2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R | First Look Review

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R supersport gets a major update for model year 2024 in terms of efficiency, usability, and looks. Some of the changes in the model are a result of new emission regulations, but changes also include more useful technology and updated styling.

Related: 2024 Kawasaki Eliminator | First Look Review 

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Engine

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

The Ninja ZX-6R’s engine is still a 636cc liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder with DOHC and a 67.0 x 45.1mm bore/stroke. However, Kawasaki has revised the cam profiles for better low-rpm performance and to help meet stricter emission standards. Another update to help meet emission standards is a revised layout for the header pipes. The new layout is intended to improve feedback from the O2 sensor and allow for optimized catalyzer volume and load. The revised shape of the intake funnel is also claimed to increase low-to-mid rpm performance.

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Continuing from previous Ninja ZX-6R models is a cassette-style 6-speed transmission that allows for quick set-up time for track days, along with a slip/assist clutch.

Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, and Wheels

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
Round brake discs replace the petal discs of previous Ninja ZX-6R models.

The pressed-aluminum perimeter frame and two-piece aluminum sub-frame remain the same. The suspension also remains unchanged, including the 41mm Showa SFF-BP fork and Uni-Trak shock that are adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound damping. Seat height is 32.7 inches, and wet weight is 426 lb for the non-ABS versions and 430 lb for ABS.

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
The Ninja ZX-6R is now shod with Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires.

Kawasaki made an upgrade to the brakes and tires on the Ninja ZX-6R. The brakes remain dual 310mm front discs with dual radial-mounted 4-piston monoblock calipers up front with a single 220mm disc in the rear. New for model year 2024 are the round disc brakes replacing the petal discs, which Kawasaki says contributes to the image of the Ninja family of motorcycles. Also new are the Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires.

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Technology

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
A new 4.3-inch full-color TFT display has a background that can be set to white or black, and the brightness is also adjustable.

The Ninja ZX-6R has already enjoyed the benefit of some rider aids like a quickshifer, traction control, ABS (also available without ABS), and power modes (full and low).

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

For 2024, the ABS unit has been updated for better control. Riders get even more options with new integrated riding modes, which combine traction control and power mode settings. Riding modes consist of three settings (Sport, Road, and Rain), along with a manual “rider” mode in which each system can be set independently.

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
Integrated ride modes mean more options for riders.

The Ninja ZX-6R also sees a new 4.3-inch full-color TFT display and new smartphone connectivity. Now, riders can connect their phone to the bike using Rideology the App. Through the app, riders can see vehicle information, a riding log with GPS route information, phone notifications, and general settings.

Styling

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R in Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Graphite Gray

The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R receives new styling inspired by the Ninja ZX-10R, including new front and side cowls, new compact LED headlights, and a new windscreen. The area around the air intake is now painted for a sleeker design, and the new windshield is shorter than before and has holes to relieve pressure build-up to reduce buffeting.

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
The new shorter windshield is claimed to reduce buffeting.

The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is available without ABS in Metallic Flat Spark Black / Ebony and Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Graphite Gray for $11,299. For $1,000 more, the ABS version is available in the same colorways. The non-ABS KRT Edition for $11,299 and the ABS KRT Edition for $12,299 are both available in Lime Green / Ebony.

Visit Kawasaki’s website for more information.

See all of Rider‘s Kawasaki coverage here.

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