2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Engine Management Technology

• ASSIST & SLIPPER CLUTCH: Based on feedback from racing activities, the Assist & Slipper Clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam) to either drive the clutch hub and operating plate together or apart. Under normal operation, the assist cam functions as a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever feel when operating the clutch. When excessive engine braking occurs – as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) – the slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and helps prevent the rear tire from hopping and skidding. This race-style function is particularly useful when sport or track riding.
• DUAL THROTTLE VALVES: Late-model sport bikes often use large-bore throttle bodies to generate high levels of power. However, with large diameter throttles, when a rider suddenly opens the throttle, the unrestricted torque response can be strong. Dual throttle valve technology was designed to tame engine response while contributing to performance. On models with dual throttle valves, there are two throttle valves per cylinder: in addition to the main valves, which are physically linked to the throttle grip and controlled by the rider, a second set of valves, opened and closed by the ECU, precisely regulates intake airflow to ensure a natural, linear response. With the air passing through the throttle bodies becoming smoother, combustion efficiency is improved and power is increased.
• ECONOMICAL RIDING INDICATOR: Using high-precision electronic control for engine management, Kawasaki models can achieve a high level of fuel efficiency. However, fuel consumption is greatly affected by throttle use, gear selection, and other elements under the rider's control. The Economical Riding Indicator is a function that indicates when current riding conditions are consuming a low amount of fuel. The system continuously monitors fuel consumption, regardless of vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle position and other riding conditions. When fuel consumption is low for a given speed (i.e. fuel efficiency is high), an "ECO" mark appears on the instrument panel's LCD screen. By riding so that the "ECO" mark remains on, fuel consumption can be reduced. While effective vehicle speed and engine speed may vary by model, paying attention to conditions that cause the "ECO" mark to appear can help riders improve their fuel efficiency – a handy way to increase cruising range. Further, keeping fuel consumption low also helps minimize negative impact on the environment.
• KQS (KAWASAKI QUICK SHIFTER): Designed to help riders maximize their acceleration on the track by enabling clutchless upshifts with the throttle fully open, KQS detects that the shift lever has been actuated and sends a signal to the ECU to cut ignition so that the next gear can be engaged without having to use the clutch. On models that offer clutchless downshifts, during deceleration the system automatically controls engine speed so that the next lower gear can be selected without operating the clutch.
• KTRC (KAWASAKI TRACTION CONTROL): KTRC, Kawasaki's advanced traction control system provides both enhanced sport riding performance and the peace of mind to negotiate slippery surfaces with confidence. Multiple rider-selectable modes (the number of modes varies by model) offer progressively greater levels of intrusion to suit the riding situation and rider preference. Less intrusive modes maintain optimum traction during cornering. Designed with sport riding in mind, they facilitate acceleration out of corners by maximizing forward drive from the rear wheel. And because Kawasaki’s sophisticated software bases its dynamic analysis on the chassis’ orientation relative to the track surface (rather than relative to a horizontal plane), it is able to take into account corner camber, gradient, etc., and adapt accordingly. In the more intrusive modes (and for some models, in any mode), when excessive wheel spin is detected, engine output is reduced to allow grip to be regained, effectively enabling riders to negotiate both short, slippery patches (train tracks or manhole covers) and extended stretches of bad roads (wet pavement, cobblestone, gravel) with confidence. Models equipped with IMU incorporate chassis-orientation feedback to offer even more precise management.
• POWER MODES: Models equipped with multiple Power Modes offer riders an easily selectable choice of engine power delivery to suit riding conditions or preference. In addition to Full Power mode, one (Low) or two (Middle, Low) alternate mode(s) in which maximum power is limited and throttle response is milder are provided.

Handling

• PRECISION PERFECTED: The Ninja® ZX™-6R supersport bike gets ahead of sharp turns with optimized engine performance across the entire rpm range, class-leading components, and advanced rider support technology.
• GRIP & CONQUER: Experience greater confidence, lighter handling and, ultimately, more thrills when you take command of sharp turns with superior grip in a variety of conditions.
• CONFORM TO THE ROAD: Fully adjustable Uni-Trak® rear suspension with progressive damping helps maintain rear wheel traction while putting power to the ground. This leads to confident braking and predictable handling both on and off the track.

Other Features

• Class-leading SHOWA suspension, SHOWA SFF-BP fork, multi-function LCD screen, pressed-aluminum perimeter frame.

Power

• A POWERFUL NUMBER: A 636cc digitally fuel injected inline-four cylinder engine works with a short final gear ratio to further emphasize torque and low-end power, translating into more exhilaration on the street and windy roads, and the ability to accelerate quickly and pull hard up inclines.
• KEEP THE MOMEMNTUM: Reduces back-torque when excessive engine braking occurs to help maintain a high speed through turns in order to enter an uphill climb with optimal momentum.
• KAWASAKI QUICK SHIFTER: This highly reliable contactless-type quick shifter enables ultra-quick upshifts at full power for seamless, maximum acceleration on or off the track. When the shift lever has been activated, the system sends a signal to the ECU to momentarily cut ignition so that the next gear can be engaged for clutchless shifting.

Styling

• BEAUTIFULLY AGGRESSIVE: The Ninja® ZX™-6R supersport bike gets fresh aggressive styling inspired by the larger displacement Ninja® ZX-10R motorcycle with sharp and edgy lines that stay true to the iconic Ninja® image.
• DISRUPTIVE DESIGN: The front cowling and windscreen design represents the next step in the evolution of Ninja® motorcycles, creating more distance from the competition.
• LIGHT UP THE RIDE: Each LED headlamp features a position lamp alongside low and high beams that produce increased brightness.
• CLEAN DESIGN: Features a finishing treatment and a freshly designed end-cap, adding to the sporty look of the Ninja® ZX™-6R supersport bike.