2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

Kawasaki has unveiled the 2016 model year of its 998cc sportbike, the Kawasaki ZX-10R. For 2016, the Kawasaki ZX-10R has more power from its 998cc engine, and also receives revised styling, chassis and electronics upgrades.

Developed with the input of Kawasaki ’s two World Superbike champions, Jonathan Rea and Tom Sykes, the new 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R “is the closest it is possible for a road going Ninja to be to the machines that have dominated numerous WSBK races and Superpoles in recent years.”

The Ninja ZX-10R’s fairing has been redesigned and comes with wider windscreen, and its handlebars now are closer to rider to provide better riding position. Furthermore, the steering head is 7.5mm closer to rider, and the swingarm is 15.8mm longer compared to the outgoing model. Other highlights include the new Brembo M50 monobloc brake calipers, Brembo radial pump master cylinder and WSBK-style Showa’s latest front forks.

The superbike is still powered by the same 998 cc four cylinder in-line engine which is first introduced in 2011, but features new camshafts, pistons, cylinder head and primary gear, redesigned porting with electronic throttle valves, thicker engine sidewalls, 25% bigger airbox and the crankshaft now comes with 20% less inertia than the current model. There is also a new cassette-type transmission. With all of those upgraded parts, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R has a total output of 210 hp at 13,000 rpm and a peak torque of 83.7 lb-ft at 11,500 rpm, boasting a stronger mid-range and is now Euro 4 emissions compliant.

The 2016 ZX-10R Ninja also gets an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) – the first Kawasaki to feature it. The instrument cluster has been updated to show launch control settings, IMU information, engine braking information, power mode used, and so on.

In the USA, the 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R will set you back $15,999. Kawasaki will also offer the KRT Edition, which features different graphics, cost an extra $300.