In an unusually bombastic and public fanfare, Kawasaki released their new 2013 models in Times Square, NY today. Although most of the news had already been leaked or released in other markets, we now know officially what 2013 brings for Kawasaki USA. The 636 engine returns to the ZX-6R. It isn't just a new engine however, as pretty much the whole bike gets major updates. Similarly, the smallest Ninja gets a serious workover, highlighted by a bump up to 300cc, also via stroking. On the opposite end of the scale, the biggest Ninja gets the smallest update: the ZX-14R now has ABS available.



2013 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R / 636




Kawasaki says:

The new 2013 Ninja® ZX™-6R marks the return of a middleweight sportbike legend, three numbers that strike fear into the heart of the competition: six...three...six. It is a tradition born of street cred and racetrack domination, a performance boost offered at the same price as the competition’s regular six hundreds, and it’s a machine that screams Performance Counts! The new ZX-6R honors a dominating family tradition – started ten years ago with the first 636, a revolutionary machine that blew-away the competition’s 600’s on the street and won races against factory 750’s on the track.

That category shattering DNA begins with a new 16-valve, long-stroke DOHC 636cc inline-four that’s everything a top-shelf middleweight powerplant should be: torque rich, happy to rev, supremely powerful and smooth enough for everyday use. Its impressive broad-spectrum performance is ideal for everyone from stunters and street riders, to canyon carvers and racetrack junkies.

It all starts with that new 636cc long-stroke engine, that 37cc displacement increase makes a significant impact on real world riding. Increased performance throughout the rpm range is always welcome when racing or sport riding, but increased low- and mid-range torque also significantly enhances everyday usability. Thanks to this engine’s larger displacement, performance is boosted throughout the entire powerband. Low-mid range torque is significantly stronger and the engine’s total “area under the power curve” grows substantially when compared to the previous 600cc model.

New intake and exhaust port shapes were optimized to suit the extra displacement and help deliver increased performance and improved throttle response. The intake ports are wider near the throttle bodies and now split further upstream from the intake valves. The exhaust ports are wider near the valves and taper on their way to the new exhaust header. New lightweight chromoly steel intake and exhaust camshafts feature increased intake duration, plus increased intake and exhaust lift to compliment the new engine’s extra displacement. Revised piston crowns increase piston strength and accommodate the increased valve lift. A molybdenum coating on the piston skirts fights friction and helps with engine break-in. New straight piston pins are more rigid to help preserve high-rpm durability. New 1.5mm shorter connecting rods are also stronger to suit the increased kinetic energy of the longer-stroke, their stems are now 2mm thicker and the small ends feature a 1mm larger-radius to add even more strength.

A new larger airbox features 12.5% more internal volume and contributes to both increased power and a smoother power delivery. New longer single-bore intake funnels contribute to low-mid range torque and feature unique designs for the inner and outer cylinder pairs to help enhance the engine’s character. Ultra-fine atomizing injectors deliver a sub-60 micron fuel droplet size, for more effective air-fuel mixing and maximum combustion efficiency. Those new injectors are also capable of delivering a greater total volume of fuel to accommodate the demands of the larger engine. More precise digital fuel injection (DFI®) tuning also enhances throttle response and contributes to reduced emissions.

The result is that this new engine not only delivers class-leading drive out of corners, it also offers superior flexibility and precise throttle control that pays big dividends when making mid-corner power adjustments or stringing a set of curves together on a racetrack or twisting backroad.

All that power is delivered through a new high-tech F.C.C. clutch with assist and slipper functions. It allows quick, effortless downshifts when scrubbing-off speed for a corner and helps minimize rear wheel hop caused by excess back-torque. The new F.C.C. design uses two types of cams, an assist cam and a slipper cam that were developed based on racetrack testing and rider feedback. The “assist” cam acts like a servo mechanism to pull the clutch hub and operating plate together and compress the clutch plates under load. This allows the total clutch spring count and tension to be reduced, resulting in a 20% overall reduction in effort at the clutch lever. The assist cam also increases the clutch’s maximum torque capacity, to help it cope with the extra power from the new 636cc engine, without gaining any weight. Whenever back-torque is present, the clutch’s “slipper” cam reduces clamping force on the hub and operating plate to help prevent rear wheel hop on trailing-throttle and when down-shifting. A new spring plate assembly offers smoother engagement and helps minimize vibration and clutch judder, and a new aluminum clutch hub is 600-grams lighter than the previous steel unit.

In keeping with its racing DNA, the ZX-6R also employs a cassette-type transmission to simplify gearing changes at the track, help reduce the time needed for bike setup and allow more time for riding. A new shorter first gear, stronger alloys and revised gear thicknesses boost gearbox durability and help it cope with the extra torque produced by the new 636cc engine.

The Ninja ZX-6R features the newest sportbike and racetrack technology offered by Kawasaki. Its three-mode KTRC traction control system is similar to the KTRC unit found on the flagship Ninja ZX-14R, and features even more advanced programming than the S-KTRC system used on the ZX-10R superbike! And its new selectable power modes offer increased tuning options and more flexibility compared to its middleweight competition.

“Full” or “Low” engine power modes can be selected by a switch on the left clip-on. The new power modes allow riders to adjust the engine’s power delivery to help suit road conditions or their personal preference. Full mode offers the full range of the engine’s performance potential. Low mode offers the same low-rpm power output, but begins to limit power as the rpm rises into the midrange and will only offer up to 80% of the engine’s maximum power. Low mode also delivers a softer throttle response which is handy when conditions are slippery or the rider wants to relax.

The KTRC traction control system on the new Ninja ZX-6R combines the best elements of the S-KTRC and KTRC traction control systems on Kawasaki’s two flagship sportbikes. Three different KTRC modes are selectable via a switch on the left clip-on. Mode 1 offers maximum racetrack performance, mode 2 offers sporty street performance, and mode 3 is tuned to help eliminate wheelspin and reduce rider anxiety on slippery surfaces. Riders may also elect to turn the system completely off.

KTRC Modes 1 and 2 both prioritize maximum forward acceleration –like the S-KTRC system on a ZX-10R superbike– by using complex analysis to predict when available traction is about to be compromised, and then intervening before slippage exceeds the optimum acceleration range. This minimizes how much power must be reduced to improve or restore rear wheel traction and helps to provide maximum forward drive. Operating parameters are monitored and confirmed 200 times per second, and the system only uses ignition timing to regulate the engine’s power output, allowing extremely quick response. KTRC Mode 3 features similar tuning to a Concours™14 ABS sport tourer’s traction control system. During normal operation, it uses the same logic and control method as Modes 1-and-2, but immediately switches to three-way intervention –using ignition timing, fuel delivery, and the intake tract’s sub-throttles– if excessive rear wheel spin is detected. This allows Mode 3 to reduce engine output all the way down to a level that will allow the rear wheel to regain grip, even on very slippery surfaces. The fine control provided by the sub-throttles also results in a very natural feeling and smooth on/off transitions to help maintain traction even during extended operation in unfavorable conditions. This highly effective system uses minimal hardware paired with very advanced software programming. The only additional hardware required by the KTRC system is a set of front and rear wheel-speed sensors, yet the overall effects of Modes 1, 2 and 3 are easy to distinguish from each other and effectively cover a wide range of riding conditions.

Combining the KTRC and Power Mode options, riders have a total of eight combinations from which to choose, and each system can be independently set to match rider skill/preference, riding location and surface conditions. An experienced rider on dry pavement might choose “Full Power” and “KTRC Mode 1” for a trackday or club race, but in wet and/or slippery conditions, that same rider might choose “Low Power” and “KTRC Mode 3”. The various modes are easily selectable from a convenient switch on the left clip-on.
An all-new Showa Big Piston –Separate Function Fork (BP-SFF) combines the innovative concepts of an BPF and an SFF, to produce this new next generation suspension unit. The fork features springs on both sides, with adjustable spring preload in the left tube and adjustable Big Piston compression and rebound damping in the right tube. .3mm thinner fork tube walls save 220-grams per set. Smooth initial stroke action is a one BPF strength that this new fork benefits from, excellent composure under braking is another. The large-diameter (Big) damping piston in the right fork leg is much larger than the dampers that are used in traditional “cartridge” forks with the same external dimensions. Since oil inside the fork leg acts against a much larger surface area, the damping pressure can be reduced without compromising the overall damping effectiveness. Reducing the damping pressure allows the inner fork tube to move more smoothly, which is especially noticeable during the initial part of the stroke. The result is greater composure as the fork begins to compress and a less severe change in chassis attitude as the bike’s weight shifts forward while braking. The new BP-SFF fork is tuned for use on twisty roads. This tuning still allows a high level of performance at the racetrack, with significantly better response in the city and on the highway. The BP-SFF offers much easier adjustability, with all spring preload setting and damper adjustments dedicated to separate fork legs: the spring preload adjuster is on the left fork; the compression and rebound damping adjusters are on the right fork. All adjusters are located on the upper fork caps and easily accessed from above.

The bottom-link Uni-Trak® rear suspension features a new 25mm longer shock spring with a lower rate, and a revised linkage with higher lever ratios for an improved ride in the city or on the highway. Rear shock adjustability includes spring preload, 25-position rebound damping and stepless compression damping.
New one-piece “monobloc” radial-mount Nissin brake calipers and new 310mm petal-type front rotors help provide superb braking power, with great feel at the lever. A new lighter rear brake caliper helps offer good fade-resistance and optimum rear brake performance and squeezes a 220mm petal-type rotor. The rear master cylinder reservoir mounts forward of the swingarm pivot, to maximize free space around the footpeg. The rear brake pedal is coaxially-mounted with the footpeg, for excellent mid-stroke braking efficiency and optimum feel.

The new 2013 Ninja ZX-6R ABS sportbike features the Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS). The use of “intelligent” is appropriate, considering just how smart KIBS is. It all starts with a compact and lightweight motorcycle ABS unit, one Bosch designed specifically with sportbikes in mind. KIBS is a multi-sensing system that collects and monitors a wide range of data from wheel speed sensors (the same ones collecting info for the KTRC traction control system) and the bike’s ECU. The monitored parameters include: wheel speed, brake caliper pressure, engine rpm, throttle position, clutch actuation and what gear is currently selected. The KIBS ABS ECU communicates with the engine’s ECU and crunches the numbers, and when it senses a potential lock-up situation, it tells the ABS unit to temporarily reduce brake line pressure, helping the wheel to regain traction. Aside from an ultra-fast response time, it also offers a number of additional sport-riding benefits, including rear-end lift suppression during hard braking, reduced lever kickback during ABS intervention, and enhanced rear brake control during downshifts. A high-precision pressure control unit enables the system to avoid reduced brake performance (unlike some less advanced systems) and maintain proper lever feel.

The 2013 Ninja ZX-6R features new bodywork with a sharp design that communicates a new, more-aggressive image. New larger fairing openings provide increased airflow and enhanced heat dissipation. The new fairing lowers, rear cowl, and assorted blacked-out body panels contribute to the bike’s compact and lightweight appearance. A sleek one-piece front fender offers excellent aerodynamics. New projector beam headlights are encased in a sharp looking new housing that features integrated position lamps. New semi-flush front turn signals are built into the new bodywork, and compact rear turn signals complement the minimalist design of the tail section. A new compact LED taillight is lightweight, very bright and offers a modern high-tech appearance. A “hugger” fender above the swingarm helps to reduce aerodynamic turbulence and helps keep the undertail area clean.

The ergonomic seat-peg-bar layout places the handlebars close to the rider and at an angle that promotes a highly intuitive and comfortable riding position. The fuel tank cover is flared around its top edge to provide a large contact patch and contribute to excellent chassis feedback. A narrow lightweight aluminum rear sub-frame and seat leading edge provide a slender and effective high-performance sportbike riding position, as well as a shorter reach to the pavement.

The instrument panel gives at-a-glance information to the rider, with an analog-style tachometer that is complemented by a multi-function LCD screen. New LCD functions include KTRC and Power Mode indicators, as well as ABS and Economical Riding (ECO) indicators. Additional LCD functions include a digital speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, clock, instant and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, as well as shift indicator, traction control activity level and low-fuel warning lights. A large gear position indicator gives instant numerical gear confirmation. A new mirror design offers increased rearward visibility without increasing the overall vehicle width.


Features:

Key Features
Genuine Supersport performance and styling with an added dose of street potency
New 636cc inline-four is supremely powerful on the racetrack and extremely flexible on the street
New selectable engine power modes
New three-mode KTRC traction control
New Showa Big Piston - Separate Function Fork (BP-SFF) offers light weight, easy adjustability and fantastic wheel control
New supersport KIBS ABS provides maximum stopping performance, with added peace of mind (ZX-6R ABS only)
New one-piece “monobloc” radial-mount Nissin front brake calipers and radial-pump front brake master cylinder offer superb braking power and control
New F.C.C. clutch with assist and slipper functions offers light clutch pull, strong clamping force and helps minimize wheel chatter caused by aggressive downshifting
New sharp and aggressive bodywork and styling details clearly shout: “Performance Counts!”
Lightweight aluminum chassis places the engine in the ideal location for excellent handling and rider feedback

NEW 636cc Engine
New 636cc displacement uses a longer-stroke to boost engine performance throughout the rev range. Low-mid range torque is especially enhanced, making roll-on and real world performance more usable
Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system features four 38mm Keihin throttle bodies with oval sub-throttles
Revised intake and exhaust ports suit the engine’s larger displacement. The intake ports are wider near the throttle bodies and the passages to the valves split earlier. The exhaust ports are wider near the exhaust valves
New intake cam lobes feature longer duration, intake and exhaust lobes have increased lift for additional power
Chrome-moly steel camshafts are light, strong and durable
New pistons feature a revised crown to enhance strength and accommodate the increased valve lift
Revised 12.9:1 compression ratio suits longer-stroke and increased displacement
Molybdenum coating on piston skirts reduces friction and facilitates engine break-in
New straight piston pins have increased rigidity to help maintain high-rpm performance and reliability
New connecting rods are shorter and stronger to suit the increased power. They also feature thicker stems and larger-radius small ends for additional strength
Modified passages connecting cylinders were revised so the longer stroke would not cause the pistons to obstruct them and increase pumping losses
New larger airbox contributes to increased peak power and smooth power delivery
New longer, single-bore intake funnels improve low-mid range torque. Two different funnel shapes (outer are the same, inner are the same ) help deliver optimized throttle response
Ultra-fine atomizing injectors help ensure complete air-fuel mixing and maximum combustion efficiency. More precise tuning contributes to reduced emissions. The injectors can also flow a greater volume of fuel, to help match the new larger-displacement engine
New exhaust features balance tubes on all four header pipes to maximize low-end torque
Exhaust pre-chamber makes efficient use of space, reduces exhaust noise and allows a smaller muffler to be used
New muffler features a triangular cross-section to provide sufficient internal volume while still offering good ground clearance and maximum lean angle, as well as a compact appearance
New lighter generator with revised coils produces less heat and reduces mechanical loss
New zero-cross control voltage regulator significantly reduces the amount of electronic noise produced when it interrupts the generator’s output
Cassette-type transmission helps simplify ratio-swaps and reduce set-up time at the track
New shorter first gear, stronger alloys and revised gear thicknesses improve durability and help cope with the extra torque produced by the 636cc engine
Lightweight x-ring drive chain uses lightening holes on the inner link plates to reduce weight.

NEW Selectable Power Modes
New power mode selector on the left clip-on gives ZX-6R riders the option to choose between two different engine power delivery modes to suit their needs
Output at low- rpm is the same in both modes, but “Low” mode limits engine output to approximately 80% and gives a milder throttle response. “Hi” mode allows the full performance potential of the engine to be unleashed

NEW Three-Mode Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC)
New three-mode KTRC traction control combines the best elements of the Ninja ZX-10R S-KTRC and ZX-14R/Concours™14 KTRC systems.
Three different modes are tuned to cover a wide-range of situations from advanced racetrack use, to normal street riding, to mixed/slippery conditions, for enhanced rider confidence
Mode 1 is tuned to maximize acceleration, like the ZX-10R S-KTRC system
Mode 2 is tuned to help provide a balance of performance with minimal wheel slip
Mode 3 prioritizes slip elimination, similar to the Concours14 ABS sport touring KTRC system, for enhanced rider confidence in mixed or slippery conditions
The KTRC system may also be turned-off completely, at the rider’s discretion
Handy mode selector on the left clip-on makes it easy for the rider to change KTRC settings
Using complex programming algorithms, the KTRC system is able to predict impending wheelspin and act before slippage exceeds the optimum range, allowing reductions in power to be minimized for ultra-smooth operation
In modes 1 and 2, conditions are analyzed 200 times per second and any necessary adjustments are made through ignition timing alone, for extremely quick response from the engine and KTRC system
In Mode 3, the system functions like mode 2 under most conditions, but when excessive rear wheel spin is detected, Mode 3 switches to complete three-way control of ignition timing, fuel delivery and intake airflow to regulate engine output to a level that allows the rear wheel to regain grip. By controlling the sub-throttles in the intake tract for precise torque management, a smooth and natural feeling can be attained: Mode 3 intervention and on/off transitions are very smooth to help maintain stability during extended operation
The system uses minimal hardware supplemented by advanced software. In addition to the engine’s ECU, the system only requires front and rear wheel speed sensors, meaning minimal additional weight is required for traction control on the standard model and no additional weight is required on ABS models which already have wheel speed sensors

NEW F.C.C. Clutch with Assist and Slipper Functions
New F.C.C. clutch with assist & slipper functions uses two types of cams, an assist cam and a slipper cam that were developed based on racetrack testing and rider feedback
The F.C.C. clutch’s “assist” cam acts like a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates under load. This allows the total clutch spring count and pressure to be reduced, resulting in a 20% reduction in effort at the clutch lever
The assist cam also increases the torque capacity of the clutch so it can cope with the extra torque produced by the new 636cc engine, without gaining any weight
The F.C.C. clutch’s “slipper” cam reduces the clamping force on the clutch hub and operating plate when back-torque conditions are present and helps prevent rear wheel hop on trailing-throttle and when down-shifting
New spring plate assembly provides smoother engagement and helps minimize clutch judder
New aluminum clutch hub is 600-grams lighter than the previous steel unit

NEW Radial-mount Monobloc Brakes
New highly rigid, radial-mount “monobloc” Nissin brake calipers offer superb control and a firmer feel at the front brake lever. They are a total of 90-grams lighter and offer increased heat dissipation compared to the previous model
New larger-diameter semi-floating 310mm stainless-steel petal-type front rotors contribute to stronger braking performance
Radial-pump master cylinder gives excellent lever feel and helps offer superb brake modulation
Front brake hose routing features a three-way joint at the lower triple clamp that facilitates effective brake line bleeding to help maintain a firm feel at the front brake lever
New lighter rear brake caliper helps offer good anti-fade rear brake performance and squeezes a 220mm petal-type rotor
Rear brake pedal is mounted coaxially with the footpeg for good braking efficiency mid-stroke and excellent response to lever inputs
Rear brake master cylinder reservoir is mounted forward of the swingarm pivot, to maximize space around the footpeg

NEW Supersport-grade KIBS ABS (ZX-6R ABS only)
KIBS is a multi-sensing system, using input from numerous sources. In addition to front and rear wheel speed sensors (standard for any ABS system), KIBS also monitors front caliper hydraulic pressure and data from the engine’s ECU (throttle position, engine speed, clutch actuation and gear position)
Compact, lightweight BOSCH ABS unit was designed specifically for sportbike use and made its first mass-production appearance on the 2011 Ninja ZX-10R
Highly-precise brake pressure control enables the system to avoid a reduction in brake performance due to excessive pressure drops, and allows good brake lever feel to be maintained during KIBS intervention by providing smaller and lighter ABS pulses than comparable systems
Supersport models frequently encounter higher braking forces than less sporting models, so there is a greater likelihood of rear tire lift under extreme deceleration. By monitoring hydraulic pressure at the front calipers, KIBS is able to regulate pressure increases and help reduce the tendency of the rear tire to lift.
By accounting for back-torque, KIBS is able to offer increased rear brake control during downshifts. KIBS parameters include throttle position, clutch actuation and gear position, allowing the system to predict back-torque caused by trailing-throttle at high-rpm, or down-shifting. Rear wheel slip due to engine braking often triggers ABS action on standard systems, but by preventing unnecessary ABS intervention in these situations, KIBS helps enhance rear brake control
Thanks to the compact size and light weight of the ABS unit, the system adds only 4.4 pounds compared to non-ABS models

NEW Big Piston – Separate Function Fork: (BP-SFF)
New BP-SFF fork combines the features of Showa’s big piston and separate function forks, featuring springs on both sides, with dedicated preload adjustability in the left tube and dedicated damping pistons and adjustability in the right tube
New .3mm thinner fork tube walls provide a 220-gram weight reduction
Big Piston design provides smooth action during the initial part of the stroke and contributes to excellent feel during heavy braking. The large-diameter damper piston is much bigger than those used in traditional “cartridge” forks
Big Piston design allows the fork oil to act on a much larger surface area, so the damping pressure can be reduced without compromising effectiveness. Reducing the damping pressure allows the slider to react more smoothly, which is especially noticeable during the initial part of the stroke. The result is greater control as the fork begins to compress and very calm response during braking-induced weight-transfer, for greater chassis stability on corner entry
Fork settings were tuned for maximum effectiveness on twisty roads, allowing a high level of performance for the racetrack, with a much better ride in the city and on the highway
BP-SFF design offers much easier adjustability, by locating all adjusters in the caps at the top of the two fork tubes: preload on the left; compression and rebound damping on the right.

Rear suspension
Bottom-link Uni-Trak® rear suspension offers 5.3 inches of travel and features a gas-charged shock with top-out spring and a pillow ball upper shock mount
New rear spring is 25mm longer and features a softer rate than the previous model to enhance ride comfort and compliance when the road isn’t racetrack-smooth
New rear suspension linkage has a higher leverage ratio for improved rear ride comfort
Full adjustability includes: stepless compression damping, 25-way adjustable rebound damping, and fully adjustable spring preload

Lightweight Chassis
Revised lightweight twin-spar aluminum frame places the engine in the optimum position for superb handling and rider feedback
New steeper 23.5 rake angle helps provide quick steering response and enhances communication from the front tire
Intake resonator box and supports for the instrument panel and mirrors are unitized with the ram air duct, contributing to weight savings and increased rigidity
Forward-tilted engine layout gives a steep intake angle and excellent CG
The sub-frame is a lightweight two-piece aluminum die-casting and is very narrow for a compact and slim rear profile

NEW Bodywork
Front fairing features a sharp design that communicates a new, more-aggressive image
New larger fairing openings provide increased airflow and enhanced heat dissipation
New lower fairing, rear cowl, and assorted blacked-out panels contribute to the bike’s compact and lightweight appearance
One-piece front fender offers excellent aerodynamics
New projector beam headlights feature sharp looking housings with integrated position lamps
New front turn signals are built into the new bodywork and compact rear turn signals complement the minimalist tail section
New compact LED taillight is lightweight, very bright and offers modern high-tech appearance
Inner fender above the swingarm helps to reduce turbulence and helps keep the undertail clean

Cockpit
Instrument panel gives at-a-glance information to the rider. An analog-style tachometer is complemented by a multi-function LCD screen
New LCD functions include KTRC, Power Mode, ABS and Economical Riding (ECO) indicators
Additional LCD functions include a digital speedometer, odometer, dual trip meter, clock, instant and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, and shift indicator, traction control activity and low-fuel warning lamps
Large gear position indicator gives instant numerical gear confirmation
New mirror design offers increased rearward visibility without increasing overall vehicle width
Ergonomic seat-peg-bar layout places the handlebars close to the rider and at an angle that promotes a highly intuitive and comfortable riding position
Fuel tank is flared around its top, similar to the ZX-10R, providing a large contact patch for excellent rider feedback
Slim-waisted fuel tank makes it easy for the rider to grip the tank with their knees, or to hang off in turns
Front of seat is narrow and low for a slim riding position and a short reach to the pavement

Genuine Kawasaki Accessories
An adjustable Öhlins twin-tube steering damper is available as an accessory, to help ensure stable damping performance and superb kickback absorption, even under race conditions.
A taller, “bubble” windscreen is available to provide enhanced aerodynamic protection
Frame sliders/engine guards are available to help protect the engine and chassis
Axle sliders help protect the fork legs
A stylish color-matched seat cowl is available and mounts in place of the rear seat to enhance the visual aggression of the new Ninja ZX-6R


Specs:

Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, inline-four
Displacement: 636cc
Bore x stroke: 67.0 x 45.1mm
Compression ratio: 12.9:1
Fuel injection: DFI® with four 38mm Keihin throttle bodies and oval sub-throttles
Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
Transmission: Six-speed
Final drive: 520 series X-ring chain
Rake / trail: 23.5 degrees / 4.0 in.
Frame type: Aluminum perimeter
Front tire: 120/70 ZR17
Rear tire: 180/55 ZR17
Wheelbase: 54.9 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel: 41mm inverted Showa BP-SFF fork with top-out springs, stepless compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload / 4.7 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Bottom-link Uni-Trak® with gas-charged shock, top-out spring and pillow ball upper mount, stepless compression damping, 25-way adjustable rebound damping, fully adjustable spring preload / 5.3 in.
Front brakes: Dual 310mm petal rotors with dual radial-mount, Nissin four-piston, monobloc calipers and available KIBS ABS
Rear brake: Single 220mm petal rotor with single-piston caliper and KIBS ABS
Overall length: 82.1 in.
Overall width: 27.8 in.
Overall height: 43.9 in.
Fuel capacity: 4.5 gal.
Seat height: 32.7 in.
Curb weight (standard/ABS): 423.4 lbs. / 427.8 lbs.
Color choices: Pearl Flat Stardust White / Flat Ebony , Metallic Spark Black / Flat Ebony , Lime Green / Metallic Spark Black
Warranty: 12 Months














2013 Kawasaki Ninja 300




Kawasaki says:

After years of unchallenged domination, the best-selling Ninja® 250R sportbike had finally begun to see competition from other manufacturers. Make no mistake, it still outperformed the challengers by a significant margin on the open road, but why simply outperform them, when you can totally dominate? The new 2013 Ninja 300 thoroughly dominates its lightweight sportbike competition on the performance front, and it also significantly ups the ante for refinement, ease of use and overall practicality. Thanks to a new digital fuel injection system, and a new F.C.C. clutch with assist and slipper functions, this new 300 is the best lightweight sportbike, by far, when it comes to overall performance and sporting capability.
The new Ninja 300 sportbike is powered by a larger 296cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin that’s tuned to deliver smooth and predictable power around town, plus excellent high-rpm performance on the highway. This upgraded engine offers significantly more performance than the old 250, while its new digital fuel injection (DFI®) system provides improved cold starting, crisp throttle response and better fuel economy than last year’s bike.

This new engine has nearly 50% of its parts upgraded from the previous model. In addition to its new long-stroke 296cc displacement, other engine upgrades include: new intake ports that taper from 1mm wider at the throttle body to .5mm wider at the valve seat, new 23.6mm intake valves that are 1mm larger than last year, a new cam chain that offers reduced friction, a revised 10.6:1 compression ratio that allows the use of regular gasoline and lowers operating temperatures, and new lighter pistons that feature a hard anodized coating for reduced friction and increased performance at all rpms. The underside of the pistons was also revised to more efficiently route cooling oil across their surface. Further highlighting changes for this model, it features new, lighter piston pins to further reduce reciprocating weight and help preserve a high redline, new shorter connecting rods to offset new longer crank throws, new sleeveless “open-deck” die-cast aluminum cylinders that are 800 grams lighter and feature a friction-reducing “T-treatment” plating. It also has new thicker crankshaft balancer webs to offset the new longer crank throws, new crank journal bearings made from a stronger alloy for increased durability, new crank cases that feature improved oil passages, a new large-volume 2.4 liter oil pan with cooling fins and more ground clearance than the previous model. Topping-off the changes, a new easy-to-access cartridge type spin-on oil filter helps simplify maintenance.

A revised six-speed transmission features thicker gears to help cope with the extra torque from the 300’s new engine. The transmission also features Kawasaki’s positive neutral finder to make finding neutral a cinch when stopped. This efficient engine and transmission help the Ninja 300 provide plenty of enjoyment from the initial learning curve, all the way through advanced sport riding, track days, and club racing.
Operating that transmission is now easier than ever, thanks to a new F.C.C. clutch with assist and slipper functions. This new clutch reduces lever effort by up to 25%, while increasing the clutch’s ability to handle the extra torque generated by the 300’s more powerful engine. The new clutch’s slipper design also helps reduce rear wheel-hop that can be caused by aggressive downshifting.

The Ninja 300’s extra “go” is complimented by the extra stopping power offered by its petal-type front and rear disc brakes which feature new longer-lasting brake pads offering a more progressive feel. Its 290mm front and 220mm rear brake rotors are gripped by powerful two-piston hydraulic calipers. Like all Kawasaki Ninjas, the new 300 is equipped with high-quality components and was tuned using feedback from professional riders at Atopolis raceway, to help ensure class-leading performance and an entertaining ride for even the most advanced riders.

The Ninja 250 was always known as one of the best handling sportbikes on the market. To uphold the family honor, the 2013 Ninja 300 features a new frame that uses new high-tensile steel main tubes that are 150% more rigid than the tubes in last year’s model. Revised tube shapes and additional gusseting also help provide better longitudinal stiffness for better feel during extreme sport riding. Though the main frame is more rigid for better handling, not all rigidity is positive; that’s why Kawasaki engineers designed new rubber front engine mounts that help make this model noticeably more smooth, despite the extra power produced by its new 296cc engine.

Front and rear suspension tuning has been adjusted to compliment the new, more-rigid frame. Softer spring rates provide a more comfortable ride on rough city streets, without compromising sport handling characteristics.

New bodywork inspired by the Ninja ZX™-10R superbike, provides cutting-edge styling, as well as effective heat management and superb aerodynamics. The Ninja 300 not only looks great, but also features a new floating windscreen design to help minimize buffeting and provide a smoother airflow around the rider’s helmet.

The Ninja 300’s all-new instrument panel features a large easy-to-read analog tachometer and a digital multifunction display with speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, and digital clock functions. The new instrument panel also features indicator lights, while the digital screen incorporates a handy economical riding indicator (ECO) that illuminates to alert riders when they are operating the Ninja 300 in a manner that will maximize fuel economy.

A natural riding position and comfortable ergonomics combine with lightweight handling and nimble response to deliver pure pleasure everywhere from city streets and highways, to twisty backroads and even racetracks. Contributing to this great handling package are the new full-size, 17-inch, 10-spoke wheels.
Lightweight and agile, the Ninja 300 delivers low ownership costs coupled with effortless class-leading performance!

An extensive range of Genuine Kawasaki Accessories are available through authorized Kawasaki dealers.
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, Side x Sides, and personal watercraft through a network of more than 1,200 independent retailers, with an additional 7,400 retailers specializing in Kawasaki power products and general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with 300 of them located at KMC's Irvine, California headquarters.


Features:

What’s New
296cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin design offers far superior highway passing power and clearly dominant acceleration compared to other lightweight sportbikes
New Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system uses dual 32mm throttle bodies and provides both improved fuel economy and cleaner emissions compared to last year’s 250
New F.C.C. clutch with assist and slipper functions provides more power handling capability with significantly less effort. Design also makes clutch easier to modulate and helps reduce the effect of back-torque to reduce wheel hop when downshifting
New supersport bodywork takes its cues from the Ninja® ZX™-10R superbike and raises lightweight sportbike styling to the next level
New frame uses high-tensile steel main tubes that are 150% more rigid and provide superior feel and agility compared to last year’s 250
New 10-spoke 17-inch wheels look great and the rear rim has grown ½” wider, allowing the use of a larger 140-section rear tire for 2013
Revised six-speed transmission features a new roller-type shift drum for smoother actuation and stronger gears for maximum durability. It also offers wide selection of ratios to match varied riding conditions and its positive neutral finder makes it much easier to find neutral when stopped
Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) uses a special deflector to channel hot air from the back of the radiator, so that it exits the bottom of the motorcycle, instead of being blown onto the rider
Low 30.9-inch seat height and tapered seat boosts confidence for smaller riders

New 296cc Engine
Compact parallel-twin design offers good mass centralization for nimble handling
Tuned to deliver smooth, step-free power with excellent mid-range and high-rpm power for effective highway performance
New intake ports taper from 1mm wider at the throttle body to .5mm wider at the valve seats
New 23.6mm intake valves are 1mm larger than last year
New cam chain design reduces friction for increased power and efficiency
Revised 10.6:1 compression ratio allows the use of regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline and helps reduce operating temperatures
New lighter pistons reduce reciprocating weight and feature a hard anodized coating for reduced friction and increased performance at every rpm
Revised piston bottoms efficiently route cooling oil across underside of piston
New lighter piston pins reduce reciprocating weight and help preserve a high redline
New shorter connecting rods offset new longer crank throws
New sleeveless “open-deck” die-cast aluminum cylinders are 800 grams lighter and feature a friction-reducing “T-treatment” plating
New thicker crankshaft balancer webs help offset the new longer crank throws
New crank journal bearings are made from a stronger alloy for increased durability
New crank cases feature improved oil passages
New large-volume 2.4 liter oil pan features cooling fins and better ground clearance
New easy-to-access cartridge type spin-on oil filter helps simplify maintenance

New Exhaust System
New curved 2-into-1 header design contributes to the Ninja 300’s low- and mid-range torque and smooth, step-free power curve
New complex geometry silencer design offers modern styling and meets all regulations without compromising engine performance
New large brushed-finish metal silencer guard boosts noise reduction and helps protect passenger from exhaust heat
Meets strict Euro 3 emission standards with a single catalyzer in the collector section

Liquid Cooling with KAMS
Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) uses a special deflector to redirect hot air from the radiator fan, so it exits the bottom of the motorcycle instead of being blown onto the rider
Lightweight Denso radiator offers effective engine cooling with minimal space and weight
Fan design uses a quiet-running motor that also saves space
Fins on the lower side of the crankcase provide additional engine cooling

Six-speed Transmission with New F.C.C. Assist Clutch
New F.C.C. clutch with assist and slipper functions is able to handle more power and requires significantly less lever effort to operate. Design also makes clutch easier to modulate and helps reduce the effect of back-torque to reduce wheel hop when downshifting
Revised six-speed transmission features a new roller-type shift drum for smoother actuation and stronger gears for maximum durability. It also offers wide selection of ratios to match varied riding conditions and its positive neutral finder makes it much easier to find neutral when stopped
Involute splines reduce friction and backlash between gears and shafts for easier gear meshing and smooth shifting under power

Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®)
Dual 32mm Keihin throttle bodies and a digital ECU offer easy starting, superior throttle response, and help provide low fuel consumption
DFI® makes the Ninja 300 cleaner and more fuel efficient than last year’s 250, even though it now makes significantly more power

Petal-type Disc Brakes/ABS option
New ABS brakes feature the world’s smallest production motorcycle ABS unit. Made by Nissin, the entire antilock system adds less than 4.5 lbs (ABS model only)
Large-diameter, 290mm front petal disc and a balanced action two-piston caliper offer excellent braking performance and a natural, direct feeling at the lever
Two-piston caliper grips the rear 220mm petal disc

New Chassis
New frame uses main pipes made from high-tensile steel tubing that is 150% more rigid than the tubes in the previous Ninja 250R’s frame. The added rigidity provides much better chassis response and improved steering precision and feel
Frame design and chassis tuning offer confidence-inspiring stability at both high and low speeds
Beefy swingarm bracket contributes to the frame’s rigidity and helps achieve an optimal balance of chassis stiffness
Square-beam swingarm compliments the new frame’s rigidity

Updated Suspension
Revised tuning on the 37mm telescopic front fork compliments the new more rigid frame and wider rear tire
Uni-Trak® rear suspension linkage helps provide predictable sportbike handling and good ride comfort
Rear shock features 5-way adjustable preload to help manage rear ride height whether riding solo or with a passenger

New Wheels & Tires
New 17-inch 10-spoke wheel design has a more modern appearance
New 4” wide rear rim is ½” wider than the old Ninja 250R’s back wheel
New rear tire is 10mm wider than the tire on last year’s Ninja 250R, for increased stability and improved sportbike handling
New IRC RX-01R tires were developed in conjunction with Kawasaki and are a perfect match for the improved dynamics of the 2013 Ninja 300. They also provide better wet weather performance than the Ninja 250R’s tires

New High-Tech Instrumentation
Large easy-to-read analog tachometer
Multifunction digital display features an easy-to-read speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, digital clock and warning lights
Economical riding indicator (ECO) illuminates to let the rider know when they are operating the Ninja 300 in a manner that will maximize fuel economy

New Aerodynamic Bodywork
All-New bodywork features styling inspired by the Ninja ZX-10R superbike
New floating windscreen design helps reduce turbulence and rider fatigue
Aggressive dual-lamp headlight design, minimalist tail section and separate seats further enhance the aggressive visual impact
Two helmet holders conveniently located under the rear seat
New two-stage under-seat storage compartment can hold a U-lock or similar device and is hinged for easy access to the tool kit located beneath the storage tray
Two hooks under the tail, plus two behind the rear passenger pegs provide anchor points for securing items to the rear of the bike

Ergonomics
New rider’s seat design is narrower near its front section, making it easier for riders to reach the ground
New passenger seat features a flatter design which makes it easier to secure cargo or soft luggage
Slightly forward-slanting seat and wide, slightly raised handlebars give the Ninja 300 a naturally comfortable riding position


Specs:

Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin
Displacement: 296cc
Bore x stroke: 62.0 x 49.0mm
Compression ratio: 10.6:1
Cooling: Liquid
Fuel injection: DFI® with dual 32mm throttle bodies
Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
Transmission: Six-speed
Final drive: Chain
Frame: Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Wheelbase: 55.3 in.
Rake / trail: 27 degrees / 3.7 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel: 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 4.7 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Uni-Trak® with 5-way adjustable preload / 5.2 in.
Front tire: 110/70-17
Rear tire: 140/70-17
Front brake: Single 290mm petal-type disc with two-piston hydraulic caliper, optional ABS
Rear brake: Single 220mm petal-type disc with two-piston hydraulic caliper, optional ABS
Overall length: 79.3 in.
Overall width: 28.1 in.
Overall height: 43.7 in.
Seat height: 30.9 in.
Curb weight: 379.3 lbs. / 383.7 lbs. ABS
Fuel capacity: 4.5 gal.
Color choices / special edition: Pearl Stardust White - Lime Green / Ebony SE
Warranty: 12 months, Optional Good Times™ Protection Plan























2013 Kawasaki ZX-14R ABS




Kawasaki says:

The massively more powerful, R-designated, Ninja® ZX™-14R made its debut last year as an almost entirely new motorcycle. It remains on-top for 2013, reigning as the undisputed king of the sportbike world. New ABS brakes complement its amazing comfort and usability on the street, and help increase its appeal to a wide range of riders. It has to be tough competing against a machine like the ZX-14R, year after year, and continuous refinements have kept it several steps ahead of the sportbike competition, all while filling enthusiasts’ face shields with wild, ear-to-ear grins.


New Features:

ABS Disc Brakes with Petal-type Rotors and Radial-Mount Calipers
ABS brakes offer excellent performance and enhanced confidence in adverse conditions
Compact, lightweight ABS unit is highly effective without weighing the bike down


Specs:

Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valve per cylinder, inline-four
Displacement: 1,441cc
Bore x stroke: 84.0 x 65.0mm
Compression ratio: 12.3:1
Fuel injection: DFI® with four 44mm Mikuni throttle bodies
Ignition: TCBI with Digital Advance
Transmission: Six-speed
Final drive: X-Ring chain
Rake / trail: 23 degrees / 3.7 in.
Front tire: 120/70 ZR17
Rear tire: 190/50 ZR17
Wheelbase: 58.3 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel: 43mm inverted cartridge fork with adjustable preload, 18-way compression and 15-way rebound damping adjustment / 4.6 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Bottom-link Uni-Trak® and gas-charged shock with adjustable preload, stepless rebound and compression damping adjustments, adjustable ride height / 4.9 in.
Front brakes: Dual semi-floating 310 mm petal discs with dual radial-mounted four-piston calipers and ABS
Rear brakes: Single 250mm petal disc with twin-piston caliper and ABS
Overall length: 85.4 in.
Overall width: 30.3 in.
Overall height: 46.1 in.
Ground clearance: 4.9 in.
Seat height: 31.5 in.
Curb weight: 584.3 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 5.8 gal.
Color Choices: Passion Red , Pearl Stardust White , Metallic Spark Black/Golden Blazed Green(SE)
Warranty: 12 Months