- Z1100 to be powered by 1049cc engine
- Physical dimensions unveiled
- Launch by end of 2025
While the existence of the Kawasaki Z1100 were confirmed when the Japanese brand filed patents in the USA, new documents from Europe reveal more details of the upcoming streetfighter. We can expect the new Z1100 to be launched by the end of 2025.
Now, the Kawasaki Z1100 mechanically aligns closely with the newly introduced 2025 Ninja 1100SX and Versys 1100, enabling it to share their emissions certification. European homologation files further confirm the Z1100 meets the latest Euro 5+ emissions standards—an update that builds upon Euro 5 limits by introducing more stringent requirements around catalytic converter performance and longevity. Power output is on par with the Ninja 1100SX, and marginally above the Versys.
All three models are powered by the same 1099cc inline-four engine, internally designated ZX10HE. This engine represents a refined evolution of the former 1043cc unit found in earlier iterations of the Ninja 1000SX, Z1000, and Versys 1000. Although the base engine is shared, performance differs slightly between the models due to changes in ECU mapping and exhaust configurations. While official photos of the Z1100 have yet to surface, the identical 134-horsepower output to the Ninja 1100SX suggests it features the same exhaust and engine calibration. The Versys, with a unique exhaust system, delivers 133hp
Documents also indicate the existence of a detuned variant of the Z1100, tuned to produce 114 horsepower at 8,000 rpm—1,000 rpm lower than the standard model’s 134hp peak. However, this lower-output version is not expected to be sold in the U.S.
In addition to engine details, the European filings reveal the Z1100’s physical dimensions. It has a 56.7-inch wheelbase, matching that of the Ninja 1100SX, pointing to shared chassis and suspension components. This is consistent with Kawasaki’s modular approach, as the frame is an evolution of the discontinued Z1000’s platform. Despite these mechanical similarities, the Z1100 distinguishes itself in overall size: it’s slightly longer at 80.9 inches (compared to the Z1000’s 80.5), wider at 32.5 inches (up from 31.1), and taller at 42.7 inches (previously 41.5). The increased height likely stems from the addition of a larger TFT display that extends above the front cowl.
Top speed for the full-power, 134-hp Z1100 is rated at approximately 248 km/h, slightly lower than the faired Ninja 1100SX, which reaches around 251 km/h. The detuned 114-hp version has a top speed of about 235 km/h.
