For Z heads, the Z125 bathes in Kawasaki’s unique Sugomi design approach balancing engineering with styling while being the smallest in the revered naked class family sharing the same frame technology and engine configuration as its 125cc capacity cousin.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Kawasaki Z125: Z SPIRIT.
Introducing the 2026 Kawasaki Z125…
The iconic Z family has a new member, say hello to the Z125 from Kawasaki. Displaying Kawasaki’s unique Sugomi design philosophy for all to see, the smallest in the Z family is here to be noticed and make a profound Naked bike statement. The exposed trellis type chassis blends with minimal and aggressive Z bodywork encouraging spirited riding from the A1 friendly 15PS (11kW) engine that is both new-rider friendly and as sporting as you would expect from Kawasaki. Z125-Ignite.
125 cm³
Displacement
11 kW {15 PS} / 10,000 rpm
Maximum power
AVAILABLE COLOURS
Pearl Storm Grey / Ebony
Candy Lime Green / Metallic Spark Black
2026 Kawasaki Z125 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
New liveries for 2026 Ninja 125 and Z125
For Kawasaki – and Kawasaki fans – Ninja and Z are venerated families and the desire to belong has created entry level machines in the form of the Z125 plus Ninja 125. By any standards, these are machines that display all the presence and qualities of their larger capacity siblings. And for 2026, both machines will be offered in a variety of new liveries.
With an enviable heritage that stretches back to 1972 for the Z brand and 1984 in terms of the Ninja line, the lineage of these two thoroughly modern machines is inescapable. The Z125 and Ninja 125 each represent an ideal “entry to the wide world of motorcycling” for a wide range of powered two-wheeler enthusiasts including those new to biking focusing on the important A1 licence category.
Each utilising a tubular trellis type chassis construction similar to Kawasaki’s top of the range Supercharged Ninja and Z machines, the 125cc offerings focus on an idealised balance of style, engineering and durability which entry level riders rightly expect.
The Ninja 125 has bodywork redolent Ninja machines racing machines and is equipped with a 15PS (11KW) engine with controllability and classic Ninja urge throughout the rev range. Reassuring around town and with great low to mid-range flexibility, the rider feels the benefit of Supersport ergonomics (that include a 20mm higher seat as an Ergofit accessory option) and a cockpit view that encompasses all-digital instrumentation. Add Uni-Trak rear suspension, ø37 mm telescopic front forks plus dependable ABS brakes and the Ninja 125 is sure to be at the head of many rider’s wish list; and justifiably so.
For Z heads, the Z125 bathes in Kawasaki’s unique Sugomi design approach balancing engineering with styling while being the smallest in the revered naked class family sharing the same frame technology and engine configuration as its 125cc capacity cousin.
A1 licence compliant, the Z125 is also equipped with the same suspension set up and, likewise, benefits from all-digital meters and advanced ABS braking plus the option of a 25mm lower Ergofit accessory seat. Offering the same distinctive look and feel as other street focused members of the Z family, the Z125 provides a great introduction to the world of naked category motorcycling.
2026 Kawasaki Z125 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Powerful Engine
125 cm3 4-stroke Single
Smooth power delivery contributes to the Z125’s 125 cm3 engine’s feel-good performance. Like a typical Kawasaki engine, the engine delivers a good “punch” at high rpm, and continues to pull right up to the rev limiter. Reliability inherited from its robust 250cc base engine adds peace of mind.
Six-speed transmission
Smooth-shifting six-speed transmission complements the sporty street performance, offering a gear for every situation.
Electric start & fuel injection
Electric starter and fuel injection ensure hassle-free starting at the push of a button.
Transmission
Smooth-shifting six-speed transmission complements the sporty street performance, offering a gear for every situation. The clutch engages smoothly and disengages cleanly, making it easy to operate for new riders and optimising clutch feel for on-road performance.
All-digital Instrumentation
All-digital instrument panel gives the cockpit a modern, sporty look.
Brakes/wheels/tyres
Front and rear disc brakes offer impressive stopping performance. Dualpiston calipers grip a ø290 mm disc up front, and a ø220 mm disc at the rear. Petal disc design adds to the sporty Kawasaki looks.
ERGO-FIT Low Seat
ERGO-FIT seats enable riders to select seats that optimise their fit on the bike. For the Z125, an ERGO-FIT low seat (-25 mm) is available. (Patterns on the seat material are unique to each machine.)
Sharp Taillight Design
Sharp taillight design enhances the sporty look of the rear.
Independent Sport ABS
Standard equipment ABS contributes to rider reassurance. The highspec system was designed specially for motorcycles and features a very compact ABS unit. Independent activation maximises sporty control.
Full-size Chassis
The Z125 features a full-size chassis. With a slim, compact trellis frame, sporty suspension and lightweight 17” wheels, the light, nimble handling they offer is ideal for new riders to become familiar with operating a full-size motorcycle.
Slim, compact trellis frame
Trellis frame enables a slim, compact package that is easy to manage, and makes it easy to reach the ground with your feet.
Supernaked Ergonomics
The Z125 light, nimble handling character together with an upright riding position and wide handlebar put the rider in the ideal position for active control, facilitating dynamic, sporty riding that enables the Z125 rider to deftly navigate urban traffic.
Uni Trak Rear Suspension
Uni Trak rear suspension provides great road holding ability and bump absorption, contributing to the bike’s sporty handling. The shock linkage decreases leverage on the shock as the suspension is compressed: small bumps are damped very lightly while big bumps receive lots of damping. The shock has a 5 stroke of 60 mm, helping to ensure the balance of lightweight handling and a composed character. 5-way rear preload adjustability allows riders to adjust the rear ride height, as well as set up the bike to accommodate a passenger or luggage.
Sporty Suspension
ø37 mm telescopic fork contributes to both light, nimble handling as well as a generally composed riding character. Kawasaki’s original linkage-equipped Uni Trak rear suspension delivers a smooth ride over a wide range of road conditions.
Z Supernaked Styling
Like its larger brothers in the Z Series, the Z125’s aggressive styling hints at its sporty potential. A dynamic design created by its slim, hourglass figure is complemented by extremely lightweight looks care of sharp, close-fit bodywork and an original trellis frame.
TECHNOLOGY
ERGO-FIT
ERGO-FIT is an interface system that allows a wide range of riders to feel at one with their machine. Genuine Kawasaki Accessories may need to be purchased for certain Ergo Fit adjustments.
ABS
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) ensures stable braking performance by preventing wheel lock during braking.
2026 Kawasaki Z125 – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ NA USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ NA CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: from £4,299 (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
NA
2026 Kawasaki Z125 – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
NA
2026 Kawasaki Z125 – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
Engine type
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single
Displacement
125 cm³
Displacement
125 cm³
Bore x stroke
58 x 47.2 mm
Compression ratio
11.7:1
Valve system
DOHC, 4 valves
Fuel system
Fuel injection: Ø 28 mm x 1
Starting System
Electric
Lubrication
Forced lubrication, wet sump
Performance & Transmission
Maximum power
11 kW {15 PS} / 10,000 rpm
CO2 emission
61 g/km
Maximum torque
11.7 N•m {1.2 kgf•m} / 7,700 rpm
Transmission
6-speed
Final drive
Chain
Primary Reduction Ratio
2.966 (86/29)
Gear Ratios 1st
2.833 (34/12)
Gear Ratios 2nd
1.875 (30/16)
Gear Ratios 3rd
1.444 (26/18)
Gear Ratios 4th
1.208 (29/24)
Gear Ratios 5th
1.056 (19/18)
Gear Ratios 6th
0.962 (25/26)
Final reduction ratio
3.500 (56/16)
Clutch
Wet multi-disc
Brakes & Suspension
Brakes, front
Single 290 mm petal disc. Caliper: Dual piston
Brakes, rear
Single 220 mm petal disc. Caliper: Dual piston
Suspension, front
37 mm telescopic fork
Suspension, rear
Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock with adjustable preload
Frame & Dimensions
Frame type
Tubular diamond, steel
Trail
90 mm
Wheel travel front
110 mm
Wheel travel rear
120 mm
Tyre, front
100/80-17M/C 52S
Tyre, rear
130/70-17M/C 62S
Tyre, rear
130/70-17M/C 62S
L x W x H
1,935 x 740 x 1,015 mm
Wheelbase
1,330 mm
Ground clearance
185 mm
Fuel capacity
11 litres
Seat height
815 mm
Dry weight
137 kg** | **Estimated Dry weight does not include all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
Curb mass
147 kg
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
Posted on September 20, 2025 by Michael Le Pard
