The 2014 version of the Kawasaki Z1000 has been a hot topic among the UK’s motorcycling press, with bike lovers keen to see how the updated model performs, and whether it will be any match for other bikes in the so-called “super-nakeds” class – a pared-down performance bike built for speed and fun.
TopSpeed.com
A lengthy review from TopSpeed.com goes into detail about the new version’s credentials. The bike has more of a “street fighter” look, with more of its internal components visible; the previous incarnation modestly covered these parts up as if the owner might be calling their motorbike breakdown cover provider regularly without such protection. The bike is lauded for its instant thrust and its ability, so says the reviewer, to “embarrass” higher-end superbikes. From zipping around town to being out on the open road, the bike gets a big thumbs up from TopSpeed.com.
Telegraph
With a maximum of 140bhp, the Telegraph’s review points out that the updated Z1000 has only increased this figure by 4bhp on the outgoing model – which is a modest upgrade compared with the current naked superbike competition. But this bhp level is enough to make the bike “fast and fun”, and gives it enough bite to overtake with ease and cruise at the legal speed limit. The new Z1000 loses out in terms of practicality (no room for a passenger or any stowage space), but is nevertheless responsive and agile. The Telegraph gave the machine 3/5 stars.
Dani Prank (AutoVideoBroadcast) – YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jNiQn40eRQ#t=50.
This flashy video review praises the Z1000’s “devil-may-care” looks – based on a Japanese design style called “sugomi” – and highlights the various tweaks on the new version that have boosted performance. Upgraded intake cams and velocity stacks, and better throttle and low to mid-range power – thanks to revised ECU settings – have, in the eyes of this reviewer, put the Z1000 in a good position to take on the naked superbike competition, which hails exclusively from Europe in the form of Ducati's Streetfighter, KTM's 1290 Super Duke R, Aprilia's Tuono V4 and MV Agusta's Rivale.
Breakdown Cover from 
