We saw the new fairing design on the World Superbike machinery with Johnny Rea, and Alex Lowes on the test last week. The front fairing got quite a mixed reaction. Now we have eyes on the brand new ZX-10R and the limited edition ZX-10RR.
The outgoing ZX-10 was dated compared to it’s competition, it still had an old school instrument cluster, but it was the best value 1000cc on the market. Even Johnny Rea, himself claimed riding the ZX-10 was like taking a knife to a gunfight against the Ducati V4R, despite still winning the championship.
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Kawasaki says they have concentrated on performance and focuses on delivering a machine to win on track and set the supersport standard on the road.
Innovative aerodynamic package
Not to be confused with delivery drivers throwing packages over the fence, Kawasaki’s new styling is very marmite. The new nosecone shape incorporates winglets into the cowling structure which Kawasaki claims it makes 17% more downforce than the last Ninja. So much downforce, it’s melted its face-off. What was wrong with a few wings?
The rear seat has been designed to lessen drag, and a 40mm higher screen handlebar positioning off Mr Rea’s WSBK, higher footpegs ensure a more ‘ergonomic’ package for 2021.
The new TFT screen is something the ZX-10 has needed. It features Bluetooth connectivity with rider modes and other features, like cruise control adjustable through the handlebars.
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Chassis updates come in the form of an adjustable swingarm pivot point (only on the RR), and 1mm lower on the standard R, a 2mm greater fork offset and an 8mm increase to the swingarm length, all with the aim to increased traction and stability. Differential spring rates softening the front and stiffening the rear adds to the list of improvements. Brembo M50 calipers with 330mm semi-floating discs, stop the ZX-10R.
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Kawasaki’s new element for the forthcoming season refers to the brand new LED lighting hidden in the front nosecone. Using Mitsubishi’s direct projection headlights, this is the first time these modules have been used on a motorcycle.
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Kawasaki’s engine has been updated to meet the Euro5 regulations, keeping the finger follower valvetrain which claims added power and efficiency, while reducing weight. Intake ports have also been redesigned; however, Kawasaki hasn’t claimed a power increase in the materials.
The ZX-10RR version is limited to 500 worldwide units, is dubbed the ultimate Ninja. Featuring Marchesini forged wheels, Pirelli Diablos Supercorsa SP tyres, and with a 400RPM higher rev limiter. This is due to brand new lightweight pistons and rods, reducing engine component mass.
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Pricing of the new ZX-10R starts at £15,799, the performance edition (No specs yet, but more than likely contains an Akrapovic) costs £16,799, and the ZX10-RR (available to race teams by request) costs £24,799 with the performance edition costing £25,599.