UK-based World Endurance team ADSS97 Kawasaki is upping the ante for 2023, announcing an exciting new rider line up of Chris Walker, Levi Day, Chris Platt and Craig Currie. All four riders will be competing on a freshly prepared Superstock spec Ninja ZX-10R. 

2023 will mark a big step forward for the ADSS97 Kawasaki team. After several seasons competing in the Endurance World Championship Superstock class, the squad are now setting their sights on success with its strongest line up to date.  

Spearheading the effort is Kawasaki legend Chris Walker, who will be returning to the competitive world of endurance racing for the first time in over two decades.  Joining him on the Ninja ZX-10R will be Australian rider Levi Day, who has enjoyed great success in the National Superstock class in the UK. Team owner and experienced rider Chris Platt completes the team, having ridden Kawasaki machinery in both the British and World Endurance Championships. Craig Currie is on hand as reserve rider for the season as well as competing on three wheels in the World Sidecar Championship and Isle of Man TT. 

The ADSS97 Kawasaki team truck will also be the K-Tech Suspension Service Centre for the entire EWC Paddock. 

Kawasaki is mounting a full-throttle approach to the 2023 sales season with a newly updated Ninja ZX-10R plus a radical tech change to the WorldSBK race and title winning Ninja ZX-10RR.

For the Ninja ZX-10R model so loved by both street riders and track day enthusiasts, many of the most recent updates remain in place with an impressive maximum power of 149.3 kW {203PS} available that is boosted to 156.8 kW {213PS} with the aid of Kawasaki’s world-famous Ram Air.

In terms of aerodynamics and WorldSBK derived technology, the ZX-10R retains its integrated winglets for increased downforce and cornering precision while the Kawasaki Racing Team developed air-cooled oil-cooler also remains in place.

An array of electronic rider aids – thanks to the integration of a Bosch IMU – cover all aspects of machine control including cornering management, S-KTRC sport traction control, launch control, integrated braking plus engine brake control and selectable power modes and an up-down quick shifter and electronic cruise control. Riders can also link their Smartphone to the colour TFT meter using Kawasaki ‘s own Rideology App. 

With an engine that includes finger follower valve actuation (tech shared with the KX450 motocross machine), the Ninja ZX-10R rider can rely on the smoothness and accuracy of electronic throttle valves while riding feedback and racer-like precision is delivered thanks to SHOWA’s BFF (Balance Free Front Fork) up front while rear suspension duties are covered by Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension with Showa BFRC lite (Balance Free Rear Cushion).

For racers and race teams, the Ninja ZX-10RR has been a point of focus since its introduction and the big news for 2023 is the VAI or Variable Air Intake system. Fitted inside the airbox, the VAI system uses a set of movable intake funnels to alter the intake funnel height.  When the VAI funnels are raised, intake air bypasses the system for optimal high-rpm performance; when lowered, intake air passes through the taller intake funnels, for increased low-mid range performance.  Movement of the funnels is regulated by servos to maximise output at all rpm. 

As standard, the new ZX-10RR has the funnels set in a static upper position and for many riders this will be all they require. However, for racers competing in National and International Championships, the VAI system will be another welcome addition to the Ninja ZX-10RR spec that also includes Pankl precision engine parts, a higher rev limit than the standard Ninja ZX-10R and unique Marchesini wheels.

To activate the VAI feature, racing customers will require certain racing kit parts including a race-kit ECU, loom and sub-controller.  VAI is not activated as standard and is not available for those who wish to own and use a Ninja ZX-10RR on public roads.

Both the Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR look to 2023 with optimism, the road machine with its legendary personality and edge, while the ZX-10RR in the hands of KRT and other skilled riders seeks to make the racing top spot its own once again. 

 Kawasaki Motors Corporation has announced that it will launch a mid-weight, high performance machine in its famous Ninja range to be called the Ninja ZX-4R. Incorporating a newly designed engine and frame, the exciting new addition to Kawasaki’s Supersports line will also include Ninja ZX-4R SE and Ninja ZX-4RR variants in countries where they are introduced in February 2023 and thereafter. The model is expected in Europe in the Autumn of 2023.

With specifications varying by market, the most powerful Ninja ZX-4R is equipped with a high-output engine that delivers an exceptional 80 PS in a lightweight, compact Ninja ZX-25R-based chassis for superior cornering performance and acceleration feeling. At its introduction, the Ninja ZX will be the only full-fairing supersport model in the 400cc class with a parallel four-cylinder engine. It inherits the aggressive appearance and premium equipment expected of the Ninja ZX family while refining the sensation-provoking exhaust sound of the high-revving four-cylinder engine. 

Whether a seasoned rider or new to the joys of Supersport, Ninja ZX-4R riders will experience the exciting riding pleasure of the “APEX PREDATOR” concept on the racetrack or on the street. 

At the heart of this immediately impressive machine is a newly developed 399cc liquid-cooled, parallel 4-cylinder DOHC engine based on technology from Kawasaki's legendary Ninja ZX series of supersport machines, which is able to deliver a maximum output of 57 kW (77 PS) and 59 kW (80 PS) when ram air is pressurized*. The engine has been conceived to combine strong low- and mid-range torque with strong power at high rpm and in all riding situations, from daily use to on-track sport riding. 

Equipped with Kawasaki’s world-famous Ram Air system that increases filling efficiency and contributes to improved engine performance, the air intake is located in the centre of the upper cowl, providing styling that is instantly recognisable as part of the Ninja ZX series. The Ram Air ducts are located on the left side of the front forks, leading to the airbox while the “Ram Air” stamping is visible to the rider to show off the performance of the Ram Air system. The ultra high-revving engine, which revs above 15,000 rpm, delivers the exhilarating exhaust sound that only a Kawasaki high-performance parallel four-cylinder engine can deliver. 

In terms of chassis, the configuration is focused on excellent handling performance and is inspired by the chassis elements and design concept of the Ninja ZX-10RR World Superbike. Featuring a high-tensile steel trellis frame and a curved long-type swingarm, the frame achieves an idealised front-rear weight distribution plus an excellent balance of rigidity and flexibility, providing nimble handling and great rider feedback. 

Showa's advanced SFF-BP front fork (Ninja ZX-4R SE and Ninja ZX-4RR models feature a preload adjustment mechanism) is featured with the rear equipped with a horizontal back-link rear suspension system offering the same progressive characteristics of the Ninja ZX-10R supersport model, contributing to the superb handling performance typical of supersport models. Additionally, the Ninja ZX-4RR variant features the same type of Showa BFRC-lite rear shock as the Ninja ZX-10R. 

Braking power is delivered via f290mm semi-floating front twin discs and radial-mounted monobloc calipers, while the rear uses a large-diameter f220mm disc. The overall package delivers powerful braking force and excellent brake feel, response and power. In terms of braking effectiveness and grip, the F120/R160 tyre combination adopted is designed to match the Ninja ZX-4R's dynamic performance and provide excellent stability at high speeds. 

At first sight there is no mistaking the lines of this new Ninja with its aggressive styling that exudes the power and instantaneous force that the Ninja ZX series is known for. The Ninja ZX-4R's high-grade appearance is also enhanced by the use of LEDs for all lighting, from the twin-light headlight to the taillight. 

Electronic rider aids also feature prominently on this latest Ninja with integrated riding modes that link KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control) and Power Modes. From four different modes – Sport, Road, Rain, and Rider (Manual), the rider can easily select the appropriate setting to suit the riding conditions and his or her own riding style. Also fitted to the Ninja ZX-4R SE and Ninja ZX-4RR is a dual direction KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter) enabling clutchless shifting up/down.           

The meter panel of the Ninja ZX-4R is equipped with a 4.3-inch full-digital colour LCD screen providing high visibility and a premium feel. It integrates a track mode that displays lap times, gear positions, and RPMs from 10,000 rpm and above in an easy-to-read manner. The Kawasaki RIDEOLOGY application can be used to connect to a Smartphone for a variety of functions, including recording GPS route information and vehicle riding information. 

In addition to the Ninja ZX-4R, the following two variants are available: 

• Specifications subject to change without notice
• Specifications may vary by market
• Introduction dates (and model variants introduced) may vary by market

If you made a new year resolution to take no personal baggage into 2023 you are out of luck, Kawasaki has just launched an expanded range of desirable high-quality luggage for the new season, and it covers all the bases.

From backpacks to trolley bags all the way up to a bag large enough to carry an entire set of riding gear, the range comprises six items for the new season with no less than three bags making their debuts.

A 20l capacity sports backpack is first in line complete with lap top pocket, Kawasaki Rivermark logo and even Kawasaki branded zip pullers. Like most partner bags in the range, the dominant colour is black with subtle and effective lime green and white highlights.

Also new is a highly adaptable Canvas bag with both shoulder straps and carry handles that features a convenient padded base so delicate items are cushioned when you put the 27l capacity bag down. To close, the bag features an eyelet and chord hook fastener system further increasing its urban chic credentials.

From respected luggage maker Ogio there are four Kawasaki branded items to complete the 2023 range. For all weather riders and “outdoorsy” types, the waterproof backpack is a boon. Created in welded 420D nylon with a TPU film laminate, its main job in life is keeping your gear dry with the much favoured roll top closing plus three water resistant outer pockets and a capacity of 26l.

This is partnered by an Ogio backpack that can accommodate a large laptop (up to 17inches or 43.2cm) and an overall 40l capacity. It’s also worth noting that many items in the 2023 range comply with airline carry on regulations so check when you book and make your travelling life faster and easier.

And for frequent flyers in the check-in queue, the Ogio trolley bag takes up to 50l. With its telescopic pull handle, integrated wheels and reinforced contact points, this subtle black bag with white Kawasaki logo is classy and practical in equal measure.

Speaking of flights, last off the luggage carousel is the Kawasaki Ogio gear bag featuring SLED technology which stands for Structural Load Equalising Deck. Big rubber tyred wheels mean business and the telescopic pull handle is well up to the job of manoeuvring a “that’s it I’m off to a foreign track day” gear bag that can cope with a humungous 123l load.

It’s a fact of life – if you have stuff, you need a bag and Kawasaki have just about the most practical, durable, and fashionable branded range ready for you at your local dealer or to order from selected on-line outlets. So, make a new year resolution you are happy to keep, travel in style in 2023 with Kawasaki. 

For further information – including dimensions and prices – please go to www.kawasaki.co.uk

Echoing the colour and graphic treatment of the 2023 Ninja ZX-10R in dealer showrooms, both Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes – plus the entire KRT factory superbike racing family – will sport predominantly black and lime green clothing, as expected, yet with the subtle details and design touches expected of a multiple World Championship winning team.

With garments created and styled for both male and female race fans, there are also some mini items for future champions to show mum, dad and the whole world who they support.

In terms of outer wear – and let’s face it, a little rain must fall sometimes – the water-resistant padded jacket features a detachable hood, zipped inner and outer pockets plus internal sleeve cuff. With taped seams, a horizontal quilted thermal lining, internal stretch cuffs and Kawasaki racing sponsor logo’s this jacket is a must have trackside at wet or cold race events.

Also water-resistant is the padded body warmer. Sharing the same taped seam technology with the padded jacket, it also features a quilted thermal lining, zipped pockets plus Kawasaki racing sponsor logo’s and is available – like all male cut clothing – in a range of sizes from S to 3XL.No sport or leisure clothing range could be complete without a T shirt and, duly, the 2023 offering includes a short-sleeved crew neck T-shirt in Kawasaki WSBK team-colours resplendent in Kawasaki racing and sponsor logo’s and created from a single knit fabric with a 50/50 Cotton, Polyester mix.

Moving away from the male torso; there are two lower body clothing options available for men in 2023, a long leg Cargo style trouser and Bermuda shorts for those days when legs simply must be on display. Both styles have Zipped front pockets and feature Cargo style leg pockets plus flapped back pocket and sponsor logos. Again, these are available in male cut sizes from S to 3XL.For women the zipped KRT sweatshirt is going to be one of the most in-demand items sharing its colour way and detailing with the male version but benefiting from a style and cut focused on the female form.  And when the sun makes a welcome appearance, the rounded neck t-shirt is going to be essential wear created in an easy care 50/50 cotton and polyester mix. Like the female cut sweatshirt it is available for 2023 in a size range between S and XL.

The Kawasaki Racing Team are dressing for success in 2023 and now you can join them and show your true colours with the new range of genuine Kawasaki race team clothing.

The Official Kawasaki-supported Bennetts British Superbike Championship team, Cheshire Mouldings Kawasaki, is excited to confirm its full rider line up for the 2023 season, with reigning Junior Superstock Champion Max Cook joining Lee Jackson on the proven Ninja ZX-10RR Superbike.

After a turbulent 2022, the team is looking to regroup for next season and build an updated and advanced version of the Ninja ZX-10RR. This will ensure that multiple-Supersport race winner Bradley will have the best possible start to his career in the highly competitive series. 

However, stepping up from a 600cc machine to 1000cc is a big switch. That is why alongside the team working hard on advancing the Superbike, Bradley is fully focused on working on his fitness over the winter months to prepare for the challenges the larger capacity machine brings. 

“I’m grateful and excited to be making my debut Superbike season with the renowned Lee Hardy Racing team, onboard the proven Kawasaki ZX-10RR along with the Team Green family. It’s a dream come true so I can’t wait to get the ball rolling with the first test in 2023.” 

“I’m very excited to announce our new signing Bradley and particularly keen to secure Bradley for not only 2023 but it’s also important to retain Bradley for a second season. This opportunity will give Bradley a stable situation to learn the Kawasaki ZX-10RR Superbike without the pressure of having to try and succeed in year one. 

Bradley is a complete rookie to the Superbike championship however he has shown me great potential and certainly is a rider that has caught my eye. It is so nice to revert back to the roots of Lee Hardy Racing and give young talent an opportunity to develop and hopefully succeed within the BSB championship. 

There are many things you need to consider as a team owner when you are looking at a new venture, one thing that definitely helped me make my decision was the opening up of the Spanish testing again. This is a great opportunity for Bradley to throw his leg over the 2023 Kawasaki ZX-10RR and complete many laps in a relaxed environment, it's not just about learning the bike, this will also give Bradley the chance to understand his new crew and get comfortable working with a new team.” 

Australian rider Brayden will join the DAO Racing team, ready to build on a fantastic 2022 season in the National Superstock class. Finishing fourth overall, taking one victory and a further three podiums, the 27-year-old will make the switch to the Ninja ZX-10RR for next year, setting his sights firmly on challenging for the title. 

Bradford’s Dean Harrison will remain with the team for next season, again competing in the Bennetts British Superbike Championship to ensure he remains sharp and ‘bike fit’ ready for the North West 200 and Isle of Man TT in May. 

As the official Kawasaki UK Road Racing Team, the DAO Racing squad will be receiving factory support from Kawasaki in Japan, helping them to continue the development of the Superbike and allowing them to push for a repeat success of the memorable Senior TT win in 2019. 

“After several successful seasons on the roads, we are pleased to continue with DAO Racing as our official Road Racing team and excited to see them expand to the Superstock 1000 class! Brayden is a talented rider with a passion for success, and we hope that the combination of Brayden, the team and our Ninja ZX-10RR will bring that success we all strive for in 2023! With an even stronger Superbike for Dean, too, we believe that he will be well-positioned to fight for top honours on the roads next season. It can’t come soon enough!”

Engineered to be free, the 2023 Kawasaki H2 SX takes all the high-tech features of Kawasaki’s most advanced Sports Tourer ever and adds the convenience of auto high beam.

The ARAS equipped machine benefits from Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection plus, integrated into the new 6.5” colour TFT instrumentation, is Kawasaki's SPIN Infotainment system supporting the unique Rideology app offering a convenient rider/machine interface via Bluetooth and Smartphone. A Forward Collision Warning feature is built into the twin radar specification machine as well as the comfort of an Emergency Stop Signal warning following traffic of sudden braking.

With keyless KIPASS ignition, LED cornering lights, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and Vehicle Hold Assist (aiding uphill starts) as standard features, the list of equipment on the balanced supercharged machine marks it out as a class leading Sport Tourer, especially with the addition of Kawasaki’s one-key accessory clean mount pannier system complete with convenient inner bags. Lighting that leading position in 2023 is the innovative addition of Auto High Beam (AHB). Using a camera sensor to assess the brightness of the lights of vehicles ahead plus streetlights, etc. AHB automatically turns the bike’s LED high beam on or off as necessary. For the system to function, the dimmer/passing switch must be set to high beam and the bike must be travelling above 20 km/h in darkness. With the system engaged a green icon is displayed on the 6.5” TFT multifunction, colour instrument screen.

Consistently at the forefront of innovation, the path ahead is now clearly defined by the Auto High Beam equipped Ninja H2 SX. 

Colours for the two-model range in 2023 are:

Ninja H2 SX

–           Metallic Diablo Black 

–           Emerald Blazed Green/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Graphite Grey

In a landmark speech at the 2022 EICMA Motorcycle Show in Milan, the President of Kawasaki Motors Corporation, Mr Hiroshi Ito, unveiled a range of new and prototype Kawasaki models while sharing more details of a company-wide vision focused on Carbon Neutrality.

adidas and Kawasaki team up once again with another addition to the collaborative ZX footwear collection. This iteration comes in the form of the adidas ZX22 KAWASAKI, a future-ready sneaker inspired by the experimental forms and materials of the Kawasaki vehicle.

It is with great sadness that we communicate the news that Victor Steeman (MTM Kawasaki) has passed away after sustaining serious injuries during the first race of the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship finale at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve last weekend.

Despite the quick response in attending to him at trackside, and the efforts of the medical staff both on site and at the hospital in Faro, Victor passed away on Tuesday 11 October.
 
Steeman was still in contention for the 2022 WorldSSP300 championship before his accident, after a recent run of four race wins. He lined up on the grid in Portugal having just secured a new record of six career pole position starts in WorldSSP300.
 
Victor had enjoyed a successful early career in his native Netherlands, in the Rookies Cup and then in the IDM before his first full season in WorldSSP300 last year.
 
Kawasaki extends it sincere condolences to his family, friends and all those in the close-knit MTM team at this difficult time.
 
Steve Guttridge, Kawasaki Race Planning Manager, stated: “Victor was a hero to all of us at Kawasaki. He had achieved much in his racing journey already, even at such a young age. We express our deepest sympathies to his friends and family, and of course all of his supporters and the crew of his MTM team, at this sad time.”

On Tuesday 4 October Kawasaki offered a tempting glimpse of just one option for future motive power by revealing the prototype of a promised EV production machine.

First seen in action at the Suzuka 8 Hour event, the EV model was one element of a wide-ranging speech presented by Managing Director of Kawasaki Motors Europe, Mr Masaya Tsuruno.

Reflecting on the commitment of Mr Hiroshi Ito, the President of Kawasaki Motors, to present at least three electric vehicles globally by 2022, Mr Tsuruno stressed that the prototype – that was on display for just the duration of the Press Conference – would form the basis of an actual future production machine.

While underlining Kawasaki’s continuing commitment to Internal Combustion Engines, Mr Tsuruno added that both E-fuel and Bio-fuel were among the options being considered in addition to the much reported research into hydrogen as a possible carbon neutral choice.

With its undoubted huge internal resourced and experience, Kawasaki is well placed to play a significant part in both the transport evolution via new and emerging technology, in addition to an enviable track record of internal combustion engine innovation. And, as Mr Tsuruno explained, the company is actively involved in partnerships which are not confined to simply the two-wheel world but encompass both automotive and other future-focused technologies, commenting that:
“We are highly motivated and strongly connected and will continue our research and development”.

In closing, Mr Tsuruno revealed that the company is committed to further strengthening the Kawasaki brand, to offer products and services that meet customer needs, continue research into carbon neutrality and explore every opportunity.

Harnessing Kawasaki’s unique in-house developed balanced supercharger technology, the 147.1 kW {200 PS} rated Z H2 and its sparring partner, the Z H2 SE, boast impressive specifications with an array of technology and rider aids that justify their positions at the forefront of the naked bike segment.

For the Z H2 this means such features as IMU enhanced electronics package encompassing electronic cruise control, traction control, power mode selection, launch control plus other top line items like a dual direction quick shifter and integrated braking along with an assist and slipper clutch.

And on the subject of braking, the Z H2 benefits from Brembo M4.32 calipers while the Z H2 SE boasts the Italian firm’s latest Stylema calipers along with Showa electronically damped suspension featuring state-of-the-art Skyhook technology designed to keep the machine attitude stable while the suspension absorbs road deviations.

With both machines benefiting from a Ninja H2 derived trellis tube chassis and all LED lighting integrated into the unique Sugomi styling, the rider view is dominated by the “fat” type handlebar and highly praised colour TFT meter display featuring Smartphone connectivity allowing riders to use version two of the Kawasaki Rideology App. 

Add a Performance Edition to the mix featuring a large smoke meter cover, gel tank pad, colour coded seat cover and titanium Akrapovic exhaust silencer and the choice of which Z H2 to focus on gets even harder.

In 2023, the Z H2 will be available in Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Ebony, costing £17,299.

The Z H2 SE will be in showrooms resplendent in Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Ebony/Mirror Coated Black, costing £19,799.

Both models will be available from February.