Road test of KawasakiZ 1100 SE 2026 The Epic of the Couple in the Storm

The calendar was marked with a red cross: first contact with the new Kawasaki Z 1100 SE, the big Roadster made for strong hearts. While the 200hp of the ZH2 hyper roadster remains the preserve of extremists, this Z 1100 promised the perfect balance between raw power and cutting-edge technology. A promise I was about to test in conditions you wouldn't wish on your worst enemy.

The adventure with Benjamin

My adventure began in the middle of the Benjamin storm, on October 23, 2025. Although my fellow journalists and I managed to get through the rain (or almost, as the downpour caught up with us at the end of the day), we had to face the elements: violent gusts of wind, a waterlogged road where fresh leaves stuck like traps, and wood debris littered the ground.

The atmosphere was electric, all the more so when, at the entrance to the famous 17 turns, a large branch fell about twenty meters in front of us (France). Fortunately, no one was hurt. My colleagues and I joined forces to clear the road, adding an epic dimension to the test.

These less-than-optimal test conditions gave me the unique opportunity to discover not top speed, but the heart and soul of the Kawasaki's safety, proving that its quality finish and power assistants can handle the worst.

From the moment I set eyes on the bike, the Z 1100 SE imposed its aura. It retains the sculpted DNA of the 2020 Z1000, with a lowered front end that gives it a fierce, combative air. Clearly, it's here to take on its main target: the new Honda CB 1000 Hornet SP.

Japanese-quality craftsmanship is always present. The bike is assembled with military rigor: the wiring is well tied up, the fairings are sturdy, and not a single fastener moves. Only the integration of the USB socket is slightly off, but the rest is beyond reproach. The integration of the saddle, with the inlay of the "Z" under the passenger strap, is particularly successful.

The color scheme of this unique SE version is magnificent: the sober gray and black are electrified by the green rims, which speak loud and clear of the brand's identity.

Suspension-wise, the rear is the jewel in the crown: a fantastic high-end Öhlins S46 monoshock. At the front, the inverted fork, although technical and identical to the standard version, is a golden yellow. It's a clever visual nod to the nobility of the Öhlins rear suspension. The decision to keep the standard fork at the front is a strategic one, enabling the Z 1100 SE to maintain a competitive and affordable price tag, without sacrificing overall efficiency.

Despite this technical choice, the front end has not been neglected in terms of pure performance, thanks in particular to first-rate braking equipment. Brembo M4.32 calipers, combined with 310mm discs, are there to remind me that even when the beast is screaming out its 136hp, braking power is there, powerful and reassuring.

I settle in. The position, supposedly sporty, has won me over surprisingly well. It's tilted forward, but it's still perfectly bearable. Even after a long time on the handlebars, my back and wrists never complained. The seat is firm and comfortable, and I particularly like the way the raised passenger seat acts as a natural backsplash during hard acceleration.

The cockpit is a delight: the5-inch color TFT screen is extremely legible and intuitive. It's a quantum leap from the previous model. Handlebar controls are easy to grasp, and even with my thick winter gloves on, it's a breeze to get the hang of.

At the first pull of the starter, the bike obeys the Euro 5+ standard: it's calm, almost docile. But as soon as the clutch opens slightly, I feel its nature awaken. It revs up with a demonic rage, releasing that distinctive roar.

But the real revelation of this Z 1100 SE is its massive 113Nm of torque. It's the quiet force that transforms riding. Admittedly, the Z900 is already an excellent machine, but the Z1100 offers me absolutely divine comfort of use, allowing me toroll effortlessly in the low and mid-range. Thanks to this available power, you could almost do without the gearbox.

However, for maximum riding pleasure, the standard Up&Down shifter is there to sublimate the experience. Even if the torque makes the clutch optional, using this shifter is a treat that instantly enhances sportiness. With a short wheelbase (1440 mm), the bike is incredibly agile, cutting through the road with exhilarating precision.

Kawasaki technology shone in the wet hell. Traction control, IMU, KIBS: these are my guardian angels. The feeling of safety, even in Road mode (I didn't need to castrate the engine with Rain mode), is incredibly reassuring.

I ended my journey in Sport mode. Response to the throttle is instantaneous, and pick-up is sharper, requiring maximum concentration, but offering a thrilling foretaste of the beast unleashed. The extended 5th and 6th gears promise more economical highway cruising, a considerable asset.

My only regret in this battle against the elements? The front forks were a little firm, giving me a slight lack of feel when entering corners. But I can' t wait to get back to work on it in dry weather to sort out this detail and explore the full potential of its chassis

The Kawasaki Z 1100 SE is a masterpiece of assembly, combining the best of its sisters: the ergonomics of the Z900 and the high-tech features of the Ninja 1100 SX and Versys 1100 SE.

Priced at a very competitive €13799 in France, with a performance pack available at €1600 for the most demanding, it has absolutely nothing to envy its rivals. It's a real concentrate of torque and quality finish that clearly sets the tone.

My test drive, while muscular, was only a foretaste. I can' t wait to get back behind the wheel to assess its full potential and further my discovery of this magnificent bike. The Z 1100 SE will be available from dealerships next week, so don't delay in taking it for a spin, and don't forget to let us know what you think of it, and what you think of our site, so that we can keep the discussion going.

Photographer: Jean Francois Muguet