2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR unveiled

Kawasaki has updated the Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR for 2021 and the motorcycles feature cosmetic and mechanical changes.

• Features revised styling, chassis and updated Euro5/BS6 engine

• New 4.3-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity

• Gets cruise control as standard.

2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX10-RR: design

The Kawasaki Ninja H2's sharp design cues seem to have been the inspiration behind the new Ninja ZX-10R and the Ninja ZX-10RR. The twin LED headlamps are placed on either side of the central ram intake tunnel and lends the ZX an aggressive face. Kawasaki has cleverly integrated the winglets (first time in the 10R), inside the side fairings and claims it helps improve downforce by 17-percent.  The tail section looks sharp as ever and on the whole, the design exudes a fair amount of aggression. The colour options are pretty bold as well, especially the ZX-10RR’s bright green shade. 

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR: Ergonomics

Kawasaki has tweaked the ergonomics on the new ZX-10s to result in a more committed riding position. The footpegs  are set 5mm higher, clip-ons are 10mm further forward, while the triple clamp itself has been lowered.

2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R: Chassis

Kawasaki has also made revisions to the chassis. Firstly, the wheelbase has gone up by 10mm. This was done by incorporating a new swingarm that’s 8mm longer (with a 1mm lower pivot point) while the lowered triple clamp has led to greater front fork offset, contributing to the longer wheelbase. The fully-adjustable Showa Balance Free Fork and rear monoshock also feature tweaked internals and the result of these changes is improved handling.

2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR: Engine

The 998cc, inline-four engine has been updated to meet the Euro5/BS6 emission norms with the help of a revised exhaust system and catalytic converter. While the power figures are yet to be revealed, it should be the same (203hp/115Nm) as before.

The engine is paired to a six-speed gearbox with shorter first, second and third gears and larger (by 2 teeth) 41-tooth rear sprocket for quicker acceleration.

2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR: Electronics

As far as electronics are concerned, the Bosch six-axis IMU governs the traction control, riding modes (3 standard and 4 customisable), cornering ABS and more. The settings can be accessed via the new, Bluetooth connectivity enabled 4.3-inch TFT display. It also gets cruise control as standard as well as engine-braking control, launch control, a quickshifter and electronic Öhlins steering damper.

2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR features

For those who want a little more from their litre-class motorcycle, the ZX-10RR features upgraded engine internals, that includes titanium con-rods, lighter pistons, new camshafts, and new intake and exhaust springs. The airbox is also not as restricted as on the ‘R’. It also rides on lighter, forged Marchesini wheels while the brakes are top-shelf Brembo Stylema calipers with steel braided lines.

2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR: Price and availability

Expect the ZX-10R and RR to go on sale in India sometime next year and sport a significant price hike over the current model.