RIDER FEEDBACK

PERFORMANCE

The stiffness balance of Kawasaki’s unique backbone twin-tube frame has been further optimised and contributes to the superb rider feedback. This was achieved by reshaping the frame’s pressed parts and replacing concave pieces with convex pieces. Not really noticeable to the naked eye, the changes alleviate stress concentrations and enable a superb 2 way dialogue between rider and machine.

To optimise the 10R’s performance for the track, the new engine has been tuned for even greater high-rpm performance without reducing the engine’s impressive low and mid-range torque. In addition, throttle response was improved by installing secondary fuel injectors, using oval throttle bodies and reshaping the intake ports. These changes give the new engine a performance potential very similar to Kawasaki’s factory superbike racing machines, making it essentially a race-ready engine.

CONTROLLED POWER

EXHAUST SYSTEM

The Ninja ZX-10R is equipped with an advanced ignition management system that monitors engine speed, throttle position, vehicle speed, gear position and feedback from intake air temperature, intake air pressure, engine temperature and oxygen sensors to adjust ignition timing where necessary to provide smooth, controlled power delivery.

The new exhaust system features a pre-chamber under the engine, which reduces exhaust noise, and helps minimise the volume of the single orthogonal titanium right-side silencer. Along with the pre-chamber, this design lowers the bike’s centre of gravity and centralises mass, contributing to the bike’s flickable handling. Exhaust efficiency is also improved, contributing to the increased power output of the new engine.

BRAKING

Dual brake pads (instead of 4 individual pads) are used in the new Tokico radial mount calipers. While stopping performance is the same, the change to dual pads offers superb initial bite characteristics and increased control care of progressive feel after the initial bite.
New 310 mm front petal brake discs are bigger and thinner than the previous ZX-10R. This change efficiently disperses heat resulting in more consistent and responsive operation during extended periods of hard use. A Radial action front master cylinder delivers impressive stopping performance and feel.

An adjustable Öhlins steering damper with relief valve and twin-tube design is fitted as standard equipment. The second tube, which acts like a reservoir tank, and the damper internals, ensure stable damping performance even under racing conditions. (Even if the damping fluid in the cylinder gets hot it will not froth.) This race-quality unit was developed in collaboration with Öhlins specially for the Ninja ZX-10R. The damper unit has an integral clamp so that piston motion is not hindered.

SUSPENSION

Improvements to the Uni-Trak rear suspension include a new mounting location for the linkage. The fully adjustable shock now features dual (low and high-speed) compression damping, enabling the fine-tuning needed for circuit riding. Ride feel is improved, and feedback and traction control are what riders expect of a competition-ready machine.
The new system operates so well that even with the low-speed compression damping backed off, there is no “springy” feel, and road-following ability is excellent.

The 43 mm inverted fork is fully adjustable and features bottom mounted springs. Mounting the springs at the bottom completely submerges them in oil, reducing frothing for improved damping performance, fork action and roadfollowing ability.
DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) fork tube coating is also featured on the new 10R. Not only does this high-tech low-friction coating improve fork action, it improves friction control: the initial part of the stroke is slowed, smoothing action for stable braking; once compressed, the reduced friction allows the stroke to move quickly for superb road holding.

AERODYNAMICS

A slight step on the front cowl reduces windblast on the rider’s shoulders while maintaining a small frontal area. Small fairing sides reduce the influence side winds have on the machine. The rear frame, tank and seat were all redesigned to offer the rider increased contact with the bike. These improved ergonomics give the rider very accurate feedback regarding chassis performance and road surface. The new fuel tank is even more flared around its top, giving the bike a more elegant form. In practical terms the design makes it easier for a rider to rest the inside of their arm on the tank when leaning into a corner for increased feedback.