2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 Specifications

Name: 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000
Brand: Kawasaki

Naked bike • Specs last verified 13 July 2026

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2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 Overview

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 is a naked bike motorcycle built around 1043 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits an In-line four, four-stroke engine running DOHC valve actuation, a compression ratio of 11.8:1. 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 delivers 101.5 kW @ 9600 rpm of peak power and 110 Nm @ 7800 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 239.7 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2012 Z 1000 tips the scales at 221 kg, carries an 18-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 815.3 mm and spans a 1420 mm wheelbase. That's roughly 20.4 kg heavier than the average naked bike in our database. Scroll down for the complete 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 compared with other bikes in the Naked bike category

Here is how the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 stacks up against other bikes in the Naked bike category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 1125 models.

Top speed of 240 km/h is higher than that of 573 of the other 613 bikes in the Naked bike category.
Only 45 of the other 580 bikes in the Naked bike category have a higher power-to-weight ratio than the 459 W/kg of the Z 1000.
With 101.5 kW, the Z 1000 has the 92nd highest power output of 1125 bikes in the Naked bike category, 86% above the category average of 54.5 kW.
Narrowing the field to the 161 models within five model years of it, the top speed of 240 km/h is higher than that of 134 of the other 160.

Versus the 2011 model

The figures we track are unchanged from the 2011 model: peak power, peak torque, wet weight, displacement, seat height and top speed all match.

2012 Z 1000 - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Strong power output: 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 makes 101.5 kW @ 9600 rpm with 110 Nm @ 7800 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
Large fuel range: The 18-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.

Considerations

Chain final drive upkeep: Chain final drive needs regular cleaning, lubrication and tension checks to get full life out of the sprockets.

Wear Points & Servicing Notes

Cooling system servicing

The Liquid cooled system on the Z 1000 needs a coolant change roughly every two years (or per the service schedule) - skipping it lets the coolant turn acidic and corrode the aluminium water passages over time.

Valve clearance checks

DOHC valve actuation on the Z 1000 means clearances should be checked at the manufacturer's specified interval - they can tighten as mileage accumulates, and a light top-end tick is usually the first sign.

Suspension condition on used examples

Up front, the Z 1000 runs 41mm inverted cartridge fork with stepless compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload and Horizontal monoshock with stepless rebound damping, adjustable spring preload at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.

Final drive maintenance

Final drive is by chain - expect to clean and lube it every few hundred kilometres and check tension regularly; a neglected chain wears the sprockets faster than the chain itself.

Frame & chassis check

The frame is Type: Aluminum Backbone - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.

Handling the weight at a standstill

At 221 kg, the Z 1000 is a substantial machine - low-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes more physical effort than on a lighter bike, though the weight disappears once rolling.

Z 1000 - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 with its 1043 cc naked bike, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. This model runs chain final drive, so check chain slack and sprocket tooth profile specifically - a worn sprocket is a cheaper fix now than after it's chewed up the next chain. Now 14 years old, this naked bike is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained Z 1000 should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.

Oil and filter changes

Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the Z 1000's 1043 cc in-line four, four-stroke. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. With an 11.8:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.

Carburetor upkeep

Keep the carburetors clean and free of deposits. If the Z 1000 has been stored, strip and clean the carb float bowls before attempting to start it. Pilot jets are the first to block and the last to be checked - always include them in any carb rebuild.

Valve clearance service

Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used Z 1000. A bike with clearances out of spec doesn't always feel obviously wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for service documentation proving it's been done.

2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 have?

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 uses an In-line four, four-stroke engine with 1043 cc of displacement. It is liquid cooled.

What is the top speed of the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000?

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 has a factory-quoted top speed of 239.7 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.

How much does the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 weigh?

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 weighs 221 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.

How much power does the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 make?

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 produces 101.5 kW @ 9600 rpm of power and 110 Nm @ 7800 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000?

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 has an 18-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 300-360 km between stops.

Is the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 suitable for shorter riders?

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 has a seat height of 815.3 mm. This is a moderate seat height that suits a wide range of rider heights.

What brakes does the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 have?

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 uses 2x 300mm 4 piston calipers at the front and single 292mm disc 2 piston caliper at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 use?

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 runs 120/70 R17 front and 190/50 R17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

What gearbox does the 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 have?

The 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 is fitted with a 6 Speed transmission.

Kawasaki Z 1000 Spec Evolution

The Kawasaki Z 1000 was produced across 15 model years (2004-2021). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.

Specification	2004	2006	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021
Max Power	127 hp / 92.7 kW @ 10000 rpm	127 hp / 92.7 kW @ 10000 rpm	127 hp / 92.7 kW @ 10000 rpm	127 hp / 92.7 kW @ 10000 rpm	101.5 kW / 138 hp @ 9600 rpm	101.5 kW / 138 hp @ 9600 rpm	101.5 kW / 138 hp @ 9600 rpm	101.5 kW / 138 hp @ 9600 rpm	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Wet Weight	221 kg / 487.2 lbs	221 kg / 487.2 lbs	221 kg / 487.2 lbs	221 kg / 487.2 lbs	221 kg / 487.2 lbs	221 kg / 487.2 lbs	221 kg / 487.2 lbs	221 kg / 487.2 lbs	220.0 kg / 485.0 lbs	220.0 kg / 485.0 lbs	221.0 kg / 487.2 lbs	221.0 kg / 487.2 lbs	221.0 kg / 487.2 lbs	221.0 kg / 487.2 lbs	221.0 kg / 487.2 lbs
Dry Weight	198 kg / 436.5 lbs	198 kg / 436.5 lbs	205 kg / 451.9 lbs	198 kg / 436.5 lbs	198 kg / 436.5 lbs	198 kg / 436.5 lbs	198 kg / 436.5 lbs	198 kg / 436.5 lbs	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Engine Detail	Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder.	Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder.	Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder.	Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder.	Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder.	Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder.	Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder.	Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder.	Reed valve.	-	-	-	-	-	-
Engine Type	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	V2, four-stroke	V2, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke	In-line four, four-stroke
Top Speed	248.0 km/h / 154.1 mph	238 km/h / 148 mph	238 km/h / 148 mph	238 km/h / 148 mph	239.7 km/h / 148.9 mph	239.7 km/h / 148.9 mph	239.7 km/h / 148.9 mph	239.7 km/h / 148.9 mph	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Seat Height	820 mm / 32.3 in.	820 mm / 32.3 in	820 mm / 32.3 in.	820 mm / 32.3 in	815.3 mm / 32.1 in.	815.3 mm / 32.1 in.	815.3 mm / 32.1 in.	815.3 mm / 32.1 in.	815 mm / 32.1 in.	815 mm / 32.1 in.	815 mm / 32.1 in.	815 mm / 32.1 in.	815 mm / 32.1 in.	815 mm / 32.1 in.	815 mm / 32.1 in.
Fuel Capacity	18.00 litres / 4.76 gallons	18 Litres / 4.8 US gal	18.54 litres / 4.90 gallons	18 Litres / 4.8 US gal	18 Litres / 4.8 US gal	18 Litres / 4.8 US gal	18 Litres / 4.8 US gal	18 Litres / 4.8 US gal	17.00 litres / 4.49 gallons	17.00 litres / 4.49 gallons	17.00 litres / 4.49 gallons	17.00 litres / 4.49 gallons	17.00 litres / 4.49 US gallons	17.00 litres / 4.49 US gallons	17.00 litres / 4.49 US gallons

Key Specifications

Engine

In-line four, four-stroke

Power

101.5 kW / 138 hp @ 9600 rpm

Torque

110 Nm / 1.2 kg-fm @ 7800 rpm

Top Speed

239.7 km/h / 148.9 mph

Weight

221 kg / 487.2 lbs

Fuel Capacity

18 Litres / 4.8 US gal

Full 2012 Kawasaki Z 1000 Specifications

Year 2012

Colours Orange/black

Make Model Kawasaki Z 1000

Warranty 12 months

Ground Clearance (in.) 9.3 inches

Ground Clearance (mm) 236 mm

Seat Height 815.3 mm / 32.1 in.

Wheelbase 1420 mm / 55.9 in

Ground Clearance 145 mm / 5.7 in

Height 1055 mm / 41.5 in

Length 2080 mm / 81.9 in

Width 770 mm / 30.3 in

Dry Weight 198 kg / 436.5 lbs

Fuel Capacity 18 Litres / 4.8 US gal

Wet Weight 221 kg / 487.2 lbs

Top Speed 239.7 km/h / 148.9 mph

Max Power 101.5 kW / 138 hp @ 9600 rpm

Max Torque 110 Nm / 1.2 kg-fm @ 7800 rpm

Standing Start ¼ Mile 11.1 sec

Engine Type In-line four, four-stroke

Fuel Control DOHC

Displacement 1043 cc / 63.7 cu-in

Engine Detail Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder.

Fuel System Injection. DFI with four 38mm Keihin throttle bodies, oval sub-throttles

Bore x Stroke 77.0 x 56.0mm

Compression Ratio 11.8:1

Cooling System Liquid cooled

Engine Oil Specification Synthetic, 10W/40

Fuel Consumption 17.1 km/lit

Fuel Induction DFIØ with four 38mm Keihin throttle bodies, oval sub-throttles

Ignition TCBI with digital advance

Lubrication Wet sump

Spark Plug NGK, CR9EK

Starter Electric

Valve System 4

Clutch Wet, multiple discs, cable operated

Final Drive Chain

Gear Ratios 1st 2.600 (39/15) 2nd 1.950 (39/20) 3rd 1.600 (24/15) 4th 1.389 (25/18) 5th 1.238 (26/21) 6th 1.136 (25/22)

Gearbox 6-speed

Primary Drive X-Ring Chain

Transmission / Drive 6 Speed

Frame Type Type: Aluminum Backbone

Suspension - Front 41mm inverted cartridge fork with stepless compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload

Suspension - Rear Horizontal monoshock with stepless rebound damping, adjustable spring preload

Rake 25°

Trail 102 mm / 4.0 in

Wheel Travel - Front 120 mm / 4.7 in

Wheel Travel - Rear 135 mm / 5.4 in

Lighting system 30W x 2 halogen

Brakes - Front Diameter (in.) 11.8 inches

Brakes - Front Diameter (mm) 300 mm

Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.) 9.8 inches

Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm) 250 mm

Brakes - Front 2x 300mm 4 piston calipers

Brakes - Rear Single 292mm disc 2 piston caliper

Tyres - Front 120/70 R17

Tyres - Rear 190/50 R17

Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis. Spot an error? Let us know.