FLY LIKE A NINJA.

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R:

High-level base model features high-grade components like Balance Free Front Fork and BFRC lite suspension plus a potent Brembo brake package.

THE CLOSEST THING TO A WORLD SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP MACHINE

Based on the World Championship winning KRT race machine, Kawasaki’s trio of litre-class Supersport models allow appeal to a wide range of riders. 2019 engine improvements offer increased power and an even wider powerband. The Ninja ZX-10RR receives tailor-made titanium connecting rods increasing both engine and chassis performance.

A change to finger-follower valve actuation and other updates increase the Ninja ZX-10R’s

Model Information 2019 Ninja ZX-10R Range

Changes benefit performance across the rev range, delivering increased power at all rpm which essentially raises the flat torque curve of the previous model, so the easy-to-use character is maintained while offering increased power.

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

2019 Ninja ZX-10R range promises more power and torque

Based on the KRT race machine that has so far amassed three consecutive WorldSBK Championships, the trio of models in the Ninja ZX-10R range all offer greater power, a more generous power band and a torque increase for 2019.

Key to the increase in power is a change to finger-follower valve actuation, plus other updates, which increases the Ninja ZX-10R’s already impressive engine performance to new levels. Peak horsepower is now higher at 203PS; a figure that can be increased further for track users by the addition of a full race exhaust.

Designed by Kawasaki’s MotoGP/WorldSBK engineers, the new valve train is an example of top-level racing technology brought to the Ninja ZX-10R. The new system contributes to increased performance as well as greater reliability during high-rpm operation.

Compared to tappet-style valves, finger-follower valve actuation offers a 20% mass reduction in the valve system. It also enables the adoption of more aggressive cam profiles contributing to an approximate 3PS peak power increase whilst DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) on the finger followers protects against wear.

In addition, for 2019, all Ninja ZX-10R variants will come equipped with the same cylinder head ready for high lift cams first introduced on the Ninja ZX-10RR. To denote this change, all models feature a red painted cylinder head cover.

With production limited to 500 numbered units worldwide, the Ninja ZX-10RR is only for the lucky few. The 2019 Ninja ZX-10RR features technical upgrades that include the adoption of exclusive Pankl lightweight titanium connecting rods which not only save in excess of 400g compared to the standard rod set (decreasing the crankshaft moment of inertia by 5%) they also increase the rev limit by 600rpm and increasing the ZX-10RR power to a figure of 204PS without Ram-Air. Additionally front and rear suspension settings are now revised taking into account the impressive reduction in crankshaft inertia.

Apart from “headline changes”, another interesting upgrade for 2019 is the adoption of the KQS dual direction quick-shifter across all models.

Finally, the ZX-10R SE model will feature certain surface areas that are susceptible to wear and scuffing coated in Kawasaki’s new Highly Durable Paint process which sees soft and hard segments in the paint coat working together like a chemical spring, creating a trampoline effect allowing light impacts to be absorbed.

Editors notes:

Ninja ZX-10R Performance:

The three 2019 Ninja model variants, ZX-10R, ZX-10RR and ZX-10R SE will also be available to order as Performance models at European Kawasaki dealers. Each is modified from standard to create a Performance model via the fitment of a selection of factory warranted Kawasaki genuine accessories.

COLOURS

Ninja ZX-10R:

Lime Green / Ebony / Metallic Graphite Gray

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

MORE POWER!
A change to finger-follower valve actuation and other updates increase the Ninja ZX-10R’s engine performance. Peak horsepower is higher: now 203 PS†, which can easily be augmented care of a full race exhaust. However, the changes benefit performance across the rev range, delivering increased power at all rpm – an advantage for racers as well as World Superbike teams. The changes essentially raise the flat torque curve of the previous
model, so the Ninja ZX-10R’s easy-to-use character is maintained while offering increased power.
† Specification may differ by model variation and market. EU WVTA (Reg(EU) 134/2014 Annex X) approved value; JP TRIAS 99-016-01 approved value.

This engine is rated in PS power units. Gross power is different from net power. Net power is generally less than gross, but varies with engine specifications. Gross power is a general measure to compare one engine to another, as to its overall capacity. Your specific engine net power rating will be different and most likely less than the rated power.

Finger-Follower Valve Actuation Designed by Kawasaki’s World Superbike engineers, the new valve train is an example of top-level racing technology
brought to the Ninja ZX-10R. The new system contributes to increased performance as well as greater reliability during high-rpm operation.
* Compared to tappet-style valve actuation, finger-follower valve actuation offers a 20% reduction in reciprocating mass of the valve system.
* Finger-follower valve actuation enables more aggressive cam profiles, allowing the valves to be opened and closed more rapidly.
* The more aggressive cams contribute to a peak power increase of approximately 3 PS.
* DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating on the finger followers protects against wear.

Cylinder Head Ready for High-Lift Cams
Previously a feature unique to the Ninja ZX-10RR, now the cylinder head of all models provides the clearance to accommodate race-kit high-lift cams.

Hidden Accent: Painted Cylinder Head Cover All models feature a red painted cylinder head cover, an expression of the high performance offered
by finger-follower valve actuation.

Pankl Titanium Connecting Rods (RR-model only)
Complementing the new finger-follower valve actuation, the Ninja ZX- 10RR features special high-performance titanium connecting rods designed
by Pankl, a company specialising in developing and manufacturing engine and drivetrain components for formula race cars, high performance vehicles and the aerospace industry. Their lightweight components, made from high-grade materials, are designed using finite element analysis to withstand extreme mechanical stress. These high-performance connecting rods were developed specifically for the Ninja ZX-10RR alongside the Kawasaki Racing Team’s long-time performance partner.

* Use of the lightweight titanium connecting rods enables the rev limit to be increased by 600 min-1, and contributes to a further 1 PS gain in
peak power.
* Raising the rev limit enables an even wider powerband, strengthening the Ninja ZX-10RR’s easy-to-use character.
* Weighing 102 g less each, the lighter connecting rods contribute to reducing the crankshaft’s moment of inertia by 5%. In addition to benefiting engine response and handling, this makes

OTHER CHANGES FROM PREVIOUS MODELS

In addition to the more powerful engine, a number of other changes contribute to the increased performance and attractiveness of the Ninja ZX-10R models.

KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter)
Dual-direction KQS is now standard equipment on all models.
* Dual-direction KQS system allows both clutchless upshifts and downshifts, facilitating circuit riding.
* Designed for effective sport riding, KQS can also be used on the street at rpm above 2,500 min

Fine-Tuned Suspension Settings (RR-model only)
* Front and rear suspension settings were revised to take full advantage of the handling benefits offered by the lightweight, power-boosting Pankl
titanium connecting rods.

Highly Durable Paint (SE-model only)
Kawasaki’s new Highly Durable paint features a special coat that allows scratches to repair themselves, enabling the paint to maintain its high-quality finish†.
* Soft and hard segments in the coat work together like a chemical spring, creating a trampoline effect that allows impacts to be absorbed.
† Notes:
1. In some cases, it takes more than one week for recovery.
2. The paint will not recover in the case of scratches caused by a coin or key, or zip fasteners.

Numbered Serial Plate (RR-model only)
* Marking its status as a limited-production model (only 500 units being produced worldwide), the Ninja ZX-10RR features a special serial plate on
its upper triple-clamp. The plate includes the model logo and a “XXX / 500” serial number.

Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension

Compared to Kawasaki’s traditional Uni-Trak rear suspension, which mounts the shock unit vertically, with Horizontal Back-link rear suspension, the shock unit is almost horizontal. Kawasaki’s original suspension arrangement locates the shock unit very close to the bike’s centre of gravity, greatly contributing to mass centralisation. And because there is no linkage or shock unit protruding beneath the swingarm, this frees up space for a larger exhaust pre-chamber (an exhaust expansion chamber situated just upstream of the silencer). With a larger pre-chamber, silencer volume can be reduced, and heavy exhaust components can be concentrated closer to the centre of the bike, further contributing to mass centralisation. The result is greatly improved handling.

Another benefit is that the shock unit is placed far away from exhaust heat. Because it is more difficult for heat from the exhaust system to adversely affect suspension oil and gas pressure, suspension performance is more stable. Horizontal Back-link rear suspension offers numerous secondary benefits like this.

ABS

Sudden over-application of the brakes, or braking on low-grip surfaces (surfaces with a low coefficient of friction) such as wet asphalt or manhole covers may cause a motorcycle’s wheel(s) to lock up and slip. ABS was developed to prevent such incidents. Kawasaki ABS systems are controlled by high precision and highly reliable programming formulated based on thorough testing of numerous riding situations. By ensuring stable braking performance, they offer rider reassurance that contributes to greater riding enjoyment.

And to meet the special requirements of certain riders, specialised ABS systems are also available. For example, KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System) is a high-precision brake system designed specifically for supersport models, enabling sport riding to be enjoyed by a wider range of riders. And by linking the front and rear brakes, K-ACT (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) ABS provides the confidence to enjoy touring on heavyweight models. Kawasaki is continually working on the development of other advanced ABS systems.

Economical Riding Indicator

Using high-precision electronic control for engine management, Kawasaki models can achieve a high level of fuel efficiency. However, fuel consumption is greatly affected by throttle use, gear selection, and other elements under the rider’s control. The Economical Riding Indicator is a function that indicates when current riding conditions are consuming a low amount of fuel. The system continuously monitors fuel consumption, regardless of vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle position and other riding conditions. When fuel consumption is low for a given speed (i.e. fuel efficiency is high), an “ECO” mark appears on the instrument panel’s LCD screen. By riding so that the “ECO” mark remains on, fuel consumption can be reduced.

While effective vehicle speed and engine speed may vary by model, paying attention to conditions that cause the “ECO” mark to appear can help riders improve their fuel efficiency – a handy way to increase cruising range. Further, keeping fuel consumption low also helps minimise negative impact on the environment.

S-KTRC: Sport – Kawasaki Traction Control

S-KTRC, Kawasaki’s original predictive traction control, uses the same base technology as the Kawasaki works machines that competed in MotoGP, the pinnacle of motorcycle racing. This technology continually controls the rear wheel slip that occurs when power is applied, ensuring optimal acceleration. In general, maximum forward drive requires a certain amount of slip (usually between 20-30% slip ratio, i.e. the rear wheel is turning 20-30% faster than the front). To ensure the most effective transfer of power to the tarmac, S-KTRC monitors the slip ratio in real time, and governs engine power delivery to optimise rear wheel traction.

S-KTRC monitors a number of parameters, including front and rear wheel speed, engine rpm and throttle position. Conditions are confirmed every 5 milliseconds, at which time the system looks at each of the parameters as well has how much they are changing (i.e. their rate of change). This unique Kawasaki method makes it possible to interpolate and predict how the bike will behave in the next instant.

Unlike 1-mode KTRC, which cuts power as soon as rear slip is detected to allow rear traction to be regained, S-KTRC uses minimal power drops to ensure the slip ratio for optimal traction is maintained. Because its goal is to maximise acceleration, as long as sufficient forward motion is observed, this sport riding system will allow power wheelies as the bike comes out of corners.

KIBS: Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System

Kawasaki developed KIBS to take into account the particular handling characteristics of supersport motorcycles, ensuring highly efficient braking with minimal intrusion during hard sport riding. It is the first mass-production brake system to link the ABS ECU (Electronic Control Unit) and engine ECU.

In addition front and rear wheel speed, KIBS monitors front brake caliper hydraulic pressure, throttle position, engine speed, clutch actuation and gear position. This diverse information is analysed to determine the ideal front brake hydraulic pressure. Through precise control, the large drops in hydraulic pressure seen on standard ABS systems can be avoided. Additionally, the tendency on supersport models for the rear wheel to lift under heavy braking can be suppressed and rear brake controllability can be maintained when downshifting.

Power Modes

Power modes offer riders an easily selectable choice between Full and Low Power. While Full Power is unrestricted, in Low Power mode maximum power is limited to approximately 75-80% of Full. Response is also milder in Low Power mode. Riders may opt to use Low Power mode for rainy conditions or city riding, and Full Power when sport riding.

Available on the Ninja ZX-14R / ZZR1400, Versys 1000 and other key models, when combined with the 3-mode KTRC (+ OFF) traction control system, Power Mode selection offers a total of eight combinations (KTRC: Mode 1/2/3+OFF x Power Mode: Full/Low) to suit a wide range of riding situations. For example, an experienced rider enjoying sport riding on dry pavement might choose Full Power and Mode 1. On a wet or slippery surface, choosing Low Power and Mode 3 would yield the lowest chance of incurring wheel spin, and with the milder throttle response would offer a high level of riding safety.

Kawasaki Engine Brake Control

The Kawasaki Engine Brake Control system allows riders to select the amount of engine braking they prefer. When the system is activated, the engine braking effect is reduced, providing less interference when riding on the circuit.

Electronic Throttle Valves

Kawasaki’s fully electronic throttle actuation system enables the ECU to control the volume of both the fuel (via fuel injectors) and the air (via throttle valves) delivered to the engine. Ideal fuel injection and throttle valve position results in smooth, natural engine response and the ideal engine output. The system also makes a significant contribution to reduced emissions.

Electronic throttle valves also enable more precise control of electronic engine management systems like S-KTRC and KTRC, and allow the implementation of electronic systems like KLCM, Kawasaki Engine Brake Control, and Cruise Control.

IMU – Enhanced Chassis Orientation Awareness

The strength of Kawasaki’s cutting-edge electronics has always been the highly sophisticated programming that, using minimal hardware, gives the ECU an accurate real-time picture of what the chassis is doing. Kawasaki’s proprietary dynamic modelling program makes skilful use of the magic formula tyre model as it examines changes in multiple parameters, enabling it to take into account changing road and tyre conditions.

The addition of an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) enables inertia along 6 DOF (degrees of freedom) to be monitored. Acceleration along longitudinal, transverse and vertical axes, plus roll rate and pitch rate are measured. The yaw rate is calculated by the ECU. This additional feedback contributes to an even clearer real-time picture of chassis orientation, enabling even more precise management for control at the limit.

With the addition of the IMU and the latest evolution of Kawasaki’s advanced modelling software, Kawasaki’s electronic engine and chassis management technology takes the step to the next level – changing from setting-type and reaction-type systems to feedback-type systems – to deliver even greater levels of riding excitement.

KQS: Kawasaki Quick Shifter

Designed to help riders maximise their acceleration on the circuit by enabling clutchless upshifts with the throttle fully open, KQS detects that the shift lever has been actuated and sends a signal to the ECU to cut ignition so that the next gear can be engaged without having to use the clutch. For some models, when a race kit ECU is used, clutchless downshifts are also possible.

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Australia MSRP Price: See Dealer for Pricing in AU

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2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details

Engine

Displacement 998cc
Type 4-stroke, In-Line Four
Bore and stroke 76.0 x 55.0 mm
Cooling Liquid
Compression ratio 13.0:1
Valve system DOHC, 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)
Fuel system Fuel injection: ø47 mm x 4 with dual injection
Ignition Digital
Lubrication Forced lubrication, wet sump with oil cooler

Brakes

Front: type Dual semi-floating 330 mm Brembo discs
Front: calipers Dual radial-mount, Brembo M50 monobloc, opposed 4-piston
Rear: type Single 220 mm petal disc
Rear: calipers Single-bore pin-slide

Dimensions

Overall length 2,085 mm
Overall width 740 mm
Overall height 1,145 mm
Wheelbase 1,440 mm
Ground clearance 145 mm
Seat height 835 mm
Curb mass** 206 kg
Fuel capacity 17 litres (3.7 gal.)

Drivetrain

Transmission 6-speed, return
Final drive Chain
Primary reduction ratio 1.681 (79/47)
Gear ratio: 1st 2.600 (39/15)
Gear ratio: 2nd 2.222 (40/18)
Gear ratio: 3rd 1.944 (35/18)
Gear ratio: 4th 1.722 (31/18)
Gear ratio: 5th 1.550 (31/20)
Gear ratio: 6th 1.391 (32/23)
Final reduction ratio 2.294 (39/17)
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual

Frame

Type Twin spar, cast aluminium
Wheel travel: front 120 mm (4.7 in.)
Tire: front 120/70-ZR17M/C (58W)
Wheel travel: rear 114 mm (4.5 in.)
Tire: rear 190/55-ZR17M/C (75W)
Caster (rake) 25º
Trail 107 mm (4.2 in.)
Steering angle (left/right) 27º/27º

Performance

Maximum Torque‡ 115 N·m {11.7 kgƒ·m} / 11,000 rpm

Suspension

Suspension, front 43 mm inverted Balance Free Front Fork with external compression chamber, compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability, and top-out springs
Suspension, rear Horizontal Back-link with BFRC lite gas-charged shock, piggyback resevoir, compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability, and top-out spring

Details

Warranty 12 months warranty

* The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price does not include freight, pre-delivery inspection or applicable taxes. The final price is at the discretion of the dealer. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. The amount indicated as “Your price” may include an optional instant Mega Cash credit that is deducted from the manufacturer’s suggested retail price before taxes. This promotion is time limited and certain conditions will apply. See your dealer for complete details. Offer not available on financed purchases and cannot be combined with any other special offers. The final price is at the discretion of the dealer. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

** Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied)

‡ Power / Torque figures measured at the crankshaft.

The specifications mentioned here apply to and have been achieved by production models under standard operating conditions. We intend only to give a fair description of the vehicle and its performance capabilities but these specifications may not apply to every machine supplied for sale. Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice. Equipment illustrated and specifications may vary to meet individual markets. Available colours may vary by market.

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

^†Specification may differ by model variation and market. EU WVTA (Reg(EU) 134/2014 Annex X) approved value (TBC); JP TRIAS 99-016-01 approved value (TBC).This engine is rated in PS power units. Gross power is different from net power. Net power is generally less than gross, but varies with engine specifications. Gross power is a general measure to compare one engine to another, as to its overall capacity. Your specific engine net power rating will be different and most likely less than the rated power.The specifications mentioned here apply to and have been achieved by production models under standard operating conditions. We intend only to give a fair description of the vehicle and its performance capabilities but these specifications may not apply to every machine supplied for sale. Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice.

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R – Totalmotorcycle.com Australian Specifications/Technical Details

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