The rumour wheels of the internet are running again with speculation that Kawasaki is preparing to introduce a baby RS called the Z400RS, or even Z4RS.
According to reports coming out of Japan, Kawasaki is set to continue with its usual model line up where the introduction of a new Ninja model will immediately be followed by a Z model, and in recent years, that will be followed up with an RS model.
It is also worth noting that this is not the first time that these rumours have floated, the first was in 2022, but considering that the ZX-4R has already hit some markets, this could just be the year the rumours come true.
Just as a refresher, Kawasaki introduced the ZX4-R early last year and even previewed it at the Bangkok Motor Show at the second half of 2023.
The ZX-4R is powered by a 400cc, inline 4-cylinder engine pushing 77PS. A naked-Z variant will soon follow with the same engine and suspension variant.
However, word on the grapevine is now suggesting that a retro naked model will also follow suite, ala Z900RS and the Z650RS.
Why would Kawasaki do that though? Well besides the fact that Kawasaki has been doing that in recent times already, Kawasaki has also done so before in the 70s with the 400-RS. Back then, the Zephyr and FX name plates were used.
Some Japanese media outlets are reporting that there is a 70% chance of the Z400RS (or Z4RS) being introduced sometime in quarter three of 2024.
So how does Modenas fit into this picture?
Lets not forget that Kawasaki and Modenas strengthened their relationship in Malaysia with Kawasaki increasing its shares in the Malaysian company. This happened sometime in 2021 with an official announcement made in 2022.
Besides the changing of Kawasaki dealerships, one of the key takeaways from that is a rebranding exercise.
In Malaysia, all Kawasaki bikes 650cc and under are rebranded as Modenas while anything above that will continue to carry the Kawasaki brand.
This is why models like the Versys are known as the Modenas Versys.
So with the imminent introduction of the Ninja ZX-4R in Malaysia, could we soon see a Modenas Z400RS?
If the rumours are to be believed, it is not a matter of if, but a matter of when.
Motosikal hibrid Kawasaki yang bakal dilancarkan telah terdedah melalui ilustrasi paten terkini. Gambar dibawah, dikongsikan oleh penerbitan Itali Motociclismo, menunjukkan motosikal berasaskan model touring Kawasaki Versys, tetapi dibezakan dengan penambahan unit hibrid.
Pembangunan ini sejajar dengan tawaran hibrid sedia ada Kawasaki, iaitu full-fairing Ninja 7 Hybrid dan naked Z 7 Hybrid. Sistem hibrid ini terdiri daripada motor elektrik 9kW yang beroperasi bersama dengan enjin 451cc yang bersilinder-kembar.
‘Versys Hybrid’ yang bakal muncul berbeza daripada model hibrid Kawasaki yang bakal masuk pasaran dunia pada tahun 2024 – Ninja 7 Hybrid dan Z 7 Hybrid, yang berkategori sportbike dan naked. Kategori-kategori ini memberi tumpuan kepada prestasi berbanding perjalanan jauh, dan amat berbeza dengan segmen touring.
Kelebihan hibrid dalam konteks touring melampaui pertimbangan jarak dan efficiency minyak sahaja. Motosikal hibrid memastikan operasi berterusan selepas bateri habis, kelebihannya terletak dalam keupayaannya untuk mengekalkan prestasi yang mantap semasa perjalanan yang panjang — sesuatu yang enjin tradisional yang bergantung pada satu punca kuasa untuk roda belakang tidak dapat tawarkan.
Walaupun bateri 1.4kWh yang kelihatan sederhana digunakan dalam Ninja 7 Hybrid dan Z 7 Hybrid, Kawasaki menggabungkannya dengan enjin konvensional, memberikan 69bhp ke roda belakang dalam kedua-dua model. Output ini, yang melebihi sedikit daripada 66bhp Versys 650, menekankan potensi prestasi yang berterusan untuk jarak yang panjang.
Walaupun Kawasaki belum membuat keputusan untuk beralih sepenuhnya dari model biasa kepada hibrid dengan prestasi yang setaraf, keberkesanan Versys hibrid untuk perjalanan jauh, bersama dengan penekanan Kawasaki terhadap penggunaan bahan api seperti motosikal 250cc pada motosikal hibrid sedia ada, menunjukkan kemungkinan Versys 650 dipertimbangkan untuk transformasi inovatif seumpama itu.
An upcoming Kawasaki hybrid motorcycle has been uncovered through new patent illustrations. The images, disclosed by the Italian publication Motociclismo, depict a bike based on the Kawasaki Versys touring model, yet distinguished by the integration of a hybrid power unit, departing from the conventional internal combustion engine.
This development aligns with Kawasaki’s existing hybrid offerings, namely the faired Ninja 7 Hybrid and the naked Z 7 Hybrid. The hybrid system comprises a 9kW electric motor working in tandem with a 451cc parallel twin-cylinder combustion engine.
The prospective ‘Versys Hybrid’ signifies a departure from Kawasaki’s current partially electric models, the Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z 7 Hybrid, which cater to the sports and naked categories, respectively. These categories prioritize performance over extended journeys, unlike the touring segment.
The significance of a hybrid in the touring context goes beyond mere range considerations. While a hybrid ensures continued operation once the battery is depleted, its advantage lies in maintaining robust performance during lengthy rides—an assurance that traditional power units, relying on a single power source for the rear wheel, offer.
Despite the seemingly modest 1.4kWh battery employed in the Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z 7 Hybrid, Kawasaki couples it with the 451cc parallel twin, delivering 69bhp to the rear wheel in both models. This output, slightly surpassing the Versys 650’s 66bhp, emphasizes the potential for sustained performance over extended distances.
While Kawasaki has yet to commit to a complete transition from combustion models to hybrids with comparable performance, the efficacy of a hybrid Versys over extended distances, coupled with Kawasaki’s assertion of 250cc-like fuel consumption from its existing hybrid bikes, suggests the possibility of the Versys 650 being considered for such an innovative transformation.
The Kawasaki Ninja dianggap sebagai rentetan jentera supersport yang paling berjaya. Nama itu sendiri telah menjadi definisi sejati bagi sebuah sportbike, dengan golongan bukan peminat sering merujuk kepada mana-mana sportbike, tanpa mengira pengeluar, sebagai Ninja.
Walau bagaimanapun, status ikonik motosikal ini bukan tanpa sebab, kerana hingga hari ini, Ninja ZX-10RR adalah kompetitif dalam Kejohanan Dunia Superbike.
Untuk merayakan kejayaan ini, Kawasaki telah melancarkan versi terhad Ninja ZX-10RR yang dipanggil Edisi Ujian Musim Sejuk. Terdapat Edisi Ujian Musim Sejuk superbike pada masa lampau, biasanya dilancarkan menjelang akhir tahun di mana kebanyakan bahagian di hemisfera utara mengalami musim sejuk.
Namun, Edisi Ujian Musim Sejuk 2024 Ninja ZX-10RR kini lebih istimewa, dengan hanya 25 unit yang akan dikeluarkan. Setiap motosikal telah direka dan disiapkan oleh Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT), dan mematuhi standard yang ketat pasukan perlumbaan.
Pemilik bertuah Edisi Ujian Musim Sejuk 2024 akan mendapat motosikal yang dilapisi dengan livery yang serupa dengan motosikal WSBK KRT Ninja Ujian Musim Sejuk. Terdapat juga plat bernombor di pelindung tangki, serta sistem ekzos dari Akrapovic.
Untuk melengkapkan semuanya, pemilik motosikal baru ini akan mendapat pas VIP untuk dua orang untuk mengakses mana-mana pusingan WSBK 2024 pilihan mereka. Pas istimewa ini memberikan akses ke paddock semasa pusingan WSBK pilihan anda, serta akses VIP ke kemudahan dan kotak Pasukan Perlumbaan Kawasaki. Anda juga akan mendapat lawatan berpandu ke KRT Box, dan berpeluang berjumpa dengan pelumba Team Green, Alex Lowes dan Axel Bassani.
Selain daripada faedah istimewa dan ciri-ciri tambahan pada ZX-10RR Edisi Ujian Musim Sejuk, motosikal ini merupakan jentera yang cukup power. Ia menyampaikan kuasa sebanyak 214 daya kuda hasil daripada enjin empat silinder sejajar sejajar 998cc, cecair sejuk, injeksi bahan api. Tork dinilai pada 119Nm, memberikan pecutan yang mantap.
Ciri-ciri lain termasuk satu set elektronik komprehensif seperti quick shifter, traction control dan just cornering management. Ada juga cruise control dan skin full-colour TFT.
Secara semulajadi, motosikal bertaraf ini akan menarik caj premium yang cukup tinggi, dan ZX-10RR Edisi Ujian Musim Sejuk bukanlah pengecualian. Harganya ialah 33,000 euro, yang bermaksud kira-kira MYR167,000 pada waktu penulisan ini.
Hanya 25 unit akan dijual, dengan 10 dikhaskan untuk pasaran Perancis. Belum ada berita samada motosikal ini akan tiba di Malaysia, tetapi tidak akan menjadi pilihan yang baik untuk berspekulasi jika saya di tempat anda.
The Kawasaki Ninja stands as an epitome of success within the supersport bike realm, with its name becoming synonymous with sportbikes for enthusiasts worldwide. Even today, the Ninja ZX-10RR continues to assert its dominance in the Superbike World Championship, maintaining its competitive edge.
In a nod to this triumph, Kawasaki has introduced an exclusive version of the Ninja ZX-10RR known as the Winter Test Edition. While previous superbikes have seen Winter Test Edition releases, the 2024 Ninja ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition takes exclusivity to a new level, with a mere 25 units slated for production. Crafted under the meticulous standards of the WSBK Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) technical department, each bike promises a unique blend of design and performance.
Owners of the 2024 Winter Test Edition are in for a treat, receiving a bike adorned in a livery reminiscent of the WSBK KRT Ninja Winter Test bike. The limited edition also boasts a numbered plate on the tank protector and features an Akrapovic exhaust system. As a cherry on top, purchasers will be granted a two-person VIP pass, allowing access to any 2024 WSBK round of their choice. This special pass grants entry to the paddock, VIP access to Kawasaki Racing Team hospitality and boxes, a guided tour of the KRT Box, and an opportunity to meet Team Green’s racers, Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani.
Beyond these exclusive perks, the ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition stands as a formidable machine on its own. Powering this beast is a 998cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 214 horsepower and 119Nm of torque.
Equipped with advanced electronics, including a quick shifter, traction control, and cornering management, the bike ensures a thrilling and controlled ride. Additional features include an Ohlins steering damper for maximum control, built-in cruise control for road comfort, and a large, full-color TFT display providing essential ride statistics.
Undoubtedly, such a high-performance machine commands a premium, and the ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition is no exception, priced at 33,000 euros (approximately MYR167,000). With only 25 units available, including 10 reserved for the French market, the exclusivity of this model adds to its allure. The chances of Malaysians getting their hands on one is extremely low, especially with Kawasaki Malaysia focusing on fast moving models rather than ultra-exclusive models such as the ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition.
Berita angin tentang Kawasaki dan Modenas sedang mencipta supermoped sudah bertular selama beberapa tahun dengan gambar di atas menjadi pendorong utamanya.
Kita tak pasti siapa yang mencipta gambar itu tetapi ia telah beredar di internet untuk beberapa tahun.
Namun, berita angin ini semakin kuat dan yang terkini ialah motosikal supermoped yang dimaksudkan sedang dalam pembangunan di Eropah.
Tiada maklumat tentang di mana di Eropah ia sedang dibangunkan, tetapi ada yang katakan yang beberapa jurutera Modenas yang kini ditempatkan di Eropah selama beberapa bulan yang lepas.
Mereka dipercayai berada di sana untuk membantu menyediakan supermoped itu untuk pelancaran tempatan yang bakal berlangsung tak lama lagi.
Dipercayai bahawa fokus utama mereka adalah pada pembangunan kuasa dan latihan teknikal.
Menurut laporan dari beberapa media Malaysia, moto baru itu direka di Malaysia, menerima input teknikal dari Jepun, dan kini sedang dibangunkan di Eropah.
Anda mungkin tertanya-tanya mengapa Eropah kerana moped atau kapcai tidak begitu popular di sana.
Carian online telah mendedahkan bahawa Kawasaki sebenarnya mempunyai beberapa kilang dan pejabat tersebar di seluruh rantau itu, terutamanya untuk Kawasaki Heavy Industries.
Namun, yang menariknya, terdapat sebahagian Kawasaki Motors di Belanda yang mempunyai pejabat-pejabat di Perancis, Jerman, Itali, Sepanyol, Sweden, dan UK.
Tidak jelas dengan serta-merta jika cawangan-cawangan ini adalah outlet jualan atau juga memainkan peranan dalam pembangunan, walaupun yang pertama kelihatan lebih mungkin mengingatkan bahawa Kawasaki telah mengeluarkan beberapa daripada agensinya di seluruh dunia untuk memberi ruang kepada kewujudan rasmi. Contoh adalah Kawasaki Malaysia.
Tetapi bagaimana jika spekulasi ini benar? Enjin manakah yang akan digunakan Kawasaki kerana ia tidak mempunyai enjin berkapasiti kecil di pasaran tempatan? Nah, itu tidak sepenuhnya benar.
Kawasaki India baru-baru ini melancarkan model W175 yang dikemaskini (dilihat di atas) untuk tahun 2024. Ia mempunyai enjin satu silinder 177cc, berpendingin udara, bermasukan bahan api, dengan keluaran 13hp dan 13Nm tork. Ia bukanlah enjin baru dan telah berada di pasaran untuk sementara waktu, yang bermakna ia telah diuji dan terbukti serta mudah didapati.
Dalam semangat supermoped, adakah ini enjin yang akan menggerakkan motosikal yang begitu dinantikan itu?
Seperti biasa, semuanya masih bersifat spekulatif, sama seperti yang telah berlaku dalam beberapa tahun kebelakangan ini. Tetapi dengan beberapa media tempatan melaporkannya, spekulasi itu mungkin benar, atau ia mungkin seperti yang selalu berlaku – hanya sekadar klik bait.
The rumours about Kawasaki and Modenas creating a super moped has been circulating for years with the photo above being the driving force behind it.
We are not sure who created the photo but it has been making its rounds around the internet for some time now.
But the rumours are getting stronger and the latest ones are that the bike in question is currently being developed in Europe.
There is no word about where in Europe it is being developed but apparently there are a few Modenas engineers that are currently stationed in Europe for the past three months.
They are apparently there to help prepare the super moped for an imminent local launch.
It is believed that their main area of focus is on the powertrain development as well as technical training.
According to reports from a few Malaysian outlets, the new super moped was designed in Malaysia, received technical input from the Japanese and is currently being developed in Europe.
Now you may be wondering why Europe since mopeds are not exactly popular in Europe.
A quick search online has revealed that Kawasaki actually has a few factories and offices scattered all around the region, particularly for Kawasaki Heavy Industries.
Interestingly though, there is a Kawasaki Motors division in The Netherlands which has offices in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the UK.
It is not immediately clear if these branches are sales outlets or also play a role in development though the former seems more likely considering that Kawasaki has booted out a few of its global dealerships in favour of an official presence. Case in hand being Kawasaki Malaysia.
But what if the rumours are true? Which engine would Kawasaki use since it does not have a small capacity engine in the local market? Well that is not exactly true.
Kawasaki India recently launched the updated W175 (seen above) for 2024. It has a 177cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine with an output of 13hp and 13Nm of torque. It is not a new engine and has been in the market for a while, which means it is tried and tested and is widely available.
In the spirit of the super moped, could this be the engine to power the highly anticipated bike?
As usual, it is all still speculative, just as it was for the past few years. But with a number of local outlets reporting on it, the rumour could be true, or it could be what it always has been – click bait.
If you understand Bahasa Malaysia, below is an video interview we did with the CEO of Modenas En Roslan not too long ago about this exact same topic:
Susah nak bayangkan dunia tanpa motosikal kan? Bukan saja dapat jimat masa dan duit, tapi gila seronok juga!
Tapi, ada laporan dari UK yang mengatakan ada beberapa majikan yang diskriminasi pekerja mereka yang suka bawa motosikal untuk urusan berkaitan kerja.
Well, percaya atau tidak, British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) dah bunyi kan loceng kecemasan pasal benda ni.
Alex Parsons-Hulse dari BMF kata diorang dapat info yang ‘several’ syarikat di UK ni memang tak bagi pekerja bawa motosikal untuk urusan kerja. Ni bukan main-main, kita cakap pasal benda yang sah – pergi jumpa pembekal, temu pelanggan, atau gi konferens. Dan tambah lagi hal, ada kes majikan cakap, “Sorry, tinggalkan motosikal kat rumah,” kalau pasal perjalanan harian. Bau macam diskriminasi atas pilihan pengangkutan, tak bau ke?
Susah nak bayangkan benda ni terjadi kat Malaysia. Malah, takde peluang langsung.
It is difficult to imagine a world without motorcycles. Not only do they save time and money but they are also awesomely fun.
But according to reports out of the UK, there are some employers who are discriminating against their motorcycle riding employees for riding their bike on world-related journeys.
Well, believe it or not, the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) is sounding the alarm on exactly that.
According to Alex Parsons-Hulse from the BMF, they’ve caught wind of ‘several’ companies putting the brakes on employees using motorcycles for work-related trips. We’re talking about legitimate stuff here – visiting suppliers, meeting clients, or attending a conference. And to add fuel to the fire, there are instances where employers are saying, “Sorry, leave your bike at home,” when it comes to the daily commute. Smells a bit like discrimination based on transportation choices, doesn’t it?
The BMF isn’t sitting idly by; they want the scoop. They’re urging people to come forward and spill the beans on these situations. So if you are reading this from the UK and your boss has ever pumped the brakes on your bike for work trips or made you ditch it for the daily grind, the BMF wants to hear your tale.
It is difficult to imagine such a thing happening here in Malaysia, in fact there is no chance of it ever happening here. So our hearts go out to our motorcycle riding brethren in the UK.
Khabar gembira, kaki moto! Modenas telah mengumumkan rancangan menarik untuk pasaran Malaysia tahun depan.
2024 Modenas Z250 ABS – RM20,600
Motor jenis ‘naked’ ni menggegar jalan dengan enjin berkembar 35ps yang padu, terletak dalam kerangka bergaya ‘trellis’. Ada suspensi depan 41mm yang kuat dan rekaan ‘Sugomi’ yang iconic tu, ciri trademark dalam siri Z.
Warna-warna baru mostly kelabu, dengan kerangka hijau metalik yang membuatkannya nampak lebih cool dan garang.
2024 Modenas Z650 ABS – RM35,200
Model 2024 Z650 ni, memang kekalkan spesifikasi yang sama, tapi beri nampak segar dengan warna baru, “Candy Persimmon Red” yang memukau. Kerangka dan sportrim pun matching dengan warna merah yang menonjol. Jadi, siri Z ni makin berani, lebih banyak model dan grafik merah yang akan diumumkan tak lama lagi.
2024 Kawasaki KX250 – RM35,000
KX250, motor ‘off-road’ legenda, sekarang datang dalam warna ‘Lime Green’ yang pasti menunjukkan kesediaannya untuk menghadapi cabaran laluan yang paling mencabar.
2024 Kawasaki KX250X – RM35,500
KX250X pun sama, dengan warna ‘Lime Green’. Beza antara Kawasaki KX250X 2023 dan 2024 ialah grafik pelindung radiator dan warna pelindung suspensi hadapan. Semuanya untuk memberikan gaya yang lebih menyengat.
2024 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE – RM81,900
Model ni dah direka semula tahun lepas, dengan konsep “ANY ROAD, ANY TIME.” Motor ni ada enjin empat silinder yang memberi respon pantas dan suspensi dikawal secara elektronik dengan teknologi ‘Skyhook’ dari SHOWA yang memang best gila.
Tahun depan, model ni datang dengan warna dan grafik baru, tanpa ubah apa-apa dalam spesifikasi. Maknanya, tetap mantap!
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX – RM71,400
Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2024 ni tetap hebat dengan teknologi dan prestasi yang sama macam model sebelumnya. Tapi yang baru ialah warna-warna kemasan yang memikat. Depan motor ni ada kemasan hitam premium yang buat dia nampak mewah.
Kini, pelbagai warna dan grafik baru untuk 2024 dah ada di kedai-kedai Kawasaki. Jadi, jangan lepaskan peluang untuk tengok sendiri dan rasa model-model baru yang awesome ni. Kalau nak tahu lebih lanjut, check laman web rasmi MODENAS dan/atau Kawasaki Malaysia di https://modenas.my/v2/ dan/atau http://www.kawasaki.com.my/home. Jangan lupa follow di sosial media untuk update terkini!
Kawasaki Motors Europe unveiled its latest addition to the Ninja family, the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), marking a significant milestone in the world of motorcycle innovation.
While initially showcased as a prototype during EICMA 2022, the production version has undergone substantial refinements and enhancements over the past year.
As its nomenclature suggests, the Ninja 7 HEV incorporates a pioneering hybrid powertrain, blending traditional combustion and electric propulsion technologies.
The motorcycle is poised to challenge conventional perceptions of hybrid motorcycles, distinguishing itself as the world’s first mass-produced two-wheeler of its kind.
Powering the Ninja 7 HEV is a newly developed 451cc parallel twin combustion engine, offering riders the option of manual or automatic gear selection. In conjunction with this conventional powerplant, Kawasaki employs a 9-kilowatt traction motor powered by a 48-volt battery pack, forging a robust hybrid system.
This harmonious fusion of elements delivers a combined power output of 43.5 kilowatts (58.3hp), which can be further bolstered to a peak of 51.1 kW (68.5hp) when engaging the e-Boost feature, also featured on the fully electric 2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 models.
Kawasaki emphasizes that the Ninja 7 HEV’s physical size and performance closely mirror that of a typical 650cc to 700cc combustion motorcycle, prompting the designation as the Ninja 7.
This nomenclature choice serves as a noteworthy departure from Kawasaki’s established naming conventions, underscoring the distinctive nature of this hybrid motorcycle while retaining its familial association.
In an effort to optimize handling and balance, Kawasaki has strategically centralized the mass within the motorcycle’s frame, as visually demonstrated in an accompanying animated diagram.
Although complete specifications are yet to be disclosed, Kawasaki has provided a glimpse of key features to expect on the Ninja 7 HEV:
Idle Stop Function: The combustion engine automatically halts when the motorcycle is stationary to conserve fuel, a feature that has been relatively uncommon in the motorcycle industry.
Automatic Launch Position Finder: This feature intuitively selects first gear when the bike comes to a standstill, ensuring readiness for immediate acceleration.
Walk Mode: Borrowed from the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1, Walk Mode offers a low-speed Reverse and Forward option, enhancing maneuverability.
Full-Color TFT Dash: The Ninja 7 HEV incorporates a full-color TFT dashboard, reminiscent of the layout found in the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1.
Ride Modes: Riders will have the flexibility to choose from three distinct riding modes: EV, Eco Hybrid, and Sport Hybrid.
Clutch-Less Operation: The motorcycle eschews a traditional clutch lever in favor of push-button shifting on the handlebar, enhancing ease of use.
As of the October 9, Kawasaki is yet to announced the official pricing for the Ninja 7 Hybrid.
In an exciting revelation for motorcycle enthusiasts and eco-conscious riders, Kawasaki has officially introduced its inaugural electric motorcycle models, the 2024 Ninja e-1 and Z e-1, marking a significant foray into the realm of electric mobility within the United States.
Design and Performance
Visually, the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 seamlessly blend with the distinctive design language associated with their respective lineages, maintaining the iconic styling cues of their Ninja and Z families.
Beneath their striking exteriors, both motorcycles are equipped with a 5-kilowatt (approximately 6.7 horsepower) interior permanent magnet synchronous electric motor capable of delivering a peak power output of 9 kW (about 12 hp).
Furthermore, these electric bikes incorporate regenerative energy during deceleration, an attribute common among electric motorcycles, eliminating the need for a clutch.
Battery and Charging
Powering the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 are two removable 30 amp-hour battery packs, offering riders convenience and versatility. Charging these batteries can be achieved through three distinct methods: direct connection to a standard household outlet, utilization of a dedicated docking station, or plugging the bike itself with the batteries in place.
A full recharge of each battery pack is estimated to take approximately 3.7 hours. Additionally, a separate 12-volt battery supplies power to the lights and instrument cluster, mirroring the conventional setup found in combustion-engine motorcycles.
Range and Performance
Kawasaki provides an estimated range of 72km on a single charge for both models, taking into account usage in Road mode without engaging the e-Boost feature. It is important to note that real-world range can vary due to factors such as rider weight, wind conditions, terrain, and riding style.
Chassis and Handling
Both the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 feature a familiar steel trellis frame design and share common suspension components. The front suspension comprises a 41mm telescopic fork with 119mm of travel, while the rear utilizes a bottom-link Uni-Trak setup offering 132mm of travel and four-way adjustable preload.
Braking systems consist of single two-piston calipers on both front and rear wheels, with the primary distinction being the size of the discs. Both motorcycles are equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels and feature standard ABS for enhanced safety.
Dimensions and Weight
The Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 exhibit similar dimensions, including a 1,365mm wheelbase, 1,980mm length, 170mm ground clearance, and a seat height of 785mm. Also these electric bikes share a rake of 24.4 degrees and a trail of 94mm.
However, differences emerge in terms of width, height, and curb weight. The Ninja e-1 measures 686mm in width and 1,105mm in height, weighing in at 140kg.
Conversely, the Z e-1 boasts dimensions of 730mm in width and 1,035mm in height, with a lighter curb weight of 135kg.
Power Modes and e-Boost
Both models provide riders with two power modes, Eco and Road, catering to different riding scenarios. Eco mode prioritizes range by offering a gentler power response and electronically limiting the top speed to 60km/h, while Road mode is tailored for everyday use, allowing a top speed of 80km/h.
Furthermore, an e-Boost function is available in both modes, temporarily granting extra power for improved acceleration and a higher top speed. This feature elevates the top speed to approximately 85km/h in Road mode and 60km/h in Eco mode, albeit for a limited duration of 15 seconds to prevent overheating.
Walk Mode and Connectivity
To simplify parking maneuvers, Kawasaki has integrated a Walk Mode as a standard feature on both the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1. This mode enables controlled movement at low speeds, with a maximum forward speed of approximately 4.8km/h and a reverse speed of around 2.9km/h.
Both motorcycles are equipped with a 4.3-inch TFT color display, offering customizable light and dark modes. Additionally, riders can enjoy seamless Bluetooth connectivity with their smartphones through Kawasaki’s Rideology the App.
Storage
The Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 feature a compact front trunk (frunk) in the space traditionally occupied by a fuel tank in combustion-engine motorcycles.
Additionally, there is a small underseat storage area capable of accommodating items such as a U-lock and housing the adapter for direct wall charger connection.
Pricing in the US
According to Kawasaki USA, the Ninja e-1 is priced at USD7,599 (RM36k) while the Z e-1 starts at USD7,299 (RM34k).
