Motorcycle specifications KawasakiZ e-1 2024 The Z in the socket

Since its inception, the Z has been synonymous with a roadster with character - some more than others. The new Z e-1 is the first of a new breed at Kawasaki: electric.
To showcase its qualities, it arrives in the 125 clan. In order to offer an easy, urban, eco-friendly ride… But with all the emotion of a Kawa?

The Akashi-based firm immediately wanted to give its electric Z a certain allure. The shape, fork head and bodywork are quite similar to those of the Z 400. The weight, however, is very different. At just 135 kg, the Z e-1 is the lightest of the Zs. It puts 12 kg more weight in the Z 125's sights. A welcome surprise, since electric motorcycles are often overweight.

Cute and light, the "Zelectric" is equipped with a 4.3-inch TFT color screen, storage space in the false tank, several riding modes, a "walk assistant" to move the mill at low speed forwards and backwards, smartphone connectivity and a brushless motor. So far, the Z e-1 looks good, but...

as for the engine, it's a cold shower. At constant power, this roadster delivers 5 kW, or just under 7 hp. An "e-boost" function can temporarily (for 15 seconds) boost it to 12 hp (9 kW) to assist overtaking, but this remains limited. Fortunately, the rider is entitled to the torque of a 400, with 4.1 mkg from 0 to 1,600 rpm.

We never said that this Z was going to fristouiller with pumps with fire... But this modest power will be hard to swallow. Although an electric motor naturally offers more punch than a combustion engine, we still have our doubts about the emotion on the handlebars. This "wisdom" limits the Z e-1 to essentially urban use. A look at the top speeds gives some perspective on this roadster's possibilities:
- ECO mode: 62 km/h / with e-boost: 72 km/h
- ROAD mode: 85 km/h / with e-boost: 99 km/h*
- With the WALK function, speed is 5 km/h forward and 3 km/h reverse.
A regeneration system recovers energy during deceleration. This improves range a little. According to the WMTC measurement system, this is 72 km. Much less if you use the e-boost mode.

To compensate, the Z e-1 has a number of practical features that will reassure novices. No clutch, no gears to manage. Noise levels are a doddle. The "tank" trunk provides 5 liters of space and 3 kg max. The batteries are removable for charging at home. But once you've lugged around 11.5 kg in each arm several times, you'll be looking at a different charging cord to plug the grinder in directly. Allow just under 4 hours for a full charge, and around 1? hours for a partial charge from 20% to 80%.

aside from its powertrain, the Z e-1 uses very conventional technical solutions for its chassis. A tubular steel trellis frame with 41 mm forks and preload-adjustable shock absorbers. A single brake disc per wheel is all that's needed: between the featherweight, modest performance and energy recovery system, the Kawa won't be out of pocket when it comes to braking. The short 1370 mm wheelbase, identical to that of the Z 400, the low weight and the wide tires (100/80-17 and 130/70-17) contribute to the bike's outstanding agility.

Kawasaki enters the electric era with caution. As much as the brand was able to get people excited with its formidable representation of supercharging(Ninja H2R), its first electron-powered models don't seem to be overjoyed. The Z e-1 offers a softer approach with stylish styling, which has to be concealed by a price tag worthy of the electric world.
And therefore expensive.

The Z e-1 roadster is accompanied by a small sports bike, the Ninja -e1. It boasts the same technical specs in a more toned-down package.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos

* 99 km/h? Why not more? Because Kawasaki e-1s are limited to this speed for the European market.