The Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX SE is proof that the best can get better | MCN Review

[@DB-so8zc]

Great unbiased review of the 1100sx se. I kinda get Kawasaki's point about not putting electronic suspension on it which helps keep production cost down but as you stated in your review it would be a nice touch. The N1K platform already offers a lot of bang for the buck. I may be a bit biased as I have a 20' SX. with almost 35K miles and the bike is such a delight to ride. Whether having fun in the twisties or logging long tour miles the bike and I just gel. Never leaves me exhausted or sore, even at 62 years old. Makes my giggle when I wick the throttle and I instantly feel 30 years younger. Keep up the great content on MCN and your channel! Cheers from the US!

[@carleddison7479]

Same age, and swapped my brilliant 19 1000SX for the H2 SX SE+. Fantastic, unbelievable machine, but "too good" for my needs and realising the 1000SX was perfect for me. Will be swapping back in the near future.

[@49erfanoz]

I have a ninja 650 and my only complaint is saddle soreness and throttle is a bit choppy. Honestly feel the 1000sx solves both of these problems and is a perfect fit for me as an upgrade. Just deciding between a 2017 for 6k or a 2020 more like 9500

[@carlosalonso9866]

@@carleddison7479 Same age here, 21' SX, 42 000 kms, love it but a tad disappointed about the update. I would have liked electronic suspension, the roads where I tend to ride on trips are not top notch and suspension is the only department where the Ninja leaves me wanting compared to my mates on ADV bikes

[@neilsimpson5900]

I had a '20 SX (and also a prior '15 SX) and the '20 model was a real improvement on the prior gen model, especially at low speeds. Unfortunately with my arthritis in my hands (i'm 7 years younger than you), I found the vibration and wristy riding position, I almost felt I was going to have to give up riding altogether. Still a great bike, but didn't suit me. Thankfully I've found something that makes me giddy and doesn't come with the price I had to pay riding the SX (wrist pain).

[@carlosalonso9866]

@@neilsimpson5900 I'm happy that you found a bike that suits your needs and still stirs emotions

[@englishsteel-nz6im]

I am going to buy one of these soon. SuperSport rider here--- this thing just fills the niche of being a jack of all trades roadbike. I can take trips on it, also in general longer excursions, it's designed to pack on miles and be maintenance friendly w/that undertuned 1000-- adjustable suspension and handling are big pluses, torque range and tbh I really like how it looks compared to other sport touring options. It does not look like "dad bike" and doesn't sound like one. Yep next buy faSho, can get so much good use out of this. Isn't the most exciting option available but it is the peak of practicality for performance oriented all rounder.

[@iketheduke1]

I have been riding my 2019 z1000sx and I love it, I have owned Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha previously but this one has stayed with me since 2019, perfect combo of power and sportiness.

[@Rickmac22]

Got a 2021 SX, love it and didn’t think I ever needed any more…. Then I found a H2SXSE, I am moving up!

[@TheRealBhuado]

not even similar

[@phantombigballs8165]

Until it needs a supercharger service I've just been done dry by kawasaki 😅😅

[@Rickmac22]

@@TheRealBhuadoI’m guessing English is a second language…

[@TheRealBhuado]

@@Rickmac22 im guessing you are breathing through your mouth. how about that?

[@Rickmac22]

@@TheRealBhuado Well, “not even similar” makes me think you must be either not proficient in English or ignorant in motorcycles, Not similar… same manufacturer, same engine size (roughly), same style of bike (sport touring), close in rider position, close is features, close in bike capacities, same vehicle controls… honestly, there are very few bikes in existence that would more closely match these two…. Or, you are just a troll looking to pick fights on the internet… then, I’m sorry for you.

[@kugangles9860]

Looks like a healthy increase in torque and slight decrease in weight makes it a even better road bike. People get too caught up in horsepower numbers nowadays.

[@beamdoctor5637]

People have been hung up on Horse Power since the GSXR1100 days. I have ZX10R and when its too hot or bumpy roads I pull out my Super Tenere. With the high end model maybe i should sell both and get the 1100 SX SE with luggage.

[@carleddison7479]

Very impressive on the road shots. Love the bike, and it looked beautiful in the slo-mo videography. Excellent presentation.

[@mikes.8305]

My old 2010 Ninja 1000 was the best motorcycle I ever owned.

[@smg1707]

I own a 2017. Most reliable motorcycle I’ve ever owned.

[@cadmanchannel]

After reading the long term magazine reports all year back in 2014, I took a chance on a Ninja 1000. After 10 years, it is still my favorite bike of the six I own. Out of the box, there were some easy changes needed. The sprockets were there for performance reviews, and led to it being buzzy. I started with two less on the rear and that was a big improvement. I later added one tooth to the front, and that has worked out well. A "tourer" with race sprockets is silly. Just down shift. From a stop, the higher gear is very similar to my '05 ZX10, and is no problem. Sharper turn in came with a 190-55 in back. Smoother throttle on corner exit came with a G2 Throttle tamer. Four of my six bikes have one. Recently, I added bar risers, and they are going to stay on there. The 1100SX SE sounds like a great bike. When I stop riding, the Ninja 1000 will be the last one to leave my garage.

[@Kawasakifreak1]

A good example of an initially well-conceived & designed motorcycle subject to incremental developments for over a decade that make sense without ballooning the price - good work Kawasaki.

[@robvanduren761]

Kawasaki seem to be the only legitimate motorcycle brand left..

[@phantombigballs8165]

My 21 was 10k with panniers etc.. now 4k more with 7 BHP less...on a fast tour against mates XR and other touring bikes this thing is a slow coach

[@Terraceview]

Great review Michael you're getting better and better. Great bang for the buck bike btw, Kawasaki really upped their build quality.

[@BorisZX6R]

Kawasaki build quality was always great.

[@rcannon409]

You don't have any idea who this guy is, do you? He's going to be past the point where he's getting "better and better".

[@sjk8273]

I'd love one, but when I recently went to trade my Z900RS for the '24 model I was looking at a 4x hike in insurance rates from all the major carriers. Apparently the use of 'Sport' and 'Ninja' has an enormous negative effect in the US.

[@Bryan11210]

I wonder what's more expensive then, a Z H2 or this.

[@sjk8273]

@@Bryan11210 Dunno, but a '25 1100 Versys with the wizzy electronic suspension is $19,499 (before sales tax + all the other add ons), so I won't be getting one of those either!

[@CraneTiger2]

That's weird because at 28, my 2021 Ninja 1000SX was about $750 a year for full coverage with Dairyland.

[@mtollmaster3747]

Also over 1000cc will kick it up a bit.

[@sjk8273]

@@mtollmaster3747 I'm risk adverse, so my liability coverage is maxed out + full coverage gives me a $364 full year premium with Geico. For the same coverage with them it jumped to $1,862. Progressive = $1,582, State Farm = $1,716, Am Fam = $1,433. I'm now 65 so maybe the algorithm is throwing up a red flag.

[@jimbothejetset]

My 23 model year Tourer 1000SX has heated grips, touring screen, panniers and cost me £11149. It’s a great bike, I’m not sure why is change it for this. If I didn’t have my bike it would be top of the list though. Good review.

[@cibsim]

I will keep mine as well: 2023 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX, such a great motorcycle!

[@JD2ndcity]

I'll be keeping mine... but might spend some £ on the suspension.

[@carlosalonso9866]

@@JD2ndcity Same here, really my only complaint. Do you have any idea with what to upgrade the suspension?

[@IanTed]

Big twin fan, I ride a V2S Multi, but if I was to ride an inline four this would be my choice, providing it had electronic suspension. Remember my Blackbird back in 2005, it was a great bike for fast touring in comfort, this is obviously so much better as long as you choose the right rubber. Great to see traditional sports tourers still available and I’d buy the SE.

[@carlosalonso9866]

Very much interested in the V2S (new one coming up) myself but the 1000sx's engine is a peach.

[@peterkoning21]

This has always been my replacement bike , one day. The Suzuki had a foot in the door but now again, this 100SX SE all the way.

[@muckle8]

The Suzuki would eat this .

[@awakeadventurer9198]

I love the Suzi but this will be more stable at higher speeds and high speed sweepers. The Suzi definitely has an advantage with the electronic suspension. Hard to choose. I can get a new 24 kawi 1000SX for thousands less. But I want that suspension.

[@ganuvien]

@@awakeadventurer9198 My suzuki 1000 GT was stable with the bags on at 150+ mph 😂 The only reason people think it's garbage is because of the 190/50 tire, change it to a 190/55 and it handles like a dream in corners.

[@leodoingthings1706]

@@ganuvien whats about tires?

[@ganuvien]

@leodoingthings1706 I run Bridgestone S22/S23, Pirelli Diablo Rosso/Corsa 4, Dunlop Roadsmart 4 usually and they all handle great.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Great review. Thank you. As a purist, if I’m taking a pillion out for a long ride I do enjoy setting up the suspension myself instead of a computer telling me what it thinks is best for who? It doesn’t know you and rather than an individual that knows what to tweak and by how much then the only reason why you’d want the electronic suspension is if you simply lack the knowledge. My thoughts are twofold for this machine. The riders who do buy these know a bit more than your average rider and perhaps Kawasaki is keeping this for a midlife update.

[@johnsparks211]

@@marcusgeorge1825 electronic suspension does two things well. First you can alter it as you are travelling, so for example trundling down the motorway in road mode, then dynamic mode when you get to the Twisties. Second, some adjust the preload automatically so you don't have to fiddle with it when taking a pillion. Of course, if it goes wrong it's a PITA but that's true for most things.

[@zakw3637]

Good modern electronic suspension will give you the option to adjust almost all of the parameters for the different modes. It’s not just about knowledge, having the ability to change on the fly is a game changer and it’s hard to go back once you’ve experienced how well it works.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@johnsparks211 Just another reason why I’m not a fan of electronic suspension, especially when it’s combined with seperate function forks. I’ve had an Aprilia, as an example, thats been in and out of one of my workshops over a period of 3 months as the electronics (suspension) keeps failing. Less chances of suspension failure when you take the computer out of the equation.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@zakw3637 I’ve experienced it both on and off a racing track. Remember, it’s a system designed for everyone, yet everyone is different. That’s my main point.

[@GarrettMaple]

Not once in my riding life have I sat there on a motorway thinking ‘I wish I could soften up my rear shock’. I just set my bikes up for how I want them to feel, depending on what the bike is intended for, and if that’s for optimum handling it makes zero difference to how it rides on a motorway (for example).

[@paulfowler6665]

I own a 2020 Ninja 1000 sx and before this had the previous z1000sx and the changes were enough to make me upgrade but this new 1100 seems no better really so this time im not upgrading. I can't see that many owners of the current 1000 version doing so either. Having said that im sure its just as brilliant as the current machine so it would be a good upgrade for anyone riding the older non Ninja versions or anyone just looking for a fantastic sports tourer.

[@carlosalonso9866]

I have exactly the same take on it. I have a 21' one and there's nothing that compels me to change now. I only hope that Kawasaki won't be waiting another 5 years to update the model although I fear they will...

[@mathiashammar1]

Only gripe i have with 1000sx is that touring a whole day you quite tired 400-600km then trying to park it in some hotelparking i have had several time i almost dropped it. Because its quite heavy to push around on parking spots. Especially fully loaded with panniers and topbox 235 + 25kilo luggage. So most of the times we are always 2 people parking one bike at the time in the evening so we don't accidentally drop the bikes because lack of focus after a long day riding. You only notice the hefty weight when your standing still at the parking spot.

[@FredVanderhoek]

Hmmmm. New version of the old ZX1100 from the 90s. I had one for 5 years. A wonderful sport tourer. Kawasakis are great machines.

[@cloudcata8300]

Man I love motorcycles, I could never have enough of them but what I like the most is big CC engines. Glad manufacturers are still going over 1000cc. I love my gen 3 hayabusa for this exact reason, torque matters on the road, not horsepower. I don't need 16k RPM

[@joshuaanothereraseddad]

I have an 02 and I completely agree with you. Whats even better about the 02 is a low 11 and some change to 1 compression ratio. Which means I can run regular pump gas all day long. Can't wait to test ride a 3G though!. :)

[@muckle8]

The hayabusa and the zzr1400 are the best sports tourers ever (with a few mods)

[@kannermw]

Finally a voice of reason who gets it. On the street wide torque band matters much more than top end screaming power. Twist the wrist and go instead of winding constantly up and down through the gears is way less fatiguing and more enjoyable. The less is more crowd who say riding a slow bike fast is way more fun than riding a fast bike slow is so untrue. You ride both the same speed through the turns but the fast bike accelerates easier without excessive abuse. That is the voice of individuals who have less money to spend and like to beat the crap out of their toys.

[@Gnerko123]

Yea beating the crap put of the toys is crazy fun. Feels fast even if you’re going slow, that’s what the ‘more fun to ride a slow bike fast’ thing is about. Both driven at the same speed, a slow bike feels like it’s going fast while a fast bike feels like it’s going slow. If you want to feel like you’re going fast and want to keep your license, get a slow bike. If you want to chill out, get a fast bike.

[@tactical1224]

@@muckle8The Concours 14 might be the best of them all, and it's shaft drive keeping maintenance to a minimum

[@KiwiMoto72]

Nice work, as always, Mate. I personally own the 2023 model, and I love it. It's a proper Sport tourer.

[@englishsteel-nz6im]

That's why I want one.... looks good, has all the goods needed and is more sport than touring but tour capable. The big tourers I just don't like too "dad bike".

[@sonarfleet2375]

Beautiful moto. Great video. I am waiting for mine, SX.

[@GarrettMaple]

Some really funny comments on this so far 😂. First point to answer, the centre stand thing. Why carry the weight around all the time? Get an Abba stand and leave it in the garage. It’ll work on pretty much any bike with the correct adapters too. Then the power thing… I guess all those people riding N1Ks who decry the lower bhp figure must be doing trackdays on them every month rather than touring! Lastly, electronic suspension. Pub ammo, pure and simple. Again, all those people decrying the lack of it on this bike probably never change their settings anyway! People ‘want’ them but they don’t want to pay for them, otherwise why not just stump up the extra cash for a bike that’s got all those things people are complaining about?! I don’t think I’ll be swapping my ‘21 for an SE just yet, but if/when the time comes I’ll be glad Kawasaki has kept the recipe very similar. It’s the reason so many owners love this bike.

[@kd350]

I don't have any smooth concrete around so depending on a Abba or Pit Bull is a non starter. Too many bikes are eliminating them. One can always remove center stands if that 4 lbs of weight hung low is a bother.

[@GarrettMaple]

@ You’ve got enough ‘smooth concrete’ for a centre stand, but not an Abba stand? Ok buddy 😉

[@jacobporter4623]

I have a stick, lean bike on side stand, stick under swing arm. Much lighter than centre stand, no centre stand vibrations, no reduced ground clearance, easy to use for many bikes at once Not saying it is for everyone, but works for me

[@valebliz]

A center stand is used to lube the chain while, you know, touring. It’s extremely convenient if you don’t just use a sport TOURING bike to go at the pub.

[@jacobporter4623]

@@valebliz you can take your stick touring with you, I do. Never had any issues getting through customs

[@Graeme4561]

Great review as always Mr Neeves. I have a 2021 SX and love it.

[@TheRealBhuado]

because i have a first hand experience with the 1000sx, i have to say that individually, the bike is great, suspension is good, engine is plenty powerful, brake are great, the fueling is good, turns nice, easy to ride, etc. Nut, when you put everything together, the bike is not sporty enough, but is neither touring enough. you are much better off with a versys 1000, because it is more touring oriented, and if you want more sporty feel, you can just go to the h2sx, which takes everything good form the ninja 1000sx and just makes it better. the 1000sx is somewhere in no mans land.

[@kd350]

I can drag pegs on my Versys X 300. The only proper Kawasaki Adventure bike with spokes, a 19" front and 380 lbs. wet. 11 other bikes here plated all turn key should 145 hp be desired or two stroke hooligan shenanigans are in order.

[@duncanharvey2209]

I get it but it's targeting those of us that absolutely hate adventure styling but don't want to spend the dollars on the h2sx. That's the market essentially.

[@efrenmoran8098]

My 09 Connie is the best tourer that I have owned. The only down side to it, is that it doesn’t have heated grips and cruise control otherwise it has it all

[@tactical1224]

Not sure what year Kawasaki added the heated grips, but my 2012 Concours 14 has has them...

[@efrenmoran8098]

@ I think it was 2010 but I could be mistaken 2012 for sure

[@mrcintheuk4641]

I was considering purchasing a 2020 Ninja SX Touring with 5,700 miles for £8,300. Insurance quotes for a 67 year old male, living in Hertfordshire, full license for 50 years, no claims, no convictions, 12,000 miles pa, full NCB and garaged were coming in at £700-£800!!! Didn't buy it!

[@richardhoskins307]

I lay any money the insurer was miss quoting on a H2, common problem.

[@MikeTheBike58]

That's a rip off,I'm 49 have a 2018 H2 SX,Full NCB,No Claims,and I pay 360 Fully Comp.

[@jonathandavies6862]

I'm 33, 5 yrs riding experience and no claims, garaged cb1000r, commuting, and it's £700 so that's just par for the course now. Times have changed and the market including insurance has jumped in price.

[@GarrettMaple]

Something wrong with that mate, it shouldn’t be anywhere near that by my reckoning (as somebody in a similar position to you paying a quarter of that price). Shop around, and make sure they’re quoting you for the right bike!

[@petewatson9866]

It’s nothing to do with all the years you have been riding and NCD you have all they see is 67yrs old. My dad like yourself got hit with insurance when he hit 75, he was never in accident fully NCD. First he removed his bike license, but he just gave up driving £700 for a 1.2 corsa

[@LambChopRides]

Looks dryer than the Versys launch Michael! Great review

[@robert-wr6md]

Not quite the top of my shopping list, snow and ice on the roads around my "racetrack" in Shropshire. Nice colour anyway. (Although I was riding today on my BMW R1200RS).

[@n.elliott9122]

Thank you Michael. Another wonderful review. Agreed. With todays technology this bike should have Electronic suspenders. Heck, even my new motorcycle cargo trailer now has anti lock brakes. Whats next on the trailers? Disc brakes!

[@creedm3040]

Awesome video! Beautiful bike for sure. Best!

[@Champion2Manager]

I was already thinking to get one last year, but now the choice is clear as water. Could it get any better? Every year I’m surprised by the little details Kawasaki are adding on that bike let alone the heated grips 😮

[@Roy_Godiksen]

I owned the 2019 Z1000SX. Best all-around bike ever made (back in 2019). My only issue was the double exhaust blocking chain maintenance. It was also quite heavy (260kg), You feel the weight when you're going fast, and it Ate front tires like no other bike i've owned. Unless you're going of road, you couldn't do better back then. I'm hoping to get a good ride on the new 2025 next year.

[@BikenutGB]

Where do you get 260kg from? I have the 2018 model and it weighs in wet at 235kg, my old zzr1200 was 270kg and you can feel a massive difference in those two weights

[@Roy_Godiksen]

@BikenutGB Maybe I remember/was informed wrong. I was told the weight at some point and never questioned it.

[@BikenutGB]

@@Roy_Godiksen Just use Google and search for the bike specs. I did but only because I owned them at some point.

[@davidbarton7463]

Nice review, how about stacking this up against the V100 Mandello, you could see what difference electronic suspension makes with the V100S on the same bit of tarmac, still waiting for your review of the Guzzi in the UK, you seemed to like it over in Italy Mike.

[@Roy-cm1bh]

Kawasaki are off my hit list now as the full price they want to charge me instead of a lower price on finance which I can’t and won’t do as I have no credit history. I’m an outright buyer ffs!

[@leviefrauim1425]

Terrific review - thank you.

[@alexerioeduardo2844]

Kawasaki looks are definitely starting to come back after a few years in the weird wilderness.

[@awakeadventurer9198]

Thank God

[@chrisgibbs2875]

Love my 2022 1000sx, don't be put off by no center stand chain is easy to ajust when on tour, 8mmand 12mm hex bits and micro digital torque tool easy with back wheel on ground.,use quick shifter from 4000rpm ,clutch around town.

[@JDeezle21]

Versys 1100 SE with Upgraded Tires ❤

[@Davidlouis3]

Beautiful bike I’ve got the 1000sx love it

[@RikkyTang]

For me, my "all rounder" has to do touring as well as track days and the only thing that stopped me getting a 1000SX last year was the typically conservative Japanese ABS setup that'll makes it not great for heavy braking at the track. Will be interested to know if the SE has a more Euopean approach to heavy braking now! Nice overview thanks Michael 👍

[@GarrettMaple]

It’s a sports tourer, for sporty touring. It’s not designed for the track. You should know that really given your, er, hobby?

[@RikkyTang]

@GarrettMaple it sounds like you know that I've taken my old BMW R1250R to the track previously, so clearly it doesn't really matter to me whether the bike is designed for the track or not 😄 The 1250's ABS was very unobtrusive though, which is obviously very useful at the track.

[@GarrettMaple]

@ You’re missing the point. Kawasaki didn’t design the bike to be tracked, so the fact you basically criticised it for its safety features interfering with track performance is faintly ridiculous.

[@RikkyTang]

​@@GarrettMaple People take all sorts of less suitable bikes to the track and have a great time, have you ever noticed? Thankfully they don't need your permission to do it. I didn't criticise the bike, merely explained how I came close to buying one until I found it didn't fit my use case.

[@johnsparks211]

RS - better brakes,more grunt, electronic suspension, decent tyres AND can have a topbox with panniers. Apart from the price I'm not sure why the sx is counted better if you're going two-up regularly.

[@fearhand12]

RS has a heated seat for rider and passenger as well.

[@GarrettMaple]

When I spec’d one up as an option against the N1K it had got to well over £15k before I’d reached the standard spec of the Ninja so I stopped configuring it! And just for accuracy, you CAN have a top box on the N1K and plenty of people do.

[@johnsparks211]

@@GarrettMaple oh yes an rs is more expensive but it has more for your money. It's surprising the discounts you can get from the right dealer if you don't do a part+ex though. Topbox -;you can fit a top box to most things but check the max weight of the bike. Once you put pillion and luggage and top box on there's a lot that go over the limit and should you have an accident or subframe failure it can be counted against you

[@GarrettMaple]

@@johnsparks211 Sure, but since when did that really stop anyone from doing anything? What’s the first thing most bikers do when they get a new bike? Yep, they put an end can on it that probably isn’t road legal! Anyhoo, regarding the price thing, the same logic can be applied to the Ninja so really what you’re saying is you get more for more money 😉. It’s a BMW after all.

[@SomewhereInside]

Just a heads up for anyone not familiar with the Ninja colour scheme in the flesh. The colours fade or dull ( not blemish ) very quickly . Also green is not a highly visible colour in environments where there are trees and bushes.

[@deanjewiss1396]

I'm hoping the new heavier bar ends fit my 22 model, I'll be ordering a pair to hopefully help with the vibs i have.

[@Carvetii]

i know from owning a ZH2 SE just how good that showa electronic suspension is. put it in road mode and it just eats up the bumps and smooths the ride completely out.

[@dazsyvo8499]

I got one a 2016 bike good as a sports bike but a little slow but the biggest thing for me was it used to buz through the bars and pegs on the motorway was it bit better geard up 1 on the front but had to to go better off with the zzr1400

[@greensocks4507]

Nice bike, Kawasaki make the best finished bikes of any Japanese brands. A quality manufacturer. The lead in the pegs surprised me. I'll stay with my '18 ZX14R, just bought it, Ohlins equipped with Brembo's and only 16,000 km's from new. The power and smoothness of the 1441 motor means I'll be hanging to it for ever, and over 200 hp.

[@20spag]

I have a 2022 model. As on this 'bike; no centre stand. A disappointing omission on a Sports Tourer.

[@stephanrieken7232]

Nice review ❤

[@kramnam4716]

Great reviews and to mention the Versys really proves you are thinking of US! And usage

[@warwickwearing5042]

Love your reviews! I have been keen to update my vfr1200f for a long period of time. I live in Australia, am tall and tour a lot with my wife. I have thought about this bike but wish suzuki would bring out a Hayabusa with a factory touring pack

[@summerforever6736]

This bike is compact it would be not comfortable for a tall rider imo

[@urbanstrencan]

Proper GT bike , Kawasaki nice job ❤😊

[@andrewnichols1240]

What's that. Price tag in USA conversion?

[@zero11010]

So, don’t get this. Get a very recent still practically new, Ninja 1000 that is used. Got it!

[@MarioVanCorler]

They need to swap the cruise control and menu buttons around as the cruise buttons are used a lot more often

[@perimund]

I was thinking to change 1250rs full option for 1100sxse, no ES so I don't think so, until I carry pillion.

[@therory6888]

Great video! Beautiful bike! But decreasing power from the previous models is a big negative to me. And would make me lean toward buying the Suzuki. Thanks.

[@SickBikeDude]

2 hours on my 2017 speed triple 1050 and I’m ready to come off. I can’t imagine touring in that position.

[@valebliz]

That’s a you problem though, I toured the Pyrenees from Italy on a speed.

[@SickBikeDude]

@@valebliz yea I’m not bike fit anymore. I could do it, just need more breaks. But let’s be real, it’s not a touring bike either.

[@darekm6859]

@@SickBikeDude If people didn't tour on these bikes, they wouldn't be made. I've done 600 mile days on my SV1000S, so it very much depends on the rider. I now replaced the clipons with handlebars and have pretty much the same class of bike. The only issue is the knees as I've gotten older. But the main point of a bike like this is the lower weight than real tourers, the more sporty position, and the sportbike power. It's the in-between before you go to the real upright tourers and adv's.

[@SickBikeDude]

@@darekm6859 yea dude I know, my knees and tailbone just can’t do it. But when I sit on an Africa twin or anything similar, I have zero pain. Sport tourers are cool, i wanted a super Duke GT at one point but I just can’t, too cramped. I wish my bike had bags to commute to work with at least.

[@darekm6859]

@@SickBikeDude The GX has a lot of leg room and can still be thrown around. It's probably more street oriented than the Africa. I really liked it on a test ride. But it's too expensive new.

[@sferreirac]

Had the former/current version of it, loved it to bits.. yet, ended up trading it for a sportier bike... Still miss it's smoothness. Would be the best bike ever if they would just improve the ground clearance and move the power north from 170bhp.

[@carlosalonso9866]

Early times I know but it would be very interesting to cross-test the 1100SX against the 1100SE to see whether the fancy Brembos and the Öhlins really make a difference for real world use. I ride the 1000SX and find the Kawasaki branded brakes convincing

[@__Max-oe6zm]

Whats that small box on top of the left handlebar?

[@tactical1224]

I think its a USB port

[@__Max-oe6zm]

@@tactical1224 that's what I thought initially, I mean it could be, but it's an absolutely massive USB port if is it

[@tactical1224]

@@__Max-oe6zm I've confirmed that it is a USB port. It should have been integrated into the bike better than to jus slap it on the handlebar. It looks like it was an after thought by Kawasaki, as if they said, " we forgot to include a USB port, just mount one to the handlebars..."

[@Jagshemasher]

Look forward to seeing this in North America where we can instantly dispense with all things EURO 5 related.

[@NooBiker]

I don't know why Kawasaki persists with the Bridgestone tyres on this bike, they're the wrong tyres. Couldn't wait to get shot of them. Still love my 2018 Z1000SX but might be tempted by the SE version. Would love it if they had kept the old style exhaust design, don't like the new look too much

[@douglasgrosch228]

how you compare this from Concours 14 GTR1400 power and overall one bike does all ect... ?? thanks .

[@jamespenrose5278]

My invitation to the launch event in Spain must have gotten lost in the mail.

[@morganmartin9286]

I wonder if Kawasaki not opting for semi active suspension on the SE could be taken advantage of by Suzuki if they add an up-spec gt with the semi active from the GX. I imagine they won't, but it could be a good way to close the gap and steal some sales.

[@GarrettMaple]

You think if Suzuki did add it that it would be free? And IMO it would take a lot more than that to make the Suzuki as good as the N1K. It’s a much better place to be.

[@morganmartin9286]

@GarrettMaple nope, it would definitely drive up the price .....which is why I don't think they would do it(not their business model). Just think it would be interesting if they did. The thing most complain about with Suzuki's is the lack of bling.

[@GarrettMaple]

@@morganmartin9286 Do they? I thought it was the brakes and tyres tbh.

[@darekm6859]

@@GarrettMaple The Kawi has benefits but a lot of reviewers (legit and amateur) seem to prefer the GT, mostly for the more wild engine. So it isn't a foregone conclusion that the Kawi is "better".

[@darekm6859]

@@GarrettMaple Conveniently enough, the comment from monco3512

[@chrisfromkatunga6245]

What are the headlights like? The standard lighting on my 2016 model was very poor. I had to upgrade them to LED.

[@Rickmac22]

@@chrisfromkatunga6245 I have a 2021, the headlights are excellent save the lateral lighting, added Denali light strips to the front forks.... Problem solved!

[@SSS-mp8th]

I'm curious what the take rate of this is compared to the new "crossover" style sports tourers. Bought a ZH2SE last year so not in the market but I have had thoughts of getting a M1000XR for some wind protection (also lighter and faster) now that the Ninja H2SX is $29k in the US.

[@giovanniricci2869]

Thank you for this very informative review. Not the same engine and I got your comments on the RS but, if you had to choose between this and the BMW, what would eventually be your pick ? ✌️

[@markboucher5776]

I really question the design choices that Motorcycle manufacturers make with respect to the exhaust can. It’s like they’re begging people to swap them out on looks let alone sound. Every bike I’ve ever owned kept it stock exhaust. I’m too cheap to spend that kind of money anyway but if I were to buy this bike, I would certainly be considering a change.

[@adjers]

If Yamaha made something like this with the cross plane motor I'd be throwing my money at them. I just need more of a rumble

[@juliuscarlopoblete2092]

The swinging arm seems to be the same to the versys 1000/1100... Not the same one we see in the old z1000 and old ninja 1000

[@DrGonzo-vq2zi]

Nice catch. It also seems to do away with the elliptical hub chain adjustment and has gone to the normal nut and bolt.

[@monco3512]

I wanted to like the 1000SX but had a rather disappointing test ride on one. While the ergos are somewhat sporty, it doesn't hide its weight well and the throttle connection felt like a rubber band. The GSX-S1000 GT engine and response were so much more fun.

[@bradthepit]

They are lovely bikes, although I still prefer my Gen 2 ZZR14, closely followed by H2sx

[@prof.2248]

Versys 1000 have 120hp vs 1000Sx 140hp, for 2025 both have exatly the same engine with 134hp and the same gearbox, so is no really advantage have 1100Sx vs Versys 1100 with better seat and wind protection and the same engine.

[@rabola55]

Lower center of gravity means better cornering feel and more confidence. I've had a few "adventure tourers" but I prefer this type of sports tourers

[@ninji5226]

This is in the same vein as the "new" Z900, lots of smoke and mirrors for essentially the same bike. It's good from all accounts to begin with so it's not bad per se but it's still the same bike. Also someone at Kawasaki needs to open up the purse stings on paint options, all the options are very narrow year to year.

[@GarrettMaple]

The same? Power, torque, options, reprogrammed quickshifter, different 5th and 6th gears, colourways, all changed. Did you even watch the video? 😂

[@darekm6859]

@@GarrettMaple Colorways? Still the same drab black with a bit of drab green. Same on the Versys.

[@GarrettMaple]

@ The SE is mostly green. But anyway, colours are subjective. The fact remains, there’s quite a lot technically that’s changed over the previous version. Given that it’s one of the brand’s best selling bikes I’m not sure why you think they would make it into something completely different?!

[@darekm6859]

@@GarrettMaple Yeah colors are subjective, but it's always the same ones for the SX. The GT colors look much better with the light blue, the navy blue, the orange-red, and the dark brass subframe finish. A white with some green accents would look great, for example.

[@GarrettMaple]

@ The metallic red GT looked amazing at Motorcycle Live to be fair, but still, enough people seem to be happy with the way Kawasaki’s look don’t they, otherwise it wouldn’t be as popular. The facts don’t lie.

[@yetti423]

Good review as usual Neevesy

[@SOLOMOTOUK]

The only thing I find against Kawasaki is there heated grips absolutely rubbish I’m removing mine and fitting the oxford grips otherwise after 14208 miles I’ve got no bad points against it.

[@jotka724]

it didnt have full power of 142hp and it wont have 136hp either. it can - but u need to change exhaust/headers/decat/flash ecu :) as its been for couple years now with euro emissions standards for new bikes. still a good bike tho, peace.

[@tonychettleburgh8953]

I was torn between the 1000SX and the GSX GT and ended up buying the GT purely because of the deal and the terrible experience I had at a certain Kawasaki main dealer in Colchester. I love the GT and I am very happy with it but I have to say I thought the Ninja was the better bike. Maybe next time ...

[@swoop1352]

Really not a useful review for anyone with a 1000SX. _"I never hit the red line"_ does not inform us if we're gonna hate the engine or not. Everything else is stuff we already know. And if you're not actually comparing a 1100SX to a 1000SX, how do you know it's better? Title line says 'proof'. Where? This is very poor journalism, even by todays standards.

[@dazadorph45]

So similar but sporty engine that's in the versys 1100 se GT 2025.

[@Curry3659]

I think youtube thinks I only like Neevsey content from mcn. I haven't seen another journo video from the channel in like 3 months. I will fix this

[@martinhughes9769]

What ! No heated seats, I’ve got the SX 2017 it’s been brilliant, but struggling now at nearly 68 bit of hard work on the neck ,back and wrists 😢I was hoping for some big difference in its specs and fraction taller bars,

[@GarrettMaple]

Eh? Even the ‘20 onwards is a massive upgrade over your ‘17. Sounds to me like you’d be better off in a car mate. Heated seats FFS…

[@darekm6859]

Heated gear works much better than heated grips or seat anyway. The wind will take all that heat away, and what's left will be blocked by your gear. If you really want a heated seat, they sell pads on ebay, just slip it under the seat cover and job done.

[@Rosseboi]

I preferres the GT over the SX bht that was 2024 models. It was just a better bike all round except for build quality. I'd buy one now but I'm not getting a bike that should be updated any year now......

[@nanoffyourbesyness9577]

I don't like this trend of fake OE tires like these S23.... What if someone thinks he as the same tires that he himself bought for is old bike ? What if crooked dealer sell you these instead ? What is the difference money wise ? Why do it, to save what ?

[@joek81981]

This is super strange, isn't it? I don't know a lot about bikes, but this was news to me. It stands to reason there'd be a whole separate line for a crummier version of something they already make. A whole second set of machines, personnel and salaries, etc. Unless its a binning thing (some materials make the cut, some don't), and the lower binned product gets sent out to factories at a discount? Is it binning the tiers of rubber batches, I wonder? #askneevsey

[@TheWuseln]

Any tall riders here? I'm 6"5' with quite long legs and not totally sure whether it might be comfortable during long rides?

[@tactical1224]

Look to pick up a Concours 14. Great for taller riders, it has a phenominal engine, handles great in the twisties, and super comfortable with Corbin seat. It's shaft too, making maintenance easier

[@evanjohn503]

replace your new bikes tyres straight away? You could see how jittery they were on the cornering - why don't they have ST tyres as standard. What a waste

[@mrmark8603]

Cost. All manufacturers do it. Someone would complain that they put the wrong expensive tyres on it.

[@darekm6859]

@@mrmark8603 So put very cheap tires on instead of "fake" versions of decent tires. It misleads the buyer, and if they ask the dealer to swap them out, the dealer could turn around and sell the OEM set of these as the consumer version, which would be fraud.

[@mrmark8603]

@@darekm6859 Then some people would cry about that! What's the fuss? They are a consumable! I treat them as breaking in tires. While I'm getting used to a new bike and breaking in the engine/transmission, the tyres are less important. My preferred rubber is just that. Mine. I order some from Revzilla and mount them at my convenience.

[@jeremycarr3920]

If I could justify and I was going to use a sports tourering motorcycle for what it was built for would I buy this bike, no, I'd get the 1000 sx, why, 1000 will be heavily discounted to shift them, and could the average man or women tell the difference, I seriously doubt it.

[@Dzinbhudist]

Dont be surprised when se+ will be released with electronic suspension later 😉

[@smtsslt7468]

Don’t suppose Kawasaki have acknowledged that sports tourers should be able to have panniers and a top box on the bike at the same time.

[@smjunglist6885]

Doesn't look like much of an upgrade from the current model, which you could pick up for a lot less now. When I saw the title I was quite excited to be honest as I thought it was going to be a significant step forward, but that's not the case.

[@darekm6859]

It seems solely to meet emissions. Plus minor tweaks.

[@Pabloman333]

I would prefer a smaller 4-cylinder Ninja, rather than bigger. The 1000SX is plenty big and heavy. I love the size and handling of the Ninja 650, but that under powered vibrating 2-cylinder is irritating. How about a lighter 900 Ninja?

[@davidrutherford3345]

1 = Pirelli Angel gt 2 2 = Michelin Road 6 3 = Continental Road Attack 4 Or 4 = Dont worry about the mileage and Michelin Power 6 if you just like a good blast out usually in the dry ? 😂

[@prof.2248]

1. Metzeler Roadtec 02

[@GarrettMaple]

Non-OE S22s. Great tyres.

[@patwilliam543]

134bhp is good for a tourer if you want a tourer, but if you're essentially after a chubby lads superbike a drop of 60 odd bhp seems a lot, especially when BMW and the likes are splitting the difference between this and the superbikes.

[@nickthomson9465]

Yes great bikes (2020 ninja performance tourer)but compare kawasaki heated grips to bmw kawasaki are not even close.but that's my only negative comment 😊

[@FilipeAlberto-es6yi]

not a bike for a 6.2'' tall rider, correct?

[@thedragon1322]

Very nice for taller riders.

[@bingoberra18]

In a couple of years it will be 1400cc and then there will be a new 1000cc variant.

[@tactical1224]

I think you are right!

[@Mikaeel84]

I'm deciding between this and the 2024 Hayabusa. Ideas anyone?

[@blipco5]

Two different bikes. One is bonkers, the other is one you can use.

[@Mikaeel84]

​@@blipco5 the ninja I can use? I don't get it. I'm riding. Not using anything. I'm not riding 2 up or carrying luggage I just want something sporty yet comfortable with proper wind protection.

[@xef322]

No brainer here. Busa all the way. Excellent motor super linear and pulls like nothing else when you want it to. Mechanical grip is fantastic with a good pair of tires.

[@blipco5]

@@Mikaeel84 Not carrying luggage??? Then why would you even consider a sport tourer? The Busa and the Ninja are two different bikes. If you want fast with wind protection, in the real world you won’t be riding the Busa any faster than the Ninja. Both bikes are powerful enough and fast enough to exceed the capabilities of 99% of riders. Including you. Been there done that.

[@Mikaeel84]

@@blipco5 ok Dad.

[@saddle8bag]

They ruined the best part of the bike. The old chain tensioning mechanism was the best in motorcycling. This was the last bike to still have it and now they killed it on this one too.

[@matthewjackson3034]

Think I'd rather stick with the previous gen. Don't sound like a great deal has changed.