New Kawasaki Ninja and Z125 break cover at INTERMOT

Bruno Gomes

October 3, 2018

Kawasaki is better known for their big bikes like the Z1000 and Ninja ZX-10R, not to mention the beasts that are the H2 models. But the Japanese factory also knows how to create great small capacity bikes, and the proof is the arrival of the new Ninja and Z models, both shown at the INTERMOT Cologne motorcycle show in 125 cc version.

Kawasaki wants to attract a younger audience with these Ninja and Z125, and they might actually achieve that goal, since the bikes have gathered much of the attention of those attending the INTERMOT and specifically the Kawasaki stand.

Both bikes are powered by the same 125cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, single-cylinder engine that makes 14,8 hp and 11.6 Nm of torque. This engine comes linked to a 6-speed gearbox, while the chassis uses a 37 mm telescopic fork and preload-adjustable monoshock at the back. Braking power is done by a dual-channel ABS system 290 mm disc at the front and 220 mm disc at the rear.

Besides sharing the same platform, which allows for lower manufacturing costs, so the Ninja and the Z should be relatively accessible to most riders, they also give the rider the opportunity to customize the riding position, with Kawasaki developing a wide range of seat adjustability by making seats with different heights. A welcome addition for those riders with shorter legs.

The weight will also be a good argument for more inexperienced riders, with Kawasaki announcing a wet weight of 148 kg for the Ninja and 146 kg for the Z 125.

While the Ninja 125 counts on full fairings for better aerodynamic, just like a true sports bike it is, with a style very similar to the Ninja 300 but with a touch of Ninja 650 at the rear, the Z 125 is what everyone knows as a sports-naked, borrowing style cues from larger Z models made by Kawasaki.