
Kawasaki Ninja 1000sx Review
"The sensible sport-tourer that never feels boring on Sunday."
Used Buyer Review
The Ninja 1000SX is one of the most complete used sport-tourer packages you can find under ten grand. Kawasaki nailed the balance between genuine performance and everyday usability — that 1043cc inline-four pulls hard from 3,000rpm without drama, and the three riding modes actually make a tangible difference rather than just ticking a spec-sheet box. Cornering ABS and traction control on a used bike at this price point still feels like stealing. Buy 2020 or newer if you can stretch to it — that's when they added the quickshifter and revised suspension, which transformed it from good to genuinely great. Check the chain and sprockets hard, because owners who use it as a commuter often neglect them. The 28-litre tank is brilliant for distance riding, though the panniers are narrower than they look and won't swallow a full-face helmet. Shaft-drive riders beware — you will replace the chain more often than you'd like.
Pros
Cons
You want pure sport riding with zero compromise
Similar Sport Reviews
"The most thrilling all-rounder money can currently buy used."
Experienced riders wanting one exceptional all-purpose motorcycle $14,000-$20,000
"The benchmark small-displacement bike that rewards riders of all experience levels."
New riders wanting to avoid re-buying quickly $4,500-$6,500
"The benchmark small-displacement sportbike that actually delivers on its promises."
New riders wanting genuine sportbike DNA cheaply $3,500-$5,500
"The used bike market's most dependable answer to almost everything."
Intermediate riders wanting real performance without drama $2,500-$5,500