2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R KRT Edition

Chassis Management Technology

• HORIZONTAL BACK-LINK REAR SUSPENSION: Compared to the Kawasaki traditional Uni-Trak® rear suspension, which mounts the shock unit vertically, with Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension, the shock unit is almost horizontal. The original Kawasaki suspension arrangement locates the shock unit very close to the bike's center of gravity, greatly contributing to mass centralization. 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 center of the bike, further contributing to mass centralization. The result is greatly improved handling. A secondary 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 consistent.

Engine Management Technology

• 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 minimize negative impact on the environment.
• 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 Electronic Cruise Control.

Handling

• RACING-INSPIRED: The Ninja® ZX™-10R sportbike puts racing-inspired handling technology at your control.
• AGILE & BALANCED: The optimized geometry of the chassis delivers maximum feel, feedback and flickability. Additionally, the frame and swingarm contribute to sharp handling and great cornering speed while reversible offset collars (race kit parts) allow steering stem and swingarm pivot positions to be adjusted to best suit track conditions and riding style.
• CONFIDENT BRAKING: Front Brembo® brakes feature a pair of massive 330mm semi-floating discs that deliver superb braking force and brake feel. The rotors have a grooved outer edge for effective heat dissipation. The brake system features dual radial-mount Brembo M-50 cast aluminum monobloc calipers, Brembo’s highest grade mass production brake calipers.
• SLEEK & FUNCTIONAL: The Ninja® ZX™-10R motorcycle was designed with aerodynamic elements that use wind pressure to its advantage. The upper cowl reduces drag and provides optimal wind deflection so that the racer can change position more smoothly at track speeds. Strategically-placed vents in the upper cowl help prevent negative pressure build-up in cockpit to reduce helmet buffeting. Vented front fender directs airflow to the radiator for improved engine cooling.
• COMFORT & PERFORMANCE: Showa's advanced 43mm Balance Free Fork (BFF) brings state-of-the-art WorldSBK racing suspension technology to a mass production supersport motorcycle on the Ninja® ZX™-10R. The benefits include increased ride comfort, enhanced braking balance, increased front-end feel and independently adjustable compression and rebound damping. The Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension featuring a compact and lightweight Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) shock provide superb comfort and sport performance.

Handling Technology

• DESIGNED TO WIN: The Ninja® ZX™-10R motorcycle features World Superbike Championship-proven technology delivering unrivaled agility, control and handling.
• NEXT-LEVEL TECHNOLOGY: The highly advanced, compact IMU enables inertia along 6 Degrees of Freedom to be monitored. Acceleration along longitudinal, transverse and vertical axes plus roll rate and pitch are measured. The yaw rate is calculated by the ECU using Kawasaki’s proprietary dynamic modeling software. Kawasaki’s dynamic modeling software utilizes the Bosch IMU as a source of input then processes the input to provide electronic rider aides that support the rider’s intentions while maintaining seamless performance. This next-level system enables predictive and adaptive electronics for precise chassis orientation awareness.
• SPORT-KAWASAKI TRACTION CONTROL: Hybrid predictive/feedback-type evolution of the highly sophisticated traction control system helps racers push harder by maximizing acceleration. Five modes enable a greater range of feeling for specific track conditions and riding preferences.
• KAWASAKI CORNERING MANAGEMENT FUNCTION: Input from the IMU enables cornering management which assists riders in tracing their intended line through the corners on the track.
• OPTIMAL DAMPING: Specially developed Öhlins electronic steering damper provides just the right amount of damping based on vehicle speed and degree of acceleration or deceleration.

Other Features

• Finger-follower valve actuation, IMU-enhanced electronics package, Showa Balance Free Front Fork and BFRC lite rear shock.

Power

• LIGHTWEIGHT & BALANCED: The titanium alloy exhaust system is heat resistant, lightweight and positioned to create a low center of gravity for effective mass centralization and light handling.
• POWERFUL & EFFICIENT: Internal engine designs, from the lightweight crankshaft and pistons to the wide intake and exhaust ports, focus on producing peak power and delivering strong low- to mid-range power for quick acceleration.
• MAXIMUM FLOW: A 10-litre airbox improves engine response and increases low- to mid-range power while a large surface area, low resistance air filter also contributes to engine performance.
• CONTROLLED POWER DELIVERY: 47mm electronic throttle valves and 32-bit ECU operate with great precision to provide smooth engine response.

Power Technology

• BEYOND NORMAL: Kawasaki next-level electronics bring the extraordinary power of the World Superbike-winning Ninja® ZX™-10R motorcycle to stunning new levels.
• KAWASAKI LAUNCH CONTROL MODE: The 3-mode system designed to help racers optimize acceleration from a launch manages engine output to prevent wheelspin and minimize front end lift.
• KAWASAKI ENGINE BRAKE CONTROL: This system allows riders to set engine braking according to preference.
• KAWASAKI QUICK SHIFTER: The KQS system facilitates acceleration by allowing clutchless upshifts and downshifts while on the track. KQS can also be used on the street above 2,500 rpm.
• REFINED POWER: The Ninja® ZX™-10R motorcycle has multiple power modes allowing you to set power delivery to suit conditions and/or preference.