Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX Review 2020 4K

Review of the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX 2020 with the bike kindly lent to me by the guys at Laguna Motorcycles in Maidstone - www.laguna.co.uk/
I've been very keen to get out on the new Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 ever since I read the spec. They took the Z1000SX from last year and gave the new Ninja 1000 SX everything it needed to lift it to the next level making it a true sports tourer.
The handling of the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX is improved from last year with adjustments to the geometry at the front end to give more feedback. The Ninja 1000 feels much more planted on the road now.
We then have the addition of some tech. The Ninja 1000SX needed cruise control and it has got it, along with a quickshifter, TFT screen and a very fun lean angle sensor!
The Ninja 1000SX exhaust is now single sided. I personally preferred the look of last years exhaust but it's an easy part to change.
All in all, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is a great bike that is suited to everyday riding, longer tours with the pannier luggage option and two up travel. Awesome!
Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX Specs
1043CC
140 BHP
111 NM of Torque
Seat 835mm
235KG Wet
19LT Fuel Tank
£10,999 Base (Green/White)
£11,199 Base (Black and grey - the one in the vid)
£1000 Touring pack
£1000 Performance Pack
Products used in Making Vid
Helmet Cam - amzn.to/2W2dI6y
Helmet Mic - amzn.to/2VY0cAJ
Walk Around Cam - amzn.to/2W4DmYx
Gimbal - amzn.to/2IcZDhx
Walk Around Mic - amzn.to/2VZGYej
Thank you for watching! Do you have a Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX? How do you find it? I would love to hear your views on it. Hitting the Like button and subscribing is massively appreciated as it really helps my channel grow.
Stay safe, and happy riding
:D
Instagram @thetommybarnez - / thetommybarnez
Tom
#KawasakiNinja1000SX #Ninja1000SX#TommyBarnezTV

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Timestamps Walk around and Specs - 0:12 Start Up & Exhaust note - 4:00 Road Test 6:54 Filtering 7:22 Cockpit Space - 8:40 Seating Position - 9:29 Country Roads - 11:28 Up to Speed - 14:12 No commentary Section 17:03 Cruise Control 19:45 Concluding Thoughts 21:55

[@concernedcitizen5506]

I am in Australia where we have incredible roads for fun. I had a 16 Tracer for 5 years and thought it was great until I purchased a new SX. All i can say is wow. It’s incredibly smooth, comfortable, torquey, wth endless top end. Handles like a dream. It just goes where you point it. Just turn in and if you need to go tighter it will just do it. Probably the easiest bike to ride that Ive ever owned.

[@davidsawczuk4928]

Hi great review, get mine on 10th August. 👌

[@davidfletchfletcher]

If you're thinking about it, take it from an owner. DO IT! Awesome bike. Does everything well. Goes, stops, turns, town, motorway., slow, banzai... Love it.

[@ridepastu1418]

How’s the wind protection. Looks like a lot of head bobbling

[@1956colinb]

Bought a performance tourer version in March, same colour as this one, now has 3,500 miles on it, very pleased with it 👍 I’ve also got an 899 Panigale so that covers the sports bike side of things nicely, I bought the Ninja 1000 because we had 3 big Euro trips lined up this year, two of them have been cancelled and the third one looks to go the same way ☹️ The Ninja would have fitted the bill perfectly for this as it’s proved itself over the last few months to be a fantastically slick and smooth mile muncher, if you’re not going nuts on it, over 50 mpg is easily achievable, which means you don’t hit reserve till 160 - 170 miles on the trip meter and I’m ready for a coffee by then anyhow! It handles brilliantly for a “ sports tourer” of this size, no doubt helped by the excellent Bridgestone S22 tyres, the downside of this is the rear tyre only managed 2,100 miles before it was shot and a good 600 of those were steady running in miles , it also lost its profile quite badly as well 🤔.. I’ve since fitted a set of Michelin Road 5s which seem to suit the bike equally as well, but should give me 4,000 - 5,000 and I know they keep a decent round profile all there useable life. The TFT dash is fantastic and very easy to use and reset etc, and I find the whole bike very easy to live with, longest day ride so far was just over 270 miles, no problems, no aches and pains, could have done another 100 plus on top of that easily. Only thing I’m slightly disappointed with are the factory heated grips ☹️.... only just adequate enough heat wise for the British climate, too fiddly to operate, clicking the small button on the left hand grip and then having to count the light flashes to see what heat they are on takes your eyes away from the road for too long,...in the feedback form to Kawasaki after purchasing the bike, I brought all the above to their notice and their reply was that it stated in the bikes operating manual that you should switch on the heated grips and set the heat level while you are stationary 😳... now who on earth does that🙄??? For the price of them, they should have integrated into the tft display to show on/ off and heat status? But I’m really nitpicking here and this one minor issue in no way detracts from what an overall fantastic bike it is and absolutely stellar value too, I got the black/grey colour scheme, with touring pack ( panniers, inner bags, sat nav bracket, bigger tinted screen, heated grips). Also added the performance pack ( Akrapovic Carbon can, engine crash bungs, rear seat cover) other extras I added were the power socket on the dash, the USB charge points under pillion seat and I also took out an extra two years warranty, giving me 4 years warranty on the bike and this whole lot cost me just over £13,000 ....You spec a BMW up to that level and you’re looking at £17k easily! One final thing I’ll say,..regarding the Akrapovic can, just so people are aware what they are buying,....it’s no different in sound or performance to the standard can, that’s fine by me as I don’t want a noisy bike to tour on, but the Akrapovic looks a hell of a lot better and it weighs over 3 kgs less than the standard can, so I’m happy with that. Anyone thinking about buying one, just do it...I doubt very much that you’d regret it, looking forward to putting loads of miles on mine,..hope this helps 👍

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Wow great feedback! Thanks for taking the time to add. Shame about the euro trips, is there an option tour some UK? Tyre life a bit disappointing. And odd feedback from kawasaki about the heated grips! Thanks again, hope you get some form of a trip before end of year

[@dardobartoli]

Great write up and far better than this review. I bought same as you but without the Performance bits, but I did spray stock muffler matt black and I think it looks better than any after market 'can'. Completely agree with OEM Heated Grips but I knew this when ordering, but I can't stand those addon Oxford gubbins all over the bars and since buying RST heated gloves, realise that all other attempts to keep hands warm are futile. I do wish it had centre stand for chain maintenance if nothing else, but the budget lift thingy I bought does the job OK. You know when you like a bike, when you sit through videos like this just to remind oneself what an awesome machine this is.

[@1956colinb]

Bob Dunn - I’ve just got back from a 1,200 mile long weekend in Scotland on it, the bike went very well, can’t complain at all, 6 of us, bikes split between Kawasaki 1000 SXs or BMW S1000Xr’s..on the road nothing to choose between them but the BM’s engine’s sound as rattly as hell compared to the Kawasaki’s Even loaded up with the panniers on ( which were great btw ) and cracking on a bit, the bike turned in high 40s to low 50s mpg’s all weekend, on a long stint up to Pitlochry, the bike had 168 miles on the trip and still no reserve light on, great range!! Only couple of minor gripes I noticed was after a good few hours in the saddle my bum was starting to ache, but that could be down to not having much built in padding on my skinny arse! That and the fact last weekend had 30 - 40 mph windspeeds for a couple of days, so it seemed a bit noisier than normal, might have a play with a few different screens, it has the touring windscreen fitted at the moment, so I may try something smaller to see if it’s any quieter. Overall, very pleased with the bike, it’s a great fast alrounder and very hard to beat for the money 👍

[@Inked_CR]

How is it in the rain? I'm 27, deciding between something like a 1200 GS or something like this..

[@1956colinb]

@@Inked_CR Hi, It’s pretty good in the rain, very smooth torque delivery helps a lot, I don’t use the rain mode at all, dumbs it down too much for my liking, normally I ride it in Sport mode and if it’s rains a lot I put it into Road mode, it has a very “ elastic “ powerband so you can be lazy with the gears when it’s wet and it’ll really help you keep traction. The 1200GS is a good bike but I think at 27 your a bit young for one yet ( and before I get death threats from GSers, I also have a BM 1100 boxer ) plenty of time for you to move onto them in your 50’s , I just think that the Kawasaki delivers a little more of a sporting ride while still being able to bang out a good few miles in comfort. My Ninja now has just over 18,000 miles on it and it’s been utterly faultless so far, brilliant all rounder, really happy with it. Good luck with your choice 👍

[@pedroazevedo1868]

I tried the new one this week and oh my goodness what an ellegant and wonderfull beast!

[@philiphaynes1834]

Reading all these comments from owners oh boy I can’t wait to pick mine up next weekend black/grey performance pack,oh hurry up Saturday please 😁

[@davehill851]

Bought mine just as lockdown occurred so no big touring this year yet !! I have however loved the bike !! Very smooth, plenty of power, stable , more than enough electronics and panniers too ... I have the touring performance pack and the Akrapovic exhaust .... you are right about the baffles however I have to say that the Akrapovic sounds slightly deeper than standard, the black carbon looks good and I've decided that I don't want a louder bike for long rides so I'm happy enough with that !! For the money I'm well impressed 👍

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Great feedback, time for some big tours will come early next year hopefully. Thanks for feedback on the performance package akra

[@karlbratby4349]

Got one 21 model performance tourer fully loaded in black silver and red... best bike I’ve ever owned, Kawasaki have made a stunner. So smooth, so planted, just does everything great

[@TommyBarnezTV]

I keep debating getting one as a second bike, such a good machine

[@nanitto_1k]

Amazing video and mic quality. Lovely bike as well. Cheers!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks!

[@pjakpjak7000]

Superb review! Dreaming of spring and summer in these dark shit months!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Indeed!!

[@griff4424]

Really liked the review , own the Z900RS , love it. But the Ninja 1000 SX really has me thinking . Might have to add it into my garage !!!

[@nathybaby1982]

Great review Tommy 🏍👍👏👌

[@argieessex]

Definitely my next bike. Great review.

[@michals1108]

same me but not this year

[@borkarms]

Excellent Review.Enjoyed the video.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks!

[@brianwall966]

Tried one yesterday and bought it, its that good! I have also test ridden a Kawasaki Z900RS and a Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro but none of them came close to how good this bike felt to ride.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Sweet! Yeah it's a great bike, solid choice 👌

[@MsChrisep]

Thats great to hear. I was tossing up between this and the tiger. Glad i put the deposit on the ninja.

[@sebsonic8270]

Nice test mate , i have the 2019 model currently and i'm going to change it in 2021 for this one , but to me is a one killer feature missing in this bike and nobody ever talk about it , to be the best tourer bike ever the bike missing this feature ...... the dynamic suspension , hope it will be available next year or so , see ya from France mate .

[@michals1108]

if you want good price then no dynamic sunspension

[@simonlovatt5211]

Just purchaced one and I love it

[@MrScififan]

Great review. I picked up mine last year, wonderful machine. I only got around 3K out of those S22s so have some PR5s on mine now. Completely agree regarding exhaust, I've upgraded to the LeoVince on mine - gives a louder deeper sound. When I got mine they threw in the touring kit for free so I snapped that up - I've seen others put top boxes on them - apparently shad do a rack for them, but agree a top box would look wrong - much prefer the panniers - have got a Kriega tailpack if I needed more luggage space, and as for the Mrs - she can take the car!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Nice! Do you have a vid with the new exhaust? I'm very tempted to get one of these and will be looking at exhaust options

[@MrScififan]

@@TommyBarnezTV Sure, here's the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYSzeH-VntGMjMk

[@paulpartridge2674]

Bought one 3 weeks ago , love it😂

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks to those that made the premiere :D that was fun. Thought very frustrating the quality drops to 1080p. It's back to 4K now.

[@karlosh9286]

1080p always looks fine to me :-D

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@karlosh9286 thankfully back to 4k :)

[@tonycartwright9894]

Ime going on a test ride this Saturday love the look of this bike I ride a 08 bandit 1250 gt at moment that I've had for 10 years but looking to upgrade to the 1000sx tourer

[@GBMatthew07]

Really solid bike it's had rave reviews from most testers.

[@matthewduckworth7563]

I totally agree about the exhaust. What were they thinking? 😳

[@philiphaynes1834]

Just watching this vid again and I had to soften the rear suspension felt as the back wheel was loose maybe skipping over bumps not absorbing them. A lot better after the adjustment

[@adrianroberts4287]

That engine sound 👍

[@nairbyad7188]

Michelin Road 5 tires dramatically improved handling over the crap Bridgestones that came on my 2018. if Kawi wanted to put tour in their sport-tourer, they would've made 6th gear a serious overdrive. look at the extremely high revs on the highway!! added a tooth on front and dropped one on rear to compensate. the crazy acceleration is no longer, however. my rear spring is way too hard, front geometry feels odd, tach is impossible to read at night. glad kawi addressed all three. get the bags, they're wonderful!

[@mickrick84]

very good testing! Lots of information! I don't know if I have to opt for the Tracer 9 GT for long touring with my pillion, though I like the SX much more..

[@TommyBarnezTV]

The tracer 9 is pretty awesome and probably better 2up touring.

[@a68war]

Mines in for it first service, starting to love it now. Had a 2019 versys SE GT with all the electric suspension and everything but the frame and stance of the bike let too many vibs through for me and it was top heavy. The Ninja is like a sports car compared to a land rover. Only thing I miss is the cornering lights, but still never go out in the dark much, plus Ninja lights are great too. With levers adjusted and suspension softened with a but if compression and rebound to damp it down starting to love it. I got the Performance tourer with top box as well. Great.

[@viktorbenedek868]

I've got a 2021 Versys S and thinking about changing to Ninja SX. Have you regreted your decision since then, or completly happy with it, and never thinking of the Versys? :)

[@a68war]

@@viktorbenedek868 As it turned out the Ninja also got traded for the Tiger 900 GT Pro and I love it, wished I got it before I wasted my money on the two new kwaks. Never got the suspension settled on the Ninja and even on cruise I used to sit up with finger tips on bars as over time it became uncomfortable, just never put that much of a smile on face after a ride and always thinking about seat, suspension, quick shifter never quite sorted. Even had to remove my £500 rack and topbox as that caused suspension chatter and wobbles at speed behind larger vehicles. Now the tiger is great tyre pressure monitor cruise and can even just release bars and the bike is so stable, and heated seat, who knew that would be good too, ha! I found the kawasaki's good to look at but not satisfying to ride, and I do not miss any power as the tiger digs in and goes when you want it too. My advice is to try a few more bikes and take them on some good rides not worry about top end speed but just how good the bike is in general, we are all different. Now I tend to keep the Tiger a very long time to make up for my two bad choices in two years, problem is at time I thought I had thought it threw, thats biking for you, enjoy.

[@viktorbenedek868]

@@a68warThx. I owned a Tracer900gt and it was much less stable then the Versys. Wind protection was worst. Is the Tiger more stable really or just not using topbox or not driving so fast as with the Ninja?

[@a68war]

@@viktorbenedek868 Tiger is fine with or without luggage, I have the full triumph aluminium cases. I don't get buffeting with the Tiger, I find it very good and consistent in the wind.

[@KB-yj5xp]

Loved the review thanks. I’m thinking of either trading in my Z900rs or keeping it and adding this...

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Multiple bikes is always the best option if its possible :)

[@KB-yj5xp]

@@TommyBarnezTV agreed just need to sort out the financial and spouse first!

[@patrickdunster9067]

Really enjoyed your review of this bike! I got mine two weeks before lock-down, so haven't ridden it as much as I'd like, but I've enjoyed every mile. I agree with all your comments. Re the rear being light, I hadn't really noticed to be honest. On the quickshifter, you need throttle open for upshifts, but closed for downshifts as it has an auto-blipper. It works very well in my experience as long as you have a minimum of 3,000-3,500 revs. To all you out there thinking about one, don't hesitate, go for it - you won't regret it!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks, great to hear your feedback. Hopefully next year will see some more riding opportunities

[@memduherdogar150]

I’m a Newby only passed my test few months ago, currently own Honda cb650r, I think this bike is in my short list for next bike after few more thousand miles.

[@fnlim1117]

I am exactly the same. After owing CB650R one and half years, I got my 2023 Ninja 1000sx.. make u smile keeping of both..

[@paxwallace8324]

Apparently factory ECUs are set to both lean out and reduce throttle settings at critical points so with a flash you can 145 honest rear wheel hp and even more torque right through Rev rev rev range

[@cjyu2]

great review Tommy!! I was wondering is it possible to remove the grab rails on the side of the tail to give it a more cleaner look?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Sorry I'm not sure on that one. When I'm next in the dealer I'll try and remember to ask :)

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Hey all, if you are watching on premiere it has dropped it to 1080p unfortunately. Must be something to do with the premiere settings as it's a 4k file like normal. Sorry for the drop in quality

[@egg250]

I always wait for the premiere to complete to watch in 4k

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@egg250 yeah dont think I'll be doing a premiere again until that is sorted

[@chrisw4215]

I have late 2017 performance and to be honest 2 pipes makes a huge difference to me. Looks so much better than the new one. New screen is a nice addition though

[@danielstrynkowski2314]

Hello mate.. I have 2017 as well.. Little question.. Do U feel vibration over 6000 rpms??

[@chrisw4215]

@@danielstrynkowski2314 sorry ze dopiero odpisuje ale musiałem się przejechać pare razy żeby odpowiedzieć. Nie mam żadnych wibracji ale zauważyłem tez ze przy normalnej jeździe rzadko przekraczam 6-7tys. Kiedyś czytałem o tym problemie. Ja mam model na rynek uk, może to robi różnice

[@danielstrynkowski2314]

@@chrisw4215 Dzieki za info... Nie mysle ,ze na rynek angielski jest hakas roznica... Te motory sa wysylane z ZJaponi..

[@chrisw4215]

@@danielstrynkowski2314 moze to nie wina silnika w takim razie. w samochodzie dla przykladu drgania silnika sa mozliwe od poduszek pod skrzynia biegow czy poduszek wlasnie pod silnikiem. co Kawasaki mowi? podejrzewam ze temat nie jest nowy wiec miales gwarancje przez pierwsze 2 lata. ja sie przesiadam w przyszlym roku na turystyka, kocham ten motocykl ale chce sprobowac czegos innego. urzekla mnie honda nc750x. lwg

[@NapoleonDeanomight]

Definitely a great looking bike. I like the exhaust beefy and shiny.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Yeah real stunner

[@scuddy100HYA]

Hi .. has any body fitted better looking mirrors or bar end mirrors? Thanks in advance

[@dmandhelen]

I thought your comment on the front end of the 2018 model being lighter was a bit unusual ... I had 2018 model 18 months and did 22,000 miles on it ..no tours ..just commuting and days out ..and the first thing I noticed about this new model when I bought it ...was how much lighter and more nimble the front end felt compared to the last one ....its made the overall feel of the bike much lighter and more agile ...so not sure why it was the other way round for you???? good review by the way ...and spot on about it being a good ."only bike"..which is why I bought it !!!!... by the way you can turn the cruise control off by twisting the throttle forward too..!!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Yeah it was the 2019 model z1000sx I found the front end felt light when I took it out. Not as solid in the bends as other bikes I'd ridden, a bit floaty, not planted. Hard to describe really 😂 i had someone comment on my 2019 video saying it could be improved with different tyres though so maybe it was related to the stock they had on. Cracking bike though, think I might be getting one at some point

[@dmandhelen]

@@TommyBarnezTV nothing comes close for the looks and the price ....!!!! also they do a 4 year warranty with it ....no brainer ...!!!!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@dmandhelen next year maybe...

[@kristopherhock5120]

Just bought a 2021 ninja 1000sx I plan to de cat the exhaust

[@jdub264]

Any ECU reprograms out there for the 2020+?

[@bikesanddrones1206]

please could you tell which camera and mount you are using on your helmet i'm wanting to fit my hero 9 on to a shoei gt air 2.by the way great video i'm buying the ninja 1000 sx early next year in place of my fjr1300.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

I'm still on a hero 6 at the moment 😂 I used a product call sugru which you can get on amazon. I have the gt air 2 too and works well with it. I can still open and close the chin vent.

[@bobbyblueace]

Nice job. :-)

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks!

[@RSHeth1390]

I am currently deciding whether to trade my mt10 for a 2021 one of these

[@egg250]

One bike to rule them all

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Indeed

[@vincentdavidson755]

When traffic comes to a stand still and u go in-between cars be careful because sometime u have people opening their doors for whatever and can cause u to crash into them because some people are not expecting a bike to come in between them and they don't bother to look behind them when they open the door😬

[@ArtyYeo]

Lovely & informative video. I'm planning to get the 2021; do you know if there is any difference between the 2020 vs 2021?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

I believe its just colour options

[@akusioish]

none...other than the color

[@thetruth6693]

What were you saying about this compared to the 765?

[@shaxmarax6716]

Ooooh a premiere... are we putting out the red carpet? :)

[@TommyBarnezTV]

haha, trying something new!

[@mickrick84]

the top box would have been very useful for touring with your pillion..

[@markjones3551]

Great review....money aside how does it compare to the ktm superduke gt?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Superduke gt is a lot more exciting.

[@Davidlouis3]

Well done Tommy great review good to see someone giving a bike a good kick that’s what there for, don’t listen to the dogooders who drive like miss daisy, keep up the good work, enjoy 👍

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Cheers mate, glad you enjoyed 👍

[@ridewherever]

I’d get this if I ever get tired of my speed triple. not really losing anything and I’m gaining storage with the touring package.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

I havent tried the speed triple yet, I've heard good things

[@ridewherever]

TommyBarnezTV You’ll love it. I can’t fault it in anyway for just joy riding. I have a black 2017 S model. but for touring it doesn’t have all the fun stuff the ninja 1000 sx has. Not my model year anyway, especially panniers.

[@bikerboy5592]

The big exhaust is gone i puth small orion on it is like driving formula one sound is wow

[@maldridge7630]

Awesome! I went with full Akro and even removed the baffle ✌️

[@ih8youtub1234]

Just purchased one of these to ride the sunny northern Spanish roads! can't wait! I took one out for a test ride a few weeks ago, but couldn't figure out the cruise control... Please can you explain how it works?!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Great roads! If I remember correct there is a cruise control button the left handlebar. There is then an up and down arrow next to it. Press cruise control button and then the down button to set at current speed. You can then increase and decrease with the up and down button and I think turn it off with same cruise control button you started with, or you can probably use brake or clutch but I would double check on that

[@Morten546]

TommyBarnezTV Not ridden this bike but on my current bike I can cancel the cruise control by twisting the throttle the "wrong" way. Very intuitive and I'd expect you could do the same with this?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@Morten546 yeah probably, there are always a few ways I just tend to prefer a button option

[@philiphaynes1834]

TommyBarnezTV I believe rolling the throttle of just that little extra from off turns it off as well, the throttle will roll off a bit more from closed position If that makes sense

[@anthonypayne4136]

This is my dream bike got the FZO7 to learn on got a few years left on it. Do you think that’s a good bike to move up too?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Yeah id say so. Only thing with any bike is taking some time to adjust to it. Its not an intimidating ride.

[@Jimo368]

If they had stuck to the better looking dual exhaust they could have probably fit a center stand under it.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Yeah really frustrating they couldn't work out a centre stand

[@bajnoklevente]

Such a fun video. Thank you for that. Just a quick one if may I. Would you recommend this bike for semi long distances up to 6-800 miles with a second half? I am planning for a Europe tour next year with my wife. I am 5ft 7 She is 5ft9. Thank you very much in advance. Safe ride. Regards, Levente

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Hey Levente, hard to say as I've not done it however heres my guess. Power wise will be fine. The engines great and its a lovely ride in that sense. Well balanced. Comfort - might be an issue for your other half. Unsure and hard to say definitely. My other half jumped on the back of one when I sat on in the showroom. She's 5ft2 and thought it was really comfortable though its really hard to say long distance. Luggage - this could be an issue. There may be a workaround that I'm not aware of yet but its my understanding you can't have a top box and the panniers on at the same time. If you are happy just having a pannier each you'll be OK. I also think the look of the bike is ruined a bit with a top box anyway, its just whether you'll have enough room. You could get a tank bag for some extra bits. If luggage is gonna be an issue then other options to look at would be the adventure bikes. Tiger, v strom 1050, Africa twin etc. You'll have more options for loading them up however they're no way near as beautiful as this. I hope that helps!

[@alanbriggs7177]

My thoughts, as an owner: I love this bike, but wouldn't recommend it for what you want. My wife is shorter than yours and she finds it very uncomfortable. You can put a SHAD topbox on, which would help with the luggage issue. I did a 1000 mile day on my SX, and the Ninja is more comfortable. I swapped my seat for the lower gel seat. You may find the standard seat a bit high.

[@bajnoklevente]

@@alanbriggs7177 Yes I noticed the seat is a but high. That's a good tip actually thank you. I'm a bit sad as I would love the bike I am sure but we need something which suits both of us well. Any recommendations for a couple bike? :) Thanks again!

[@elgueroaero]

Levente, try the 2020 Versys 1000. Far better better fit for you and your sweetheart. Electronic adjustable suspension, same engine and trans as the Ninja 1000 (feels very close in tune as well) but with a comfier seat and more upright position. Happy riding, my friend 🤘.

[@doesitmatter7220]

Hi I’ve got a 2018 Honda CB 1000R and tour twice a year with soft luggage is this Worth the up grade

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Probably not. I rode the cb1000r+ 2019 model and loved it. Id say the engine is better than the ninja 1000sx. If I remember right there isn't a quick shifter on the cb1000r? That's an area the ninja is nicer. Also cruise control. Luggage potential for the two is probably pretty similar. I much prefer the look of the ninja however personally wouldn't be looking at upgrading to this if I had a cb1000r as wouldn't feel like an upgrade overall, it wouldn't be a downgrade, would just be something a little different. Have a test ride though and see what you think

[@gryphongryph]

How is this bike for taller riders, am 1.90m tall with long legs, how is the knee angle ? Does it vibrate a lot ? Thanks!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Vibrations not bad at all. I'm about 1.82m and leg angle was fine for me though hard to know how you'll find it. Id guess you would be OK on it, but you'd really need to have a go on one and see how it is. You might possibly want a taller screen on it too if your head is higher.

[@motorcyclemichael2182]

How’s the fuel economy?

[@kevbizzzz]

actually looking for my first bike should I go with the 650 and maybe change in a year and lose money or go strait to a 1000sx ?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Hard to say really. Very dependent on you and the riding you do. For reference my first bike was a 650 which I've put 50k miles on and still not bored with it. Only area it's lacking is that it's not very good gor long tours, but day to day it's fine. If you think you'd want to change soon I'd suggest a second hand 650, that way you won't really lose much money as insurance will also be quite a bit cheaper on the 650 compared to the 1000 as a new rider.

[@jamescornflake1542]

Does quick shifter mean automatic or just not using the clutch? Please.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

No need to pull the clutch :)

[@jamescornflake1542]

@@TommyBarnezTV Ok Tommy. I was at the IOM and heard/saw Hickman and Dunlop et al doing mighty fast gear changes. First I ever heard of it. I couldn't easily see what exact movements they were carrying out)))) I am trying to move from 21 Versys to this SX. Sounds fab. Thank you.

[@karlosh9286]

gopro camera attached somewhere so you can get a good view of the lean angle, then watch it on the highlights ? ( and just look at the real bend whilst cornering :) )

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Haha that would work 🤣

[@davidfletchfletcher]

You have another mode without the lean angle indicator and the rideology app can record all the lean/throttle/brake stuff :-)

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@davidfletchfletcher that sounds better!

[@johnnyseyer1260]

@@TommyBarnezTV 1250Gs ore Ninja 1000sx What do you prefer?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@johnnyseyer1260 would be the GS for me. Had one for a few hours recently and was seriously impressed. Will likely be getting one at some point..

[@Memo-xr4nu]

Tommy Which One did You Like Better Kawasaki 1000sx Or Triumph Street triple ?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Depends what you want it for. For long distance or 2 up I would go with the ninja. For a track day or shorter fun rides I'd go with the street triple. I do quite high mileage each year so would personally go with the ninja if I could just have one as I feel its more versatile and better suited to my needs.

[@Memo-xr4nu]

Thanks

[@anthonypayne4136]

Also do you think a beginner could get that bike to start with? Watched reviews on the Ducati super sport s and they say it’s an excellent bike that a beginner could start on it. No one mentions that for the z1000sx

[@TommyBarnezTV]

It really depends on the rider and what training they have done. Its definitely in the category that would raise an eyebrow for a new rider however I do know someone that went onto the z1000sx as his first bike. The training here to get a license is fairly stringent which would have helped him. He also had a lot of experience on the road in cars which again helped. So I'd say for most beginners its probably not a wise choice, however for some beginners it may be an OK choice. They would also need the right personality and mental maturity for it too.

[@anthonypayne4136]

TommyBarnezTV thank you for the response brother! I have experience got to take the advanced riders safety class before making this buy so I’ll feel more comfortable from the start. Thank you for your time

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@anthonypayne4136 no probs, good luck with it!

[@LotusExige350]

I know it was with the stock exhaust and you said get the Akra, but it doesn't very loud or have a nice noise. Is that fair?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

I'd say its average, its not terrible. My reason for getting the akra or another option, would be firstly look, second weight and then sound.

[@LotusExige350]

@@TommyBarnezTV Fair enough, thanks for input. Only reason I said was because from 18:07, it sounded wheezy and didn't have a nice grumble or bass to it. Great review too by the way :)

[@chrisw4215]

You need to change headers to have a really good sound. I had stock exhaust with stock headers and it was horrible, then akropovic cans with stock headers and it was a bit better but not much, when I changed headers to akropovic racing one I had a sound I wanted. But it’s an expensive business

[@myownroad9278]

👍👍👍

[@oldrob5773]

I'm giving serious thought to buying one but I can't test ride for obvious reasons. My only real concern is seat height. I'm 5'8" with shortish legs and like to get my feet planted on the ground especially with heavier bikes. Often it's the seat design rather than just height that determines that. Anyone have an opinion please ?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Difficult one to say for sure. Personally I would guess you would be fine and get used to it however I would say worth waiting until you've had a sit on one atleast to be sure

[@oldrob5773]

@@TommyBarnezTV Thanks Tommy. Sensible advice.

[@ahde3133]

There’s an optional lower seat available.

[@MrJulianbowden]

Hmm as an owner of a 2020 tracer 900gt I have to say I've overlooked this bike. How on earth is it so cheap ?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

They're an absolute bargain these I think. The secondhand market is great too. I think part of it is due to how much market share they have. I was surpised how the price hasn't really changed from last years model even though there are a ton of tech upgrades.

[@ful48j]

The realistic price is because Kawasaki have been sensible in using a proven engine and chassis platform which they've improved over several years and then added the electronics and functionality that is now readily available. They then offer the bikes in a sensible range of options, with a limited range of colours and versions, rather than having so many special editions, flavours and accessories. They are also able to make these bikes in much larger volumes than any of the European manufacturers, even BMW, Triumph & Ducati, allied to the economy of scale and ability to purchase components (suspension, brakes, electronics etc.) in larger volumes adds to the savings.

[@808speedster]

How’s the ergos, upright riding comfort?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Yeah absolutely fine, sitting up right comfortable, or you can tuck in if you want

[@davidfletchfletcher]

If it helps, I'm 6'2" with a bad back and it's comfier than my last KTM Adventure. 2 hour + comfort, break and go!

[@Tom-zy6ke]

Bet you couldn't filter like that with Panniers on.....but you could with a top-box...

[@TommyBarnezTV]

I think you'd be OK with most filtering, its only the tighter gaps you'd struggle with

[@fyorbane]

Cracking bike for the money.

[@jobyEN]

Jail mode is the only mode this bike has! :)

[@nickthequick]

I love it when people love my new bike as much as I do. Is that bad? ;)

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Haha 😄

[@guyedwards6696]

The back end feels light. Do you mean the suspension is off?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Hard to say, I'm not an expert on these things. I found the back end just felt a little light while riding as if the centre of the mass was slightly forward rather than spread evenly over both tyres. It may have been suspension settings, may have been preload settings, may have been a bad riding position by me or may have been nothing and just me over analysing. I'm considering getting one so I also may have also been mentally analysing the ride a touch more than I usually would. Its a cracking bike and even though I'm curious about it I also think I may have just been wrong. It wouldnt put me off getting one and if I did I would just spend some time playing around with the settings. Have a ride, would love to hear what others think

[@guyedwards6696]

@@TommyBarnezTV A few months listening to Dave Moss and you'll have it sorted. Helps the whole process make simple sense.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@guyedwards6696 thanks for the tip! I've just found his channel and I hadnt seen before so will start going through his vids.

[@guyedwards6696]

@@TommyBarnezTV Yes he saved my life. Triumph sent me out of the shop with a brand new street triple. Lovely bike. But they sent me on my way with a bouncy front end and a shock with no sag whatsoever for my weight. So it was a night mare waiting to happen. The back end always felt light. Now it runs like a dream and I check up on my own setting fairly regularly. Enjoy!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@guyedwards6696 perfect thanks! I watched a couple of his short vids this afternoon and found them really good. Lot to look at which I hadnt considered or thought much about.

[@mickrick84]

Why not in beautiful Green anymore?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

There is a sorta green one this year 😎

[@mickrick84]

@@TommyBarnezTV yes i know but I would Like one with a GREEN! tank..

[@michals1108]

before complaining about exhaust looks remember about euro5

[@ksmha15]

Don't like it, the new dashboard is stupid. Everytime you go fast it gets blurry, thats not right..... Ok, back to normal. Still not sure about this one or the Versys 1000. It happens not that much but, sometimes the girl likes to come on a drive as well. Seat for passenger on the Versys is better. Any change for a Versys review maybe? You like to drive them quick. Do worry that Versys is not doing that enough. Writing this, no changes really for the 2021 models. Thanks for the review!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Keen for a go on the versys I hear good things about it. Unsure if I will get the chance this side of Christmas with everything going on. I dont think the ninja is bad 2up. My other half sat on the back in the showroom and prefers it to my v strom as she can see more ahead. However she would prefer a top box, think it makes her feel more comfortable.

[@ragimundvonwallat8961]

40 mph reviewlllll yay

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Comment from someone that doesn't know how to ride on public roads, yay

[@ragimundvonwallat8961]

@@TommyBarnezTV may the soy be with you

[@TommyBarnezTV]

And the moron with you 😘

[@toldenfr]

they need to improve this bike with a more discrete exhaust....

[@francoispelissier1547]

That was a legit *Jesus Christ* shout if i ever heard one 🤣🤣

[@bikerboy5592]

I drive it in philipines i buy the bike there with 5 years insurance and plate all in the price u buy the bike same price it is

[@boormoboormo9701]

50% less exhaust. That’s half as good.

[@Nemo-in6mo]

if this was Australia kangaroo would of jump out and killed me by now lol

[@gdub918]

23:27 Who doesn't like a tight gap? lol

[@AlienApe.]

For the algo.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks! Really appreciate it

[@JimmyBComputerGuy]

What you are calling "filtering" is called "lane splitting" here. Moving violations involving this include the possibility of a "reckless driving" charge, an automatic insurance rate hike, and points against losing your motorcycle operators permit. Watching you do it makes me understand better why it is illegal here.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

It's perfectly legal here and as it is commonplace I would argue it is much safer. When filtering you move through traffic with better visibility of the road ahead, you reduce the risk of vehicles slamming into the back of you, and you also get past traffic to more open roads rather than being boxed in moving with dangers in front and behind. I understand it can appear risky at first glance however in countries where it is normal practice you will find every rider would argue its safer. I've probably filtered 30,000+ miles and would be extremely uncomfortable riding somewhere I was unable to.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Also for your advanced rider training qualifications here which reduce your insurance and make you a safer rider, you would fail if you didn't filter.

[@JimmyBComputerGuy]

@@TommyBarnezTV Here in Texas, other motorists will squeeze you out and cut you off. "You're not gettin' in front of me!" You know, like that. When there's a wreck it's, "Oh I didn't see him". I would definitely be afraid some spiteful driver would open a door. To further the madness, it is legal to open carry a handgun here without a license or training of any kind. Every redneck idiot has a loaded weapon.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@Jimmy B yeah I've seen videos from various states where it's illegal and car drivers really don't like it. I see its legal in california however I still see some altercations about it. It really is fine here, a lot of cars move to give extra space for filtering. Very occasional someone might try to block you a bit but that's the most you get. I live in South UK and work all around London. So many bikes on the road that car drivers are pretty good and used to us. Not being seen is still an issue however there are things you can to do improve that. Google "the science of being seen". I went to talk once from the guy that wrote that and it has changed my thinking around car perception and limits of the human eye which has led to some different riding habits which I'm convinced have reduced the amount of times cars pull out on my or across my path.

[@JimmyBComputerGuy]

@@TommyBarnezTV Good tip! Thanks much.

[@dardobartoli]

I can assure you that 'uvver reviewers' do not say the same as you...

[@sergioscalia5922]

Forget the “rage “ mode in the R line..😂the exaust could win the prize for the most horrible piece of kit a bike could show🙈

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Haha yeah proper ugly 😂

[@lold6130]

Agree re top-boxes. Bloody ugly! Should only be used for delivering pizzas.

[@dalingdingaling827]

Your riding is asking for trouble and is presumptive of everyone following rules.

[@Davidlouis3]

This fool also

[@stevepovey2489]

Yes, lots of kids running around in Yalding too

[@maldridge7630]

You haven't done your homework and left viewers with just any many questions as before. Al u did was go for a joy ride...lame

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Do you have any specifics on points I left out? Always looking to improve

[@Davidlouis3]

Don’t listen to that fool Tommy

[@kignacio]

Funny because all my questions were answered. Maybe you just have stupid questions.