Anybody riden an 07-08 Z1000?

I've fallen in love with this bike for some reason, guess I just have a soft spot for naked bikes. Anyway, has anyone on here been on a 07+ Kawasaki Z1000? How does it compare to the VFR? I know it makes about 20 hp & 20 lb/ft more than my VFR, so how is the power delivery on these things? How about rider ergonomics, is the Z1000 more cramped than a VFR or about the same? Also, can you include your height and/or inseam (as well as what gen VFR you ride/rode) if you compare the riding position to the VFR? Lastly, is vibration a problem on these bikes?

I'd love to go to the dealer myself and sit on one, but no dealers, that I've called, within 200 miles of me (Chicagoland) seem to have one in stock . My closest dealer, however, did have the previous generation model Z750S (the half fairing kind of reminded me of the movie, Alien) that they let me sit on, but I don't know how similar it is to the redesigned 07+ Z1000's. The dealer can order me one, and although they didn't say it, I believe that I have to buy it first!

I'm looking to buy one of these as my next bike since my cousin decided to buy my VFR, after crashing it last weekend. Which is fine, since I was looking to get a newer bike with fuel injection anyway. I've joined the Z1000 forum to read in on the bike, but I thought I'd ask other VFR riders for their opinions.

Thanks in advance, I look forward to reading any replies!

 

I can't speak on the '07-'08's, but I did own an '06 Z1000. I've only ridden a VFR once, but that's all it took to get me off of the Z. The Honda is a lot more refined. The Z, for me, is very uncomfortable. The riding position isn't so bad, just uncomfortable. I think the Z is a little faster than the VFR, but the Honda steers much easier. I was amazed how easy it was to get the VFR to turn! Also, the Z feels much heavier than the Honda when actually riding. The Kawi is alot buzzier than the VFR, and the wind can tire you out real quick. The Z is a nice bike, but after riding an Interceptor I'll never go back!! I shoud have my new '08 VFR next week!!

I hope this helps!! :smile:

 

TRAITOR!
I'm just messing with you lol. I have thought i about it too. Nakeds are great for the city, I just hope you don't plan on doing any touring...

 

Well,

I took a chance with my local dealer last night... based on my experience with the Z750S. I had them searching for a Z1000 in their 'very extensive' network. Apparantly, it's rare enough bike that they had to send me home last while they looked for it. I was hoping they would find me a 2008 Z1000 (only come in white) but instead found me a brand new BLACK 2007 Z1000. I like both colors on the Z1000, but I had sort of set my mind on the white since I didn't think I could find an 07!

Anyway, I'm going in later today to crunch some numbers.

 

I love the Z1000s too. Have only sat on the 2008 but I really, really liked it. Keep us posted on the transaction as I'd be very ineterested in a ride report.

 

I had an 03, very fun bike but like the others posted, Very buzzy fibrations, no wind protection and turn in sucks with that 190 rear tire. I can ride my antique VFR all day compared to her.

 

here in NZ we get orange & green!

 

well, the sell didn't go through! they wanted the original $8,899 msrp price plus all of the other dealer charges... I wasn't looking to spend that much on a 2007 model year bike. Especially when there is a St Louis dealer offering an 08 WHITE model for $7,499...