Kawasaki Z e-1 2024 — Specifications

Since its inception, the Z has been associated with a distinctive roadster character—sometimes more so than others. The new Z e-1 is the first of a new species for Kawasaki: electric. To showcase its qualities, it joins the 125cc class. The aim is to offer easy, urban, eco-friendly riding…… but with all the emotion of a Kawa?

The Akashi firm immediately wanted to give its electric Z a certain look. The forms, the fork head, and the fairing are quite similar to those of the Z 400. The weight, however, is very different. At only 135 kg, the Z e-1 is the lightest of the Z models. It adds 12 kg to the Z 125’s weight. A pleasant surprise, as electric motorcycles often suffer from a marked heaviness.

Cute and lightweight, the “Zelectric” is equipped with a 4.3-inch color TFT screen, the possibility of having storage space in the faux tank, several riding Modes, an “assisted maneuver” (Walk mode) to move the bike forward and backward at low speed, smartphone connectivity, and a Brushless motor. So far, the Z e-1 looks promising, but…

Regarding the engine, it’s a cold shower. In constant power, this roadster delivers 5 kW, or just under 7 horsepower. An “e-boost” function allows it to temporarily (for 15 seconds) reach 12 horsepower (9 kW) to assist with overtaking, but this remains limited. Fortunately, the rider has the torque of a 400cc engine, with 4.1 mkg of torque from 0 to 1,600 rpm.

We never said this Z would be tearing up the tarmac… But this modest power will be hard to swallow. Although electric motors naturally offer more punch than thermal engines, we still have some doubts about the emotion at the handlebars. This “wisdom” limits the Z e-1 to essentially urban use. A look at the top speeds gives a certain perspective on the possibilities of this roadster: - In ECO mode: 62 km/h / with e-boost: 72 km/h - In ROAD mode: 85 km/h / with e-boost: 99 km/h - With the WALK function, the speed is 5 km/h in forward gear and 3 km/h in reverse. A regenerative system allows energy to be recovered during deceleration. This will help improve range. According to the WMTC measurement system, it would be 72 km. Much less if you play with the e-boost mode.

To compensate, the Z e-1 can highlight some practical aspects that will reassure novices. No clutch and no gears to manage. Virtually no noise. The “tank” compartment provides 5 liters of space and a maximum of 3 kg. The batteries are removable to allow charging at home. But when you’re lugging around 11.5 kg in each arm, you’ll look at the charging cable differently when plugging in the bike. Allow a little less than 4 hours for a full charge and about 1 hour and a half for a partial charge from 20% to 80%.

Apart from its engine, the Z e-1 recovers very classic technical solutions for its chassis. A steel tube trellis frame supported by a 41 mm fork and a preload-adjustable shock absorber. A single brake disc per wheel will be more than sufficient: between the featherweight, the modest performance, and the energy recovery system, the Kawa will not be short on braking power. The short wheelbase of 1370 mm, identical to that of the Z 400, the low weight, and the width of the tires (100/80-17 and 130/70-17) will contribute to leading-edge agility.

Kawasaki is entering the electric era with caution. While the brand has managed to stir up spirits with its formidable representation of forced induction (Ninja H2R), its first electron-powered models do not seem overvolted. The Z e-1 proposes a gentle approach with a stylish outfit, which will have to conceal an electric-world price tag. Therefore, expensive. Kawa gives it a good boost in this area in 2025, with a special price of €4,999. Almost twice as little as the original price, but only during the period from March 1st to April 31st. It’s necessary to clear the stock, and accept that being a pioneer means taking the risk of getting egg on your face.

The Z e-1 roadster is accompanied by a small sports bike, the Ninja –e1. It features the same technical specs under a more assertive bodywork.

M.B - Photos manufacturer

* 99 km/h? Why not more? Because the Kawasaki e-1 models are limited to this speed for the European market.