2023 Z1000

Sugomi can be seen in a hunting predator. Poised on the verge of exploding into action, its eyes are locked onto its prey with an intense focus, its body crouching low, muscles tensing in anticipation. It is concentrated so intensely on the task at hand that the energy it is gathering in preparation to strike becomes virtually palpable, discernible to those in the vicinity. The Z1000's Sugomi design borrows from the predator's fiercely intense glare and a dynamic form that radiates with the anticipation of explosive action.

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The Z1000's Sugomi design takes the mass-forward crouching concept of the 2010-2013 model even further. The headlamp cowl, positioned as low as possible, extends the line running down from the top of the tank to create the image of a crouching predator's muscular shoulders and dropped head. Bodywork fits closely to the engine and frame, reinforcing the condensed, dynamic form. Mass is concentrated at the front, a stark contrast to the light, wisp of a tail. The dichotomy creates a dynamic design, with all lines drawn forward.

The Z1000's Sugomi design is most evident in its face. With the headlamp unit positioned as low as possible, the image of being glared at by a predator about to pounce is very strong. Accentuating this fierce visage are frown lines designed into the cowl above the headlamps. The LED headlamp units use reflector-less backs designed to appear dark when not in use. With the ignition off, the face takes on a whole new intensity.

The Japanese word Sugomi describes the intense aura or energy given off by a person or object of greatness and felt by the viewer. Someone, or something, possessing Sugomi inspires awe, leaves an indelible impression, is imposing in stature or ability, and commands respect. In the Z1000, Sugomi is evident both in its fiercely intense design and the exhilarating performance it delivers, radiating as a palpable energy.

For a Supernaked model, being "the fastest" or "most powerful" is less important than the "exhilaration" of the ride. Sugomi performance ensures that your heart soars every time you twist the throttle, and you feel the blood coursing through your veins as you deftly guide the Z1000 along your desired path.

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The Z1000's liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve 1,043 cc In-Line Four offers impressive power and strong torque. Engine tuning focuses on the feeling the rider gets when opening the throttle: a strong torque feeling and mid-range hit is complemented by direct throttle response. The intake's carefully crafted auditory note - designed specifically so that acceleration could be enjoyed aurally as well as physically - is a key component of the street riding exhilaration offered by the Z1000.

Race-inspired clutch technology offers both a back-torque limiting function as well as a light feel at the lever.

The idealized riding position is forward-canted with the rear raised, creating an aggressive posture. The aggressive position matches the bike's direct throttle response and handling, putting riders in a position to fully capitalize on the Z1000's sporty street riding potential.

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The Z1000's direct handling can be largely attributed to its front suspension. Combining the concepts of Showa's SFF and BPF, this next-generation fork offers both comfort and sport potential ideal for street riding. As with the BPF, smooth action from the initial part of the stroke contributes to excellent composure under braking. Able to accommodate heavy braking loads, its settings make sporty riding possible and contribute to more direct handling.

The Z1000's high-performance brake package includes triple petal discs, radial-mount monobloc calipers and a radial-pump front brake master cylinder. The monobloc calipers and brake pad material contribute to a strong initial bite, superb brake feeling and formidable stopping power.