Keen motorcycle enthusiasts might already know that Kawasaki is upgrading its 1000cc lineup to 1100cc which includes the Versys 1100 and the Ninja 1100. Until now, there has been no confirmation about the Z series but the Tokyo-based superbike brand isn’t going to deprive its customer base by not bringing out a naked streetfighter on this new platform.
According to a document released by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), Kawasaki is readying four models on the 1100cc platform including two Ninja and one Versys models. The last model, codenamed ZR1100HT, is believed to be the upcoming flagship naked street bike from Kawasaki.
Kawasaki Z1100: Expected details
For reference, the CARB regulates the emissions of motorcycles.People who are aware of Kawasaki’s history and its nomenclature, the ‘ZR’ codes have been reserved for the Z series motorcycles. The earlier MY2003 Z1000 was codenamed ZR1000-A1 and its successor was known by its codename ZR1000-A2. The ‘T’ in the “ZR1100HT” most likely stands for the 2025 model year, as per industry standards, but the ZR1100H designation is new.
The CARB document confirms two important attributes about the upcoming Z1100. Firstly, its inertial mass weighs 370 kg and secondly, the engine displacement is 1,099cc. This suggests that the motorcycle will be powered by a newly developed 1099cc, inline-four, liquid-cooled engine. Although output figures of this motor are yet unknown, we expect it to be tuned for a more raw and street-friendly performance.
Currently, this updated 1,099cc power mill in the Ninja 1100 and the Versys 1100 produces 134 bhp and 113N of peak torque. In terms of features, the Z1100 is expected to come equipped with a full-colour TFT display with smartphone connectivity, multiple riding modes, cornering ABS, traction control, and potentially semi-active suspension, aligning with its premium status.
The all-new Kawasaki Z1100 is anticipated to make its global debut in late 2025—likely at the EICMA motorcycle show—before hitting showrooms in early 2026. Being a flagship model, it is most likely to come to India by late 2026 or early 2027 as a fully-imported CBU model. Internationally, the new Z1100 is positioned to fit squarely between Kawasaki’s supercharged Z H2 and the Z900 in the brand’s streetfighter lineup.
Source: Motorcycle.com
