2026 Kawasaki Z1100 & Z1100 SE Unveiled: Design, Tech, Specs, Price, and What’s New vs Z1000

Kawasaki has revealed the next evolution of its legendary Sugomi supernaked line: the Z1100 and the higher-spec Z1100 SE for model year 2026. The duo brings a larger 1,099 cc inline-four, IMU-backed electronics, a new 5-inch TFT cockpit with smartphone connectivity, and an SE package featuring premium braking and suspension hardware. UK prices are announced, and market arrivals begin in early 2026. Below is a structured, link-free rewrite with all the essential details for enthusiasts and shoppers.

The Big Picture: Sugomi, Evolved

The Z1100 family distills the crouched-predator stance and instant, visceral feel that have long defined Kawasaki’s Z line, while pushing refinement and daily usability further. A torquier 1,099 cc engine underscores the update with stronger real-world thrust across the low-to-mid revs. This is complemented by a modern rider-aid suite and a crisp new TFT cockpit that makes the bike feel more premium without complicating the ride.

Quick Summary

Engine And Performance: Stronger Everyday Punch

The 1,099 cc inline-four is tuned for flexible street performance, delivering 100 kW (136 PS) and 113 Nm. Electronic Throttle Valves provide precise fueling and throttle response, while longer upper gear ratios support relaxed cruising. A bi-directional quickshifter enables clutchless up- and downshifts, and cruise control expands long-ride comfort. Expect linear, eager spin-up with an emphasis on tractable torque that works equally well in the city and on sweeping highways.

Chassis, Brakes, And Tyres: Standard vs SE

Both versions share a high-rigidity aluminium twin-tube frame, SFF-BP front forks, and a Horizontal Back-Link rear suspension for a direct, connected feel. The standard Z1100 employs monobloc calipers with large 310 mm discs for precise stopping power. The SE steps things up with Brembo radial-mount calipers, Brembo discs, steel-braided lines, and an Öhlins S46 rear shock with remote preload adjustment. From the showroom, both bikes ride on Dunlop Sportmax Q5A tyres, boosting grip, consistency, and feedback.

Ergonomics And Design: Fiercer Presence, Sharper Control

Kawasaki refines the rider triangle with bars that are wider and positioned slightly further forward, making steering inputs lighter and the bike more responsive at all speeds. Design-wise, the Z1100 retains the signature Sugomi menace: a low, hunched stance, sharply creased bodywork, and fierce LED lighting. A redesigned under-cowl with fin-like elements reinforces the aggressive aesthetic and helps visually integrate the exhaust layout.

Cockpit And Connectivity: New 5-Inch TFT

A clean, high-contrast 5-inch all-digital TFT anchors the cockpit. It supports smartphone connectivity and navigation features via Kawasaki’s companion app, enabling turn-by-turn directions and riding-data logging where available. The interface favors clarity at a glance, balancing the Z1100’s upmarket push with straightforward, glove-friendly operation.

Rider Aids And Safety: IMU-Backed Confidence

The Z1100 family integrates IMU-enhanced electronics that work quietly in the background. Expect multi-level traction control, cornering-aware ABS logic, selectable power modes, and integrated riding modes (typically Sport, Road, Rain, and a custom Rider mode). The quickshifter and cruise control round out a package that aims to offer both performance breadth and real-world convenience.

Pricing, Availability, And India Outlook

In the UK, the Z1100 is priced at £11,099 and the Z1100 SE at £12,699, with deliveries planned from January 2026. Market timing elsewhere will vary. There is no official confirmation yet regarding an India launch, but regional announcements often follow after initial global rollouts.

Top 5 Changes vs Z1000

1. Larger engine: displacement grows from 1,043 cc to 1,099 cc, tuned for stronger low- and mid-range torque.
2. Modern cockpit: a new 5-inch TFT brings clearer visuals and built-in phone connectivity.
3. IMU-driven electronics: a fuller suite of rider aids including traction, cornering-aware braking logic, power modes, and integrated ride modes.
4. Chassis refinement: ergonomic tweaks for wider, forward-set bars improve steering lightness and control; the SE adds premium braking and an Öhlins shock.
5. Stickier rubber: Dunlop Sportmax Q5A tyres fitted as standard for improved grip and feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1) What are the official power and torque figures?

EU-spec output is 100 kW (136 PS) and 113 Nm from the 1,099 cc inline-four.

2) What sets the Z1100 SE apart from the standard model?

The SE features Brembo radial-mount front calipers, Brembo discs, steel-braided lines, and an Öhlins S46 rear shock with remote preload, delivering a crisper braking feel and more sophisticated rear-end control.

3) Does it include a quickshifter and cruise control?

Yes. A bi-directional quickshifter and cruise control are part of the electronic package.

4) What tyres are fitted from the factory?

Both versions are equipped with Dunlop Sportmax Q5A tyres.

5) How have the ergonomics changed?

The handlebars are wider and set slightly further forward for lighter steering and sharper control without sacrificing comfort.

6) When do sales start and how much do they cost in the UK?

Deliveries are slated to begin in January 2026, priced at £11,099 for the Z1100 and £12,699 for the Z1100 SE in the UK.

7) Is an India launch confirmed?

An India launch has not been announced at this time.

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