Review of the Kawasaki Ninja 600 (ZX 6R) sports motorcycle

The Kawasaki Ninja 600 is a racing motorcycle designed for the circuit.

The creators had this “zest” at the very beginning.

On the Kawasaki Ninja 600, the pilot can easily climb a couple of steps onto the podium. Therefore, we can say with confidence that the creators fully accomplished what they wanted.

This article will provide an overview of such a versatile motorcycle.

You will also be able to see with your own eyes the technical characteristics and cost of this bike.

Model overview

The engineers have worked hard to put together a motorcycle that combines power and agility perfectly.

Thanks to the 600cc engine, this bike reaches a maximum speed of 280 km/h, but its low weight makes it agile on the most difficult turns.

Now a few laps on this bike have become an exciting ride at incredible speed.

In addition to ideal weight and excellent speed, the Kawasaki Ninja 600 received its main parameters from the Ninja ZX-6RR, which had previously been released in limited quantities.

So, let's get started with a detailed review of this racing car.

1. Frame. Most likely, even on the drawings, the engineers had an idea to create a frame with maximum harmony between a rigid landing and flexible control.

   Thanks to this design, at the beginning of a turn, synchronization with the steering wheel is absolutely maximum.

   To create such a balance, it was necessary to calculate the location of the pendulum and the position of the motor.

   The Kawasaki Ninja 600 ZX 6R has a frame made of a single unit, thanks to which the motor moves simultaneously with the frame. This design allows you to move all the weight evenly, gaining greater speed.

2. Engine. The main aspect of the engine is the slipper clutch. When making a sharp jerk on a turn, the pilot will not need to fear falling.
3. Suspension. In a motorcycle, the suspension can be adjusted depending on the type of road on which the bike will be ridden.
4. The brakes are powerful.
5. The landing is sporty.

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Weight reduction

And so, in 1985, the Kawasaki Ninja 600 was born, the technical characteristics of which are still quite high. The initial stage of work went quite well, and the designers were already anticipating victory. But after the first copies performed well on the track, it became clear that the model was a little heavy in terms of mass in turns and steep turns. But for racing equipment this is a serious disadvantage.

The engineers did not stop the assembly line and, at the same time, were developing a program that would gradually reduce the weight of the car. At the same time, they tried to position the center of gravity of the car as low as possible. The results were noticeable immediately. It was possible to reduce the curb weight from 190 kg to 180 kg. The motorcycle received the maneuverability that it so lacked. But the improvements didn't end there.

In addition to reducing weight, engineers have improved handling. The model had steering responsiveness that was only available in light vehicles up to 125 cc./cm. Thus, the first generation Kawasaki Ninja 600 began to emerge from the industrial assembly stream, which could definitely guarantee victory in competitions. But this was not enough for the engineering corps, and they continued to further improve the technical characteristics of the motorcycle.

Exterior design of the sportbike

The Kawasaki Ninja 600 has an impressive appearance with a sporty style.
The first thing that catches your eye in the foreground is the high-brightness dual headlights .

The style is also complemented by the Ram Air air intake system, which is placed in the center of the bike.

Turn signals are built into the front fairing.

The wing at the front has acquired an aerodynamic shape.

At the rear, the turn signals are quite small and cone-shaped. The rear light is equipped with bright LEDs.

It precisely projects the shape of the rear fairing and is located high above the road level, which ensures maximum visibility of the motorbike on the road.

The instrument panel is made in a racing style and consists of:

• Gear adjustment indicator.
• Digital speedometer.
• Diagram tachometer.
• Digital thermometer.
• Stopwatch.
• Watch.
• Indicator lamps.
• Odometer.

In addition, it can be noted that the exhaust system is made of stainless steel . The sporty style is reflected in the passenger footrests.

The mounting panel was made in the form of a triangle with special cutouts. The bike frame has a black finish.

Control and maneuverability

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R motorcycle has a bold and aggressive appearance.

Its weight is reduced, the exhaust pipe is short, and the chassis design has undergone major changes.

As for the power unit, it has also undergone significant modernization.

Its maximum balance allows for much better power transmission at different operating speed ranges.

Therefore, we can say that the Ninja 600 was created specifically for track competitions . The latest equipment has been installed here.

The engine contains magnesium parts, and this has a positive effect on the weight of the two-wheeled unit.

The unique design, which was worked on by the best engineers in the world, allows the biker to easily negotiate turns while moving at high speed .

The rider's reaction is quickly taken into account by the motorcycle. This is facilitated by the ideal balance of the suspension and frame rigidity.

It uses the latest fork with tuning elements, as well as a proprietary steering damper.

But that is not all. Strong radial brake calipers and a sliding clutch design make handling even easier.

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The popularity of this bike has not diminished over the years, so as an inexpensive but serious motorcycle, you can choose it.

Owners' opinions

We all know that no matter how beautiful the device looks, before purchasing it, you need to read the reviews of motorcyclists who managed to purchase the model they liked. Owners characterize Ninja bikes as a very fast option, capable of accelerating up to 180 km/h, so they recommend spending money on buying a helmet. Some car enthusiasts note the rather expensive spare parts for Kawasaki and focus on safety, because driving over 150 km/h can only be accomplished by experienced bikers. Others do not notice the shortcomings at all, praising the motorcycle’s fast acceleration and low fuel consumption.

When purchasing one of the Kawasaki bikes, you must remember that you are getting a high-quality motorcycle from a reliable Japanese manufacturer that will be able to meet all your expectations, delivering only positive emotions from owning the machine.

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Technical characteristics of Kawasaki Ninja 600

In 1995, the 600 cm3 sportbike Kawasaki ZX-6R was released , which ideally replaced the ZZ-R600 model.
The ZX-6R motorcycle was equipped with a powerful engine, high-quality handling and excellent practicality.

The ZX-6R didn't have much technical innovation other than the cross-ply aluminum frame that was new to the 600cc sports bike in 1995.

It is also worth noting that the liquid-cooled engine with a four-cylinder in-line 16-valve system has become one of the most powerful bikes in its range.

In 2001, the ZX-6R was modernized. Significant modifications were made to the “stuffing” of the motorcycle , thanks to which the motorbike became more advanced in handling. The carburetor engine, in addition to unsurpassed power, has impeccable traction for medium and low crankshaft speeds.

In the same 2001, Australian Andrew Pitt won the world champion title on a Kawasaki ZX-6R sports bike in the Supersport competition class, which confirmed the maximum potential of this motorcycle.

Motorcycle modifications

• ZX600F (1995-1997). The very first model in the line. Equipped with a Ram-Air inertial pressurization system.
• ZX600G (1998-1999). Restyling with new carburetors and improved front brakes.
• ZX600J (2000-2002). Modified and slightly strengthened engine, improved electrics and different wheels.
• ZX636A (2002). Modification with increased to 636 cc. see engine size.
• ZX-6RR (2003-2004). A different appearance and many technical changes.
• ZX636B (2003-2004). In many ways similar to the above modification, but differs in a different design.
• ZX-6N, aka ZX-6R 636 (2005-2006). Another restyling, increased maximum engine speed, power 130 hp. Engine capacity is 636 cubic meters instead of 599.
• ZX-600P (2007-2008). Return to the 599 cc engine, deeply reworked.
• ZX-600R (2009-2012). Updated design, new fork and slipper clutch. In 2013, production of a version with a 636 cc engine began in parallel.
• ZX-6R 2019+. It is a restyling of the 2013 model, differing mainly in appearance. Still in production today.

Powerful and faster

Among the currently popular motorcycles from the Japanese company Kawasaki in the development of the ZX-6R, the frontal drag coefficient is characterized by the lowest value.

If the vehicle reaches a speed of 250 km/h, the low drag adds an additional 10 horsepower to the engine.

The suspensions are equipped with a full set of adjustments and are perfectly designed for the track and any roads .

Regardless of the quality of the road surface or the congestion of the route, the fairing will provide effective protection from the wind .

The motor mounts and pendulum stiffness have been retuned.

The result of this technical solution was an increase in the ease of cornering.

History of changes

The motorcycle went through a number of changes during its development:

• 1995 – the model was released;
• 1998 – small update;
• 2000 – the compression ratio increases;
• 2002 – engine capacity increases;
• 2006 – suspension update;
• 2010 – large-scale changes.

This bike is one of the most “long-lasting” among motorcycles from the legendary concern. At least for this reason it deserves attention. In the end, the manufacturer worked for a long time to remove errors and shortcomings, and in the end he succeeded.

Brake system

The brake discs are large here.
Their width is 6 mm and diameter is 300 mm. They are made of stainless steel. Thus, the brake force will be very strong each time you apply them.

It often happens that even experienced riders find it difficult to discern which gear is currently in use while riding.

To prevent such situations, the digital display here is installed in a large size .

It is able to instantly display all the most important information for the rider - speed and gear number.

The ZX-6R model has cylindrical airbox guides. They help ensure accurate spraying from the fuel injectors.

As a result, better fuel atomization improves combustion efficiency. Accordingly, the engine output will be greater.

Competitors

Japanese engineers set themselves the goal of creating a bike that could have truly sprinting capabilities. At that time there was huge competition among manufacturers of racing and sports motorcycles.

And although the Japanese brand Kawasaki is the most dominant manufacturer, in many ways the Italians or the Germans from BMW were breathing in the back of the Japanese, introducing two-cylinder boxer engines. The latter had the ability to double the speed at the right moment.

About reliability

As befits a real ninja, reliability here is at a high level .

This is what contributed to the growing popularity of this bike among stunt riders.

A powerful subframe and increased engine resources allow it to withstand serious mechanical loads while performing various stunts.

Early models of these motorcycles had some engine problems . Considering that the engine had high speeds, it was quite powerful, but could not provide the required resource life.

Therefore, those choosing a Kawasaki ZX6R from the range of models from the 90s or early 2000s need to take these features very seriously.

Caring for this motorcycle does not require compliance with any special rules.

However, you will have to comply with the basic requirements, which determine timely refueling, checking tires, good engine care, timely oil changes, as well as proper preparation for the winter period.

Approximate prices

The cost of the new Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle is about 615,300 rubles.
When buying a used motorbike, the price can vary greatly depending on the condition of the chassis and the integrity of the appearance, as well as the mileage.

On average, a used Kawasaki ZX-6R can be purchased from 100,000 rubles.

Kawasaki Ninja 600 is an excellent sports motorcycle that is capable of reaching maximum speed.

In addition to the ideal internal “stuffing” of the motorcycle, the Kawasaki Ninja 600 has a stylish, sporty look, it is easy to control, and with it you can conquer any turns and obstacles on the road.

A motorbike is an excellent option for those who love maximum drive.

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The combination of modern technologies and almost old Soviet quality makes motorcycles practically indestructible.

Comfort

The machine is primarily suitable for high and medium speeds. At low levels, this relatively massive sportbike will not be so pleasant to drive. If the equipment drives very slowly, it will sometimes fall over, which is inconvenient in city traffic jams.

Therefore, it is rational to buy a bike for those who often travel out of town on relatively car-free highways.

Considering how much it costs to purchase spare parts, as well as the availability of them, maintaining the bike will be inexpensive. However, it is important to take care of the place where it will be stored, for example, a garage. Otherwise, even if the new equipment quickly becomes unusable.

And it cannot be said that this is a problem with the model. Any vehicle will suffer from aggressive natural conditions.

The model is not suitable for off-roading, which is clear from the review, where the owner tried to drive the car a little over rough terrain. For such situations, a motocross motorcycle or another one adapted for light off-road use is required. The official description of the bike should ideally mention this.

Photo gallery

This sportbike captivates us with its devilishly strong engine and soft, obedient handling and even more menacing appearance. In this photo gallery we have collected for you the best photos of this motorcycle.

Video

As we have already said, thanks to the new engine, this bike reaches maximum speed, and due to its lightness, it is agile in the most difficult turns.

We offer you an exciting ride at incredible speed, which you can take part in by watching our video.

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Comments (2)

1. IVAN:
   03/02/2015 at 13:40

   Nowadays Kawasaki motorcycles are very advanced and they are not afraid of any obstacles. I own a Kawasaki Ninja 600 myself and am absolutely delighted with its power.

   Answer

2. Malik24:

   03/03/2015 at 09:27

   I have always dreamed of riding an iron horse; I relatively recently received a license to drive a motorcycle. I rushed between models for a long time and finally bought a Kawasaki, shelled out enough money and don’t regret it one bit. The motorcycle fully met my expectations, and even exceeded it in some ways.

   Answer

Having achieved perfection

The classic lime green Ninja 6R was designed to be the best sports bike in its class, and numerous race victories testify to the designers' success in achieving their goal. In an effort to proportionally distribute the weight of the motorcycle and minimize air resistance, Kawasaki managed to create not only an impressive model with its technical characteristics, but also decorate it with a sophisticated Supersport-style design.

The stunning 600cc engine impresses with its power and top-end speed, and is perfectly matched by light handling and improved suspension. Excellent cornering characteristics along with precise throttle control guarantee lightning-fast response to driver inputs, and the cassette gearbox increases engine efficiency. The lightweight aluminum body and perfectly adjustable front and rear suspensions provide the most comfortable and smooth ride.

The updated Performance Edition, released in 2012, features an upgraded muffler and a scratch-resistant windshield designed to improve aerodynamics. The 2013 sportbike will surprise fans not only with an even more stylish design and enhanced safety system, but also with the ability to select engine modes thanks to the latest advances in programming.