World's First Strong Hybrid Motorcycle
CHANGE THE GAME
Starting at $15,699 MSRP
OVERVIEW |
The world's first* strong hybrid** motorcycle offers riders a number of new riding experiences: a mid-size package with the instant acceleration of a 1,000cc-class supersport model from a standing start (with e-boost), fuel economy on par with the 250cc-class, and button-shift sport riding. Following on the heels of the Kawasaki’s game-changing Ninja 7 Hybrid, the Z7 Hybrid, with three different drive modes each offering a distinct riding character and numerous innovative features for riders to explore, is truly part of a new era in riding experience.
- Unique strong hybrid power unit
- Three drive modes: three riding experiences
- e-boost: increased performance & litrebike-level acceleration
- WALK Mode (with Reverse)
- 6-speed automated manual transmission
- Sporty Kawasaki handling
- Futuristic hybrid design
* Mass production models (excluding scooters) from a major power sports manufacturer as of October 6, 2023, per Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. research.
** Strong hybrid systems combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor for powerful riding, and because of their large battery capacity they are able to run on electricity alone.
MODELS |
$15,699 MSRP
- Blend of aggressive Z Supernaked styling and a hybrid's clean high-class image
- Full automatic or manual button-shift
- Idling Stop Function
- ALPF (Automatic Launch Position Finder)
- Zero emissions, quiet running
- TFT full-colour instrumentation with smartphone connectivity
- All-LED lighting
TOP FEATURES |
With a compact traction motor mounted behind the cylinder bank of a 451 cm³ parallel twin internal combustion engine, the strong hybrid power unit is the first of its kind in a motorcycle. Working together, the ICE and traction motor complement each other to produce a rider-friendly character with strong low-mid torque.
Activating e-boost temporarily increases overall output to that of a 650cc-class machine. e-boost operation, available in SPORT-HYBRID mode, is limited to five seconds.
With e-boost activated the Z7 Hybrid can initially out-accelerate a Ninja ZX-10R from a standing start under certain conditions.
Kawasaki’s unique, electronically controlled 6-speed transmission uses proprietary logic to smoothly shift gears and operate the clutch. With actuation of the gears and the hydraulic clutch carried out by the bike, the rider can focus on throttle control. Depending on the drive mode, riders can experience full automatic (EV Mode), manual button-shift (SPORT-HYBRID), or rider’s preference (ECO-HYBRID).
In MT, the rider initiates gear shifts using the shift buttons on the left handle. A finger switch on the far side is used to shift up; a thumb switch is used to shift down.
In AT, the gears are shifted by the bike. Shift timing (determined by the ECU) prioritises fuel economy.
The battery pack is charged while riding, so the Z7 Hybrid does not need to be plugged in.
Additionally, thanks to the regenerative system, when the rider rolls off the throttle the energy of deceleration is recycled back to the battery. This contributes to a longer cruising range.
Orthodox sport motorcycle chassis design thinking was used to carefully arrange all the components of the hybrid power unit (ICE, traction motor, battery pack, ISG) in a lightweight trellis frame to achieve the light, nimble handling that Kawasaki sport motorcycles are known for.
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HYBRID: SPORT RIDINGFun to Ride and Control
Like all Kawasaki motorcycles, the Z7 Hybrid was designed to be fun to ride and fun to control. In addition to the responsive, rider-friendly hybrid power unit and light, agile chassis, riders can look forward to new experiences like powerful acceleration with e-boost, and button-shifting backed by Kawasaki’s proprietary logic and unique electronically controlled transmission.
Having three drive modes to choose from (SPORT-HYBRID, ECO-HYBRID, and low-speed short-distance EV) offers the versatility to adapt to wide range of riding situations. Each mode’s riding character is distinct, giving riders a number of stimulating elements to explore.
Thanks to the contribution of its traction motor, the Z7 Hybrid’s fuel economy is superior to even that of Kawasaki’s own Z250.
In ECO-HYBRID mode when the vehicle comes to a complete stop, the engine turns off to conserve fuel.
When the vehicle stops during MT operation, the transmission is automatically returned to 1st gear to facilitate moving off again. The system may also be turned off.
This convenient mode assists with manoeuvring in a parking lot. When engaged, opening the throttle moves the bike forward at walking speed. Closing the throttle past the “zero” point moves the bike in reverse.
In EV mode, the Z7 Hybrid creates no emissions when being operated. This low-speed short-distance mode may also be helpful for certain situations where quiet riding is appropriate, such as in residential areas or in parking garages.
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HYBRID: CITY RIDINGHighly Versatile
In town, the Z7 Hybrid’s versatility facilitates navigating the urban jungle. Riders can easily change drive modes to suit their riding situation. In ECO-HYBRID Mode, frugal fuel economy helps minimise running costs. Other features like idling stop and ALPF (Automatic Launch Position Finder) are convenient when riding in city traffic, while WALK Mode aids parking lot manoeuvrability. In EV Mode, quiet, zero-emission riding offers the possibility to enter ICE-restricted areas and to accommodate certain situations where quiet riding is appropriate.
Blending the sharp, aggressive looks of a Z Supernaked with the clean, high-class image of a hybrid machine, the Z7 Hybrid’s strong, muscular design highlights its street riding potential while leaving a powerful impression. Though it is a completely new type of motorcycle, the styling shares sugomi elements with other models in the Z series, that make it clear this is part of the Z family. The functional beauty of the under cowl’s cooling ducts is complemented by HEV elements like the translucent right side cover and the “Hybrid” logo on the motor covers.
From the relaxed, sporty riding position that caters to a wide range of riders, to the attentive layout of the switchgear, all aspects of the Z7 Hybrid’s rider interface were designed to be intuitive and confidence inspiring.
4.3” all-digital TFT colour instrumentation gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance, while being able to connect to the bike wirelessly offers an enhanced motorcycling experience.
The triple headlight unit is a key element of the Z7 Hybrid’s face. From head to tail, all-LED lighting contributes to a modern appearance and sleek, futuristic styling.
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HYBRID: FUTURISTIC DESIGNFuturistic Looks and Carefully Crafted Man-Machine Fit
As a next-generation Supernaked model, the Z7 Hybrid combines aggressive Z styling with a clean, high-class image befitting the world’s first* strong hybrid motorcycles. Riders will delight in the care given to the rider interface, from the relaxed, sporty riding position to the full-colour TFT instrumentation with smartphone connectivity, and intuitive switchgear layout.
*Mass production models (excluding scooters) from a major power sports manufacturer as of October 6, 2023, per Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. research.
