Become a Member: Get Ad-Free Access to 3,000+ Reviews, Guides, & More

2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R [Specs, Features, Photos]

2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
Last updated:

The 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Raises The Bar For The 1000cc Class

The 2023 Kawasaki ZX10-R is a stunning machine that boasts a powerful 998cc engine that can generate an impressive 203 horsepower, making it one of the most potent machines in the class of Japanese supersports. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission system that allows riders to switch gears effortlessly, enabling a smooth and thrilling ride and with multiple power modes, you can change the bike’s behavior in seconds. The bike’s aerodynamic body design with integrated winglets complements its performance by minimizing drag and enhancing stability at high speeds.

The Ninja ZX-10R matches other bikes in the 2023 Kawasaki family and comes equipped with a host of advanced features, including electronic throttle valves, multiple power modes, launch control, and quick shifters, making it a versatile and high-performance machine. The ZX-10R’s advanced electronic systems, such as traction control, ABS, cornering management and engine braking control, provide a safe and controlled ride even in challenging road conditions. If choosing the 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R from one of many excellent choices in the Kawasaki brand, you’ll be getting an exceptional supersport motorcycle that’s ready for the track or carving canyons and offers unparalleled performance, advanced features, and outstanding handling, making it a top choice for riders looking for a thrilling and exhilarating ride.

The 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R starts at: $17,399 USD/$21,299 CAD

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R in one place.

2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R


Model Overview

General Info

  • Price: ZX-10R $17,399 USD/$21,299 CAD
  • Key Features:
    • Kawasaki Quick Shifter/Traction Control/Cornering Management
    • Ohlins Steering Damper
    • Cruise Control
    • TFT display

Main Specs

  • Engine: 998cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 16-valve in-line four
  • Power: 203 horsepower
  • Torque: 82.5 lb-ft
  • Weight: 452 lbs (205 kgs)
  • Seat Height: 32.9 inches (835 mm)

2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R


2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Specifications

From Kawasaki

ENGINE

Engine 998cc, 4-stroke, In-Line Four, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled
Power 203 Hp
Bore x Stroke 76.0 x 55.0mm
Compression Ratio
13.0:1
Fuel System DFI® w/47mm Mikuni throttle bodies (4) with oval sub-throttles, two injectors per cylinder
Starter Electric
Lubrication

DRIVETRAIN

Clutch
Transmission 6-speed, Manual, Return Shift
Final Drive Sealed chain

CHASSIS

Suspension Front 43mm inverted Balance Free Fork, adjustable stepless rebound and compression damping, spring preload adjustability/4.7 in
Suspension Rear Horizontal back-link with Balance Free gascharged shock, stepless, dual-range (low-/highspeed) compression damping, stepless rebound damping, fully adjustable spring preload/4.5 in
Brakes Front Brembo® dual semi-floating 330mm discs with dual radial-mounted monobloc 4-piston calipers
Brakes Rear
Single 220mm disc with aluminum single-piston caliper
Tires Front 120/70 ZR17
Tires Rear 190/55 ZR17
Fuel Tank Capacity 4.5 gal
Color
Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Diablo Black

ELECTRICAL

Ignition TCBI with digital advance and Sport-Kawasaki Traction Control (S-KTRC)
Spark Plugs
Headlight LED
Tail Light LED

DIMENSIONS

Overall Length 82.1 in.
Overall Width 29.5 in.
Overall Height 46.7 in.
Wheelbase 57.1 in.
Ground Clearance 5.3 in.
Seat Height 32.9 in.
Curb Weight 452.0 lb*

WARRANTY

Warranty 12 Months Limited Warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus 12, 24, 36 or 48 months

2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R


2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Features

Economical Riding Indicator

Using high-precision electronic control for engine management, Kawasaki models can achieve a high level of fuel efficiency. However, fuel consumption is greatly affected by throttle use, gear selection, and other elements under the rider’s control. The Economical Riding Indicator is a function that indicates when current riding conditions are consuming a low amount of fuel. The system continuously monitors fuel consumption, regardless of vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle position and other riding conditions. When fuel consumption is low for a given speed (i.e. fuel efficiency is high), an “ECO” mark appears on the instrument panel’s LCD screen. By riding so that the “ECO” mark remains on, fuel consumption can be reduced.

While effective vehicle speed and engine speed may vary by model, paying attention to conditions that cause the “ECO” mark to appear can help riders improve their fuel efficiency – a handy way to increase cruising range. Further, keeping fuel consumption low also helps minimize negative impact on the environment.

Electronic Throttle Valves

Kawasaki’s fully electronic throttle actuation system enables the ECU to control the volume of both the fuel (via fuel injectors) and the air (via throttle valves) delivered to the engine. Ideal fuel injection and throttle valve position results in smooth, natural engine response and the ideal engine output. The system also makes a significant contribution to reduced emissions.

Electronic throttle valves also enable more precise control of electronic engine management systems like S-KTRC and KTRC, and allow the implementation of electronic systems like KLCM, Kawasaki Engine Brake Control, and Electronic Cruise Control.

Kawasaki Engine Brake Control

The Kawasaki Engine Brake Control system allows riders to select the amount of engine braking they prefer. When the system is activated, the engine braking effect is reduced, providing less interference when riding on the track.

KLCM (Kawasaki Launch Control Mode)

Designed to assist riders by optimizing acceleration from a stop, KLCM electronically manages engine output to minimize wheel spin when moving off. With the clutch lever pulled in and the system activated, engine speed is limited to a determined speed while the rider holds the throttle open. Once the rider releases the clutch lever to engage the clutch, engine speed is allowed to increase, but power is regulated to minimize wheel spin and help keep the front wheel on the ground. The system disengages automatically once a predetermined speed has been reached, or when the rider shifts into third gear. Depending on the model, riders can choose from multiple modes, each offering a progressively greater level of intrusion.

KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function)

Using the latest evolution of Kawasaki’s advanced modeling software and feedback from a compact IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) that gives an even clearer real-time picture of chassis orientation, KCMF monitors engine and chassis parameters throughout the corner – from entry, through the apex, to corner exit – modulating brake force and engine power to facilitate smooth transition from acceleration to braking and back again, and to assist riders in tracing their intended line through the corner. The systems that KCMF oversees vary by model, but may include:

Power Modes

Models equipped with multiple Power Modes offer riders an easily selectable choice of engine power delivery to suit riding conditions or preference. In addition to Full Power mode, one (Low) or two (Middle, Low) alternate mode(s) in which maximum power is limited and throttle response is milder are provided.

S-KTRC (Sport-Kawasaki Traction Control)

S-KTRC, Kawasaki’s original predictive traction control, uses the same base technology as Kawasaki works machines. Designed to maximize acceleration, it allows riding at the edge of traction on the track. This technology continually controls the rear wheel slip that occurs when power is applied, ensuring optimal acceleration. In general, maximum forward drive requires a certain amount of slip. To ensure the most effective transfer of power to the tarmac, S-KTRC monitors the slip ratio in real time, and governs engine power delivery to optimize rear wheel traction.

S-KTRC monitors a number of parameters, including front and rear wheel speed (slip), engine rpm, throttle position and acceleration. Conditions are confirmed every five milliseconds, at which time the system looks at each of the parameters as well has how much they are changing (i.e. their rate of change). This unique Kawasaki method makes it possible to make interpolations and precisely calibrate engine output to suit traction conditions. By acting before slippage exceeds the limits of traction, drops in power can be minimized, resulting in ultra-smooth operation.

Because the sophisticated software bases its dynamic analysis on the chassis’ orientation relative to the track surface (rather than relative to a horizontal plane), it is able to take into account corner camber, gradient, etc., and adapt accordingly. It also automatically adjusts for tire wear, different tire profiles, high-grip tires, and numerous other factors that setting-type systems treat as fixed parameters. Models equipped with IMU incorporate chassis-orientation feedback to offer even more precise management.

KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter)

Designed to help riders maximize their acceleration on the track by enabling clutchless upshifts with the throttle fully open, KQS 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 without having to use the clutch. On models that offer clutchless downshifts, during deceleration the system automatically controls engine speed so that the next lower gear can be selected without operating the clutch.

Electronic Cruise Control

Electronic Cruise Control allows a desired speed (engine rpm) to be maintained with the simple press of a button. Once activated, the rider does not have to constantly apply the throttle. This reduces stress on the right hand when traveling long distances, enabling relaxed cruising and contributing to a high level of riding comfort.

Smartphone Connectivity

Clever technology enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP,” a number of instrument functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience. Vehicle information (such as the odometer, fuel gauge, maintenance schedule, etc) can be viewed on the smartphone. Riding logs (varies by model, but may include GPS route, gear position, rpm, and other information) can be viewed on the smartphone. When connected, telephone (call, mail) notices are displayed on the instrument panel. Riders can also make changes to their motorcycle’s instrument display settings (preferred units, clock and date setting, etc) via the smartphone. And on certain models, it is even possible to check and adjust vehicle settings (such as Rider Mode, electronic rider support features, and payload settings) using the smartphone.

2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Photos


2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Videos

2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R review by AK Cycles

2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Review by Bike World:


Kawasaki Official Websites

Social Media Links