2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R - First Look Photo Gallery

The new ZX-10R ABS’s ergonomics have been fine tuned for optimum comfort and control, with a slightly lower saddle, adjustable footpegs positioned slightly lower and forward relative to last year, and clip-ons with a bit less downward angle - 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

Chassis geometry was juggled to offer the best possible stability and handling quickness. Rake, at 25 degrees, is a half-degree steeper than on the 2010 machine, while trail has been reduced from 110 to 107mm. This slightly more radical front end geometry, and the quicker, lighter handling it allows, was made possible largely from the new engine’s more controllable power, engine placement and the CG differences it generated, and the frame and swingarm’s newfound flex characteristics - 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

An all-new aluminum twin-spar frame was designed, an all-cast assemblage of just seven pieces that features optimized flex characteristics for ideal rider feedback, cornering performance and lighter weight than last year’s cage. Fewer pieces mean fewer welds, which contributes to a cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing look. Like the frame, the new alloy swingarm is an all-cast assembly, with idealized rigidity matching that of the frame itself - 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

The 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R features adjustable rear set foot pegs.

The final piece of the ZX-10R ABS’s power-production formula is a race-spec exhaust system featuring a titanium header assembly, hydroformed collectors, a large-volume pre-chamber containing two catalyzers and a highly compact silencer. Due to the header’s race-spec design, riders and racers looking for more closed-course performance need only replace the muffler assembly - 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

Line-beam headlights enable the fairing to be made shorter, while LED turn signals are integrated into the mirror assemblies. Convenient turn-signal couplers allow easy mirror removal for track-day use, while the rear fender assembly holding the rear signal stalks and license plate frame is also easily removable for track days - 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

There’s big suspension news in back, too. Replacing the vertical Uni-Trak® system of the 2010 ZX-10R is a Horizontal Back-link suspension design that positions the shock and linkage above the swingarm. Benefits include better mass centralization, improved road holding, compliance and stability, smoother action in the mid-stroke (even with firmer settings), better overall feedback and cooler running - 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

Kawasaki engineers wrapped all this new technology in bodywork as advanced and stylish as anything on this side of a MotoGP grid. Shapes are more curved than edged this year, and the contrasting colored and black parts create a sharp, aggressive image - 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

Instrumentation is totally new as well; the unit highlighted by an LED-backlit bar-graph tachometer set above a multi-featured LCD info screen with numerous sections and data panels. A wide range of information is presented, including odometer, dual trip meters, vehicle speed, fuel consumption, Power Mode and S-KTRC level indicators, low fuel, water temperature and much more. For track use, the LCD display can be set to “race” mode which moves the gear display to the center of the screen - 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

Here is a concept drawing of the 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. The real bike is not quite as radical as the drawing!