2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR First Look Preview

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR get a round of updates for 2021 aimed at improving both emissions and performance. The 10R will come in four flavors: base, KRT, ABS, or KRT ABS, pricing at $16,399, $16,699, $17,399, and $17,699 respectively. The 10RR will start at $28,999.

Engine, bodywork, ergonomic, and chassis revisions apply to all models, with a few choice upgrades reserved for the 10RR exclusively.

The 998cc inline-four engine gets revised intake ports, providing a more efficient pathway for air. A new DLC-coated finger-follower valve train design comes from Kawasaki’s World Superbike efforts and allows for better performance at higher rpm. Titanium intake and exhaust valves help maximize weight savings and improve heat resistance. The chrome-moly camshafts received nitriding and lapping treatments for optimal functionality with the new valves and springs. The accelerator position sensor of the electronic throttle actuation system was relocated, allowing engineers to eliminate the throttle cable entirely.

Transmission ratios are updated as well, with the first, second, and third gears shortened for better acceleration.

The mill benefits from a new air-oil cooler derived from Kawasaki’s WSBK team. It runs independently, rather than routing coolant from the radiator, to the oil cooler, to the engine. The end result is improved cooling efficiency throughout the rev range.

Changes to the exhaust system help ensure the bike meets the latest emissions standards and include relocated catalyzers, decreased pre-chamber volume, and longer silencers.

Chassis upgrades are notable as well. Engineers set out to improve cornering performance and lighten handling, so lowered the swingarm pivot position for better rear suspension performance on corner exit. The bike has a longer wheelbase thanks to a slightly longer swingarm. A new fork offset allowed Kawasaki to shorten the trail also. The triple clamp was lowered and the settings of the 43mm Showa BFF fork were revised with a lower spring rate, firmer compression damping, and softer rebound. The Showa BFRC shock also got updated settings in an effort to provide a more stable, agile ride, especially on track.

The rear brake setup features new brake pads that promise to improve braking power and feel, while the rear brake reservoir is repositioned to allow easier movement when changing position on the bike.

Additional ergonomic enhancements include a taller windshield set at a steeper angle, designed to provide better wind protection in the tucked position and while shifting position into and out of turns. The handlebar is further forward and straighter than before, and the rear portion of the seat is slightly raised, all helping riders get into a more optimal race position. The footpegs are slightly raised as well.

Body panels are changed for better aerodynamic performance, and winglet-inspired bodywork provides additional downforce while exiting corners under heavy acceleration. The ram-air intake design is changed for better efficiency.

Taillights, headlights, and turn signals are all LED and integrated seamlessly into the bodywork and cowl-mounted mirrors.

A new 4.3-inch TFT color display improves information delivery to the rider, and features multiple layout settings. The ZX-10R is also Bluetooth compatible and pairs with Rideology the App, where riders can change settings and view ride log details.

The full suite of Kawasaki electronics comes standard, including the Kawasaki Quick Shifter, cornering management function, launch control, traction control, intelligent ABS, engine-brake control, and power modes. The 2021 models get two additional traction control settings, expanding the range of options available to riders in different conditions.

Each ZX-10R will have the Kawasaki River Mark incorporated into the upper cowl and upper triple clamp as well, in honor of Kawasaki’s World Superbike Championship win. It’s the first time the emblem has been approved for use on a non-supercharged, mass-production motorcycle.

In addition to all of the aforementioned updates, the ZX-10RR utilizes new camshafts, high-performance intake and exhaust valve springs, Pankl titanium connecting rods, and lighter-weight pistons. Each piston will have one less piston ring, making shorter piston height possible while reducing mechanical loss due to friction. Intake funnels in the airbox were eliminated also.

The ZX-10RR will roll on Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires and feature forged Marchesini wheels.