The new ZX-10R superbike doesn’t look too different compared to the old version, but there are serious technical improvements announced under the fairings.
The main facts: 210 PS (with RAM Air), 113 Nm, 206 kg curb mass.
Engine
The engine is the same 998 cc inline four, but it was updated for a stronger low-mid range that should give a better exit from the corners. It is also Euro IV compatible. Among the updates are a revised cylinder head, a more track-oriented gearbox and electronically actuated valves for a more precise engine control. The inline-four also revs faster, according to Kawasaki, due to a new crankshaft, while the inertia force is lowered by 20%. This should give a better handling in the corners.
The new exhaust has titanium header pipes and silencer, contributing to light weight and mass centralization.
Brembo braking system with intelligent ABS
The new Kawasaki ZX-10R has dual high-spec Brembo M50 monobloc calipers and larger 330 mm discs, while the racing ABS (KIBS) monitors front brake caliper hydraulic pressure, throttle position, engine speed, clutch actuation and gear position. The information gathered from all these sensors enables the system to determine the ideal front hydraulic pressure. KIBS also has an anti-stoppie feature.
World Superbike developed suspension
One of the most important updates for the new ZX-10R is the suspension system. The Showa “Balance Free Fork” embodies a technology that comes directly from Kawasaki’s World Superbike machines, Kawasaki says. The damping force is generated in a special chamber, outside the main tube, which allows the surface of the main piston to act as a pump, pushing oil towards the valves. This way, you won’t get balance fluctuations as a cause of compression and rebound anymore, which makes the bike more stable in a racing pace.
Moreover, compression and rebound damping are generated and adjusted completely independent to one another.
The rear shock was also updated and Kawasaki says it offers a better comfort, traction, and reduced weight. Also, it has an almost horizontal position, due to a back-link mounting system.
Frame & bodywork
The aluminum twin-spar frame has a steering head revised geometry, and a longer and more rigid swing arm, while the revised bodywork offers a larger upper cowl for better aerodynamics on track.
Electronics
2016 Kawasaki ZX-10R has a racing smart ABS, engine brake control, electronic throttle valve, launch control, traction control, and three power modes. All the electronic system and sensors are connected to an Inertial Measurement Unit that monitors inertia along six axes: acceleration along longitudinal, transverse and vertical axes, roll rate, pitch rate, and yaw rate.
The price: €18,000 in Europe.