Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and RR 2021: a beast for only (500) 'handles.'

 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and RR 2021: a beast for only (500) 'handles.'

On the first stage of the CIV 2021 at Mugello, the new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R superbike was presented. The RR version was dedicated to exclusive use on the track.

What better occasion for the public presentation of the queen of superbikes, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R, if not the return to the track of the CIV in the first stage of the season at Mugello?

In the paddock, the Verdona made a good show of itself even in the ZX-10RR version, made in only 500 units for exclusive use on the track.

The press launch of Kawasaki still dates back to the end of November 2020, but due to the pandemic, the live presentation skip, and the appointment of the first CIV race seemed an excellent opportunity to show the Ninja ZX-10R and ZX- live for the first time. 10RR.

However, the Ninja ZX-10R is the standard model equipped with an engine and chassis with high potential to hit the track, with a new aerodynamic style complete with integrated fins and a high-quality chassis.

The Ninja ZX-10RR arrives in limited production; 500 units are expected worldwide in a single-seater version that can only use on the track, created to increase the potential of the ZX-10R through modifications to the engine and chassis,

Only 500 units worldwide for the Ninja ZX-10RR' track only.'

The Kawasaki factory technicians have dug deep into the very heart of the superbike world champion, intending to give a new model to Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes ready to face a new racing season and to the many riders to have fun on both the track and on the road (in compliance with the highway code!).

The new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R / 10RR thus takes a step forward in its development, thanks to the experience gained in the world series derivatives, with a commitment both on the track and in the "racing oriented" factory, to maximize the potential of the Ninja 2021.

Winning on the track and in the sales data, Kawasaki changed the face of its superbike and presents itself in 2021 with new features and a new look.

The differences between the ZX-10R and ZX-10RR

Compared to the standard version, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR 2021 is a limited edition of 500 units dedicated exclusively to track use.

The four-cylinder runs higher than 400 revolutions per minute thanks to dedicated components (pins, light precision connecting rods, and low-friction pistons) made by the Austrian company Pankl specialized in the production of unique parts for racing engines.

The chassis is completed with Marchesini rims made for the RR and Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires.

The power and torque values, on the other hand, do not vary much: 204 hp and 114 Nm (i.e., one hp and more Nm), but the revs change which is 14,000 and 11,700 rpm, instead of 13,200 and 11,400 rpm.

Performance first of all: shorten the first three gears

The engine remains the 998 cc four-cylinder modified to obtain Euro 5 homologation with distribution with actuation of the valves equipped with finger rockers.

The update did not change the power and torque values of 203 hp and 114 Nm.

So what's new about the Ninja's engine? The first three gears have been shortened to make the most of the power.

Instead of liquid-cooled, a new air-cooled oil cooler has been introduced, developed by KRT, demonstrating the influence of the world's superbike experience on production models.

Better oil cooling also improves engine performance at all revs.

The engine design allows for improved performance at high revs, such as new intake manifolds in the airbox and new intake valves.

Kawasaki engineers have focused solely on improving pure performance, achievable through weight reduction achieved with new smaller, lighter pistons with a DLC coating to protect against wear.

The new exhaust system has been developed to combine performance and emissions, while the Ninja ZX-10R's gear ratios have been idealized for circuit driving.

A larger rear sprocket and shorter ratios for the first three gears provide low solid and mid-range acceleration for faster corner exits and increased acceleration.

New chassis and aerodynamics for stability and traction

Frame updates include a 1mm lower swingarm anchor point (adjustable on the RR), a 2mm larger front fork offset, and an 8mm increase in effective swingarm length, which contribute to increased stability and increased traction of the bike.

The suspension balance has also changed; there has been an adjustment towards a softer calibration at the front and a stiffening of the rear mono.

The Brembo braking system slows the Ninja ZX-10R with M50 monobloc calipers, 330 mm semi-floating front discs, and radial master cylinder (with racing steel braided pipes on RR).

For 2021, Kawasaki has created a new aerodynamic package, combined with ergonomic updates introduced by the recent "under the skin" engineering technology.

For the safety of all, the "see and be seen" concept has been developed, which uses full LED lighting with the optical groups embedded in the front fairing, inspired by the hyper H2.

In terms of aerodynamics, the designers have given the utmost importance to downforce: the Ninja ZX-10R features fins, incorporated into the fairing structure, channel the airflow, and create downforce that is approximately 17% higher than that of the previous Ninja.

The rear section design has also been changed to create a low-pressure area behind the rider.

These aerodynamic interventions are combined with a 40 mm higher fairing and new ergonomics, consisting of a position of the semi-handlebars that replicates that of Jonathan Rea's racing bike, more open, and footpegs higher than 5 mm.

Technology for the track and the road

The Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR have a new racing TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity to connect your smartphone.

It is possible to adjust the four riding modes in the new instrument panel, selectable via buttons on the half-handlebar.

Cruise control and heated grips have been introduced (present in the Kawasaki original accessories list).

Availability, colors, and prices

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is available in Lime Green / Ebony / Pearl Blizzard White color, which recalls the livery of the race bike, for 19,890 euros FC.

Its stronger sister, the Ninja ZX-10RR, is available in Lime livery Green, highlighting the black frame for 29,000 euros FC.