The 2018 Ninja ZX-10R has clearly demonstrated its circuit potential through winning results in the Superbike World Championship (SBK). Kawasaki dominated the 2015 championship, 2016 championship and 2017 championship seasons with Jonathan Rea’s consecutive World Superbike Championships and again winning the 2017 WSB Manufacturers Championship for Kawasaki for the 3rd time. To celebrate these achievements, the Ninja ZX-10R is available in 2 colours for 2018; a special edition Kawasaki Racing Team lime green and ebony livery alongside the striking silver colour option.
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is Pure Superbike.
Offering the same blend of high power and manageability, smooth power deliver facilitates getting back on the gas, while delivering a stronger low-mid range for quick acceleration out of corners on the track. Significant feedback from Kawasaki’s factory superbike ensures the engine’s immense power was maintained while meeting Euro 4 regulations.
Compact IMU operates in 6 DOF (degrees of freedom): 5 measured 1 calculated. Combined with Kawasaki’s proprietary dynamic modelling program, input from the IMU enables even more precise chassis orientation awareness, the key to bringing Kawasaki’s electronics to the next level.
The use of Bosch’s compact IMU allows an additional layer of precision to be added to the already high-level S-KTRC and KLCM.
The centrepiece of the Ninja ZX-10R’s instrument panel is the highly visibly LED-backlit bar-graph tachometer – a mass-production first when introduced on the 2011 model. 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 (please see below), water/intake air temperature and a host of indicator lamps.
Short pistons with high performance piston crown design are designed to handle the loads of the more powerful engine. Each piston is 5 g lighter (than previous model), contributes to improved response. Further, the pistons are made from a new material with superb heat resistance that offers increased toughness. Finally, a dry film lubricant coating on the piston skirts reduces friction at low rpm and helps with the piston bedding-in process.
Short pistons with high performance piston crown design are designed to handle the loads of the more powerful engine. Each piston is 5 g lighter (than previous model), contributes to improved response. Further, the pistons are made from a new material with superb heat resistance that offers increased toughness. Finally, a dry film lubricant coating on the piston skirts reduces friction at low rpm and helps with the piston bedding-in process.
Engine balancer is lighter (optimised to match the new crankshaft), contributing to the improved engine response. Connecting rod journal bearings feature a new material that offers high durability for high-rpm operation, and a new coating that increases seizure resistance. In the cylinder, thick walls (5 mm >> 6 mm) at the cylinder bores offer strong rigidity to match the higher power of the engine, contributing to increased reliability.
Exhaust header pipes, formed from heat-resistant titanium alloy, have almost the same length and diameter as their race-use counterparts. (This feature makes it easier for riders to increase exhaust performance (for track applications) without having to replace the entire exhaust system.) Connector pipe joins headers 3 and 4, contributing to smooth engine response. Header collectors (4-2 sections) are hydroformed, resulting in a simple, lightweight construction.
This rear suspension arrangement offers excellent performance while contributing to mass centralisation. Linkage ratios offer almost linear feeling, which makes suspension adjustments easier to feel.
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. The simple system enables more precise control of S-KTRC, and allows implementation of new electronic systems like KLCM and Kawasaki Engine Brake Control. Throttle valve diameter is 47 mm.
Crankshaft has a low moment of inertia. This is – one of the most significant changes brought about by feedback from Kawasaki’s WSB factory team – benefits the bike’s overall performance: acceleration, deceleration and cornering are all improved. Engine response is improved as the engine is able to spin up more quickly. Reducing the moment of inertia offers handling benefits as well.
The choice of Power Mode (3 modes), S-KTRC (5 modes OFF, KQS, KLCM, KEBC functions are controlled using a multi-function button located at the left handle.
The Ninja ZX-10R features a new front fork jointly developed with Showa in the Superbike World championship. Tested in world racing competition – and proving to be a great asset in Kawasaki’s championship bid – this technology, coming directly from Kawasaki’s factory race machine, is making its mass-production debut on the Ninja ZX-10R.
The silencer manufactured from titanium alloy reduces weight and contributes to mass centralisation. The light material allows the increased silencer volume to be offset. The high-grade titanium alloy material that Kawasaki uses for its exhaust system components not only offers superior heat resistance for high durability, the parts can be made thinner, enabling a lighter construction than with lower-grade material.
Wide, voluptuous rear cowl contributes to the sporty design. Rear seat has a sporty design that matches the rear section.
LED taillight design gives the rear a sharper impression. Compact rear turn signals mounted to the rear flap assembly feature clear lenses for a clean, modern look.
Taking a from-the-tyres-inward approach, Kawasaki’s dynamic modelling program (a comprehensive application the magic formula tyre model) was employed to determine the stresses that would be placed on the swingarm when the tyres are used to their full potential on the circuit. Then advanced dynamic rigidity analysis was used to precisely determine the necessary wall thickness and size to deliver the ideal lateral and torsional rigidity. The swingarm’s optimised torsional rigidity contributes to the bike’s nimbler handling.
Long ( 15.8 mm) swingarm contributes to the increased weight on the front. The benefits can be felt during braking, turn-in and when flicking the bike from one side to the other.
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 use of Bosch’s compact IMU allows an additional layer of precision to be added to the already high-level S-KTRC and KLCM.
A pair of massive 330 mm Brembo semi-floating discs (previously ?310 mm) with a thickness of t5.0 mm deliver superb braking force. The stainless steel rotors offer high rigidity and contribute to excellent brake feel. To further improve the Ninja ZX-10R’s corner entry performance on the circuit, a high-spec Brembo front brake system was implemented. The Brembo system – very similar to the system used on the Ninja H2R – includes the best components available for a mass-production model. Special tuning at the Brembo factory ensures that all play has been removed from the system, so that when the brakes are called for, they respond immediately.
At the rear a Brembo 220 mm diameter disc is slowed by a single-piston caliper. The disc’s round shape complements the round shape of the front Brembo discs. Steel-braided line is used for the rear brake as well, contributing to greater feel.
Designed to assist racers by optimising acceleration from a stop, KLCM electronically controls engine output to prevent wheelspin and minimise wheelies when launching. Riders can choose from three modes, each offering a progressively greater level of intrusion. Each mode allows the rider to launch from a stop with the throttle held wide open.
Hybrid predictive/feedback-type evolution of the highly sophisticated traction control system helps riders push harder by maximising acceleration. 5 modes enable expert riders to get even more serious enjoyment on the circuit. With the addition of the IMU, S-KTRC changes from a purely predictive system to one that also incorporates feedback. The new hybrid predictive/feedback system offers even more precise management to help an even greater range of riders experience riding at the limit. The 5 DOF input from the IMU (plus the 6th calculated by the ECU) complements the numerous parameters monitored by S-KTRC system.
The Kawasaki Engine Brake Control system allows riders to select the amount of engine braking they prefer.
When the system is activated (by selecting “L” (Light) in the “KEBC” settings), the engine braking effect is reduced, providing less interference when riding on the circuit. When activated, the “KEBC” indicator light on the instrument cluster will be illuminated.
Fitted standard, KQS helps riders maximise their acceleration on the circuit by enabling them to shift gears while keeping the throttle fully open. Complementing the Ninja ZX-10R’s increased circuit potential, a contactless-type quick shifter enables quick upshifts for seamless acceleration. The system 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. (Clutch use is recommended for downshifts.) The system offers very high reliability, as it is less prone to breaking than contact-type quick shifters.
Settings were updated to match the new dimensions and handling characteristics. Ohlins’ special twin-tube design ensures stable damping performance even under circuit-riding conditions, and enables superb kickback absorption. The damper’s high precision construction and use of an integrated clamp help minimise friction as the damper piston slides back and forth. Initial motion is very smooth as a result. Steering damper body is finished with ahighly scratch-resistant alumite1coating.
Moving the head pipe back 7.5 mm closer to the rider helps places more weight on the front. The increased front-end feel contributes to increased stability and confidence on corner entry – helping with both braking and turn-in – and when flicking the bike from one side to the other.
Reversible offset collar (race kit part) allows the steering stem position to be adjusted /-4 mm forward/backward from the standard position. This adjustability allows riders to set up the bike to suit track or riding style.
Reversible offset collar (race kit part) allows the swingarm pivot position to be adjusted /-2 mm up/down from the standard position. This adjustability allows riders to set up the bike to suit track or riding style.
The light crankshaft and a number of changes to chassis deliver a much lighter-handing machine. The noticeably improved corner entry and flickability contribute to quicker lap times.
The light crankshaft in addition to the benefits to acceleration and deceleration, reducing the crankshaft’s moment of inertia offers handling benefits as well. With the reduced gyroscopic effect of the rotating crankshaft, handling is lighter, the bike is more flickable, and turn-in is quicker. Also, the reduced mass of the crankshaft helps raise the engine’s centre of gravity, further contributing to the nimble handling.
Larger upper cowl improves the aerodynamic performance of the machine-rider package, offering a lower cdA (coefficient of drag) than the previous model. The increased wind protection (reduced stress from wind blast) enables riders to change positions more smoothly as they set up for corner entry when riding on the track.
Riding position enables both circuit and street riding, contributing to controllability and rider confidence. With the handlebars moved 7.5 mm closer to the rider (care of the repositioned head pipe), the riding position is a little more compact, offering riders greater flexibility to choose their position while riding.
Based largely on the sleek curves of its predecessor, the Ninja ZX-10R’s purposeful new styling is distinct, but easily recognisable. Fuller upper cowl and new screen, and a more voluminous rear section give the compact, mass-forward package a silhouette closer in appearance to Kawasaki’s factory superbike machine. High-quality fit and finish and superb attention to detail ensure the bike looks equally impressive up close.
More compact line-beam headlamp units match the new upper cowl design and contribute to bike’s imposing image. LED-type (3-bulb) position lamp located at the top of the Ram Air duct is highly visible and contributes to the aggressive styling package. Cowl-mounted mirrors feature integrated LED-type (2-bulb) turn signals. The turn signals are connected via couplers, facilitating mirror removal for trackday use.
High-quality sculpted rubber tank pad protector, provided standard, protects the finish of the lustrous paint on the fuel tank. Fuel tank offers an excellent ergonomic fit with the rider’s forearm and inner thigh when cornering.
Ram Air intake is positioned close to front of the bike (where air pressure is highest), contributing to airbox filling efficiency. Larger airbox (8 L >> 10 L) allows a greater volume of intake air to be supplied to the engine. Engine response is improved, and acceleration out of corners is stronger thanks to the increased low-mid range power. Matching the larger airbox, the air cleaner element has a 1.6 times larger surface area and a 40% lower air resistance. This also contributes to the improved engine response and increased low-mid range power.
Windscreen is fully supported by the upper cowl (previously floating). The wider screen offers increased wind protection in the shoulder area, and with the additional support vibrates less at higher speeds. Intakes at the side of the windscreen allow wind to pass through, helping to prevent negative pressure build-up in the cockpit to reduce helmet buffeting. LED-type (3-bulb) position lamp located at the top of the Ram Air duct is highly visible and contributes to the aggressive styling package.
One of the lightest OEM wheel designs in the market, the Ninja ZX-10R’s gravity-cast wheels with their 3-spoke design offer an excellent balance of light weight and rigidity that contributes to edge grip when riding on the track. Screw-in type, aluminium side-facing tyre air valves ensure easy maintenance with the large-diameter front brake discs.
Machined bar ends feature an elaborate design similar to that found on custom parts – an example of the Ninja ZX-10R’s high attention to detail.
More detailed front sprocket cover design contributes the high attention to detail.
A 24 Month Unlimited Kilometre Warranty is standard on the Ninja ZX-10R KRT Replica
Ninja ZX-10R (ZX1000SJF)
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line Four
998 cm3
76.0 × 55.0 mm
13.0:1
DOHC 16 valve
Fuel injection: o47 mm x 4 with dual injection
Digital
Electric
6-speed, return
Wet Multi-disc, manual
Twin spar, cast aluminium
120 mm
114 mm
120/70ZR17 (58W)
190/55ZR17M/C (75W)
o43 mm inverted Balance Free Front Fork with external compression chamber, compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability, and top-out springs
Horizontal Back-link, BFRC lite gas-charged shock with piggyback reservoir, compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability, and top-out spring
Dual semi-floating o330 mm Brembo discs with dual radial-mount, Brembo M50 monobloc oppossed 4-piston calipers, ABS
Single o220 mm disc with single-bore pin-slide caliper, ABS
2,090 × 740 × 1,145 mm
1,440 mm
145 mm
835 mm
17 litres
206 kg
147.1 kW {200 PS} / 13,000 rpm
154.4 kW {210 PS} / 13,000 rpm
113.5 N.m {11.6 kgf.m} / 11,500 rpm
Metallic Matte Fusion Silver with Metallic Flat Spark Black
24 Months Unlimited Kilometres
