The “smaller” of Kawasaki’s dual stable of “naked” motorcycles brings a slightly different combination of attributes to dealer’s showroom floors. The Z750S matches sportbike performance with enough comfort for two-up touring, a package that proved unbeatable in its 2005 debut, and will surely attract an even greater number of owners this year.

Initially launched in Europe and refined for American riding styles, the Z750S is powered by a liquid-cooled, 748cc, in-line four-cylinder engine that delivers a smooth linear powerband. It features a bore and stroke of 68.4mm x 50.9mm, double overhead cams, 16 valves, reshaped intake ports, exhaust ports and combustion chambers. A four-into-one exhaust system enhances mid-range power, while an oval-shaped, racing-inspired muffler helps to keep the Z750S running quietly. The muffler also includes a metal honeycomb catalyzer to reduce emissions.

The Z750S is the first middleweight naked bike to feature electronic fuel injection and utilizes 34mm throttle bodies. Combined with high-speed digital ignition, both systems are managed by an electronic engine control unit (ECU) for snappy throttle response.

To maintain a consistent operating temperature, the Z750S utilizes the same large radiator and ring fan as that found on the Z1000.

Power is transferred to the rear wheel through a six-speed transmission and 520 X-ring drive chain, and the Z750S rides on high-performance radial tires mounted on six-spoke 17-inch wheels.

The Z750S’s lightweight diamond frame is constructed of large diameter, thin wall tubing for strength and rigidity for nimble backroad handling and high-speed stability. Plus, the detachable right front-top portion of the frame makes tune-ups easier.

Performance-tuned 41mm forks, plus a rear swingarm featuring cast aluminum UNI-TRAK® linkage and shock with four-way rebound damping and seven-way spring preload adjustments help the Z750S soak up road bumps. Dual 300mm front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and a 220mm rear disc brake help the rider bring the Z750S to quick, powerful stops.

Being a naked bike doesn’t mean the Z750S is without amenities. The Z750S’s half-cowl gives it a lean, provocative look, while quartz halogen headlights brighten the road at night. The instrument panel glows with a bright red backlight for a high-class look and includes a radial tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge and clock, while the modern LED taillight and turn signals are shared with the Ninja ZX-6RR sportbikes.