Following the highly popular Z750, Kawasaki proudly presents the newest model in the Z family. 40 years after the birth of the original Z, the Z800 takes the Z design in an aggressive new direction. While the design of its popular predecessor may be considered somewhat reserved, for the Z800 designers were given free rein to pursue a more vivid expression of the Z brand for the mid-size class. Engineers were equally unconstrained when it came to engine and chassis design. With increased engine displacement and increased chassis performance delivering even greater exhilaration, the Z800 offers an exciting and expressive choice of ride that makes other options seem pale in comparison.
Given the freedom to create an unrestrained design for the Z800, designers pursued a much more aggressive and visceral appearance. The Z800 exudes a palpable presence – less a machine and more a living, breathing entity. Numerous street-fighter touches contribute to the more aggressive package.
Like on the Z1000, the key cylinder is located at the front of the tank.This contributes to the compact design of the headlamp and front cowl,and moves the front cowl and instrument panel closer to the rider.
- Handlebar has flatter bend, contributing to the strong street-fighter image. Taller handlebar risers ensure the grip position is unchanged.
- Attractive bend of the exhaust header pipes adds to the appeal of a “naked” motorcycle. The buffed finish (ZR800A/B only) of the header pipes further enhances appearance in this area.
- Engine design is important for a “naked” motorcycle. New engine covers compliment the Z800’s aggressive styling.
Compact headlamp cowl uses a multi-facet design to create a more aggressive, glaring visage for the Z800. The fierce appearance is one of the key styling elements of the aggressive new design. From the side the engine shrouds and under-cowl appear to grip the engine, creating the image of a predator holding prey in its mouth. Covers added to the side of the fuel tank contribute to the fierce street-fighter design.
With its larger displacement, the Z800 engine offers increased performance at all rpm. The greater performance is especially noticeable in the low-mid range, adding to greater everyday usability as well increased riding exhilaration. Shorter final gearing complements the new engine character and emphasises the Z800’s stronger acceleration.
Chassis geometry results in a package with nimble, responsive handling characteristics, together with a very stable feel. Posture is slightly forward leaning (front lowered, rear raised), contributing to the more aggressive appearance. Use of a cast aluminium engine sub-frame allows the front engine mounts to be positioned behind the cylinder, close to the engine’s centre of gravity. This reduces engine vibration transmitted to the rider (particularly at the handlebars), greatly contributing to ride quality. The engine sub-frame also allows the main frame construction to be slimmer, and contributes to the optimised rigidity balance.
Given the freedom to create an unrestrained design for the Z800, designers pursued a much more aggressive and visceral appearance. The Z800 exudes a palpable presence – less a machine and more a living, breathing entity. Numerous street-fighter touches contribute to the more aggressive package.
Like on the Z1000, the key cylinder is located at the front of the tank.This contributes to the compact design of the headlamp and front cowl,and moves the front cowl and instrument panel closer to the rider.
- Handlebar has flatter bend, contributing to the strong street-fighter image. Taller handlebar risers ensure the grip position is unchanged.
- Attractive bend of the exhaust header pipes adds to the appeal of a “naked” motorcycle. The buffed finish (ZR800A/B only) of the header pipes further enhances appearance in this area.
- Engine design is important for a “naked” motorcycle. New engine covers compliment the Z800’s aggressive styling.
Compact headlamp cowl uses a multi-facet design to create a more aggressive, glaring visage for the Z800. The fierce appearance is one of the key styling elements of the aggressive new design. From the side the engine shrouds and under-cowl appear to grip the engine, creating the image of a predator holding prey in its mouth. Covers added to the side of the fuel tank contribute to the fierce street-fighter design.
With its larger displacement, the Z800 engine offers increased performance at all rpm. The greater performance is especially noticeable in the low-mid range, adding to greater everyday usability as well increased riding exhilaration. Shorter final gearing complements the new engine character and emphasises the Z800’s stronger acceleration.
Chassis geometry results in a package with nimble, responsive handling characteristics, together with a very stable feel. Posture is slightly forward leaning (front lowered, rear raised), contributing to the more aggressive appearance. Use of a cast aluminium engine sub-frame allows the front engine mounts to be positioned behind the cylinder, close to the engine’s centre of gravity. This reduces engine vibration transmitted to the rider (particularly at the handlebars), greatly contributing to ride quality. The engine sub-frame also allows the main frame construction to be slimmer, and contributes to the optimised rigidity balance.
| DIMENSIONS | |
|---|---|
| Overall length | |
| Overall width | |
| Overall height | |
| Wheelbase | |
| Road clearance | |
| Seat height | |
| Curb mass | |
| Dry mass | |
| Fuel tank capacity | |
| PERFORMANCE | |
|---|---|
| Max. power | |
| Max. Power with Ram Air | |
| Max. torque | |
| ENGINE | |
|---|---|
| Type / Valve system | |
| Coolant System | |
| Bore x Stroke | |
| Displacement | |
| Compression ratio | |
| Fuel supply | |
| Lubrication system | |
| Starting system | |
| Ignition system | |
| DRIVETRAIN | |
|---|---|
| Driving system | |
| Transmission | |
| Primary reduction ratio | |
| 1st Gear ratios | |
| 2st Gear ratios | |
| 3st Gear ratios | |
| 4st Gear ratios | |
| 5st Gear ratios | |
| 6st Gear ratios | |
| Final reduction ratio | |
| Clutch type (Primary) | |
| FRAME | |
|---|---|
| Type | |
| Front Suspension | |
| Rear Suspension | |
| Front Wheel travel | |
| Rear Wheel travel | |
| Caster (Rake angle) | |
| Trail | |
| Steering angle (left/right) | |
| Front Tyre | |
| Rear Tyre | |
| Front Type Brake | |
| Caliper (Front) | |
| Rear Type Brake | |
| Caliper (Rear) | |
