Motorcycle specifications KawasakiZ 1100 SE 2026 Stand your ground

The Z 1100 didn't come alone! When it was called the 1000, it was accompanied by its sportier R clone. The same will be true of this V phase of the big Z, enhanced by a more virulent desire. The name changes, the spirit remains, and the dosage arrives as the Z 1100 SE.

Here's how it's going to work: we're going to start by bringing a little joy and color to the bike. Because the standard Z 1100 is a permanent night scene, where light only exists in the headlights. The SE brings much more presence with its green rims, gold forks and, secondarily, its less taciturn grey coat.

Like the R, it doesn't add extra power, half-guidelines or racing appendages. It's more dynamic... or rather, more efficient, with a few sportier parts.
At the rear, the damping benefits from an Öhlins S46 element, with a remote adjustment knob. The result is improved driveability and comfort. What's more, it's beautiful.
Up front, it's the brakes that have been improved. With braided hoses and a pair of Brembo M4.32 calipers, more biting and efficient than the original Tokico calipers.

Dac, it's nice to have beefier jaws with a label of quality written on them. But the first Z 1000 hadbetter M50 calipers. Why this (slight) move downmarket when the theme is machine enhancement? Maybe it's time to move on to Stylema. A certain Hornet 1000 SP has clearly understood this, and is sure to take a swing at it.

What changes can't be seen

Standard or SE, the Z 1100 looks just like its predecessor, the Z 1000, with unnoticeable cosmetic alterations. Yet many things have changed:

• The engine has gained 56 cm3...
• ... and lost 6 horsepower. Here, it develops 136 hp at 9,500 rpm
• Torque is up to 11.5 mkg
• Revised gearbox
• A large silencer replaces the two gramophones
• Disappearance of eccentric rear-wheel adjustment
• Extensive electronics: traction control, cruise control, ride-by-wire, up&down shifter, inertial unit, intelligent ABS, KCMF trajectory optimizer, 4 riding modes, 5-inch TFT color display, smartphone management
• New handlebars for a more dynamic riding position

Over time, the price gap between two Z versions has widened. The 1100 SE is close to 14,000 euros, well above the price of a Hornet SP, and yet not that high. Let me explain: with (almost) the same chassis as the Z 1000 R, followed by engine upgrades and the addition of electronics, the Z 1100 SE is less expensive than its predecessor. And I'm not even taking inflation into account.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos