2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX

Dec 24, 2023

Kawasaki today revealed its updated 2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, staving off any ideas that the supersport category is dead. At least for now. This isn't a ground-up redesign of the ZX-6R, but rather a mid-model refresh with some rather notable changes.

Visually, the most striking difference between the new model and the 2023 edition is found at the nose. The 2024 model more closely resembles the ZX-10R with its pointy and angled tip, with little winglets integrated into the side edges of the nose. These winglets then blend into the layered side fairings to give a floating appearance. Considering how tiny these winglets are compared to the giant airplane wings that are becoming more prevalent on today's sportbikes, you’d almost think their primary purpose was something else, like diverting hot air from the rider. But in fact Kawasaki is calling these winglets, with the intent to add some downforce over the front tire.

Of course, what you really want to know is what's hiding behind the fairings – the engine. For better or for worse, the 636cc Inline-Four remains largely unchanged, except for new camshaft profiles that bring improved low-end performance while helping the ZX-6 meet stricter emissions standards. Another tweak to bring better performance in the low- and mid-range include a slightly different intake funnel shape. The exhaust was also redesigned for better O2 sensor placement for the reshaped catalyzer. An exhaust prechamber is nicely located low and center in the motorcycle, allowing the now-black silencer to remain as light as possible.

Changes from here aren't much, but they include new round 310mm brake discs, replacing the petal-type discs Kawasaki's been using for ages. Kawasaki says the return to round discs is to keep it in line with the ZX-10R. They’re clamped by radial-mounted four-piston monobloc calipers. If the bike is equipped with ABS, an updated ABS unit provides smoother ABS intervention and is better calibrated to know when to activate in the first place. Putting power to the ground are the Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires, new for 2024. Chassis-wise, the 2024 Ninja ZX-6R uses the same aluminum perimeter die-cast frame as before and the Showa SFF-BP fork/Showa shock make a return appearance.

More changes include new integrated ride modes that combine Kawasaki Traction Control and Power Mode settings, so choosing one of four Power Modes (Sport, Road, Rain, Rider) automatically sets a pre-determined traction control setting. As you can guess, the Rider Power Mode setting lets the rider set the traction control and Power Mode settings independently of each other for ultimate control.

Conveniently, you can view your changes on the new 4.3-inch TFT display. The screen's background color is switchable from black or white, and the brightness of the screen adjusts automatically based on the available light.

Finally, the last change includes the ability to connect the ZX-6R to the Kawasaki "RIDEOLOGY THE APP" to chart your ride, connect your calls to the bike, log bike information during your ride, view bike settings, and so much more.

Oddly, Kawasaki's teaser video shows two bikes on a racetrack. One is the ZX-6R, and we assumed the second was going to be an RR version, but this announcement was pretty clear about there being only one bike?

The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is available in both ABS and non-ABS versions and is in dealerships now in four different variations:

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Color: Metallic Flat Spark Black / Ebony, Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Graphite Gray

MSRP: $11,299

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R KRT Edition

Color: Lime Green / Ebony

MSRP: $11,299

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R ABS

Color: Metallic Flat Spark Black / Ebony, Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Graphite Gray

MSRP: $12,299

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R ABS KRT Edition

Color: Lime Green / Ebony

MSRP: $12,299

See the official Kawasaki press release below for full details.

BEGIN PRESS RELEASE:

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R "636" motorcycle remains a staple in the Ninja ZX supersport lineup, and for 2024, it benefits from several performance and styling updates that push all boundaries with track-ready performance that prioritizes confident handling during high-performance sport riding.

Kawasaki's Ninja ZX supersport models have always been renowned for their circuit riding potential as well as their ability to provide the exhilaration desired for real-world riding. The Ninja ZX-6R continues to offer superior performance across the rev-range with its potent 636cc liquid-cooled in-line four-cylinder engine and nimble handling thanks to its race-derived chassis that allows the rider to become one with the machine whether on the racetrack, navigating canyon roads, or cruising city streets.

The 2024 Ninja ZX-6R receives all-new styling that is inspired by the Ninja ZX-10R, yet retains its own distinct supersport identity. Its smooth, flowing styling was designed to turn heads and capture hearts. New compact LED headlights, an intricately layered front cowl, and a sporty windshield bring a new face to one of the most feared models in Kawasaki's supersport lineup. Riders are greeted by a new 4.3" TFT color instrumentation as well as smartphone connectivity, integrated riding modes, and other enhanced features. The brake discs are now round, further contributing to the supersport image, while engine and exhaust updates enhance low-rpm.

KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-6R HIGHLIGHTS

ENGINE

The Ninja ZX-6R features an efficient and powerful 636cc liquid-cooled in-line four-cylinder DOHC four-stroke engine that comes by way of a 67.0 x 45.1mm bore and stroke. New engine updates for 2024 include revised cam profiles that benefit low-rpm performance and help to meet stricter emission regulations.

Ultra-fine atomizing injectors emit a droplet size of less than 60 microns to ensure efficient air-fuel mixing contributing to combustion efficiency. Precise settings contribute to a reduction in engine emissions while ensuring that power and torque feelings are maintained for riders who have come to know and love the Ninja ZX-6R power plant.

Feeding the Ninja ZX-6R power plant is a large-volume 5.09-liter air box, which helps to create peak power and smooth power delivery. The intake funnel design features a revised shape that increases low-to-mid rpm performance.

To protect the heart of the engine, the piston skirts feature a molybdenum coating, which keeps friction to a minimum. To maximize performance and reduce pumping loss, the engine features connecting passages between each of the cylinders.

The exhaust design of the Ninja ZX-6R contributes to optimal engine performance. For 2024, the header pipes, including joint pipes and the collector pipe feature a revised layout for cleaner emissions. Improved feedback from the O2 sensor was achieved thanks to the revised layout, optimizing catalyzer volume and load. An exhaust pre-chamber helps minimize silencer volume, contributing to mass centralization while the silencer's triangular cross-section enables the requisite volume while ensuring a high lean angle and a compact image.

TRANSMISSION

The Ninja ZX-6R uses a cassette-style transmission, which facilitates changes to gear ratios and makes for efficient set-up time for track days. Its 15/43 final gear ratio further emphasizes the engine's strong low-end; meaning it is well suited on both the racetrack and on canyon roads.

ASSIST & SLIPPER CLUTCH

Complementing the transmission is an Assist & Slipper Clutch, race-inspired technology that offers both a back-torque limiting function as well as a light feel at the lever. The Assist function provides a lighter pull at the clutch lever, helping to reduce rider fatigue, especially in stop-and-go traffic situations. The Slipper function is noticed when excessive engine braking occurs as a result of quick or accidental downshifts. The slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart, which relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back torque and help prevent the rear tire from hopping and skidding.

CHASSIS

The Ninja ZX-6R features a pressed-aluminium perimeter frame design. The two-piece sub-frame is made from aluminium die-cast pieces, consisting of a front and rear section. This layout enables a very precise, lightweight construction. It is also very narrow, allowing the rear of the bike to be very compact and slim. The base frame components offer a superb balance of flickable handling, mid-corner composure with the ability to change lines on command, coupled with excellent chassis feedback.

SUSPENSION

Complementing the chassis design, the Ninja ZX-6R is equipped with the Showa SFF-BP (Separate Function Fork – Big Piston) fork. Combining the concepts of Showa SFF and BPF, this advanced fork offers both racetrack performance and everyday usability. The Showa SFF-BP offers smooth action at the beginning of the stroke that contributes to excellent composure under braking. The large-diameter damping piston is much larger than what is found in a cartridge-type fork of the same size. The result is greater control as the fork begins to compress and a very calm attitude change as vehicle weight shifts forward when reducing speed, offering greater chassis stability on corner entry. The fork settings are designed to handle back roads as well as deliver a high level of performance for the track, while also accommodating highway and city riding. SFF-BP offers convenient adjustability. All the adjusters are located at the top of the fork caps: preload on the left, compression and rebound damping on the right. Each component only needs to be adjusted once.

The Showa rear shock and suspension design contribute to rear ride comfort, offering a more plush feeling when riding in town or on the highway. The shock offers riders the ability to adjust preload, rebound damping and compression damping.

BRAKES & WHEELS

Handling the stopping duties up front for the Ninja ZX-6R motorcycle is a pair of powerful, highly rigid, radial-mount opposed four-piston monobloc calipers. These grip a new pair of large-diameter semi-floating 310mm stainless-steel round discs, offering superb control and a firm feel at the lever and contribute to strong braking. In the rear, the radial-pump master cylinder ensures excellent touch and offers superb control. The radial-pump master cylinder has been paired with a 220mm round disc and a lightweight rear brake caliper, which offers good anti-fade performance. The new round shape found on the brake discs contributes to a strong Ninja ZX family image.

New Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires can be found in a 120/70ZR17 M/C (58W) front and 180/55ZR17 M/C (73W) rear, offering excellent grip in a wide range of riding conditions.

ELECTRONICS

KAWASAKI QUICK SHIFTER (KQS)

The Ninja ZX-6R features a highly reliable contactless-type quick shifter with the KQS, which allows for ultra-quick, full power upshifts and seamless acceleration. The system detects that the shift lever has been actuated and sends a signal to the ECU to cut ignition so that the next gear can be engaged for clutchless shifting.

KAWASAKI TRACTION CONTROL (KTRC)

The Ninja ZX-6R is equipped with Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), which has three performance settings riders can choose from: Modes 1 and 2 prioritize maximum forward acceleration, while Mode 3 provides rider reassurance by facilitating smooth riding on low traction surfaces. The three modes of KTRC offer options for a wide variety of riding conditions. Riders also have the option to elect to turn the system off.

KAWASAKI INTELLIGENT ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (KIBS)

An updated ABS unit has been fitted on ABS models for 2024, retaining the Ninja ZX-6R's supersport-grade braking performance. KIBS is a multi-sensing system that collects data from a number of sources, including front and rear wheel speed sensors, monitors front caliper hydraulic pressure, along with information from the engine ECU to do its job. High-precision brake pressure control enables the system to avoid reduced brake performance due to excessive pressure drops, allows lever feel to be maintained when KIBS is active and helps ensure smooth braking feel.

POWER MODE SELECTION

Riders can set power delivery to suit conditions and/or preferences, choosing from Full and Low. When combined with the KTRC and Power Mode options, riders have eight combinations from which to choose. Each system can be set independently to best suit rider preference, riding location, and road conditions.

NEW INTEGRATED RIDING MODES

All-inclusive modes that combine KTRC and Power Mode settings allow riders to easily set traction control and power delivery to suit a given riding situation. Riders can choose from three settings (sport, road, rain) or a manual setting (rider). In the manual "rider" mode, each of the systems can be set independently.

KAWASAKI INTELLIGENT ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (KIBS)

NEW ABS unit

An updated ABS unit has been fitted on ABS models for 2024, retaining the Ninja ZX-6R's supersport-grade braking performance. KIBS is a multi-sensing system that collects data from a number of sources, including front and rear wheel speed sensors, monitors front caliper hydraulic pressure, along with information from the engine ECU to do its job. High-precision brake pressure control enables the system to avoid reduced brake performance due to excessive pressure drops, allows lever feel to be maintained when KIBS is active and helps ensure smooth braking feel.

POWER MODE SELECTION

Riders can set power delivery to suit conditions and/or preferences, choosing from Full and Low. When combined with the KTRC and Power Mode options, riders have eight combinations from which to choose. Each system can be set independently to best suit rider preference, riding location, and road conditions.

NEW INTEGRATED RIDING MODES

All-inclusive modes that combine KTRC and Power Mode settings allow riders to easily set traction control and power delivery to suit a given riding situation. Riders can choose from three settings (sport, road, rain) or a manual setting (rider). In the manual "rider" mode, each of the systems can be set independently.

NEW SMARTPHONE CONNECTIVITY

Utilizing Bluetooth technology built into the instrument panel, riders can now connect to their bike wirelessly. Using the smartphone application "RIDEOLOGY THE APP*", a number of instrument functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.

Available functions include:

When riding with the app ON, the bike and smartphone are always connected. When the ignition is turned OFF, the latest vehicle information is stored by the app and may be viewed on the smartphone.

STYLING

The all-new styling found on the Ninja ZX-6R is inspired by the Ninja ZX-10R and embodies the ideal supersport image. New front and side cowls create a design that flows smoothly from head to tail. Compact, new LED headlights and an intricately layered front cowl give the Ninja ZX-6R its new "face".

The front cowl's new layered design is complemented by winglet-style inlets and angled chin spoilers to form a highly distinctive image. The inlets help keep the wind off the rider, contributing to ride comfort. Unlike the Ninja ZX-10R's horizontal chin spoilers, which are used to create downforce when racing down the straight, the Ninja ZX-6R's chin spoilers are angled, conveying an image of downforce while cornering. The new compact headlight's low-beams feature plastic projector lamps with mono-focus LED technology, while the high-beams and position lamps are reflector-type lamps. The deep-set position of the reflectors of the unlit parts of the headlights makes them appear dark, creating a fierce expression. Black extensions between the low and high-beams contribute to the black image and help deliver a high-quality finish.

The area surrounding the RAM Air Intake is completely painted, unlike the previous model, contributing to the sleek design. A new sporty windshield is short and contributes to the Ninja ZX-6R's supersport image. Similar to the Ninja ZX-10R, the front cowl supports the sides of the windshield. Holes in the windshield relieve pressure build-up behind the screen to help reduce buffeting when riding at elevated speeds.

Like the design of the tail cowl, the front and side inner cowls use interwoven layers to create a 3D effect with the multiple layers adding to the high-class design. In contrast, the side outer cowls and lower cowl are smooth. The bodywork's smooth, flowing design draws the eye from head to tail and hints at the Ninja ZX-6R's supersport performance.

New LED turn signals complete an all-LED lighting package that begins with its new compact headlights and ends with its Ninja ZX-10R-inspired taillight. Blacked-out engine covers, and a black-painted silencer contribute to the supersport image. The silencer also features a buffed end-cap.

ERGONOMICS

The Ninja ZX-6R rider triangle remains unchanged, utilizing Kawasaki's Ninja supersport seat to pegs-to-bar orientation, which offers a naturally aggressive riding position. A slim and flared fuel tank makes it easy for riders to grip the tank with their knees.

The seat is short front-to-back for excellent comfort and feedback from the chassis. It is also narrow in the front section to help facilitate the slim riding position and make it easier for riders to get their feet on the ground. A new windshield design blends sporty looks with real-world wind protection for sport riding while also maintaining visibility during more upright street riding. An adjustable front brake lever and clutch lever each offer five available positions. This allows riders to modify both hand lever positions to suit their hand size and preference.

*RIDEOLOGY THE APP is not intended for use during vehicle operation. Only use RIDEOLOGY THE APP when the vehicle is not being operated and it is safe to do so.

KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-6R

Color: Metallic Flat Spark Black / Ebony, Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Graphite Gray

MSRP: $11,299

Availability: Now

KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-6R KRT EDITION

Color: Lime Green / Ebony

MSRP: $11,299

Availability: Now

KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-6R ABS

Color: Metallic Flat Spark Black / Ebony, Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Graphite Gray

MSRP: $12,299

Availability: Now

KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-6R ABS KRT EDITION

Color: Lime Green / Ebony

MSRP: $12,299

Availability: Now

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If Kawasaki turned this motorcycle into a naked bike with upright ergos and the same engine, I would be very interested; especially at this price point.

Never understood Kawasaki's pricing with the ABS version costing $1,000 more. Why do that? Why even offer a bike without ABS these days? And why such a big price difference? OK maybe they want to make the non-ABS more accessible to individuals with less money, but that seems a strange way to go about it.