Motorcycle journalist Roland Brown tests the 2014 version of Kawasaki's Z1000 on the super-naked four's international press launch on the roads near Seville in southern Spain.
Thanks, I appreciate the feedback. Love those a/c Dukes too. Looking forward to R nineT launch in a couple of weeks. Aim for this year is to get at least some launch videos made more promptly, if proper work allows...
Thanks! Think you're right that there's not much to complain about these days but even within the naked class there are quite big differences in character, among the straight fours let alone the Tuono V4R, Ducatis, Triumph and MV triples etc. Personally I love the high-tech electronic suspension adjustment, traction control etc. And the latest 150bhp+ naked bikes definitely aren't bland, no need to worry about that!
Cheers. Well, one of my latest bikes was a Ducati SF, so I know there's no lack in the power dept of these new breed of nakeds. However, I find - for riding on the road - the aircooled Ducatis more rewarding, with their slightly rougher feel. This makes, f i the old Multistrada more fun to ride than the new one. Also less electronics, for me, adds to that feeling it seems. Having said that, the Hyperstrada test ride last year was a bit of a hoot. A real peach of an engine for the road on that one. Well, maybe it's just me... But when on the road you see a Mercedes which turns out to be a new Hyundai - well, that's a bit what I feel 'bout the new bikes. Looking forward to your take on the new BMW R nineT when that comes around. When the Guzzi V7 came out a few years ago I thought that was the best looking bike of that year. My "new" bike for the year will be a nice old Ducati 999. Nothing bland in the styling there atleast. :-) Thanks again for your superb reviews and taking the time to answer plonker questions.
Another good one,Rollie! Looking at plenty of reviews, tests e t c it seems there's not much to complain about these days (not meant as critisism, more as a fact). Are the different makes/bikes loosing personality? Are things becoming too bland (read too much tech, not enough human quirks)?
