enjoyed your reviews on both bikes btw
hola yo tengo una kawasaki z1000sx 2018 y tengo un problema de relenti. = cuando pongo primera . segunda o tercera regula a 1.000rmp pero cuando pongo cuarta. quinta y sexta regula a 1.500rmp . me parece que no es normal . yo soy de argentina. a ustedes le pasa algo similar ??? gracias
@@markpulling12 la compre hace 1 mes y la falla que hace es que el relenti en 1-2 y 3 tercera queda bien en 1000 rmp. pero en 4-5 y 6 sexta se va a 1.500 rpm eso es normal en este modelo o esta mal mapeada. ? no tengo ninguna para comparar. en argentina.
o siento, realmente no entiendo por qué estaría a 1500 rpm en la sexta marcha a menos que vaya muy despacio o con el embrague apretado, lo siento, no puedo ayudarlo a descubrirlo, avíseme si lo hace
I would really like to know more about the Low/High power mode on this bike. After having not ridden since I was a kid I wonder if this bike would be more beginner friendly if one acclimated to it in the lower power mode? I’m considering the Ninja 650 as well. Anyone with experience on this bike and the power settings? I’ve sat on both, and the 1000 seems like it would be a more comfortable ride, but it is also more imposing in size, weight, and power output.
Hi as with all bikes the throttle works both ways ,if you're sensible and build slowly the 1000 would be fine if you've already got experience , modern bikes have come along way in terms of safety ,tyres ,abs ,tc ,the low power mode is a good idea ,I guess it will be 100 ish hp in this setting , probably good for when it's wet ,good luck with your choice ,I have a review on the Ninja 650 too if you haven't seen it yet all the best mark
mark pulling Thanks Mark! I’ve watched your review of the Ninja 650 about 3 times. 😀 Thanks for doing these riding reviews. I’m leaning towards the 650 as it is less intimidating to my beginner sensibilities, but am still pondering.
Hi ya Mark, hope you are well with this fucking disease. love your right-up on this superb machine, I have a Yam 900 Tracer, which I love, but this bike interests me. Take Care Young Man, I'm 63 so There.
Hi Eric ....yes the 1000sx is brilliant but also check the the newer version of it... the ninja 1000 it's even better I have a review on that too Cheers mark
