Power. Speed. Handling. Dominance. Sometimes, bikes just come with all the elements that make for a perfect sports bike. In a nutshell, that’s what you get with the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. It’s got the kind of potent strength that will satisfy even the most discriminating enthusiasts. For the 2012 model of the ZX-6R, you can expect the same tradition of middleweight performance that harkens back to the day of the ZX600-A1.
The ZX-6R is powered by Kawasaki’s famous 599cc 16-valve, DOHC inline-four engine that provides top-shelf middleweight power, a trademark value of the Japanese bike builder. Squeezing big power from small displacement has always been a hallmark for the manufacturer and that tradition continues with the Ninja ZX-6R. The midrange power the bike has provides arm-stretching drive out of corners with the sort of precise throttle control that allows riders to enjoy the full, breath-taking experience of the Ninja ZX-6R. The bike’s engine is likewise mated to a cassette-type transmission that greatly simplifies gearing changes at the track, reducing set-up time and allowing more time for riding.
In terms of handling, the Ninja ZX-6R comes with its class-exclusive Big Piston front fork, a fully adjustable shock, ideal engine placement, optimum frame rigidity, and the very latest in mass centralization. Looking at the svelte profile of the bike, it’s easy to point out that the ZX-6R was designed with superior handling in mind. The bike’s twin spar aluminum frame is both lightweight and rigid, and places the engine in the optimum position for superb handling and rider feedback. Meanwhile, the bike’s sub-frame constitutes a two-piece aluminum die-casting consisting of a front and rear section while the lightweight sub-frame is very narrow, providing a compact and slim rear end that completes the overwhelmingly positive characteristics of the ZX-6R.
Find out more about the Kawasaki ZX-6R after the jump.
Full story
With a smooth power delivery, a low seat height, and upstanding handling characteristics, the Kawasaki Ninja 250R has everything you’re looking for in a sports bike. It’s not going to wow with anything out-of-this-world, but that’s not what the Ninja 250R is all about.
It’s actually a versatile sports bike that appeals to both novice riders and the more seasoned variety. Aerodynamically speaking, the Ninja 250R is wrapped in a modern aerodynamic fairing and windscreen that not only look great, but also deliver effective wind deflection for a wide range of riding situations. The bike also has an easy-to-read instrument panel with a fuel gauge and neutral indicator, as well as a natural riding position, comfortable ergonomics, and a set of full-size 17" sport bike wheels, all of which make the Ninja 250R a nimble and lightweight sports bike that’s designed to deliver pure pleasure on city streets.
In terms of performance, the Ninja 250R is powered by a compact, 249cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine, that produces crisp throttle power seasoned riders will definitely appreciate. The bike’s extra highway passing power compared to other bikes in the 250 class is unparalleled whereas beginners will love the smooth torque delivery at lower speeds. The engine is mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed transmission that offers the right gear for almost any situation. Together, the efficient engine and transmission allow the Ninja 250R plenty of enjoyment from a wide array of customers.
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned veteran, the Kawasaki 250R will offer you everything you need in a versatile machine.
Find out more about the Kawasaki Ninja 250R after the jump.
Full story
The 2012 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is the quintessential finished product when passion and technology merge. Redesigned and retooled a year ago, the 2012 ZX-10R is chalk-full of new technology that elevates the bike above all others in its class.
It’s very hard for a bike to boast such claims, but this one can rightfully do so without even batting an eyelash. The ZX-10R is powered by a potent 998cc, 16-valve, DOHC, liquid-cooled inline-four engine. This power plant has been tuned to optimize power delivery, center of gravity, and actual engine placement within the chassis while the steady release of torque allows the bike to eliminate power peaks and valleys that make it difficult for racers and track-day riders to open the throttle with confidence.
On top of the impressive power train, the ZX-10R also comes with new Kawasaki technology: the highly advanced and customizable Sport-Kawasaki Traction Control that allows riders to harness and capitalize on the ZX-10R’s amazing blend of power and responsive handling. The system is called Sport-Kawasaki Traction Control, or S-KTRC, and works by crunching numbers from a variety of parameters and sensors, including wheel speed and slip, engine rpm, throttle position, acceleration, etc. The S-KTRC system also relies on complex software buried in the ZX-10R’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU) working to quickly reduce power at the right time where slippage exceeds the optimal traction zone. This allows the S-KTRC system to maintain the optimum level of tire grip to maximize forward motion, resulting in an improved lap time and better rider confidence across the board. Working on three different modes of operation - Level 1 (Max-Grip), Level 2, (Intermediate), and Level 3 (Slipper Conditions) - the S-KTRC system allows for a fast, smooth, and powerful ride on any condition imaginable.
That’s why the 2012 ZX-10R is considered as being in a class of its own.
Find out more about the Yamaha ZX-10R after the jump.
Full story
Power is a fabulous thing. If you have it, you can’t get enough of it. If you don’t, you want it that much more.
The Kawasaki Ninja 650 isn’t the most powerful bike on the market. But when you’re talking pound-for-pound, the bike’s improved performance, all-new chassis, and bodywork make it one of the best mid-sized sports bikes around.
The 2012 Ninja 650 is a sleeker and more aggressively styled motorcycle than ever before. The all-new bodywork is more sharply defined and more like our race-winning supersport machines, with flowing lines and a tapered brow that blends nicely with the rest of the bike. From an aerodynamic standpoint, the Ninja 650 is as good as it gets. Add an adjustable, 3-position windscreen, a 20mm wider handlebar than the previous version, and a 2-piece seat assembly topped with foam that’s thicker than before, and you have the makings of a comfortable ride in every sense of the word. Complimenting the ergonomic improvements done on the Ninja 650 is an analog tachometer located above an LCD info-center showing speed, trip meters, fuel consumption, remaining range, etc., with a swath of info-lights to the right.
At the heart of the Ninja 650 is a highly advanced, 649cc liquid-cooled vertical twin engine that comes with a digital fuel injection system featuring 38mm throttle bodies and sub-throttle assemblies for optimum response and precise fueling. You won’t need to worry about the Ninja 650 disappointing you on the road because it has an engine that can produce substantial power with plenty of character – especially down low and in the mid-range.
The Kawasaki Ninja 650 has always been known as an outstanding street bike that offers impressive top end performance, yet enough satisfying low- and mid-range oomph to allow novices to get acclimated with it. There’s no question as to how legit this bike is. The only question is whether you can handle owning one.
Find out more about the Kawasaki Ninja 650 after the jump.
Full story
In the world of sports bikes, you really would be hard-pressed to find a bike that is more capable inside and out than the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R ABS. Not only does it come with Kawasaki’s world-renowned craftsmanship, but it also carries some of the latest in sports bike technology, most of which have been derived from MotoGP.
Don’t be confused by the anti-lock braking on the ZX-10R ABS; the system was designed and developed specifically for the purpose of providing maximum on-track performance for the bike. And when you consider the many safety- and control-oriented benefits provided by the amazing electronic and hardware technology available today, it begins to make a lot of sense.
Think of it: You’re charging into a hairpin during a track day. It’s late in the afternoon, you’re tired, and your front tire is shagged from a day of hard-core knee-dragging. But instead of tucking as you squeeze the front brake lever, your front tire chirps briefly and the KIBS system intervenes until traction returns – allowing you to arc gracefully into the corner, a little wiser and a lot more intact physically than if you were riding a non-ABS motorcycle. On the street, anti-lock’s benefits are even easier to realize.
Hit the jump for more information on the 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R ABS.
Full story
