Kawasaki unveil Ninja 40th Anniversary models for 2024 range
Over the last 40 years, Ninja motorcycles have captured the hearts of Sportsbike enthusiasts around the world. Never straying from what made Ninja famous from the start, the development of the iconic brand has always been at the forefront of technology, making Ninja not just a recognisable name but, for many riders, a way of life.
Now – for the 2024 model year – Kawasaki is releasing a “family group” of Ninja 40th Anniversary models as part of a celebration of four decades of performance and innovation. Set to be seen “in the flesh” for the first time at the prestigious EICMA show in Milan and now unveiled online, the trio of machines comprises the Ninja ZX-10R, base machine for multiple WorldSBK titles, the highly regarded mid-weight 636cc Supersport Ninja ZX-6R and the already highly praised and equally high revving Ninja ZX-4RR.
Each machine will be available in a version of the evocative early 1990’s Kawasaki World Endurance livery of green, blue and white with the bold, unapologetic Kawasaki logo dominating the lower cowl; just like the three-time championship winning machines of the period. Adopted for the 1989 ZXR series of machines, the distinctive livery dials into the fashion for all things retro while also looking fresh and contemporary. Like the Ninja itself – it’s a win/win combination.
Boasting a 40th Anniversary logo on their fuel tanks, each machine has had its livery carefully adjusted to suit the bodywork while the bold Kawasaki logo was taken from original drawings and even the displacement figures on the rear bodywork are evocative of the period. Adding lime green wheels and silver painted parts (including frame parts) illustrates the attention to detail lavished on these machines by stylists at the Kawasaki factory in Japan.
Available alongside the already announced colourways for the 2024 season, the 40th Anniversary models will play a significant role in a global digital celebration of a Sportsbike brand that is universally recognised and respected.
The bikes will begin to arrive in dealers from January 2024. The Ninja ZX-4RR will cost £8,899, the Ninja ZX-6R £10,849, and the Ninja ZX-10R £17,749.
That’s a wrap on BSB ’23!
The 2023 Bennetts British Superbike Championship came to a close over the weekend, and it was a great year for our Team Green family!
In the blue-riband class, the FS-3 Racing team had one of their strongest seasons to date, with Lee Jackson taking five podiums over the year to finish a hard-fought fourth place in the Championship standings. Despite it being his maiden season in the Superbike class, teammate Max Cook impressed everyone to finish 15th overall and secure the R&G Rising Stars award as the top rookie.
2023 also proved to be a breakthrough year for GR Motosport Superbike rider Storm Stacey, who had his best-ever season, which included his first front row start, highest points tally, and finishing top independent Kawasaki team. Rookie riders Bradley Perie, Jack Scott and Lous Valleley also enjoyed a strong end to the season as they continued to get to grips with the Ninja ZX-10RR.
In the British Supersport class, Gearlink Kawasaki rider Tom Booth-Amos had a brilliant season, taking more race wins than any other rider on his way to second overall in the series. Luke Stapleford also had a strong season, taking a pair of wins alongside a further eight podiums.
More Ninja ZX-6R success came in the National Junior Superstock Championship, where Cameron Dawson and Asher Durham finished second and third in the series, taking two wins and nine podiums between them.
The Ninja 400 was the machine of choice in the British Junior Supersport class, with the top 16 riders in the Championship opting for Kawasaki power. The title came down to the final round, but it was Finn Smart-Weeden who was eventually crowned Champion ahead of Lewis Jones and Lennon Docherty.
While the season might have only ended a few days ago, 2024 has already begun as FS-3 Racing’s new signing, Jason O’Halloran, got his first laps of the ZX-10RR Superbike earlier this week. You will be able to meet Jason and Max Cook next month on the Kawasaki stand at Motorcycle Live.
Completely Motorbikes announced as new title sponsor of FS-3 Racing Kawasaki
Popular Kawasaki UK dealer Completely Motorbikes has signed a deal to become the title sponsor of FS-3 Racing, the official Kawasaki Superbike team in the British Superbike Championship. The partnership kicks off this weekend at the final round of this year’s championship with the Completely Motorbikes logo appearing on one of the team’s superbikes on the Completely Motorbikes stand at Brands Hatch at an unveiling event on Thursday afternoon and then out on the track. The new logo will also be prominent in the team’s pitlane garage over the weekend.
Fresh from announcing its 2024 line-up of Jason O’Halloran and Max Cook, the FS-3 Racing team is excited to confirm that Completely Motorbikes is joining the team as its title sponsor for the 2024 season and beyond. The motorcycle dealership has Kawasaki branches in Worcester, Gloucester and Yeovil and is no stranger to the Bennetts British Superbike paddock, already sponsoring teams throughout the series.
The new partnership was announced today on the Completely Motorbikes stand at Brands Hatch ahead of the final round of the 2023 BSB season, with the FS-3 Racing’s superbikes carrying the Completely Motorbike logo on the side of the Ninja ZX-10RR’s and in the team’s pitlane garage.
Nigel Snook, FS-3 Racing Team Owner:
‘’We are delighted to welcome Rob and James Ayland to the team. The Completely Motorbikes logo is already a familiar sight in the British Superbikes paddock and on the track. Their ambitions are a perfect match with ours and we are excited that they have chosen to team up with FS-3 Racing and Kawasaki as they move up to support a front running two-rider superbike entry. Working with Rob and James will provide a wide range of opportunities for their customers to get closer to the action and for the team to be directly involved in helping promote bike sales across the country’’.
Rob Ayland, Completely Motoring Group Managing Director:
“We have been proud to sponsor the Bennetts British Superbike series since 2020, moving onto 2024 when we also become official sponsors of the “Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki’’ team. To hopefully see Jason and Max fighting for the championship in 2024 on the official FS-3 Racing Kawasaki is a culmination of four years of successful involvement with many riders, and at all levels of BSB. The “Team Green” headline sponsorship has all of the Completely Motorbikes group very excited and we cannot wait for 2024 season to commence!”
Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki UK:
“It is fantastic that FS-3 Racing now has a completed line up with Jason O'Halloran and Max Cook and a new title partner confirmed for 2024 so they are all set to operate to the level required within the Bennetts British Superbikes Championship. We are incredibly pleased that Rob and his team at the Completely Motorbikes group have come on board to support our official team. It’s a perfect match to be honest, and I sincerely hope that this new relationship is fruitful for all parties, both on and off track in 2024 and beyond.”
Danny Buchan back with Team Green as he joins DAORacing!
Six-time British Superbike race winner Danny Buchan is returning to theKawasaki family for 2024, having signed with DAO Racing to race their NinjaZX-10RR Superbike in the prestigious BSB series.
Danny has spent a lot of his career racing for Team Green, joining the BSB paddock in 2010, racing a Ninja ZX-6R in the National Superstock 600 class and securing a memorable Superstock 1000 title in 2014 aboard the road-going version of the Ninja ZX-10R, a feat he repeated in 2017.
Danny’s best season in BSB came in 2019 when he finished fourth overall on the FS-3 Racing-prepared Kawasaki, and the Essex-based rider will be looking to replicate that form when he joins the DAO Racing squad next season.
The DAO Racing team are focusing fully on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship in 2024, with the experienced squad eager to claim their first rostrum and wins in the series.
Danny Buchan:
“First of all, I want to thank Clarissa, Sommai and Jonny for putting this together. It’s no secret that 2023 has been a disaster, but DAO Racing can see potential in me, which is massive! The team has clear ambitions to become regular podium finishers and race winners, and that’s always the goal of a racer.
I feel very proud to be part of this project and obviously excited to be jumping back on a bike I’ve got good memories with. The Kawasaki ZX-10RR is in good form currently in BSB, so with a winter’s test plan and lots of laps, I’m hoping we can get right to it and have a good first season together. Thank you to my supporters, sponsors and everyone who has stayed so positive around me this season. Roll on 2024!”
Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki UK:
“Danny has been part of the Team Green family for many years now, and it’s great to have him back on board for next season! Although it’s clearly been a tough 2023 for him, we know he has the talent to run at the front of the Superbike class, and now he has joined this extremely experienced team with a good crew around him, we’re confident he will hit the ground running in 2024.”
NEW V-STROM 800RE TO ENHANCE SUZUKI ADVENTURE BIKE LINEUP
Following the launch of its all-new V-Strom 800DE earlier this year, Suzuki has announced a new V-Strom 800RE that will further expand its adventure bike stable, ensuring the V-Strom range is truly ready for any terrain, any horizon, any adventure.
Born to roam, the V-Strom 800RE will provide a more road-focussed offering than its more off-road-ready sibling. With DE denoting the V-Strom 800DE’s positioning as a dual explorer, the adoption of RE for the latest V-Strom 800 model highlights its abilities as the road explorer.
Arriving in November, the new V-Strom 800RE will come with an OTR price of £9,699.
At its heart, the new V-Strom 800RE uses the same new 776cc parallel twin engine as its stablemate, with its double overhead cam and 270° crankshaft design delivering a broad spread of torque throughout the rev range – peaking at 78Nm at 6800rpm – and a rumble and character more akin to Suzuki’s famed V-twins. Peak power is 84.3PS at 8500rpm.
It also uses the same steel main frame, engineered for a balance of straight-line stability and agile handling. The narrow steel tubes also help maximise fuel tank capacity, which comes in at 20 litres. However, the new V-Strom 800RE differs from its more rugged counterpart most notably by swapping 21” and 17” spoked wheels and tubed tyres for 19” and 17” cast aluminium wheels, wearing Dunlop tubeless tyres.
Like the V-Strom 800DE, high quality suspension is still provided by Showa, but with a focus on delivering superior on-road performance. 150mm of travel at the front and rear comes courtesy of preload-adjustable inverted front forks and a link-type monoshock adjustable for preload and rebound damping, delivering sure-footed roadholding and a plush ride for long days in the saddle. Stopping power comes from radially-mounted four piston Nissin calipers.
Further underlying the V-Strom 800RE’s prowess as the tool to explore all roads it comes with a seat height of 825mm, while aluminium, rubber-covered footpegs are set 14mm further rearward and 7mm higher than the V-Strom 800DE, and aluminium tapered handlebars are 13mm lower and 23mm further forwards. They’re also 15mm narrower. A taller and wider screen offers more weather and wind protection on longer rides.
Nestled underneath the screen is a 5” colour TFT screen with dual display modes for day and nighttime riding. All the navigation of menus and features is done via a simple, easy-to-use rocker switch on the left-hand handlebar. There’s also a handy USB port located on the left-hand side.
Displayed on the bright, clear screen is all the information required by the rider, including the current setting selected from its three-mode traction control system – which can also be switched off – and the current power mode selected, from Active (the more sportier and direct throttle map), Basic (ideal for cruising or city riding), and Comfort (perfect for wet or cold conditions). There are also two ABS settings, providing differing levels of intervention.
A ride-by-wire throttle connection provides a natural feel and connection to the rear wheel, while a standard-fit bi-directional quickshifter – allied to a slipper clutch – makes gear changes slick and seamless. There’s also Suzuki’s low rpm assist and easy start function.
Sharing a similar DR Big-inspired look as the 800DE, complete with iconic beak and full LED lighting front and rear, the V-Strom 800RE will come in Pearl Vigor Blue, Metallic Matt Steel Green, and Glass Sparkle Black.
There will also be a full suite of genuine accessories available including a choice of three-piece aluminium or plastic luggage, heated grips, and a centre stand.
V-STROM 650XT ADVENTURETO ARCTIC FINLAND
The call of the open road, the thrill of exploration, and the allure of far-off destinations have always been the hallmarks of motorcycle adventures. Gordon Stuart has been lucky enough to travel some of the world’s greatest roads by motorcycle, from the Dalton Highway in Alaska, The Verdon Canyon in South East France, to the Lofoten Islands in Norway and the F roads across Iceland.
As part of his ongoing quest to ride across The Arctic Circle in every country possible, at the start of 2020 Gordon settled on the V-Strom 650XT as the perfect bike for his next planned adventure to Arctic Finland as well as plenty of day trips around his native Northumberland, and weekend runs to Scotland.
Gordon had ambitious plans, 4,000 miles in nine and half days from home in Newcastle to Arctic Finland via Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and Sweden, popping into Norway on the way home just because. Utilising his personalised champion yellow V-Strom with silver Givi outback trekker side cases, Gordon set off from Newcastle to catch the ferry to the Netherlands from Hawrich in Essex, some 326 miles away.
After the rest of an overnight ferry, Gordon docked early into Rotterdam at 8am on day two, ready for what turned out to be a punishing day in the saddle. Blitzing through the picturesque Dutch countryside and the distant cityscapes of Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Apeldoorn, Gordon was in Germany before noon with 150 miles in the bank. It was another 280 miles across Germany to the Northern town of Puttgarden where he would catch a ferry to Denmark.
Progress was stalled upon hitting major roadworks on the Bundesautobahn 1. Sweltering in the sun, low speed filtering became a chore, slowing progress, making the arrival into Denmark late. Even though the sun was starting to sit low in the sky he pressed on for Sweden, crossing the iconic Øresund Bridge from Copenhagen into Malmo, offering breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea – entering Malmo around 10pm, 545 miles done and 30 shy of the planned mileage.
The final leg of the journey North took him into the wilderness of Finland. The landscape evolved from lush forests to vast tundras and crystal-clear lakes, and not a motorway since Germany. The weather in Finland was cold and wet, up there with some of the worst conditions he had ridden – on par with Iceland in 2018 and Norway in 2011.
Thankfully the final day north saw the weather ease but the roads narrow. This northern wilderness was bathed in perpetual daylight, creating a surreal atmosphere, especially witnessing the midnight sun inside the Arctic Circle, which marked the pinnacle of this adventure and the fourth time Gordon had crossed the Arctic Circle by motorcycle.
The route home took in more of the delights of Finland, as well as the seemingly never-ending forests of Sweden, and a small visit into Norway to enjoy some of the amazing roads and landscapes.
Gordon said of the trip, “My V-Strom 650XT was the perfect motorcycle for the trip and never missed a beat. There was a great amount of power and range in the engine, even when fully loaded with my camping gear, and it was light and nimble enough to really enjoy the Scandinavian roads and mountain passes. The fuel-economy was fantastic which was a helpful benefit considering current fuel prices across Europe. Comfort was good, too, with some long days in the saddle. Needless to say, I can’t wait for my next V-Strom adventure.”
Find out more about the V-Strom 650XT.
NEW AND ICONIC SUZUKIS SET FOR MOTORCYCLE LIVE
Suzuki is bringing a fleet of new and iconic models to Motorcycle Live 2023, which takes place from 18-26 November at the NEC in Birmingham.
The firm’s entire product range will be on display, including its new-for-2024 models, alongside the fresh metal that joined the lineup this year.
That includes the award-winning GSX-8S and its adventure-shaped sibling, the V-Strom 800DE, both of which use the new 776cc parallel twin engine with a 270° crank, with an abundance of torque, and a comprehensive suite of electronics.
Both flavours of V-Strom 1050 – the 1050 and 1050DE – will also populate the adventure bike section of the stand, as will the venerable V-Strom 650XT, while the 8S will be joined by the GSX-S1000 and SV650 in the street bike section.
Powered by the same superbike-derived inline four-cylinder engine as the GSX-S1000, the revered GSX-S1000GT sports tourer will make an appearance, shown in its new colours for 2024, as will the iconic Hayabusa, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2024.
Making up the scooter section will be the trio of new 125s – the Avenis, Address, and Burgman 125 Street EX – and the Burgman 400, the original maxi scooter. Flying the yellow flag in the off-road corner will be RM-Z machinery, including race bikes from renowned supercross team and bike builders SR75 Suzuki. Their special, supercross-inspired V-Strom 650 will also be on display.
Visitors to the show will also be able to test ride a number of the models on display, with a fleet of Suzuki’s learner legal machines available in the Try Ride section, while experienced riders can sample the delights of much of the range out on the roads.
Harking back to Suzuki’s heritage will be a number of icons from the firm’s vintage fleet,, including the Team Classic Suzuki Katana and GSX-R1000 K1 endurance racer, with famous faces stopping by throughout the show, including BSB legend John Reynolds.
During the show Suzuki can be found in hall four, on stand 4D20.
Enjoy four years warranty with all new Kawasaki’s!
Customers who purchase a brand new Kawasaki from an authorised dealer will be able to enjoy an extra 2 years on their standard warranty, giving them complete peace of mind.
Eligible across the entire range of new Kawasaki’s, from the entry-level Ninja 125 to the supercharged Z H2 SE, customers will now be able to enjoy four years warranty on their purchase. Worth up to £345, these additional two years will give riders complete peace of mind that they are protected and will always be able to enjoy their bike.
To find out more about the offer and to view the complete range of Kawasaki’s available, visit your local dealer today.
Kawasaki “Change the Game” with new strong hybrid Ninja 7 HEV
Having only recently held the debut of its new A1 licence class EV motorcycles in Paris, Kawasaki is taking another giant step down the road towards its long term goal of carbon neutrality with the introduction of the world’s first* mass produced Strong Hybrid*, the Ninja 7 Hybrid.
Seeking to “Change the Game”, the all new Ninja 7 Hybrid offers a unique window into a world of future motorcycles but in a contemporary time frame with the first models expected to be on showroom floors in January 2024.
At the heart of the Ninja 7 Hybrid is the innovative combination of a brand new 451cc parallel twin, water-cooled four stroke engine – complete with manual or automatically selected gears – and a traction motor plus battery; a futuristic combination that offers a number of new riding experiences plus an engine power of 43.5 kw rising to an impressive hybrid net power of 51.1kw thanks to “e-boost”.
In terms of dimensions, the Ninja 7 Hybrid is a mid-size package offering 650cc to 700cc class overall performance with the instant acceleration to rival that of a 1,000cc-class supersport model from a standing start (with Kawasaki’s e-boost function already seen on their EV machines), fuel economy on par with the 250cc-class and button-shift sport riding. In addition, riders can switch between three riding modes (SPORT-HYBRID, ECO-HYBRID, EV**) that each offer a distinct riding character as they accommodate a wide range of riding situations.
Other innovations include idling stop whereby the internal combustion engine stops at a halt to save fuel and reduce emissions plus Automatic Launch Position Finder (ALPF) which – when selected – automatically selects first gear at standstill plus a forward and reverse “walk mode” to aid low speed manoeuvring and parking.
Utilising a specially designed version of Kawasaki’s familiar trellis type chassis, the “packaging” of the gasoline engine and 9kw max traction motor reveals a compact twinned power unit with the 48V lithium ion battery near the centre point of the chassis to idealise weight distribution. And in terms of styling, the Ninja 7 Hybrid is resplendent in a unique HEV treatment combining a matt lime green under cowl with silver and black bodywork destined – like its engineering innovations – to set this bike apart from the common herd.
Ergonomically, the relaxed and sporty riding position eases the rider towards the high-grade cockpit and carefully considered layout of the switchgear; both designed to be intuitive and to inspire confidence. For the meters, full-colour TFT instrumentation includes smartphone connectivity via a custom version of the RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.
As the first of its kind, the Ninja 7 Hybrid sets the bar for HEV motorcycling. Offering the best elements of ICE and EV models, and able to navigate both the urban jungle and countryside backroads, this revolutionary new model is greater than the sum of its parts. With its exciting character and numerous innovative features for riders to explore, the Ninja 7 Hybrid truly ushers in a new era in riding experiences.
The Ninja 7 Hybrid will be available in the UK from April 2024, with prices to be confirmed nearer the time.
* Mass production models (excluding scooters) from a major power sports manufacturer as of October 6, 2023, per Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. research.
Strong hybrid systems combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor for powerful riding, and because of their large battery capacity they are able to run on electricity alone.
** The Ninja 7 Hybrid’s EV Mode may be helpful for certain situations where quiet riding is appropriate, such as in residential areas or in parking garages. Speed and range are limited.
Pass Your Motorcycle Test with KRTS and Receive a Free Ticket to Motorcycle Live 2023
Join the Kawasaki family! Pass your test with Kawasaki Rider Training Services before 10th November and you’ll receive a free one-day ticket to Motorcycle Live as a welcome to the world of motorcycling!
Kawasaki works with authorised training service providers throughout the UK to offer professional rider training. Located in areas to complement the Kawasaki dealer network, current riders and those new to two-wheels are encouraged to learn and improve their skills to get the most of their experience on a Kawasaki machine.
KRTS is a national training service provided by leading manufacturer Kawasaki. We aim to ensure safe, comprehensive and fun motorcycle training at the highest level. We launched KRTS to help protect the future of our industry.
- We partner with the best trainer in the area.
- High standards of training & service.
- Free advice & guidance from the KRTS Contact Centre.
- Insurance premium discounts offered by major UK Insurance Underwriters.
- Train on well-maintained quality Kawasaki machines.
- Equipped with clean and proper fitting protective clothing.
- All instructors are DVSA Qualified.
- Learn with experienced and enthusiastic instructors
This fantastic offer applies to all practical motorcycle tests, including CBT, module 1 & module 2. With over 60 KRTS centres across the UK, we're confident you will find a school to suit you.
Simply visit learntoridewithkawasaki.co.uk to find your nearest KRTS provider, and start your journey today.
*Terms & Conditions
Anyone who passes a practical motorcycle test including CBT, module 1 & module 2 (theory test is not included) through an approved KRTS school between 20th September 2023 and 10th November 2023 is eligible to receive a redemption code for a free one-day ticket to the 2023 Motorcycle Live Show at the NEC, Birmingham 18-26 November 2023. All test passers must email [email protected] to request their unique redemption code which can be used to claim a free one-day show ticket which can be used on any show day of your choice. A maximum of one Motorcycle Live Show 2023 entry ticket is available to each person who completes their test, regardless of how many tests are completed during the offer period. For any questions, or to request your code, please email [email protected]. For further detail on Motorcycle Live visit www.motorcyclelive.co.uk’
Kawasaki set for biggest ever Motorcycle Live!
The countdown to this year’s Motorcycle Live Show is on, with the annual two-wheel extravaganza returning to the NEC, Birmingham from the 18th – 26th November. Kawasaki is excited to confirm it will be returning once again with what is set to be our most exciting year yet!
Returning with our unique double-storey stand we debuted at the 2022 show, visitors will be able to see the complete range of 2024 motorcycles. This includes the new Ninja ZX-4RR, ZX-6R, and Eliminator alongside popular models such as the entry-level Ninja and Z 125, the retro-inspired Z650RS and Z900RS, and the Versys 1000 range. The exciting Z e-1 and Ninja e-1 electric machines will also be on display, with more new announcements ahead of the Show.
Race fans are going to be well-catered for once again, with racing announcements and interviews being conducted throughout the nine-day event while the FS-3 Racing British Superbike duo of Jason O’Halloran and Max Cook will be revealing their 2024 livery live on the stand. Fresh from announcing the exciting new Kawasaki British Superteen Championship, we have teamed up with Moto Trainer Simulator to create the “Kawasaki Superteen Challenge”. Using four Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RRs, the simulator will let visitors go head-to-head, with daily prizes on offer for our winners!
If all that wasn’t enough, we’ll also welcome our wide range of experience partners, including the California Superbike School and Kawasaki MX Experience, to the stand, showcasing their machines and chatting with guests. Official Kawasaki clothing and merchandise will be available from our shop, perfect for those looking for a special Christmas present for the bikers in their life.
Eager to showcase the benefits of two wheels to as many people as possible, we are excited to launch a unique new promotion to those looking to start their riding journey with Kawasaki. Anyone who passes their CBT or any other practical motorcycle test with Kawasaki Rider Training Services between September 20th and November 10th will be able to receive a free one-day ticket to Motorcycle Live!* We will also have our Z125 ready for test rides in the Show’s popular TryRIDE zone. Every day during the show – MCIA TryRIDE will offer free motorcycle lessons to anyone aged 14 or over with a professional instructor, provide protective clothing too – and it's free!
Once again, we are looking forward to welcoming our Club Kawasaki members to our stand. All members and their guests are invited to join us in our hospitality suite to escape the hustle and bustle of the Show and enjoy our free refreshments. We will also be hosting our exclusive preview event again, which gives Club Members early access to the Show, where they can enjoy a hot breakfast roll and drink before being given an overview of the latest machines on the stand. You can find out more information and book your spot here. All Club Members will also be able to enjoy a 10% discount in our Show shop.
Tickets for Motorcycle Live 2024 are available now, and don’t forget you can also enter our competition to win a brand-new Ninja ZX-4RR!
*Terms & Conditions: Anyone who passes a practical motorcycle test including CBT, module 1 & module 2 (theory test is not included) through an approved KRTS school between 20th September 2023 and 10th November 2023 is eligible to receive a redemption code for a free one-day ticket to the 2023 Motorcycle Live Show at the NEC, Birmingham 18-26 November 2023. All test passers must email [email protected] to request their unique redemption code which can be used to claim a free one-day show ticket which can be used on any show day of your choice. A maximum of one Motorcycle Live Show 2023 entry ticket is available to each person who completes their test, regardless of how many tests are completed during the offer period. For any questions, or to request your code, please email [email protected]. For further detail on Motorcycle Live visit www.motorcyclelive.co.uk
Axel Bassani to Join KRT
Axel Bassani has been confirmed as a Kawasaki Racing Team rider for the 2024 season and beyond. He will join established KRT rider Alex Lowes to complete the team’s line up for next season on the official Ninja ZX-10RR.
Bassani (24) is one of the most exciting talents to rise from inside the WorldSBK paddock in recent years. He has amassed six podium finishes since he made the jump to WorldSBK racing in 2021, finishing ninth overall that year and scoring his first podium at KRT’s home round of Barcelona – Catalunya, on his MotoCorsa Ducati.
The ambitious and increasingly skilled Bassani would score three podiums the next season as he finished seventh overall. He was the top competitor in the Independent Riders’ standings in 2022, beating his closest opposition by over 100 points.
At time of writing he is fifth in the overall WorldSBK standings in 2023, and easily the best Independent Rider with two rounds to go.
His relative youth and obvious talent has made him an attractive proposition for many teams and with Jonathan Rea leaving the KRT set-up for 2024, Bassani was seen as the best prospect to be teamed up with Alex Lowes for a full campaign next year.
Bassani has scored six WorldSBK podiums already and is looking forward to having his first ride on the official KRT Ninja ZX-10RR machine once his contract with his current team expires.
Axel Bassani, stated: “I'm really happy for the important opportunity that Kawasaki is offering me. I will give the best of myself on and off the track to achieve the best possible results, hoping to give all the Kawasaki fans great emotions and satisfaction! I want to thank my family for the sacrifices made and Lorenzo Mauri for the path we have taken together which has allowed me to stand out in recent years. See you soon on the track.”
Guim Roda, Team Manager of KRT, stated: “Our 2024 strategy was set months ago, but Rea's move made us rethink the organisational logic at KRT. We spoke internally with KMC and the decision was to take a younger rider with the potential to win races and who knew how to take advantage of all the KRT experience. His image is fresh, sincere, fun and has a lot of potential to represent Kawasaki's image in the world. Alex Lowes will now need to apply all of his experience, while Axel will have a bit of time to learn. We are very happy with the structure we have proposed for 2024 and we are very motivated to enjoy racing and take advantage of the best aspects of the Ninja ZX-10RR. I hope the fans enjoy next season with this latest project we are working on.”
Steve Guttridge, Kawasaki Motors Europe, Race Planning Manager, stated: “While we continue to compete for wins and podiums in the remaining races of the 2023 season with Jonathan and Alex, already the Kawasaki Racing Team is long-term planning for next season. It is almost impossible to express the impact that Jonathan has had within the Kawasaki racing family and as he leaves us at the end of the season there is a golden opportunity for a rider new to our racing project to make an impression. We are delighted to have signed Axel and our feeling is that his impressive track record so far is only a small indication of his future potential. We look forward to realizing that potential and seeing him blossom on the KRT Ninja ZX-10RR.”
Shigemi Tanaka, General Manager of Marketing and Sales Division, Kawasaki Motors Ltd., Japan, concluded: “Our WorldSBK racing project has achieved multiple manufacturer and rider World Championships in recent years; first with Tom Sykes and then thanks to Jonathan Rea. The news that Jonathan will move elsewhere in 2024 signifies the end of one incredible chapter and the beginning of another in Kawasaki’s illustrious racing history. The global Kawasaki family welcomes the news that Axel Bassani joins the KRT racing project for the coming season and we are confident that, in partnership with Alex Lowes, we will once again field two exciting and success hungry riders on our iconic Ninja machinery in the 2024 WorldSBK Championship.”