The 2026 Kawasaki Z1100 puts its emphasis on a larger engine, a stronger published torque peak and an IMU-supported electronics package that includes cruise control. The Suzuki GSX-S1000 is lighter on the published curb figures, has a larger fuel tank and is listed at a lower US base MSRP. Which is the better fit depends on how you weigh engine character, equipment and local pricing; the available prices come from different markets, so they do not establish a like-for-like value winner.
How the engines compare
Both motorcycles use liquid-cooled inline-four engines, but their published specifications and manufacturer descriptions point to different emphases.
| Specification | 2026 Kawasaki Z1100 | 2026 Suzuki GSX-S1000 |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,099 cm³ (Kawasaki Motors UK) | 999 cc (Suzuki Motor USA) |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 × 59.0 mm (Kawasaki Motors UK) | 73.4 × 59.0 mm (Suzuki Motor USA) |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 (Kawasaki Motors UK) | 12.2:1 (Suzuki Motor USA) |
| Published peak output | 100.0 kW (136 PS) at 9,000 rpm (Kawasaki Motors UK) | Not stated on the cited Suzuki Motor USA specification page |
| Published peak torque | 113.0 Nm at 7,600 rpm (Kawasaki Motors UK) | Not stated on the cited Suzuki Motor USA specification page |
Kawasaki says the Z1100’s larger engine is intended to deliver stronger low-to-mid-range pull. Suzuki describes the GSX-S1000 as having a broad, smooth torque curve and abundant top-end power. Those are manufacturer characterizations, not independent ride impressions.
For a separate paper comparison, 1000PS lists 136 hp and 113 Nm for the Kawasaki, versus 152 hp and 106 Nm for the Suzuki. Its comparison identifies the figures as specifications and notes its editors had not tested the Z1100. Kawasaki UK states 136 PS, not 136 hp, so the Kawasaki power figures should not be treated as directly interchangeable without accounting for the unit and source convention. Taken together, the published information supports a distinction between Kawasaki’s higher, earlier-listed torque peak and Suzuki’s higher peak-power figure in the 1000PS table; it does not prove how either bike feels on the road. Kawasaki Z1100 specifications and features · Suzuki GSX-S1000 specifications · 1000PS comparison.
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Fit, weight and everyday practicality
The dimensions below are published by Kawasaki Motors UK and Suzuki Motor USA for their respective 2026 models. Because the specifications come from different regional pages, check the local version and trim when shopping.
| Measure | Kawasaki Z1100 (UK specification) | Suzuki GSX-S1000 (US specification) |
|---|---|---|
| Seat height | 815 mm | 810 mm (31.9 in.) |
| Curb mass/weight | 221 kg | 214 kg (472 lb.) |
| Fuel capacity | 17.0 L | 19.0 L (5.0 US gal.) |
| Wheelbase | 1,440 mm | 1,460 mm (57.5 in.) |
On those listed figures, the Suzuki seat is 5 mm lower, its curb weight is 7 kg less and its tank holds 2 L more. These are useful screening numbers, not a comfort verdict. Seat shape, bar reach, leg bend, vibration, heat, wind pressure and passenger space are not settled by a specification sheet; sit on both bikes or arrange a test ride if fit is decisive.
The Z1100’s cruise control is a specific advantage for steady longer-distance riding: Kawasaki says it can reduce right-hand strain. The GSX-S1000’s larger tank is another practical difference, but tank capacity alone does not establish real-world range. Both are naked motorcycles, so neither offers the weather protection of a faired touring bike.
Electronics, safety equipment and convenience
Kawasaki Z1100
Kawasaki UK lists electronic throttle valves, IMU-enhanced rider support, a bidirectional quick shifter, a 5-inch TFT display, smartphone connectivity and electronic cruise control. Its feature description says the corner-management system monitors cornering parameters and modulates brake force and engine power to help smooth transitions.
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Suzuki GSX-S1000
Suzuki Motor USA lists ride-by-wire, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector, traction control, a bidirectional quick-shift system, an SCAS clutch, a 5-inch TFT display, ABS and Brembo four-piston dual front brakes. Its US specification page also lists a 12-month unlimited-mileage limited warranty.
Kawasaki advertises the more explicitly IMU-linked support suite and cruise control; Suzuki counters with its own substantial rider-aid and braking equipment. Feature names and standard equipment can vary by market and trim, so confirm the exact motorcycle being quoted rather than assuming a regional web page describes every version.
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Price and value depend on your market
| Market and model listed | Published price | What the figure represents |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom: Kawasaki Z1100 | £10,999 | Kawasaki UK starting price for the 2026 Z1100, observed 2026-10-03 |
| United States: Suzuki GSX-S1000 | $11,989 | Suzuki Motor USA base MSRP for the 2026 GSX-S1000, observed 2026-10-03 |
| United States: Kawasaki Z1100 SE ABS | $14,999 | Kawasaki US result for the SE ABS trim; not a standard-model comparison |
The UK Kawasaki starting price and US Suzuki MSRP are in different currencies and markets; they cannot show which standard model is cheaper in a direct local comparison. The US Kawasaki figure above is for the SE ABS trim, so it is not equivalent to a standard GSX-S1000. These sticker figures also do not provide a reliable comparison of taxes, freight, registration, dealer charges or discounts.
For a useful value comparison, compare standard trims within the same country, then get local dealer quotes and check the warranty coverage attached to each market’s motorcycle. The cited prices do not support a universal value winner.
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- Prioritize the Kawasaki if: you want its larger listed displacement and higher published torque peak, value cruise control, or prefer the IMU-linked support features Kawasaki describes.
- Prioritize the Suzuki if: the lower listed curb weight, slightly lower seat or larger tank better match your needs, or a like-for-like local quote makes it the more attractive purchase.
- Decide in person if: comfort, low-speed confidence or riding feel is central. The small seat-height difference and published mass figures cannot replace checking reach, balance and ergonomics yourself.
- Compare equipment carefully: verify model year, trim and regional standard features—especially before comparing a Z1100 SE ABS price with a base GSX-S1000.
For the underlying regional specifications and current model listings, see Kawasaki Motors UK’s 2026 Z1100 page and Suzuki Motor USA’s 2026 GSX-S1000 page.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
