2007 Kawasaki ZX-10R Comparo Photo Gallery

Photos of the 2007 Kawasaki ZX-10R Comparo. 2007 Superbike Smackdown IV

For 2007, the Kawasaki engineers were able to drop two pounds off the engine by using a one-piece casting on the upper crankcase and cylinder.

A four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, inline-four pumps out the power.

The titanium exhaust has a butterfly valve, located before the exhaust splits to the mufflers, that is controlled by rpm, throttle position and gear position to improve low-end response and help smooth overall power.

The twin-spar backbone-type frame combines cast and pressed pieces so frame weight is kept to a minimum while still providing high strength and stability with responsive handling.

The twin-spar backbone design has a width comparable to the 600cc class.

The Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu Canyon has more than its share of switchbacks and S-turns that provide an excellent testing area for the handling traits of the '07 ZX-10R.

The ZX-10R is competitively prices in the same range as the other superbikes, with an asking price of $11,249-$11,549

We got to ride the Passion Red version of the ZX-10R, but Kawasaki offers it in Lime Green, Candy Plasma Blue, and Ebony.

On the attack, Ninja-style.

Caution - riding the ZX-10R may cause heightened elation, mirth, and increased levels of adrenaline.

Key features for the '07 ZX-10R are an impressive power-to-weight ratio, its race-oriented performance, its track-tuned handling and in its aggressive, aerodynamic styling.

The rake and trail for the '07 ZX-10R remains the same from last year, with 24-degrees of rake and 4-inches of trail.

While on the backroads, riders can appreciate the ZX-10R's solid stability and predictable handling.

The '07 ZX-10R's ability to accelerate out of corners is assisted by its linear power delivery and its enhanced traction system.

Wanted - skilled riders ready to take control and enjoy the high-caliber performance of Kawasaki's latest superbike.

Bringing the action to a stop are dual floating 300mm petal discs with four-piston radial-mount calipers.

The ZX-10R's success in the upper speed ranges is due to the combination of its fairing, seat cowl, and dual under-seat exhaust system which are designed for smooth aerodynamics and a clean look.

The ZX-10R is the most compact of this year's contingent of contenders with a wheelbase of 54.5 inches.

The butterfly valve, located before the exhaust splits to the mufflers, is controlled by rpm, throttle position and gear position to improve low-end response and help smooth overall power.

The fuel tank holds 4.5-gallons.

Get your motor running, head out on the highway.

A back-torque limiting clutch automatically disengages the clutch under hard braking and deceleration to prevent rear wheel hop during corner entry.

It takes a skilled rider like Earnest to harness the in-your-face power of the Smackdown literbikes.

Michael Earnest brought his AFM road-racing experience to the table and pushes the ZX-10R to its limitations.

They may be known as team Mean Green, but the ZX-10R doesn't look bad in red either.

The short, compact frame allows the swingarm to be longer, making it easier for Duke to control the rear wheel powerslides.

Hutch puts the ZX-10R's track-tuned handling to the test.

Here's a picture we know Kawasaki likes - the ZX-10R as the leader of the pack.

Pop the clutch and hold on Hutch.

Narrow engine design allows excellent ground clearance for 52 degrees of lean angle.

Last year's winner on the dyno chart, the ZX-10R dropped to third on the chart in 2007 registering 154.7 hp at 8,500 rpm.

The central ram air duct produces a straighter path to the airbox for maximum intake efficiency and provides the mounting surface for the instrument panel, eliminating brackets and weight.