Motorcycle Race

Following the highly popular Z750, Kawasaki proudly presents the newest model in the Z family. 40 years after the birth of the original Z, the Z800 takes the Z design in an aggressive new direction. While the design of its popular predecessor may be considered somewhat reserved, for the Z800 designers were given free rein to pursue a more vivid expression of the Z brand for the mid-size class. Engineers were equally unconstrained when it came to engine and chassis design. With increased engine displacement and increased chassis performance delivering even greater exhilaration, the Z800 offers an exciting and expressive choice of ride that makes other options seem pale in comparison.

Aggressive styling

Given the freedom to create an unrestrained design for the Z800, designers pursued a much more aggressive and visceral appearance. The Z800 exudes a palpable presence – less a machine and more a living, breathing entity. The compact headlamp cowl uses a multi-facet design to create a more aggressive, glaring visage for the Z800. The fierce appearance is one of the key styling elements of the aggressive new design.

LED taillight

An all-new LED taillight complements the slim design of the tail. The LED bulbs form a "Z" pattern, ensuring everyone you pass knows that you are on a Z model. Seat & ergonomics

The relationship between the pegs, seat and handlebars was designed to enhance communication between rider and machine, giving the rider a confidence-inspiring feeling of control that perfectly complements its accurate and precise handling qualities. A new seat design contributes to more comfortable ergonomics. The riders seat features a Z-pattern, another subtle design touch. 17-litre tank

Like on the Z1000, the key cylinder is located at the front of the tank. This contributes to the compact design of the headlamp and front cowl, and moves the front cowl and instrument panel closer to the rider. Covers added to the side of the fuel tank contribute to the fierce street-fighter design. Rider point-of-view

Looking forward, the compact design of the front cowl emphasises the Z800s forward-slanting posture. The Z800s futuristic looking all-digital instrument panel features three LCD screens. The centre display contains a level-meter-style tachometer. Three tachometer display patterns allow riders to customise their ride. The wide handlebar has flatter bend, contributing to the strong street-fighter image. Under-cowl & shrouds

Standard equipment, the under-cowl adds to the Z800s street-fighter image and along with the engine shrouds contributes to the aggressive, visceral design. From the side the engine shrouds and under-cowl appear to grip the engine, creating the image of a predator holding prey in its mouth. 806 cm3 In-Line Four engine

Now displacing 806 cm3 thanks to a larger bore, the Z800 engine offers increased performance at all rpm. The greater performance especially noticeable in the low-mid range, adding to greater everyday usability as well increased riding exhilaration. Shorter final gearing complements the new engine character and emphasises the Z800s stronger acceleration. Ultra-fine injectors and larger-diameter 34 mm throttle bodies (previously 32 mm) with sub-throttles offer ultra-smooth response across the rev-range.The new cylinder is an aluminium die-cast piece with plated bores (previously gravity cast with steel liners). Its open-deck construction (previously closed deck) contributes to a weight savings of approximately 1 kg.

To offset the weight gained by their larger diameter, the pistons have a reduced height. They are approximately 10% lighter, reducing reciprocating weight.