Kawasaki Set to Launch Z1100 Naked Bike by 2026

LOS ANGELES, CA — Kawasaki is preparing to unveil its new Z1100 liter-class naked bike for the 2026 model year, marking a significant return to the segment since the Z1000 was discontinued in 2021.

The confirmation comes from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) filings, which list the model as ‘ZR1100HT.’ This designation suggests not only its placement within the Kawasaki Z lineup, but also that it will be powered by a 1,099cc inline-four engine.

The Z1100 is poised to compete with other prominent naked bikes, sitting between the mid-weight Z900 and more powerful models like the Suzuki GSX-S1000 and Honda CB1000 Hornet. The CARB documentation reveals that the engine is expected to produce around 134 horsepower, mirroring outputs from other Kawasaki models like the Ninja 1100 and Versys 1100.

Experts speculate that the Z1100 will combine features from its predecessors with modern advancements, including a full-color TFT display, multiple riding modes, and advanced safety features such as cornering ABS and traction control. These enhancements indicate that it will cater to both performance enthusiasts and casual riders alike.

Industry insiders anticipate that Kawasaki will officially unveil the Z1100 at the 2025 EICMA motorcycle show, with showroom availability expected in early 2026. Pricing is estimated around $12,000, which could make it a competitive option in the crowded naked bike market.

As excitement builds for Kawasaki’s latest offerings, enthusiasts are advised to keep an eye on developments as more information becomes available.