Kawasaki has totally revamped its 2021 Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR superbikes. The motorcycles, built with input from Kawasaki Racing Team, won the past seven World Superbike Championship titles.
The largest revision of the ZX-10R arrives in the dramatic styling updates with a more aerodynamic shape that tucks the LED headlights under the cowl, keeping them out of the rider’s view. The goal of the revised bodywork and the taller windscreen is to reduce drag, increase downforce, and better protect the rider from the wind.
The upgrades for the 2021 bodywork include:
Integrated winglets to help downforce.
A more compact shape of the Ram intake, which directs air towards the induction system for efficiency.
Aerodynamic riding position.
LED headlights and taillight.
Cowling-mounted mirrors with integrated LED turn signals.
Slots in the new tail cowl design contribute to the bike’s stronger aerodynamic design.
The 2021 ZX-10R’s 998cc 16-valve four-cylinder engine was overhauled for stronger performance and cleaner emissions. New air-cooled oil cooler similar to what’s found on Jonathan Rea’s World Superbike machine. New electronic throttle valves and valve train design that enables tuning for a high rev limit and more aggressive cam profiles. New exhaust system that helps maintain power output and improves emissions. New transmission gear ratio that features shorter ratios for first, second, and third gears, reported to help strong low-mid acceleration for quicker corner exits and better off-the-line acceleration.
The 2021 Ninja ZX-10R’s largest update to its electronic suite is the use of pre-determined riding modes. The bike features sport, road, and rain modes and four manual modes that allow riders to tweak performance as needed. For 2021, the riding modes can now be changed on the fly through a button on the left handlebar.
For those looking for the ultimate track weapon or race bike.
The following upgrades highlight the ZX-10RR:
New more aggressive camshafts
New intake and exhaust valve springs
New lightweight titanium parts by Pankl High-Performance parts, including connecting rods
New lightweight pistons
Elimination of intake funnels for more optimized airflow
New Marchesini forged wheels
Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires
