Kawasaki Ninja Z1000SX Review 2019

Review of the Kawasaki Ninja Z1000SX which was kindly lent to me by the guys at Laguna Motorcycles - www.laguna.co.uk/
I found the Z1000SX to be a great bike with a lot of character and potential for different roles. The Kawasaki is competent at motorway speeds, throwing at some twisties or getting through town. With the addition of the panniers which look awesome the Z1000SX would make a solid bike for those longer trips.
Riding the Ninja Z1000SX is pretty easy with a front end that feels like and responsive. The bike doesn’t feel as planted on the road as other bikes I’ve ridden however this may be a trade off with how light the front end is.
Power delivery on the Z1000SX feels very natural on the throttle and I was able to feel in tune with it very quickly. There are 2 power modes - Low power and full power - I didn’t see any great difference between these two.
Stock exhaust on the Z1000SX looks awesome and sounds awesome. I wouldn’t personally look to change that. Changes I would introduce would be the screen however that is more related to my size, a smaller rider will probably be fine.
Kawasaki Z1000SX Specs -
1043CC
140BHP
111NM Torque
Seat height 815mm
Curb weight 235KG
19Lt Fuel Tank
49MPG
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. If you found the video helpful please remember to hit the like/comment/subscribe. It really does help me out :D
Tom
#kawasaki #z1000sx #tommybarneztv

[@Jambome]

First rate video quality. So is the audio quality which was handy in appreciating the sound of those dual pipes. A big fan of this bike. Keep em coming Tom

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Cheers mate! Glad you enjoyed, more to come

[@dankoekebacker3919]

I bought an 2018 in exact thesame spec, simply the best bike i have owned so far. The green has a gold flake in sunlight, really nice color. Great vid

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

The little chuckle at 12:54 tells you everything you need to know about this bike.....

[@mickeyblue7733]

Hahaha yea I thought the same 🤣

[@sarahdutton8237]

Lovely looking bike! Gorgeous colour!

[@Auronkatamail]

I came to appreciate this bike; at first I thought it was ugly and unnecessary in a lineup, but I changed my mind after I saw a couple of videos. Thank you for your review, I like the way you expose your driving experiences and thoughts.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks, glad you liked.

[@KM-os4be]

A stunning looking bike and color!

[@richardmark4385]

Love the picture quality and sound that you did on this bike don't change anything when doing other videos

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Cheers man! I have been upgrading slightly so actually hoping the audio is going to get better. The crackling at speed is what annoys me. I've also changed to a chin mounted view on the gopro which I think is a bit more engaging

[@zxrider007]

Great review, mine is coming next week in same colour with performance pack 👍👌

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

I'm seriously thinking of buying one of these machines in the coming weeks. How are you getting on with yours after 9 months?

[@arielramirezpr94]

Great bike review, appreciate the inside info

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks!

[@stevenenglish3671]

Great information, great review. Just what I needed.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Awesome thanks! I reviewed the 2020 model earlier last year too which may be of interest if you are considering options. Some great upgrades

[@robedwards782]

A comprehensive, detailed review, excellent many thanks

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks! This was last years model. I reviews this years model earlier in year. Some great improvements I think

[@jameshodgson5644]

I have one of these bikes 2012 plate, no ABS or other electronics still a great machine, fast but not scary, comfy riding position and looks great - love my SX!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Nice! Thinking I definitely want one in the future at some point

[@brettdonaldson1584]

G ’Day Tommy from Australia, I have only just recently found your channel and think your videos are informative and enjoyable to watch. I have the same bike 2017 with 10,000 km and not a single problem to report, dose everything very well including commute, tour, scratch and looks & sounds great as well. Like other comments I would love to see integrated cruise control, heated grips and the option of a quicker shifter and possibly heated seats on any future updates to the bike. keep up the good work.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Cheers mate! Good to hear your feedback on the bike, I do like it a lot. I was actually looking online at second hand ones last night, great prices on them at the moment. If I had a garage I would probably be buying one 😂

[@ridewithgnr2116]

Howdy from Texas, Tommy! I used to have an 03 Z1000. Loved it and miss the wheelies! I loved the gold quad pipes on those bikes too. Good looking bike there, and with some hard case bags available, would make a great overnight sport tourer,

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Cheers buddy, yeah its lovely. Shame about cruise control though

[@djbgatekeeper]

I've had one of these lovely machines for a year now, it's only missing cruise control and heated grips. Other than those 2 points I love the bike and it goes like a rocket one or two up. I fitted a sergant seat which makes doing 150 mile ride outs comfy and no numb bum syndrome! This bike is definately a keeper, nice review thanks.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks, I think heated grips might be wasted a bit without hand guards? Heated gloves would be on my list of kit additions if I had one. Nice tip about the seat :)

[@djbgatekeeper]

@@TommyBarnezTV Have you tried Oxford heated grips? I couldn't believe how effective they were on my bandit. I'm sure the gloves will do the trick too 👍

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@djbgatekeeper yeah I've got oxfords on my v Strom. They're awesome, however I have the guards too. I've noticed the tips of my thumbs get very cold despite the grips as the hand guards dont seem effective at getting the wind off that part of hand. Rest of hand awesome but has made me think the heated grips are only really suited when paired with guards. I dont think guards would suit the z1000sx hence the view heated gloves would be better :)

[@tirwin3]

I've got the heated grips and I love them! Work quite well. I ride in temps as low as 20 F. That's negative something in C. My winter gloves have a fair amount of Thinsulate. Would love for Kawasaki to make a cruise control for this bike.

[@commonsensejones9979]

I'm really bummed that it doesn't have cruise control. Or at least a throttle lock. My hand just wears out so the lack of CC has kept me from taking the plunge on one.

[@Forexmospherians]

Thanks Tommy, great review and super motorcycle

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks!

[@darseyno1520]

great review. I have had a 2016 on and change to a ducati 950 multi but then changed back to the 2019 sx/ Great bike,

[@lovelessissimo]

That color is fantastic.

[@Bob-tq2jv]

This has kerb appeal in spades. Lovely looking bike.

[@wayneshephard]

Enjoyed the review, nicely done

[@imrankhan-vv1jn]

i love hayabus haaa nd ninja zx10r zx 14r

[@Davidlouis3]

Love the camera position Tommy 👍

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Cheers mate! Though I've changed it since making this video to a more central chin mount view. I find it works good for most bikes, apart from bikes with a big screen!

[@danilocapellan1316]

Thanks great review

[@guardian-X]

Driving the 2018 version since last year and very happy with it, great bike and nice power output.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Nice, have you gone for heated grips btw? Curious to know from an owner whether they are worth it without the hand guards

[@guardian-X]

@@TommyBarnezTV Yep, i have. It definitely helps during the cold days (been driving over the winter). But you're hands are sort of cold from the outside, and warm on the inside. Some hand guards would be an improvement i think.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@guardian-X good to know, I've got them on my v strom but have hand guards. Unsure if hand guards would look right on the z1000sx

[@tirwin3]

I've got the heated grips. I hadn't thought about hand guards as I've never owned a bike with them. But the heated grips work pretty well for me. One day it was only 13 degrees F out and I rode anyway. 40 minute ride to work. Had to stop to warm up my hands. While warming up my hands in a coffee shop, I ordered a pair of snowmobile gloves. Still haven't opened those gloves. It didn't get that cold again.

[@tirwin3]

Entertaining review, mate. Thank you. I'm in the states and I have this bike, but they call it a Ninja 1000 over here. Mine is from 2017 and is Metallic Spark Black where that one is green. I agree with everything you said. Great for daily use, decent for commuting in traffic. I don't have the panniers, but they're on my wish list. Tires lasted me about 6500 miles. Don't know how many kilometers that is. Replaced with Dunlop Roadsmart 3 and now it's even easier to make it go where I want it to, and I don't have to put so much effort into keeping it there. I'm also concerned about it getting nicked, so I keep it in the garage at home, and have multiple video cameras watching it at work. I still giggle when I get it up to speed. That never gets old.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks! When I test ride I only have the bikes for about 2 hours so it's good to hear you agree with my conclusions being an owner. Nice feedback on the tyres too

[@sukeshshettigar4260]

@Terry Irwin 6500 mile = 10460 km

[@shaxmarax6716]

Great review... that is a sexy looking bike!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks :) yeah it's a real looker

[@MuzzyArtyBiker]

thank you for the review, been looking to buy either this or the ZZR1400

[@TommyBarnezTV]

New ninja 1000sx out in 2020 which will mean some great deals on the 2019 model will be available. New model coming with cruise control and quick shifter

[@Matapang2]

Great review, I now plan to have one of these.........

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks! You will enjoy... Check out the comments below as a few owners have commented with they views on exhausts and other things. Good info for a buyer

[@axelddfmixvlogs9169]

This is my dream bike.... Wow

[@Harlin67]

Have the 2018 Burnt orange. Soon as I put the Roadtec 01's on, transformed the bike, those Bridgestone from stock are total rubbish. Amazing bike, don't think I'd ever go back to a 600\Naked again. Nice review thx.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Nice, thanks for the info on the tyres

[@theseeker4313]

Ah watching this bike videos since 6 months now, i am done with supersports, this will be my next for sure, not worry about the power it sure will beat 600s and if flashed can keep up with 1000cc almost until the speed limit, main reason i want is for the comfort i saw one at the local dealership and immediately fell in love

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Yeah it's a lovely bike and good level of comfort without sacrificing looks and performance. A very solid do everything bike I think

[@stephenjohnson7519]

Very nice bike

[@strix2035]

I really like that green! Much nicer then the 2017 green, yours looks more like the H2 green 👍

[@petervan-huysse5803]

Really great review, I’ll going to save my penny’s and buy one.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks :)

[@petervan-huysse5803]

TommyBarnezTV Bit confusing why it doesn’t have heated grips or cruise control on a sports tourer?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@petervan-huysse5803 yeah not sure about those either. I think heated grips arent that effective unless you have hand guards so that might be why on that front, but cruise control, really not sure why they didnt put that on.

[@chrismurray3198]

Sounds like my old z800. Love the noise of a Kwak 4 cylinder

[@iam_mono1892]

More like it!! What a machine

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Cheers mate! We still need to arrange a time to meet up!

[@iam_mono1892]

Definitely mate, I’ll sort it out. 👍

[@daleyvb]

Does it offer good wind protection

[@chb1603]

hi tom, another excellent review. thank you! the bike seems to be the perfect "allrounder" with a really powerful engine. just found out that they changed engine and gear box a bit for the z1000sx (compared to the naked z1000 that I tested 1 year ago - amazing power!). how was gear shifting? not too many functions on the sx in contrast with other sportstourer having big shiny tft displays, 100 riding modes, etc. - but I believe kawasaki bikes somehow got more "character" (at least compared to other Japanese bikes). and the green colour is outstanding, I agree!

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks Chris! Shifting was fine, very smooth. I didnt test out quick shifting as forgot the bike had it and muscle memory always goes to the clutch. No false neutrals, all felt good. Definitely a fantastic all rounder if someone doesn't need offroad capabilities and doesn't mind some tighter filtering. Tft screen I'm personally not bothered about and from my limited experience I'm finding only triumph seem to have a big difference in rider modes. The low/high power option on this seemed a bit redundant. Cruise control would be nice too. The bike felt good, but if I'm gonna be picky I would say I prefer a bike to feel a bit more planted on the road. All felt very stable etc but I think I've been spoilt by the feeling of the speed twin. Not a straight comparison and the z1000sx is suited to a lot more riding requirements it's just the speed twin had a very solid, planted to the road feel about it which I loved. That feeling, coupled with the versatility of the z1000sx would be closer to perfect in my mind :)

[@chb1603]

hehe, I understand what you mean. not sure if there is a bike on the market that fulfills these requirements... I don't think so... Maybe should be something like a rough light powerful touring bike... I would like that too... manufacturer read our comments!! :-)

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@chb1603 a good excuse for having multiple bikes :)

[@brettdonaldson1584]

I have the same bike and have been riding for over 30 years, this bike has the best gear box I have ever used, its like butter!

[@rainysunday6186]

You are very lucky to have those colors. Here in the States it only comes in black . . .

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Wow that's a shame, I wonder why this colour isn't available there?

[@globa-worldinternational8674]

Love this bike I ride Z1000sx 2016

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Nice

[@joedlicious9865]

My dreams bike

[@mervintelford3677]

If you get one of these get a full set of crash bobbins as the panniers are expensive to replace. I was looking to get this bike but opted for the "Ducati multistrada enduro pro instead" because of the off road capability. Dropped it twice in a month with hardly a scratch because of the crash bars. If that would have been the Kawi it would have cost me loads of bucks. Definitely my second choice for a touring bike. The Kawasaki 1000sx is absolutely beautifully sculpted, would replace the cans though with either Acrapovich or SC project.

[@S1000xrhp]

Most owners mention how uncomfortable the seat becomes after an hour or so. You might want to factor that into your thinking. But it's easily sorted with a number of inexpensive options from upholstery experts or expensive replacements. I went for the cheaper reupholster (£100) and problem solved. Mines a 2015 model and I got a double bubble screen and MRA screen blade thing but find there's a smoother flow of air when the screen is in its middle position. The higher position tends to put a lot of dirty air at head height. Other than that it's an excellent machine, powerful, smooth and economical. I love it but the 2016-on models definitely look a lot sexier.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Great info, thanks for adding!

[@tekkenthumbdan]

Not a bad review; however the handling when I tried one in 2018 was not as good as I thought it would be. Specifically, I felt that I had to push it into bends and corners by actively counter steering. In addition, I have owned a ZX14 and a Blackbird in the past so I felt that the bike was a bit under powered. So if you are moving from a battleship like the ZX14 or the CBR XX you will notice the difference. In the end I bought a s1000 XR which has a lot of extras like quick shifter up and down, cruise control, 4 riding modes, active suspension, 165 bhp, an upright position, comfortable seat all from factory. The down side of course is that I had to deepen my pockets quite a bit.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks for feedback. I havent ridden the bikes you mention so unable to compare personally so appreciate the info. I found the handling good however felt it was light and required to be held where you want it a bit - we might be describing the same thing from different perspectives however the feel of handling is so subjective to each individual it's probably a bit hard to have definitive conclusions. I'll try the others out if I get a chance as I'm finding that comparing to others on the market really helps in understanding offerings from different bikes.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Probably a more suitable cross-shopping with the Ninja1000 is something like a 1290 Super Duke GT, or the soon to arrive R1250RS. Suzuki makes the GSX-S1000F which looks really hideous, but has a peachy powerful engine. Honda isn't making the VFR800 or 1200 anymore. Ducati Supersport is more radical and the Multistrada is a sport-ADV which is another category again. The only sport tourers on the market are the bikes that weigh another 200 pounds with giant engines that aren't especially horsepower kings, just big torque and low rpm cruising. The one exception is the H2SX, which Kawasaki has restricted from about 220 potential HP to about 168 hp. No joke. Brock's Performance channel demonstrates this on the dyno.

[@TheMegaross91]

Reckon that's a marmite exhaust - main reason I want the akras is because the OEMs look fugly to me. Not made me mind up whether to go performance edition when I buy or fit some yoshimuras and spend the savings on Dyno tuning it and aftermarket goodies. Depends what the dealer has on offer at the time.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

I met an owner who didnt like the stock so had gone with the performance model. However if you get the performance model you are unable to remove the baffles. He regrets not doing himself for that reason. Just something to be aware of :)

[@TheMegaross91]

Yeah it's a good point, got a tiger 1050 with the triumph arrow on it at the moment. Love the fact I can load the triumph arrow tune for that using tune ECU and so say make more power. But the fact I can't turn the volume up to 11 does annoy me, unless you've got the throttle wide open they really don't make that great a noise. Think that seals the Yoshi's for me.

[@johnmayberry7669]

Get rid of the stock exhausts for a set of scorpion serkets and see the difference in power and an r&g tail tidy then you will have the real z1000sx

[@1975supermike]

No cruise control back then ?

[@1979jon]

Only past my bike test 2 months ago, is it wise to get one? Have been driving cars for 21 years

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Hard to say mate as so many variables involved. It's not harder to ride than say a 600, it's just got more power to be respectful of. If you get one just take it easy, give yourself breaks, do some advanced training etc. Oh and be prepared for the upset when you drop it, as that will happen regardless of what bike you get 😂 I dropped my first bike in the first 200 miles, luckily minimal damage

[@marcorussellOG]

Its a good idea to let us hear the start up of the bike before you ride it, this should be followed by a nice view of the gauges.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Will start including more on the gauges :)

[@Truthasvictim]

Even though I own the 2019 version in green, I can't help but say it, again: this is a really gorgeous machine! And it's a beautifully handling machine. I had the Kawa 650 before, and even though the 1000 is heavier, I feel as if it handles as nimbly as the 650. But yes, your first move is to replace the exhaust system. Such a damn eyesore, especially when you weight against the rest of the bike's beauty.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

I'm seriously contemplating the new 2020 version. Will be test riding it soon.

[@stags-gr8to]

Truthasvictim Can I ask what exhaust you replaced the original with please?

[@Truthasvictim]

Sure Stags, it's the Hot Bodies, great price, nice looking and great throaty sound without being obnoxious. Here's the link and I'd recommend the carbon fiber rooled tip for looks. www.hotbodiesracing.com/product/kawasaki-z1000-2014-15-mgp-exhaust/

[@wolfiestreet6899]

@@Truthasvictim They don't suit this bike. Old fashioned styling.

[@Tk-tk4ok]

How is the braking capability?

[@NapoleonDeanomight]

Now I am very tempted to get one of these. Not sure my Mrs agrees.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Get one for her too, then you can have matching :)

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

Take some advice from a 55 year old. Buy the bike first, THEN tell her. If she loves you she won't complain. If she complains, get rid of her.....

[@worldsnomad]

Very good review and great looking bike ! ...British roads never cease to amaze me , looks like they've been designed so you don't get any vision ... Tall bushes and shrubs all the way around and tarmac half of meter under rest of the grounds 🤔 ... Perhaps there is a reason for it ?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks, yeah they can be a bit like that in places though the test route I take bikes on is quite heavy with that sort of stuff, I'm hunting around for some alterations to route however finding this one works well for testing currently

[@82davidjohnson]

Aer you English ? I think not. 🤗

[@stanleyknife1967]

Nice video. I get about 46 mpg - 80-85 mph motorways and mild thrashing about. Is a great bike - comfy, easy to ride slowly. Great bass sound at slow speeds and airbox howl above 7000rpm. Stick it on 1 for everyday riding and 2 or 3 if it’s wet! Low power mode is less economical, but handed for slippery conditions. Silky smooth fuelling and throttle response, but a bit of a buzz at 6/7 thou. Fitted a power bronze screen, which was better, but the screen is a little narrow in general.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Great feedback, thanks for adding

[@dmandhelen]

Randemonium hi there .. can I ask ... what are the differences between 3 and 2 ... and 2 and 1 ... can you actually feel or tell the difference on the road at normal speeds or do you have to be riding hard to tell .. cheers ..:-)))

[@stanleyknife1967]

dmandhelen I tend to leave it In 1 all the time as a safety net and put it in 3 if it’s really wet, especially after being dry. I’ve had it kick in set at 1 when I’ve accelerated really hard, but all you get is the light flicker on.

[@dmandhelen]

Randemonium thank you 👍👍👍👍👌👌👌👌👌

[@alanbriggs7177]

I'm surprised you find it less economical in the low power mode. Logic suggests it should be otherwise. Do you have any idea why?

[@mikelomazz520]

Really good review, Tommy, thanks.I currently ride a '67 plate Tourer which I absolutely love. The last bike I rode was a Z750 back in 2007 so I was a bit apprehensive when I finally bought it but it's such a pussycat to ride! Having bought new, I was restricted for the first 600 miles or so which probably helped but, like you, don't really notice the reduced power when in "low" power mode. I ride all year so definitely appreciate the traction control as I've felt the back end get squidgy on a couple of occasions! I am seriously thinking of trading in early for the newer version as I feel the cosmetic changes make a good looking bike into a great looking bike! Just might opt for the Performance Touring though as I'm now bored with the four-pot exhausts ;) As for choice of colour? Would have loved the burnt orange they did. The blue -at least on photo / video - is strange so I'd have to see that in the flesh. So maybe the green? My missus loves it. In fact, she loves the Z and comes on the back whenever the opportunity prevents itself - ie kids at their dad's, weather not too hot, not too cold. And she finds the bike really comfy although we both concut: 150 miles is a good time to take break. That usually corresponds with a tank-fill anyway! Why oh why only 19 litres :( I like that there is a gear indicator on the new one and the clocks in general are neater. Also the power / USB socket and the (optional?) GPS bracket. Only things to add outside a bigger tank and cruise control would be heated grips and maybe a Scott oiler. Thanks again and thanks to Kieran @Laguna Ashford for doing the doings.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks! Yeah they really are a great bike. I keep looking at the second hand market as there are some serious bargains to be had. If you upgrade and go for performance pack just be aware the akra exhaust they put on cant have the baffles removed, if you get standard and change the exhausts yourself then you can remove the baffles :) just something to be aware of if you like a louder exhaust...

[@mikelomazz520]

@@TommyBarnezTV I'm 54 yo and a sensible citizen :D I admit I'd like a bit more sound but baffles removed, I think my missus would kill me when I'm off to work at 6:30 in the morning - neighbours too, probably! Fair comment about the second-hand market as Kawasaki do shift a lot of these and for good reason! Mine, as it was the outgoing model was bought brand new for £9.5k which was cheaper than the Triumph Bobber I was looking at. And the PCP deal meant that it worked out cheaper (repayments anyway) than a 2nd hand 2015 bike as well :)))

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@mikelomazz520 nice! What did you think of the bobber? I took the bobber black out for review a few weeks back and absolutely loved it! Terrible for a daily but as a second weekend special bike I thought it was great.

[@adrian1965sedden]

Does it have quickshifter and autoblipper

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Unfortunately not, unsure if there is an aftermarket option

[@altonkriel]

I have owned 2 Ninja 1000 and love them. 2011 i crashed into a street sign, pizzz on me for having an off day :P and my 2015 with pwr options. which i changed from blk to red fairings like the 11 came in and yoshimura slip ons ... just to name 2 of my many mods. Sweet machine

[@mpampispinakis738]

ΠΑΝΕΜΟΡΦΗ ΑΓΑΠΏ KAWASAKI. ❤️❤️👍👍👍👍

[@rzu7120]

2020 version has bi-directional quickshifter and cruise control for just a slight price increase.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

I know!! Really quite excited about testing the 2020 version when it's out. Pretty high up on my potential new bike list because of those improvements

[@phantombigballs8165]

Shame they have dropped the twin exhausts. I have it the QS is OK but the blipper is a pile of spunk!!

[@andrewnichols1240]

?what's you pay for insurance per mo?

[@Tenktory]

When you praise your bike for being painted in unique Kawasaki green and then 9:44 happens ;) BTW I bought Z1000SX (18) few days ago and I absolutely love the bike. Mine is black and grey/silver and I'm afraid one could also find Skoda with quite similar paint job :D

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Haha 2 in a row 🤣 I'm looking forward to testing out the 2020 version when lockdown ends

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Cruise control would require Kawasaki to run throttle-by-wire which is another can o' worms worth of complexity with throttle servo, ECU programs and the like. They should do it, but it would run up the cost.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Yeah figured it wasnt a quick job however they have the technology on the versys 1000 I think. Hopefully it'll be added to the bike one day

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@TommyBarnezTV They certainly do have the technology on their other bikes. Seems like the "sport tourer" is a dying breed of bike, at least those derived from purely road-going sporty bikes. ADV is a great platform, but it seems to be taking over most touring and sport dual-personalities.

[@alanbriggs7177]

Spot on about about it putting up the price. I have just ordered one of these, and whilst I will miss some of the tech the price was one of the attractive features.

[@stubbk3]

The bike all of us over 50 should be on once we admit or blades and R1s just aren't comfortable anymore..

[@85waspnest]

Exhaust looks are subjective, each to their own. I have the same 2018 bike and LOVE the exhausts. By the way, 239 Kg weight is wet, not dry, there's a huge difference.

[@Youtube_Globetrotter]

You can get the performance with Acra

[@85waspnest]

@@KZbin_Globetrotter The performance version adds another £1000 to the price of the bike. I skipped it, kept the stock silencers because I prefer them and got a 50% discount on a rear seat cowl , aux. port and frame sliders. Kawasaki specified non removable baffles on the Acras as removing them makes the fuel mixture run lean causing jerky low speed throttle response.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Yeah mispoke when quoting the weight and didnt realise till I was writing the description so had the correct weight there. Yeah I like the stock exhausts though realised after putting up video that I'm in a minority 😂

[@85waspnest]

@@TommyBarnezTV Some people hate them because they're different to the usual run of the mill stainless & carbon.... and they don't make your ears bleed. They might have to learn to like big ugly silencers manufacturers fit nowadays if the new 'ANPR noise camera' trials are successful and fines start dropping on doormats a few days after triggering one with a loud aftermarket slip on !!! Apparently Kawasaki put a lot of work into the design of the Z1000SX silencers to comply with Euro 4 regs.

[@wolfiestreet6899]

@@85waspnest Good choice. There is no extra 'performance'. Just expensive looking mufflers.

[@maldridge7630]

Amazing exhaust and looks good to you also? Bike yes, but not that exhaust. Everyone I know, including myself who own this bike, think not so highly of the stock exhaust and replace it as soon as we got the bike.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Haha 'guy on internet likes something I dont, he therefore must be dishonest!'

[@maldridge7630]

@@TommyBarnezTV sorry man, if u genuinely like it then I stand corrected

[@TommyBarnezTV]

No worries dude, the game of thrones Shame Shame reference made me giggle. The performance option comes with the akrapovic but I just think stock looks better. I remember the first time I saw one and the exhaust just stood out for me. Maybe I'm in a minority...

[@maldridge7630]

@@TommyBarnezTV actually this performance version you mentioned; I wish it was available in the US. Reasons for the exhaust dislike seems to be lack of good sound, the heel of the shoe touching it, and when you install spools in the back to lift the bike up from time to time, the exhaust will get in the way of the spools and get damaged. I just wish they sold a better grade of same bike, with cruise control and up and down quick shifter. I love the comfort of the bike and wish I could stick with the exact same seating position and still do an upgrade. The 2019 H2 SE SX+ is being marketed as a Sport Tourer but it is not the same up right seating position at all and the ZX10R's seating position is definitely too aggressive for street riding of more than 30 minutes. .. And then there is the Versys, but that's an adventure bike and not all as nimble and sporty like the ninja 1000. I.wish Kawasaki would listen

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@maldridge7630 how odd they dont sell the performance version there. Though in fairness I met a guy who had the performance version and he said in hindsight he should have got the standard version and upgraded the exhaust himself as the akrapovic that comes with the performance version cant have the baffles removed. Must be to do with regulations of new bikes sold. Yeah real shame about quick shifter and cruise control. Those additions would really add to enjoyment of the bike and they both make sense for a bike of this kind, especially the cruise control. I havent tried out the versys yet but will be giving one a go at some point. Trying to get a different review up each week and have a very long list of bikes to test. The H2 is on the list too however I'm not quite brave enough for that one yet 😂

[@Matt-bg5zm]

This v Suzuki S1000f..?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Havent ridden the s1000f I'm afraid so cant compare

[@IndyMotoRider]

Nipped or nicked? Fear the bike would be stolen or paint chipped?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Nicked, thieving scrotes in London would have it in no time

[@JP-wq6sb]

great review and video quality. that green is gorgeous. i got the metallic grey a few months ago and i can't stop riding it; it's so much more comfortable than my R1 but i can still REALLY enjoy it on the canyons. i have the givi panniers and tank bag which makes it comfortable and convenient for 2-up long trips. i've never been a fan of cruise control and don't need heated grips where i am so it's basically the perfect bike (except in the city). i highly recommend it for those who want to travel longer distances, and still want the power and performance of a liter sport bike.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Thanks! Yeah I really like them. I was chatting to a guy yesterday who has one and I'm always pretty tempted to get one as there are some great prices second hand over here. Handy you dont like cruise control or heated grips as those are the only things against the bike in my opinion

[@DoneyCS]

Why is this bike bad in the city?

[@SOLOMOTOUK]

These newer ones are a bit better than the 2016 model I have it’s got heated grips I’ve put on radiator and down pipe grille protectors front and rear fender extenders twin usb charger mount extra rear bolt on mud guard update the side and head lights to led good improvement that plus a taller touring screen works well colour candy plasma blue looks amazing if you check my channel out your see what she looks like I travel from Coventry to Newcastle 2.45 minutes no numb bum lol.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Nice! I saw one in the blue a while back and was surprised how good it looked as I had dismissed it a bit when looking at colours. New 2020 model about to be launched. Was looking at it in the shop yesterday and really tempted to get one. Perfect all rounder bike in my book

[@SOLOMOTOUK]

TommyBarnezTV the new 2020 model is fantastic I had a test ride at my local Kawasaki dealer if the bank man said yes I get one straight away I absolutely love the new coloured clock display plus you can connect your phone through it brilliant idea that save £100’s on bluetooth kits to. Thank you for your reply 👍

[@micuzzu80]

I tried this bike, it has a huge dramatic problem, expecially for a bike: it doesn’t “turn”, when you try to put it down in a turn, it resist you input, and go straigth away and doesn’t turn.... ugly ugly reaction

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Sounds odd, I didnt get that from it. I read a comment from someone somewhere about the stock tyres that come with it not being that great. Sorry I cant remember what they said they upgraded to however the handling then felt a lot better to them. A hunt in some owner forums might be helpful there.

[@DarkSoul6484]

"Christmas weight" hahhahahahah

[@boormoboormo9701]

46 degrees fahrenheit = 7.778 degrees celsius

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Hmmm thermometer must be broken

[@_Snikerz]

Well as a local boy to me I'm going to have to subscribe arnt I lol

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Cheers!

[@kernypnp9714]

Roads are too tight. Nice bike though

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Yeah test route has changed a bit now to include some other more open roads

[@stevesmith1731]

fist time i have my bike i changed the exaust.....so ugly in my opinion

[@arkwright4]

It's not a Ninja is it?

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Its a bit complicated. So this bike launched in the US using the name ninja. In the UK it was released as the z1000sx. The 2020 model has been released worldwide as the ninja 1000sx to bring all markets in line. 2020 model is slightly upgraded from this with things like cruise control and quickshifter.

[@paxwallacejazz]

Geez not one proper wheelie I'm out.

[@darrenpeejay2913]

No cruise, no deal. And the exhausts are boat anchors

[@TommyBarnezTV]

Not sure of the weight of the exhausts, love the look of them though

[@kleinbottled79]

I have heard they are quite heavy. But unless it's against your religion to modify your motorcycle, gets some cans and a throttle lock and call it done.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@kleinbottled79 I've not tried out a throttle lock, what are they like to use? I've been pondering getting one for my v strom but not really sold on the concept and I dont know anyone that uses one

[@kleinbottled79]

@@TommyBarnezTV Easy to set with an upward push of the thumb, easy to deactivate by rolling the throttle forward. It's best to develop the habit of always rolling all the way forward when disengaging it, otherwise it is possible to roll part way off, open it back up, and then, if you forget, get a surprise when you let go and it doesn't shut all the way. As long as you trust yourself to be mindful, it's a reasonable solution to the problem. I use mine every time I'm going to spend a long time on the freeway and can hardly imagine making a road trip without it. (Or real cruise control I guess)

[@TommyBarnezTV]

@@kleinbottled79 Thanks, guess it's one of those things you get used to and use automatically without thinking about it. Which throttle lock do you use?

[@matthewduckworth7563]

I don’t like those stock exhausts at all - otherwise looks just the job.

[@TommyBarnezTV]

They definitely split opinion!

[@ExtremeDeathman]

It's not a Ninja...

[@TommyBarnezTV]

How do you mean?

[@diegosauda9596]

and its not a ninja...

[@johnmayberry7669]

You just bore the the f...n life outta me pal ...

[@TommyBarnezTV]

😂

[@jonathanadams9399]

And that’s how you should respond!

[@nympholepticmonkey352]

Not a bad bike! But the exhaust does look like cheap tacky dog shite. And the tail piece is utterly hideous to. Nice bike otherwise :)

[@billybunter3753]

It would have to be the ugliest bike I've ever seen! No doubt it's nice to ride, but damn it's ugly!