KAWASAKI ZX-10 2016 – Introduction.

How appropriate that Kawasaki’s promotional campaign on the 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R ABS is #getcloser, implying how much the new model is similar to the actual WSBK Kawasaki race bike. As a matter of fact, much of the hardware installed in the 2016 model are developed with input from the two world superbike champions, Tom Sykes and Jonathan Rea.

Almost identical in looks to its predecessor, the similarity ends there. Kawasaki development team, with feedback from the two WSBK champions practically changes everything behind the fairings, from the engine, chassis, suspension, electronics, brakes and exhaust.

The ZX-10R ABS retains the 998 cc four cylinder in-line engine first introduced in 2011, but changes are made to the pistons, camshafts, primary gear, a redesigned porting with electronic throttle valves, 25% bigger air-box and thicker engine sidewalls. The cylinder head and crankshaft were reportedly made 20% lighter to reduce engine inertia. This improves acceleration and deceleration and also has the added benefit of assisting the bike to change directions more quickly as crankshaft inertia can blunt directional change quickness. The crankshaft also gets a new, lighter balancer, and the connecting rods have a new coating which reduces friction at high rpm.

The new cylinder head’s intake and exhaust ports are now straighter and wider, allowing the flow of more air / fuel mixture into the combustion chamber. Both the intake and exhaust ports are also polished, which helps improve flow, and the valves are now made of titanium for weight reduction.

This Ninja ZX-10R ABS produces 210 hp at 13, 000 rpm and a peak torque of 113.5 Nm (83.7 lb-ft) at 11, 500 rpm. Although the maximum output is almost the same as the previous model, this new engine now peaks at higher rpm with stronger mid-range torque, whilst complying to the tighter Euro-4 emissions requirements.

Three adjustable ignition mapping are available – Full, Middle and Low. The Low setting restrict power output to 60%, and the middle map interestingly would maintain the same percentage of power as Full so long as throttle opening is above 50%.

At the heart of the package is a brand new Bosch Inertia Measurement Unit (IMU) that measures six degrees of freedom variables. Five of the IMU axises are measured by an array of sensors, with the sixth calculated by the system’s proprietary software. The IMU then uses all these information to fine-tune the rider-adjustable control system which are the traction control (KTRC), the launch control (KLCM) and engine braking (KEBC).

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R now employs the intelligent braking system (KIBS) that links the ABS control unit with the engine’s electronic control. The system monitors the front and rear wheel speed, front brake caliper hydraulic pressure, throttle position, engine speed, clutch actuation and gear position to determine the ideal brake hydraulic pressure. This is the first time such an integrated braking system has been installed to a production motorcycle.

Another system designed to assist riding is the innovative Cornering Management function. This technology helps rider to stay on their intended line through corner by automatically coordinating the traction control and the braking system. The KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System) and Cornering Management comes standard on the new Ninja ZX-10R.

The frame geometry has been revised by seating the rider closer to the steering head and elongating the swingarm. The front is now loaded with more weight and facilitates better corner entry stability, and further assisted by the reduced inertia from the lighter rotating parts of the engine.

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R 2016 model employs Showa’s latest suspension kit that debut on this bike. It features a new design that promises to eliminate pressure balance fluctuations by using the Balance Free Fork (BFF) and Rear Cushion (BFRC) which have been developed in WSBK throughout 2014.

The centerpiece of the Ninja ZX-10R’s instrument panel is the high visible LED-backlit bargraph tachometer – a mass-production first when introduced on the 2011 model. The tachometer also functions as a shift indicator. The LEDs will flash when the set rpm is reached. Riders can set the shift indicator rpm according to preference. The digital display updated to include the new Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM), Kawasaki Engine Brake Control (KEBC) and Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) functions, as well as an indicator for the IMU. Additional functions on the multi-function meter include: gear position indicator, odometer, dual trip meters, average fuel consumption, instant fuel consumption, Power Mode (3 Modes), S-KTRC (5 Modes + OFF), low fuel indicator, Economical Riding Indicator and a host of indicator lamps. The numerous modes and functions are controlled using a multi-function button located at the left handle.

On the cosmetic but functional side, a larger top fairing was requested by the WSB team to help improve high-speed stability and aerodynamic flow. Increased wind protection is claimed to help racers change position more easily under braking turns because the air is less turbulent. The windscreen is now fully supported by the fairing and vibrate less at high speed. Intakes at the side of the windscreen reduce negative air pressure in the cockpit to stabilize air flow and reduce helmet buffeting. A new front mudguard gets a stepped design helping to direct air to the radiator to increase cooling.

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is available in Green, Grey and Black.

Engine:

Type:                               Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke In-Line Four.

Displacement:             998 CM3

Bore & Stroke:            76.0 X 55.0 mm

Compression Ratio: 13.0.1

Valve System:             DOHC, 16 valves.

Fuel System:               Fuel Injection: ⊘47 mm X 4 with dual injection.

Ignition:                       Digital.

Starting:                       Electric.

Lubrication:                Forced lubrication, wet sump with oil cooler.

Drivetrain:

Transmission: 6-Speed, return.

Final Drive:    Chain.

Clutch:            Wet multi-disc, manual.

Frame:

Type:                   Twin Spar, cast aluminum.

Caster (rake): 25.0°

Trail:                  107 mm

Tires:

Front: 120/70ZR17M/C

Rear:  190/55ZR17M/C

Performance:

Max. Power:                         147.1kW {200 PS} / 13,000 min-1 (MYS)

Max. Power with Ram Air: 154.4kW {210 PS} / 13,000 min-1 (MYS)

Max. Torque:                        113.5 N.m {11.6 kgf.m} / 11,500 min-1 (MYS)

Brakes:

Front:    Dual semi-floating ⊘330 mm Brembo discs.

Caliper: Dual radial-mount, Brembo M50 Monobloc, opposed 4-piston.

Rear:     Single ⊘220 mm disc.

Caliper: Single-bore pin-slide, aluminum piston.

Dimensions:

Overall length:     2,090 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.

Credits : Photos and content: Justin Hong.