Segment:
Naked Sportbike / Streetfighter
Target Audience:
Enthusiast riders seeking performance, aggressive styling, and a hands-on approach to maintenance and customization.
Competitors:
Yamaha FZ1, Suzuki GSX-S1000 (later years), Honda CB1000R (later years), Triumph Speed Triple.
Design Philosophy:
Concentrates on accessible power, sharp handling, and a distinctive, muscular aesthetic.
Engine Layout:
In-line four-cylinder, high-revving, liquid-cooled.
Suspension Design:
Upside-down front forks, monoshock rear suspension for advanced chassis control.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes with radial-mount calipers, single rear disc.
Coverage Years:
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Page Count:
Approximately 500-600 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual for this era of motorcycle)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete overhaul, inspection, tuning, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Clutch operation and inspection, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, shift drum and forks, gear inspection, lubrication.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, swingarm, rear suspension (shock absorber, linkages), front suspension (forks, steering head bearings).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinders, brake disc inspection, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing (battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition coil, lights), instrument panel, sensors, ECU troubleshooting, diagnostic codes.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, throttle bodies, fuel pressure testing, emissions control.
Bodywork:
Fairings, seats, fuel tank cover, fenders, minor body panel removal and installation.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment and lubrication, air filter service, coolant checks and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
System-by-system diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues, identification of symptoms and potential causes.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, component replacement, and reassembly of all major and minor motorcycle systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, bearing clearances, valve clearances, compression ratios, electrical resistance values.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostic (OBD) system analysis, sensor data interpretation, error code lookup and resolution.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers everything from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including intricate electrical diagnostics).
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, inline-four
Displacement:
998 cc (for the initial Z1000)
Bore X Stroke:
73.4 mm x 59.0 mm (for initial Z1000)
Compression Ratio:
11.2:1 (for initial Z1000)
Horsepower:
Approximately 125-130 PS (at crank) depending on year and specific model variations.
Torque:
Approximately 97-100 Nm (at crank) depending on year and specific model variations.
Fuel Delivery:
Digital Fuel Injection (DFI) with dual throttle valves (Sub-throttles) for improved throttle response and mid-range power.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91-98 octane rating (RON)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Type Recommendation:
SAE 10W-40, API SG or SH, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.4 liters (without filter change), 3.6 liters (with filter change).
Transmission Type:
Constant mesh, 6-speed return type
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-disc, cable-actuated
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 1st: 3.077, 2nd: 2.143, 3rd: 1.737, 4th: 1.450, 5th: 1.273, 6th: 1.130)
Final Drive:
O-ring sealed chain drive
Transmission Oil:
Refer to engine oil specifications (uses engine oil)
Overall Length:
2,140 mm (approximately, varies slightly by year)
Overall Width:
780 mm (approximately, varies slightly by year)
Overall Height:
1,055 mm (approximately, varies slightly by year)
Wheelbase:
1,440 mm (approximately)
Ground Clearance:
140 mm (approximately)
Seat Height:
815 mm (approximately)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 225 kg (fully fueled)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
19 liters
Front Tire Size:
120/70ZR17 M/C (58W) radial
Rear Tire Size:
180/55ZR17 M/C (73W) radial
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
Not applicable (Motorcycle specific hub/spoke construction)
Front Suspension Type:
41 mm upside-down telescopic fork, fully adjustable (preload, rebound, compression)
Rear Suspension Type:
Bottom-link Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock with adjustable preload, rebound, and compression damping
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable to motorcycles in the same way as cars; safety focuses on handling dynamics and braking performance.
Braking System:
Dual 300 mm petal disc front brakes with 4-piston radial-mount calipers; Single 250 mm petal disc rear brake with 2-piston caliper. ABS was an optional feature on some models/markets.
Lighting:
Multi-reflector headlights (Halogen), LED taillights (later models), amber turn signals.
Frame Construction:
High-tensile steel, backbone type frame for rigidity and rider feedback.
Ergonomics:
Sport-oriented rider triangle, designed for control and feedback.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital speedometer, analog tachometer (on some earlier models), multi-function LCD screen displaying odometer, trip meters, clock, fuel gauge, coolant temperature.
Lighting Technology:
Halogen main beam, LED taillight (on later models).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on certain model years and trims, enhancing braking safety.
Diagnostic Ports:
Diagnostic connectors for connecting to ECU and retrieving fault codes (detailed in the manual).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Service:
Inspect every 6,000 km, replace as needed or every 12,000 km.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 24,000 km.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years or 24,000 km.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (FMVSS 116)
Coolant Type:
Permanent type ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Charging System:
Occasional stator or rectifier failures are reported, particularly on higher-mileage units. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Fuel Injection:
Minor throttle response inconsistencies can sometimes be addressed with ECU re-mapping or throttle body cleaning. Manual covers cleaning and synchronization procedures.
Clutch Lever Feel:
Some riders report a slightly heavy clutch pull; maintenance and lubrication are key.
Suspension Wear:
As with any performance bike, fork seals and shock damping can degrade over time. Manual details seals replacement and damping adjustments.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long history of performance-oriented motorcycles, particularly in the sportbike and superbike categories, known for innovation and power.
Z Series Lineage:
The Z1000 follows in the footsteps of iconic Kawasaki 'Z' models, embodying a blend of performance and naked styling.
Second Generation Updates:
The 2003 model marked a significant redesign, moving to the more aggressive naked sportbike formula with a focus on sharp handling and a potent in-line four-cylinder engine.
Updates 2007 Onwards:
Further refinements occurred in 2007, including revised styling, updated suspension, and ECU mapping changes, leading to the third generation which the manual also covers.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Initial Release Year:
2003
Bike Of The Year:
While specific 'Bike of the Year' awards can vary by region and publication, the Z1000 has consistently been recognized for its aggressive styling, strong performance, and dynamic handling in motorcycle reviews.
Performance Reviews:
Frequently praised by automotive journalists for its powerful engine, precise chassis, and engaging riding experience.