2006 Kawasaki ZX-10, ZX10

KAWASAKI’S 2006 NINJA® ZX™10R: Making good even better

Engineers and designers pull out the stops to keep the ZX10 at the top of its class.
Kawasaki to return to Superbike racing for 2006
Few would have thought Kawasaki engineers would tamper with the success enjoyed by its NINJA® ZX™10R sportbike over the past two years. Having been named by Cycle World as the Best Superbike of both 2004 and 2005, it would have been accepted by the most hardcore of motorcyclists if Kawasaki had simply rested on its laurels. But, in a move intended to show the brand’s serious and ongoing commitment to building the most potent motorcycles available, Kawasaki has kicked it up a notch with the introduction of the mostly new NINJA ZX-10R.

Designed for the rider who feels more at home in racing leathers, the new liter-class Kawasaki is being brought to market with a complete engine, chassis and aerodynamic makeover. It features all

new power characteristics, highlighted by a new fuel injection system featuring ultra-fine atomizing injectors to work with the 43mm throttle bodies and dual throttle valves. Providing a noticeable boost in mid-range power, the new ZX-10R’s power delivery is also more linear, and its off-corner acceleration capability will satisfy the most demanding of riders. Also contributing to the smoother power delivery is the addition of a heavier flywheel, and a high-speed generator moved to the end of the crankshaft. Shifting gears is simplified by improvements to the shift linkage, resulting in smoother shifting.

By repositioning the ZX-10R’s center of gravity, Kawasaki engineers have bettered an already superb handling motorcycle. The new frame also features revised stiffness balance, new motor mounts, more centralized mass, and a relocated swingarm pivot, coupled with a much requested racing-spec Öhlins steering damper. All told, a track-ready handler that is destined to surprise those who put it through its paces. Combining a short wheelbase with a long swingarm gives the ZX-10R nimble track maneuverability, yet retains stable handling performance.


Radial brakes, wave rotors.	Finally, a new speedo tach setup! Steering damper can't be missed on top of triple tree.	Consumers didn't like the look of last years swingarm, this one is new and better looking.

How to package all of this potency into a look that screams—aggressive race-readiness was a question Kawasaki’s design team approached seriously. Aerodynamic performance quickly became the key to their search for a style befitting this new ZX-10R. Possessing an abundance of power, good handling, and performance characteristics, the “look” of the motorcycle need only compliment its core consumer values. The designers focused on a no-frills approach to delivering an experience that significantly improves aerodynamics with a new fairing, seat cowl, and dual under-seat exhaust system.
Expected arrival Feb. 2006
MSRP (USA): $11,199


2006 ZX10		2006 ZX10
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