2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R – First Look Review

2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Kawasaki Racing Team-inspired KRT Edition
2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Kawasaki Racing Team-inspired KRT Edition

Having won Superbike World Championship titles in 2013 (with Tom Sykes) and 2015 (with Jonathan Rea), Kawasaki has announced that its all-new 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R will be the “most track-focused sportbike ever” and feature the latest in racing technology, including a more powerful engine, new SBK-derived suspension and a comprehensive, user-friendly electronics package.

The Ninja ZX-10R’s liquid-cooled 998cc in-line four-cylinder 16-valve engine has a lighter crankshaft for quicker revving and increased low-mid-range power; new pistons, head design, camshaft profiles and air box for better response and power; a computer-controlled electronic throttle valve for precise control; a new lightweight titanium exhaust system; and a new close-ratio, cassette-type transmission is ideally suited to racing. The engine also offers three Power Modes: Full, Middle (80%) or Low (60%).

2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R in Metallic Matte Carbon Grey
2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R in Metallic Matte Carbon Grey

The chassis has a new steering head position, a longer and more rigid swingarm, and a longer wheelbase for balanced handling. The new, fully adjustable Showa Balance Free Fork (BFF) and Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) shock are derived directly from World Superbike racing and are used for the first time on a mass-production motorcycle. New Brembo M50 monobloc front calipers, 330mm Brembo rotors and a Brembo master cylinder are said to provide increased braking power, feel and heat dissipation.

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Kawasaki says the 2016 Ninja ZX-10R will be the "most track-focused sportbike ever."
Kawasaki says the 2016 Ninja ZX-10R will be the “most track-focused sportbike ever.”

A new electronics suite utilizes a Bosch five-axis IMU for KEBC (Kawasaki Engine Braking Control), KLCM (Kawasaki Launch Control Mode), KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Braking System, on the ABS model), Corner Management Function (on the ABS model), S-KTRC (Sport Kawasaki TRaction Control) and KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter).

A new front cowl provides better aerodynamics, improves high-speed handling, reduces rider buffeting. The Kawasaki Racing Team-inspired KRT Edition color scheme combines Lime Green and Ebony paint, or it is available in a Metallic Matte Carbon Grey finish.

The 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R will be available with or without ABS. Pricing and availability are TBD.

 

1 COMMENT

  1. I love Kawasaki Motorcycle that’s why i am excited every year for there new design and creation of Kawasaki bike. This first look of 2016 new edition of Ninja amaze me again.

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