Exhilarating From the Track to the Hills.

2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R KRT Review on Total Motorcycle:

World Supersport championship technology comes to the middleweight class with the Ninja® ZX™-6R.

Loaded with high technology features like 3-Mode KTRC Traction Control, Power Mode selection and available KIBS ABS, the Ninja® ZX™-6R helps a wider range of riders to enjoy this machine’s serious sport riding performance on the circuit, twisty roads, open highway or city streets.

Capitalizing on the strengths of the highly competitive engine and chassis package of the 599cc model, the 2017 Ninja ZX-6R has increased the displacement to 636cc giving you more performance at all rpm and greater usability in everyday street riding. With the chassis settings focused on winding roads, the new Ninja ZX-6R is able to deliver more riding exhilaration from the track to the hills, on the highway and in the city.

THE WORLD DOMINANT NINJA® ZX™-14R, NINJA® ZX™-10R AND NINJA® ZX™-6R MOTORCYCLES RETURN

Kawasaki’s Ninja® line of supersport motorcycles has demonstrated domination at the pinnacle of road racing in many divisions, including the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) in 2013, 2014, and 2016 with the Ninja® ZX™-10R. Pure performance also translated into the 2015 and 2016 FIM Supersport World Championship series with the Ninja® ZX™-6R. The proven performance on the racetrack remains undeniable and has allowed Kawasaki engineers to deliver the thrill of racetrack precision to the streets with its sportbikes.

For 2018, the Kawasaki Ninja® ZX™-14R ABS SE will continue to reign as “King” of the Ninja® motorcycles with its powerful 1,441cc DOHC inline-four engine. The most important aspect of a high-performance motorcycle is the ease with which a rider can control it. That is where the Ninja ZX-14R shines. It is equipped with two power levels and a three-mode Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) system that can easily be turned on or off with switches.

The Ninja ZX-14R motorcycle is also available with ABS. The ABS-equipped version is capable of riding two-up on a back road or putting its power to the ground on a track. It will be available in Emerald Blazed Green/Metallic Carbon Gray and Pearl Storm Gray/Ebony/Candytone Orange color schemes.

The Ninja ZX-10R’s three WorldSBK titles and mind-bending performance makes it one of the most respected liter bikes in the racing paddock. The 998cc four-cylinder engine in the Ninja ZX-10R motorcycle is combined with a state-of-the-art electronics package that is user-friendly and has been developed from insight gained through Kawasaki’s World Superbike experience. The electronics include Kawasaki Engine Brake Control, Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM), Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Braking System (KIBS), Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF), Sport Kawasaki TRaction Control (S-TRC) and Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS).

The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R motorcycle and its ABS equipped version are both available in Metallic Matte Fusion Silver/Metallic Flat Spark Black. The Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) inspired color and graphics package is also available on both versions in Lime Green/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Gray.

Just like its big brothers in the supersport lineup, the Ninja ZX-6R features aggressive design elements and a racy appearance that gives riders added confidence out on the streets. The 636cc four-cylinder engine provides the riding experience demanded by the most discerning sportbike riders. The ergonomics have been designed at an angle to promote a comfortable riding position while commuting on city streets or taking on the wide-open racetrack.

The 2018 Ninja ZX-6R motorcycle is available in a Metallic Matte Fusion Silver/Metallic Flat Spark Black paint scheme with or without ABS. The Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) inspired color and graphics package is available for both versions in Lime Green/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Gray.

2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R KRT Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

•636cc inline-four engine offers racetrack-ready power yet extremely flexible delivery on the street
•3-mode KTRC traction control tuned to cover a wide-range of riding situations and conditions
•Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) offers broad adjustability and progressive damping
•FCC clutch with assist and slipper functions offers light clutch pull and minimizes wheel chatter caused by aggressive downshifting
•Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS) ABS with monobloc calipers assists braking under certain conditions
•Special Kawasaki Racing Team theme featuring Lime Green/Ebony bodywork on KRT models

2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R KRT Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

•636cc Ultra-Compact, Low-Friction Engine
•Long stroke engine offers increased performance over many other 600 class engines at all rpm, and especially in the low- to mid-range for better rideability on city streets.
•All internal parts are designed to be strong yet small with ideal dimensional accuracy to reduce power-robbing friction.
•Close cylinder pitch and compact crankcases result in a small, rigid engine. This compact engine also contributes significantly to the overall slim and compact chassis.
•Short-skirt forged pistons, light piston pins and a compact connecting rod small end help reduce reciprocating weight for quick revs.

Mass Centralization
•Tri-axis crankshaft and transmission shaft layout concentrates engine mass to idealize the engine’s center of gravity. This helps reduce pitching movement during braking to give the rider better chassis feedback. By reducing the amount of front/rear weight transfer, the loads on the suspension and tires are reduced, providing more freedom when adjusting suspension settings.
•Exhaust pre-chamber located beneath the engine helps centralize mass and allows the use of a smaller, lighter muffler.

Ram Air Induction(KP)
•High-Volume airbox contributes to increased peak power and smooth power delivery.
•Long intake funnels help boost low- to mid-range performance and power feeling.
•Ram air duct is rigid and supports the instrument panel and mirror stays to eliminate brackets and reduce weight.
•Central ram air duct produces a straight path to the airbox which reduces turbulence and increases pressure for maximum intake efficiency.

Digital Fuel Injection(KP)
•Long throttle bodies increase the distance between the main and sub throttle valves for better throttle response.
•38mm Keihin throttle bodies with dual-throttle valves(KP) provide optimum performance and rideability. The sub-throttles, located before the main throttle valves in the throttle bore, are controlled by the ECU so that the DFI system has more precise throttle response, similar to a constant velocity carburetor.
•Fine atomizing fuel injectors have increased volume and a revised spray pattern to optimize mixing with air for the increased displacement.
•Short fuel pump with flat-bottom design prevents fuel warming in the bottom of the pump. Cooler fuel provides better combustion efficiency.

Stainless Steel Exhaust
•All four stainless steel header pipes are connected by joint pipes for increased low- to mid-range torque.
•Exhaust system helps boost low-end and midrange power without sacrificing top-end. A prechamber under the engine centralizes weight, reduces exhaust noise and helps minimize muffler volume.
•Single right-side muffler lowers the overall center of gravity and helps centralize mass. Triangular design provides correct volume to meet noise standards while allowing good lean angle and ompact appearance.
•A butterfly valve located at the entrance to the muffler is controlled by the ECU using rpm, throttle position and gear position to improve low-end response and help smooth overall power. Optimum exhaust tuning is attained at all engine speeds to prevent blowback that can occur with high overlapping valve timing. The valve also quiets the exhaust so a smaller, lighter muffler can be used.

Cassette Transmission
•Short first gear ratio makes it easy to move away from a stop.
•6-speed close-ratio transmission is removable as a cassette, providing quick access for making gearing changes.
•Gear position sensor is also linked to the dash to provide instant information to the rider. The system is also compatible with semi-automatic, electronic shifters used by racers to facilitate clutchless shifting and help lower lap times.

FCC Assist & Slipper Clutch(KP)
•Using the rotational forces of the clutch hub and pressure plate, the clutch is forced together during acceleration (Assist function) so that fewer and lighter clutch springs can be used for a lighter feel at the lever. During high back-torque, such as when too low of gear is selected, the slipper function allows some clutch slippage to help prevent engine lock-up and stalling, and
rear-wheel hop.
•Use of a spring plate assembly in the clutch contributes to smoother clutch engagement and helps minimize clutch vibration (judder) noise.

Advanced Electronic Riding Aids
•The Ninja ZX-6R features several of Kawasaki’s latest technological systems. Its traction control system is the same as found on the flagship Ninja ZX-14R. Combined with two selectable Power Modes, this offers riders eight combinations covering a wide range of riding situations. And, like the Ninja ZX-10R, available ABS models are equipped with KIBS, a highly advanced system design specifically for supersport models.

Kawasaki Traction Control System (KTRC)(KP)
•3-mode system combines the best features of Sport-KTRC from the Ninja ZX-10R and KTRC from the Concours® 14 to help provide maximum traction with some degree of slippage for sport riding and rider assurance by facilitating smooth riding on slippery surfaces.
•Modes 1 and 2 control ignition timing like S-KTRC, which uses complex analysis to predict when traction conditions are about to become unfavorable and act before wheel slippage exceeds the range for optimal traction. Mode 3 has higher sensitivity and controls ignition timing, fuel and air for ultrasmooth operation.
•The system distinguishes between smooth, power front wheel lifts and sudden lift, allowing smooth lift if acceptable acceleration is maintained.
•A switch on the left handlebar switch housing gives the rider the option to turn the system off.

Power Mode
•Allows riders to set power characteristics to suit riding conditions and style. Riders can choose between full power operation or low power, which is approximately 80 percent of full with a milder throttle response.

Rider-Responsive Chassis
•Designed in conjuction with the suspension to provide a controlled, comfortable ride on streets and highways while allowing high cornering prowess for quick lap times on the track.
•The frame and swingarm were developedwith an ideal stiffness balance, so the Ninja ZX-6R responds instantly and precisely to the rider’s commands and provides excellent rider feedback.

Aluminum Perimeter Frame(KP)
•Stiffness balance designed for superb handling. Frame rigidity is optimized to help prevent road or track irregularities from upsetting the chassis. Working with the suspension, the frame helps provide a more planted ride and helps absorb impacts without upsetting handling.

•Steep 23.5˚ degree rake angle for sharp handling and more feedback from the front tire.
•Engine mount angle designed for precise turning and less effort leaning into a turn.
•Engine mounting position at the rear of the cylinder head also compliments the frame’s stiffness balance.
•Combination of pressed and cast aluminum components are welded to form the perimeter type frame. By combining cast and pressed pieces frame weight is kept to a minimum while still providing high strength and stability with responsive handling.
•Two-piece die-cast aluminum sub-frame is light and narrow.

Showa – Big Piston Separate Function Inverted Fork(KP)
•With springs in both legs, preload and damping functions are separated into the right and left fork tubes. Preload adjustment is made on the left side, compression and rebound damping on the right. All adjustment screws are at the top of the forks for easy access.
•37mm pistons produce high damping force for improved performance during heavy braking.
•Suspension settings idealized for winding roads and city riding while maintaining high performance on the track as well.

Uni-Trak® Rear Suspension(KP)
•Uni-Trak lever ratios and shock damping settings offer a plush ride on the street and highway.
•Cast aluminum swingarm has a perfect balance of stiffness and flex and works with the frame’s stiffness balance to provide exceptional handling.
•Showa rear shock features preload, compression and rebound damping adjustments as well as adjustable ride height.(KP)

High Performance Brake System
•Radial mounted Nissin monobloc front brake calipers utilize integrated mounting points at both the top and bottom of each caliper, which makes the caliper more rigid for improved brake feel and
performance.
•Monobloc caliper is machined from a single aluminum block that contributes to superb feel, increased heat dissipation and lighter weight.
•310mm front discs provide strong braking performance.
•Direct action front master cylinder mounts the brake piston vertically between the handlebar and front brake lever instead of having it parallel to the handlebar. The straight push on the
piston assembly improves front brake feel and performance.
•Nissin rear brake caliper with 30mm piston from the Ninja ZX-10R is light, resists fade and offers good control.

Available Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS)(KP)
•High-precision system with smooth feedback for added braking confidence during hard sport riding or emergencies.
•The engine ECU communicates with the ABS ECU (which monitors wheel speed and front caliper hydraulic pressure) to provide highly precise brake pressure control. The high-precision control means
brake performance is not reduced due to excessive pressure drops and there is a more consistent lever feel instead of sharp lever pulses with conventional ABS systems.

Aerodynamic Bodywork
• Front cowl shares the same sharp nose design as the Ninja ZX-10R and has a low coefficient of drag.
• Minimalist fairing design looks great and facilitates airflow.

Advanced Electronic Instrumentation
•Features a race-spec analog tachometer face for easy viewing engine speed at a glance.
•Hybrid instrument layout features special UV-blocking glass to make the LED meter displays brighter and easier to read at a glance. Functions include easy-to-read digital speedometer, multifunction
odometer, tripmeter, clock, lap timer/stopwatch and indicator lights.

2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R KRT – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: NON-ABS: $11,999 / MSRP ABS: $12,999 USD

Power
Engine
4-stroke, 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled
Displacement
636cc
Bore x Stroke
67.0 x 45.1 mm
Compression ratio
12.9:1
Fuel System
DFI® with 38mm Keihin throttle bodies (4) and oval sub-throttles
Ignition
TCBI with digital advance
Transmission
6-speed, return shift
Final Drive
Sealed chain
Electronic Rider Aids
Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), Power Mode, Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS)
Performance
Rake / Trail
23.5°/4.0 in
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel
41mm inverted Showa SFF-BP fork with top-out springs, stepless compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload/4.7 in
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel
Bottom-link Uni-Trak® with gas-charged shock, stepless compression damping adjustment, 25-way adjustable rebound damping, fully adjustable spring preload/5.3 in
Front Tire
120/70ZR17
Rear Tire
180/55ZR17
Front Brakes
Dual 310mm petal discs with dual radial-mounted, Nissin 4-piston, monobloc calipers and KIBS ABS
Rear Brakes
Single 210mm petal discs with single-piston caliper and KIBS ABS
Details
Frame Type
Aluminum perimeter
Overall Length
82.1 in
Overall Width
27.8 in
Overall Height
43.9 in
Ground Clearance
5.1 in
Seat Height
32.7 in
Curb Weight
427.8 lb**
Fuel Capacity
4.5 gal
Wheelbase
54.9 in
Color Choices
Lime Green/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Gray
Warranty
12 Month Limited Warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus™ (optional)
12, 24, 36 or 48 months

2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R KRT – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $12,999 CDN

Engine

Displacement  636cc  Type  4-stroke, In-Line Four  Bore and stroke  67.0 x 45.1 mm  Cooling  Liquid  Compression ratio  12.9:1  Valve system  DOHC, 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)  Fuel system  Fuel Injection: 38mm x 4 (Keihin) with oval sub-throttles  Ignition  Digital  Lubrication  Forced lubrication, wet sump
Brakes

Front: type  Dual semi-floating 310 mm (x t5 mm) petal discs  Front: calipers  Dual radial-mount, monobloc, opposed 4-piston, Nissin  Rear: type  Single 220 mm (x t5 mm) petal disc  Rear: calipers  Single-bore pin-slide, aluminium piston, Nissin
Dimensions

Overall length  2,085 mm  Overall width  705 mm  Overall height  1,115 mm  Wheelbase  1,395 mm  Ground clearance  130 mm  Seat height  830 mm  Curb mass**  192 kg (ZX636E)  Fuel capacity  17 litres
Drivetrain

Transmission  6-speed, cassette  Final drive  Sealed chain  Primary reduction ratio  1.900 (76/40)  Gear ratio: 1st  2.846 (37/13)  Gear ratio: 2nd  2.200 (33/15)  Gear ratio: 3rd  1.850 (37/20)  Gear ratio: 4th  1.600 (32/20)  Gear ratio: 5th  1.421 (27/19)  Gear ratio: 6th  1.300 (26/20)  Final reduction ratio  2.688 (43/16)  Clutch  Wet multi-disc, manual
Frame

Type  Perimeter, pressed-aluminium  Wheel travel: front  120 mm  Tire: front  120/70ZR17M/C (58W)  Wheel travel: rear  134 mm  Tire: rear  180/55ZR17M/C (73W)  Caster (rake)  23.5°  Trail  101 mm  Steering angle (left/right)  27° / 27°
Performance

Maximum Power‡ 96.4 kW {131 PS} @ 13,500 rpm  Maximum Torque‡ 101 kW {137 PS} @ 13,500 rpm
Suspension

Suspension, front  41 mm inverted fork with top-out springs  Suspension, rear  Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock and top-out spring
Details

Warranty  12 months warranty

2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R KRT – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).