Kawasaki Z800 E [2013-2016] Review: The Middleweight Streetfighter That Packs a Punch

When Kawasaki unleashed the Z800 E in 2013, it wasn’t just another motorcycle—it was a declaration of war in the middleweight naked bike arena. Designed to bridge the gap between accessible performance and visceral streetfighter aggression, this 806cc inline-four machine remains a compelling choice for riders who want their two-wheeled thrills served raw. Having spent time with this generation, here’s why the Z800 E still turns heads and delivers grins a decade after its debut.

Design: Brutalist Art on Two Wheels

The Z800 E’s design philosophy screams “unapologetic.” From its multi-faceted headlight cowl to the sculpted fuel tank and sharp underbelly panels, this bike looks like it’s perpetually angry—in the best way possible. The LED taillight with its signature “Z” motif is a clever touch, while the optional under-cowl ($129 at MOTOPARTS.store) adds extra visual bite.

Standing at 834 mm (32.8"), the seat height might intimidate shorter riders, but the narrow midsection lets most average-height riders plant both feet firmly. The three-color schemes—Pearl Blazing Orange, Flat Ebony, and Pearl Stardust White—age remarkably well, with the blacked-out engine and buffed stainless steel headers ($89 header polish kit) keeping things looking fresh.

Engine & Performance: Torque Is the Name of the Game

At the heart beats an 806cc DOHC inline-four pumping out 95 hp @ 9,500 rpm and 76 Nm (56 lb-ft) of torque peaking at 7,700 rpm. Kawasaki’s Dual Throttle Valves work magic here, smoothing out low-RPM jerkiness while letting the engine explode into a metallic howl past 6,000 rpm.

Key Performance Notes: - 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 3.4 seconds (tested) - Fuel Efficiency: 5.5 L/100 km (43 mpg) with ECO light engaged - Redline: 10,500 rpm

The 6-speed transmission’s shorter final drive ratio (3.0 vs Z750’s 2.79) amplifies acceleration, though highway cruising at 120 km/h (75 mph) sees the tach hovering at 5,800 rpm. For riders craving a throatier soundtrack, swapping the stock exhaust for a slip-on like the Yoshimura Alpha T ($399) wakes up the acoustics without compromising the midrange.

Handling & Ride Experience: A Contradiction Mastered

Weighing 226 kg (498 lbs) wet, the Z800 E isn’t light, but its tubular steel frame distributes mass centrally. Throw it into a corner, and the 41mm inverted KYB forks (rebound/preload adjustable) and Uni-Trak rear shock serve up confidence. The Bridgestone Battlax S21 tires (120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear) offer tenacious grip, though upgrading to Michelin Road 6s ($298/set) enhances wet-weather prowess.

Urban vs. Canyon Verdict: - City Riding: Upright bars and linear throttle make filtering manageable, but the 17L (4.5 gal) tank limits range. - Twisties: Requires deliberate countersteering input due to its heft, but rewards with planted stability at lean angles up to 45°.

Technology & Features: Bare-Knuckled but Smart

The Z800 E’s digital dash feels minimalist by today’s TFT standards, yet its trio of LCD screens delivers essentials: gear position, fuel range, and that cheeky ECO light. ABS was a $500 option—a worthy investment given the non-ABS model’s occasional front-end chatter under hard braking.

The Economical Riding Indicator isn’t just a gimmick; riding to keep the “ECO” lit adds ~40 km (25 miles) per tank. For tech enthusiasts, adding a Quad Lock USB charger ($45) to the handlebar keeps devices juiced during rides.

Competition: How the Z800 E Stacks Up

1. Yamaha MT-09 (2014-2016)

• Pros: 113 hp crossplane triple, 188 kg (414 lbs), standard TC
• Cons: Suspension softer than a marshmallow, polarizing styling
• Z800 Edge: Superior low-end torque, build quality

2. Triumph Street Triple 675 R

• Pros: 106 hp, sublime chassis, iconic growl
• Cons: 30% pricier used, cramped for tall riders
• Z800 Edge: 17% more torque at 2,000 rpm lower

3. Suzuki GSX-S750

• Pros: 114 hp, 213 kg (470 lbs), slick quickshifter
• Cons: Bland design, budget suspension
• Z800 Edge: Braking performance, street presence

Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Roaring

The Z800 E rewards diligent owners. Here’s your cheat sheet:

Critical Service Items

1. Oil Changes: Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) with 10W-40 synthetic ($49.99 kit)
2. Chain: Adjust every 1,000 km (620 miles); upgrade to DID 525VX3 ($129)
3. Valve Clearances: Check every 24,000 km (15,000 miles). Specs:
4. Intake: 0.15-0.24 mm (0.006-0.009")
5. Exhaust: 0.22-0.31 mm (0.009-0.012")
6. Brakes: EBC HH sintered pads ($69 front/$49 rear) combat fade during spirited rides

Pro Tips

• Cooling System: Flush every 2 years with Engine Ice ($19.95)
• Spark Plugs: NGK CR9EK ($12 each) gap at 0.7-0.8 mm
• Tire Pressures: 2.5 bar/36 psi (front), 2.9 bar/42 psi (rear)

Conclusion: The Streetfighter That Ages Like Whiskey

The Z800 E isn’t perfect—its weight shows in tight corners, and the mirrors vibrate at highway speeds. Yet, it embodies the raw essence of motorcycling: unbridled joy wrapped in steel. For riders seeking a used naked that’s cheaper to insure than a MT-09 but more charismatic than a GSX-S750, this Kawasaki remains a top contender.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we’ve got everything to keep your Z800 E biting hard—from Galfer wave rotors ($249) to DNA air filters ($89). Because even legends deserve upgrades.

---

Specifications sheet

---