Z 1100 officially confirmed: CARB entry
The decisive clue comes from the Californian environmental authority CARB (California Air Resources Board). A new type abbreviation appears in the documents published there for model year 2026: ZR1100HT. In Kawasaki’s internal nomenclature, this abbreviation clearly stands for a naked bike with a displacement of 1,099 cm³ – analogous to the ZR900 for the Z 900. This is therefore confirmed: A Kawasaki Z 1100 is in the works and will arrive in 2026 at the latest.
Familiar engine from the Ninja 1100 SX
Technically, the new Z 1100 is most likely based on the same four-cylinder in-line engine that is also used in the Kawasaki Ninja 1100 SX and Versys 1100. According to previous data, it delivers
- 136 hp (100 kW) at 9,000 rpm
- 113 Nm torque at 7,600 rpm
- 1,099 cm³ displacement
A 6-speed gearbox and a quickshifter are included as standard. Large increases in performance compared to the Ninja SX are rather unlikely, especially as Kawasaki obviously does not want to join the arms race of super-nakeds with over 200 hp (like Ducati or KTM).
Aluminum chassis very likely
Kawasaki is also likely to rely on proven modular technology for the chassis. A new frame specifically for the Z 1100 would be expensive and complex. It can therefore be assumed that the naked bike will also be based on an aluminum frame:
- Aluminum frame
- Two-sided swingarm made of aluminum
- Upside-down fork
- Powerful brake system
identical or only slightly modified compared to the Ninja 1100 SX.
According to current information, the riding position should be moderately sporty and slightly front-wheel oriented – suitable for a sporty naked bike, but not too extreme.
Weight expected to be under 230 kg
Another detail also comes from the CARB document: it states a so-called “equivalent inertia mass” of 370 kg – a purely technical test value. The actual vehicle weight is likely to be significantly lower. For comparison:
- Kawasaki Ninja 1100 SX (fully clad, with 90% tank capacity): 235 kg (518 lbs)
- Last Kawasaki Z 1000 (until 2020): 221 kg (487 lbs)
A weight of less than 230 kg (approx. 507 lbs) is therefore realistic for the new Z 1100.
Competitive environment: Pressure from MT-10 and Co.
With the return of the Z 1100, Kawasaki is once again attacking the hotly contested segment of large naked bikes. Models such as the Yamaha MT-10, Suzuki GSX-S1000 or BMW S 1000 R are currently setting the rules in this class. With 136 hp, the new Z 1100 would not be a top performer, but would score points with its cultivated engine running, solid technology and probably attractive price.
Conclusion: Comeback of a legend
The Kawasaki Z 1100 marks the return of a model name steeped in tradition. Even if it does not enter the race as a thoroughbred powerfighter, it is likely to play an important role as the new spearhead of the Z series for 2026 – as a powerful four-cylinder naked suitable for everyday use. It could be officially unveiled as early as the end of 2025.
