It seems that the mid-size naked bike wars (started by Yamaha's FZ-09, and bolstered by Suzuki's GSX-S750) are heating up in the US, as Kawasaki has released information and photos on some early release 2016 models, and included among them is the new Z800 naked bike. The Z800 has been available in the European market since 2013, and reports from our Continental friends say that the Z800 is a major step above the somewhat bland Z750 it replaced, with much better engine, chassis, and running gear. Utilizing an 806cc four-cylinder inline engine with a bore/stroke of 71 x 51.9mm that puts out a claimed 111 hp (in Euro-spec form), the new Z800 employs a steel backbone frame, with a cast aluminum subframe similar to the latest generation Z1000.

On the suspension side, the 41mm KYB fork and remote-reservoir-equipped rear shock are adjustable for rebound damping and spring preload. Braking is handled by dual 277mm petal-style discs up front and a single 216mm disc out back, and the rolling stock includes 120/70ZR-17 and 180/55ZR-17 Dunlop D214 Sportmax OEM-spec rubber. Seat height is moderate at 32.8 inches, as is curb weight (meaning all fluids and full tank of fuel) at 509 lb. MSRP for the 2016 Kawasaki Z800 is $8399 (again, right in line with the Yamaha FZ-09 at $8,190 and the Suzuki GSX-S750 at $7,999), and the bike is available in only Metallic Spark Black/Ebony paint scheme.