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.

The unique and much loved “versatile system” that lays at the core of the mid and large capacity Versys range continues into 2023 offering a number of new colour options while highlighting the many Editions that are possible for either the two-cylinder 650 class machine or the four-cylinder litre class Versys 1000. 

Whether riding solo or two-up, around the corner or around the globe both the nimble 650 Versys and the continent crushing 1000cc class machines have engines tuned for flexibility, and lithe chassis specifications allied to a characteristic relaxed, upright riding position offering a high level of machine control and comfortable seating for rider and passenger.  With impressive wind protection as standard, it’s easy to spend a long and rewarding time in the saddle of a Versys.

In terms of the Versys 1000, there are three model types for 2024 each with an array of accessories available or the choice of Edition versions. Even the standard version comes equipped with Electronic Cruise Control plus Kawasaki KTRC Traction Control, Power Modes and an Assist and Slipper clutch plus Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System while many features found on the S and SE model are additional accessory options.

The Versys 1000 S takes the ‘any roads’ platform to the next level offering linked Traction Control and Power Modes plus up/down quick shifter, LED Cornering Lights, a TFT meter panel and grip heaters plus hand covers as just part of its comprehensive showroom floor package. Moving to the most technical and state-of-the-art Versys 1000, the SE model includes the addition of advanced Showa electronically damped suspension to the matrix facilitating Skyhook technology whereby the attitude of the machine is targeted to remain stable as the suspension moves to absorb road deviations.

For the Versys 650 the message for 2024 is “the same but different” with its own range of Edition options available. While there is one base platform, it is possible to either personalise on an individual basis selecting from a range of genuine accessories or opt for one of four Edition models offered. Complete with KTRC traction control, LED lighting and Bluetooth connection as standard, the flickable Versys 650 also boasts a colour TFT meter and adjustable windscreen as part of the foundation spec. Allied to this are Urban, Tourer, Grand Tourer and Grand Tourer Plus Edition models each offering a rising increment in specification from the addition of colour-coded “one key system” luggage to other carefully chosen accessory items.  

In terms of the Versys 1000 there are three Edition models over and above the standard specification or the possibility of an owner creating their own machine identity from the official Kawasaki accessory range. The Versys 1000 Tourer sits proudly alongside the Versys Tourer Plus and Grand Tourer with each of the three model bases available in one of the three options making a 1000cc class range of an amazing twelve machines while the 650 range amounts to an impressive five machines.

Colours for the Versys 650 in 2024 are Metallic Smoke Gold/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark Black or Candy Lime Green/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark Black and the new model will be available from January, with prices starting from: Versys 650 – £8,249

Versys 650 Tourer – £9,049

Versys 650 Grand Tourer – £10,649 

The 2023 Versys 1000 will be available from November in Metallic Matte Graphensteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black. Prices start from:

Versys 1000 – £10,879

Versys 1000 Tourer – £11,829

Versys 1000 Grand Tourer – £12,779 

The Versys 1000 S will also be available from November in either Emerald Blazed Green/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black or Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black. Prices start from:

Versys 1000 S – £13,579

Versys 1000 S Tourer – £14,329

Versys 1000 S Grand Tourer – £15,279 

Finally, the Versys 1000 SE comes in Emerald Blazed Green/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black or Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black. Available from November, prices start from:

Versys 1000 SE – £15,569

Versys 1000 SE Tourer – £16,319

Versys 1000 SE Grand Tourer – £17,269 

They say there is always strength in numbers and the 2024 Versys 650 and 1000 range proves that beyond doubt with a staggering twelve possible model editions to choose from. A vast and versatile 2024 range- if adventure calls then it must be the Versys from Kawasaki.

Power and poise is a hard balance to achieve – especially in the Supersport arena – but the duo of Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R machines for the 2023 season have become a benchmark for highly focused, controllable power allied to handling precision and some useful “creature comforts”.

With low drag co-efficient aerodynamic bodywork, the Ninja ZX-10R family benefits from integrated bodywork winglets that contribute to both downforce and assured front end stability. Equipped with highly efficient, compact LED headlights, the easy-to-read colour TFT instrumentation can be paired with the rider’s Smartphone thanks to Kawasaki’s Rideology app giving various machine status updates even when not on the machine. Other rider focused features include electronic cruise control, integrated rider modes and KCMF, Kawasaki’s innovative cornering management function delivering the best response and traction in all riding conditions.

It’s no secret that both motorcycles have greatly benefited from the experience of KRT, (the Kawasaki Racing Team) and, most especially, the unique insight of multiple WorldSBK champion, Jonathan Rea plus race engineers in Europe and Japan.    

The formidable 998 cm³ Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line Four DOHC, 16 valve motor of the Ninja ZX-10R peaks at a heady 149.3 kW {203 PS} at 13,200 rpm while, with RamAir assistance, the “race-base” Ninja ZX-10RR boosts that to 214 PS at 14,000 rpm. Matched to an Assist and Slipper clutch, sports traction control, close ratio transmissions and even launch control, the racing pedigree of both machines is self-evident; and that goes for the chassis too.

The light handling chassis’ of both machines feature 43 mm inverted Balance Free front forks with external compression chambers, compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability plus top-out springs. At the rear the horizontal back-link suspension with BFRC lite gas-charged shock of each machine features a piggyback reservoir, compression and rebound damping plus spring preload adjustability and a top-out spring. Braking up front is down to a pair of 330mm Brembo discs with dual radial-mount, Brembo M50 monobloc opposed 4-piston calipers.

The racetrack influence even extends to the design of the air-cooled oil cooler which KRT helped develop in the white heat of competition. And it’s within the jungle of competing for race honours that the Ninja ZX-10RR has its happy hunting ground. Honed to a different state of tune compared to the ZX-10R, the RR model has been created to be the base bike for Superbike competition with a higher revving engine and an array of exotic components taking its performance potential to the next level.

The spec sheet of the RR is formidable listing such things as steel braided front brake lines, lightweight Pankl titanium connecting rods, special valve springs, RR-specific camshafts, lightweight Pankl pistons and DLC lightweight piston pins plus Marchesini forged wheels shod with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa tyres and a solo seat.

The venerated Ninja name will once again be ready for the fight for track and street supremacy in 2023 and it is beyond doubt that the next chapter of the litre class Ninja legend will be created. A

vailable from November, the costs and colour options for the Ninja ZX-10R and Ninja ZX-10RR for 2023 are:

Ninja ZX-10R   – £17,499

Pearl robotic white/metallic diablo black

Lime green/ebony

Ninja ZX-10RR – £25,429      

Lime green

Many bikers will talk fondly of their “first real bike” and for current two-wheel fans the ideal candidates to tempt riders are the Z125 and Ninja 125. Both equipped as standard with ABS and tube type trellis chassis configurations accommodating Kawasaki’s unique Uni-Trak rear suspension, both machines have changes to the colour way options offered for 2023.

A1, A2 and B licence rider friendly with 15PS (11kW) available from their 125 cm3 4-stroke single-cylinder electric start engines delivered via six speed gearboxes, the choice between bold naked Z good looks and the scalpel precision of the race inspired cowling equipped Ninja is the only tough choice riders have to make.

Both models feature full digital instrumentation and also offer Kawasaki’s Ergo-Fit system meaning accessory seat pads can be swapped out to alter seat height according to rider size and preference. 

Available from early November, the colours and pricing for the Z125 and Ninja 125 for 2023 will be:

Z125 – starting from £4,299

Candy Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black
Pearl Storm Grey

Ninja 125 – starting from £4,599

Lime Green/Ebony

In a period of consistent and high demand, Kawasaki is excited to be announcing its range of carryover models for the 2023 season, with the new models hitting the showrooms soon. Alongside the previously announced return of the Ninja 400 and Z400, the Z900RS, Z900RS SE, Z650RS, Z900, Z900SE, Ninja 1000SX and Vulcan S join the 2023 lineup with a blend of updated colours and graphics.

The comprehensive range ensures that there is something for every rider, allowing everyone from new learners to experienced motorcyclists the chance to experience Kawasaki in 2023. 

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Z family in 2022, Kawasaki is now looking towards the next five decades. The instantly-recognisable Z900 finds expression under the halo of its unique-to-Kawasaki Sugomi styling and will be available in three colours for the new season, Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Graphite Grey/Metallic Flat Spark Black, Metallic Phantom Silver/Metallic Carbon Grey and Ebony/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Grey. For those riders seeking the next level of performance and refinement, the Z900SE remains in the range, coming in a unique Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Grey/Candy Lime Green. 

Bolstering the Z family is the hugely popular retro-inspired RS range. The recently introduced Z650RS covers both the entry-level and mid-capacity segments and will be available in Metallic Spark Black and Candy Emerald Green for the new season. The bigger capacity Z900RS continues to offer exceptional style, with two new colourways for 2023, including Candy Tone Blue and Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Imperial Red. 

Building on the superb Z900RS base, the immensely popular Z900RS SE evokes the 1970’s trend to personalise and focus on performance. Featuring an Öhlins S46 rear shock, re-tuned front suspension settings with a new front fork finish and Brembo M4.32 front brake callipers and disc alongside an instantly-recognisable and evocative paint scheme, it is clear to see why the machine has been in such high demand since its launch. 

For riders seeking the perfect blend of sporty handling and touring performance, the Ninja1000SX features as Electronic Cruise Control, an Up-Down quick shifter, Assist and Slipper Clutch, Integrated Rider Modes (combining traction control and Power Modes) and a Cornering Management Function as standard, ensuring riders can truly enjoy the best of both worlds. Alongside the iconic Emerald Blazed Green/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Graphite Grey colours, the 2023 model will also be available in Metallic Matte Sovereign Red/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Matte Carbon Grey. 

The A2-compliant cruiser, Vulcan S, continues its Metallic Flat Spark Black paint scheme and will be joined by the new option of Metallic Matte Carbon Grey/Ebony with new graphics. 

The full range of carryover models, new colours and pricing is listed below, with retail availability announced shortly. 

The unique Sugomi style of the Z650 allied to the sharp racetrack styling of the Ninja 650 has created two stand out models in Kawasaki’s A2 compliant stable, now they are set to take even greater control of their segment.

With leading edge innovation and encompassing the latest two-wheel technology, Kawasaki’s radar-equipped Ninja H2 SX and H2 SX SE boast a wealth of cutting-edge rider aids focused on safety, convenience and rider/passenger infotainment.

In a move to highlight the key features of these range topping machines, Kawasaki has created a series of tutorial videos designed the explain features, functionality and setting procedures in a clear “step-by-step” format.

Available by Kawasaki country Branch public platforms and also via the Kawasaki Motors Europe YouTube page – either via language specific commentary or with subtitles – there are four videos in the series highlighting such features as Adaptive Cruise Control, Kawasaki SPIN Infotainment, Blind Spot Detection and Forward Collision warning.

As Eleanor van Winsen of Kawasaki’s European Corporate Marketing Department explains, the videos form part of an overall suite of information.

“The owner’s manual is very concise and covers every aspect of these machines in superb detail. That said, we thought a video guide that showed the features and how to use and adjust them in a “real life” situation would not only guide owners through the various features but also be of interest to potential owners.

Apart from the on-board radar system, there are an incredible array of rider aids and assistance features on these motorcycles, so we chose the headline items and created videos to show exactly how these aids and features work.

”The 10 languages covered by the tutorial video programme for Ninja H2 SX and H2 SX SE are:

• English
• Spanish
• Italian
• Dutch
• French
• German
• Swedish
• Polish
• Russian
• Portuguese   

Kawasaki is delighted to announce that six-times WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea has signed a two-year contract extension to race inside the official Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT), continuing a highly successful partnership that began in 2015.

After taking over 100 WorldSBK race wins on Kawasaki machinery Jonathan has shown characteristically high levels of motivation and confidence in the future of the overall KRT programme by extending his contract for the next two seasons. 

The Ninja ZX-10RR programme will continue to be developed and this commitment has been central to Jonathan’s decision to remain inside the official Kawasaki WorldSBK effort. 

Kawasaki has also underlined its commitment to remain in WorldSBK as it is considered the perfect World stage in which to show Kawasaki’s technical strengths and development prowess, with its flagship motorcycle products being central to the entire endeavour. 

All parties are happy to have concluded this agreement relatively early in the season, as it will allow KRT and Jonathan a clear run to concentrate on their immediate joint goal of winning the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship.

Jonathan Rea, stated: “I am really happy and excited to renew my contract with Kawasaki, to roll on for another two more years. It has been an incredible partnership, we have enjoyed so much success together that it is almost a natural progression. There was not much negotiation needed to continue together from both sides. It was more a case of how much more motivation I had to keep racing at the highest level in the WorldSBK championship. It has been an incredible few seasons; more competitive than ever. I have realised how motivated I am to continue and to continue fighting to win. Kawasaki gave me the opportunity back in 2015 to realise a childhood dream when I won the WorldSBK championship in the first year together. As a partnership we are so solid, and I am looking forward to continue making memories and representing an incredible manufacturer and brand. My team is my racing family. I love everyone inside the team like my own family and relationships like that count for a lot in racing. Huge credit goes to every single person in the staff, from Provec Racing, all the engineers in Japan, and everyone in the Kawasaki family. I am excited to see what we can do over the next two seasons.” 

Guim Roda, KRT Team Manager, stated: “Since we signed Johnny for the 2015 season, and until now, we have written a nice part of WorldSBK’s history. We are so proud to be part of this Rea success story, which also means, Kawasaki’s success story. It’s going on eight seasons together now, and Johnny has been performing at the maximum, always. Nowadays, and at the age of 35, he is in his best shape, and we know there's still a lot of dancing left to be done. We have been working hard to define, with KMC, which kind of project we could create for Johnny to allow him to keep pushing at 110%. I think we gave him the motivation he needed to go for it for two years more. We can never rest on the laurels of our successful past, so we will have a hard job to cover JR’s expectations. We are ready for that. We guarantee it will be a real show for at least two more years…” 

Shigemi Tanaka, General Manager of Marketing & Sales Division at Kawasaki Motors Corporation, Japan, stated: “Since Jonathan joined KRT in 2015, we have achieved a number of significant feats together with the incredible combination of his riding talent and our Ninja ZX-10RR. We are delighted that he will take the next step together with us again for another two years aiming to reach further unprecedented heights for all Kawasaki fans across the world”. 

Steve Guttridge, Kawasaki Europe Race Planning Manager, stated: “Jonathan has been fundamental in creating an incredible relationship and a firm bond between the wider Kawasaki brand and the Ninja ZX-10RR in particular. Our six-time World Champion is undeniably part of the Kawasaki family and a history maker in his own right. Now, he has a chance to create another record-breaking chapter and we are eager to play a part in the next important phase of his racing journey.”  

Rea Statistics
Jonathan Rea: World Champion 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020
2022: Races 15, Wins 5, Podiums 13, Superpoles 2
Career Race Wins: 117 (102 for Kawasaki)
Career Podiums: 228 (186 for Kawasaki)
Career Poles: 37 (33 for Kawasaki) 

Kawasaki Statistics
8 x Riders’ Championships (Scott Russell 1993, Tom Sykes 2013, Rea 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020), 1 x EVO Riders’ Championship (David Salom 2014)
6 x Manufacturers’ Championships (Ninja ZX-10R 2015 & 2016, Ninja ZX-10RR 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020)
5 x Teams’ Championships (KRT/Provec Racing 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019) 

Kawasaki FIM Superbike World Championship Statistics
Total Kawasaki Race Wins: 176 – second overall
Total Kawasaki Podiums: 503 – second overall
Total Kawasaki Poles: 102 – second overall

With action getting underway on Sunday, 29th May, it marked 1,087 days since the riders had left Glencrutchery Road with haste. However, DAO Racing Kawasaki rider Dean Harrison wasted no time in getting up to speed, finishing the opening night with the second-fastest time. This form continued throughout the week, eventually securing the third-fastest time in the Superbike and Superstock classes and fourth in the Supersport. 

The Superbike TT on Saturday 4th June saw a strong start for the Ninja ZX-10RR machine of Harrison, running third as he reached the opening timing point at Glen Helen on lap one. By the time he had reached Ramsey Hairpin, he had moved up to second, where he would remain until the chequered flag, taking Kawasaki’s first podium of the week. Dafabet Racing’s Rob Hodson was 13th, while fellow Kawasaki riders Mark Goodings and Josh Daley were 16th and 22nd, respectively. 

Monday saw the first of the Supersport races, which proved to be one of the most enthralling of the week as Dean and Michael Dunlop went head to head over four laps, separated by less than a second for much of the race. Dean was able to close the gap to as little as 0.1s by Glen Helen on the final lap but narrowly missed out on the win, in the end, taking another superb second place. Other notable Kawasaki finishes included Dom Herbertson in 9th and Craig Neve in 20th. 

After a fourth place in the Superstock TT, Dean was ready to make amends in the second Supersport outing, where he returned to the podium with third. However, in between those two races was the Supertwin TT, which saw Paul Jordan claim his maiden Isle of Man TT podium with third place. 

After a rain delay on Friday postponed the Senior TT to the Saturday, all eyes were on Dean to see if he could repeat his success in 2019. After leading by half a second at Glen Helen on lap one, a collision with a bird around the opening lap saw a large hole in the screen of his Superbike. Despite this, Dean was able to maintain his pace to eventually finish second place. Rob Hodson finished 14th while Lukas Maurer also received a bronze replica in 23rd. 

Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki UK:

“The 2022 Isle of Man TT proved to be a fortnight of highs and lows, but it was amazing to see the island buzzing with bikers again. Dean and the entire DAO Kawasaki team worked tirelessly over the fortnight, and their efforts were rewarded with four podiums in the toughest race in the world. It was also great to see Paul take his first, of what I’m sure will be many, podium in the Supertwin race.

After a three-year hiatus, the Isle of Man TT returned over the last two weeks, and it proved a fantastic event for Kawasaki, with podiums coming in the Superbike, Supersport, Supertwin, and Senior TT races.  

With action getting underway on Sunday, 29th May, it marked 1,087 days since the riders had left Glencrutchery Road with haste. However, DAO Racing Kawasaki rider Dean Harrison wasted no time in getting up to speed, finishing the opening night with the second-fastest time. 

This form continued throughout the week, eventually securing the third-fastest time in the Superbike and Superstock classes and fourth in the Supersport. The Superbike TT on Saturday 4th June saw a strong start for the Ninja ZX-10RR machine of Harrison, running third as he reached the opening timing point at Glen Helen on lap one. By the time he had reached Ramsey Hairpin, he had moved up to second, where he would remain until the chequered flag, taking Kawasaki’s first podium of the week. 

Dafabet Racing’s Rob Hodson was 13th, while fellow Kawasaki riders Mark Goodings and Josh Daley were 16th and 22nd, respectively. Monday saw the first of the Supersport races, which proved to be one of the most enthralling of the week as Dean and Michael Dunlop went head to head over four laps, separated by less than a second for much of the race. 

Dean was able to close the gap to as little as 0.1s by Glen Helen on the final lap but narrowly missed out on the win, in the end, taking another superb second place. Other notable Kawasaki finishes included Dom Herbertson in 9th and Craig Neve in 20th. After a fourth place in the Superstock TT, Dean was ready to make amends in the second Supersport outing, where he returned to the podium with third. However, in between those two races was the Supertwin TT, which saw Paul Jordan claim his maiden Isle of Man TT podium with third place. 

After a rain delay on Friday postponed the Senior TT to the Saturday, all eyes were on Dean to see if he could repeat his success in 2019. After leading by half a second at Glen Helen on lap one, a collision with a bird around the opening lap saw a large hole in the screen of his Superbike. 

Despite this, Dean was able to maintain his pace to eventually finish second place. Rob Hodson finished 14th while Lukas Maurer also received a bronze replica in 23rd. 

“The 2022 Isle of Man TT proved to be a fortnight of highs and lows, but it was amazing to see the island buzzing with bikers again. Dean and the entire DAO Kawasaki team worked tirelessly over the fortnight, and their efforts were rewarded with four podiums in the toughest race in the world. It was also great to see Paul take his first, of what I’m sure will be many, podium in the Supertwin race.

Two of Kawasaki’s stand-out A2 licence compliant machines of recent years make a welcome return for the 2023 model year line up.

As the naked style category continues to expand in size and popularity, the Z400 will ably fulfil the need for a Z model for A2 licence holders fashioned in the same style as its Sugomi styled Z siblings. 2022 has witnessed celebrations highlighting 50 years of the famous Z range providing a springboard for the re-introduction of the Euro5 compliant Z400 complete with its 399 cm3 parallel twin water-cooled engine delivering 33.4 kW (45PS) and 37 N.m (3.8kg-m) of torque at 8,000 rpm.   

Complete with an assist and slipper clutch and a trellis frame mirroring the chassis of the range-leading Z H2, the Z400 provides a big bike personality in a manageable package for those making their way up the capacity ladder or those who feel the 400cc class is their ideal destination.

A seat height of 785 mm contributes towards admirable manoeuvrability while Kawasaki’s unique ERGO-fit optional seat enhances riding comfort for taller riders, making the Z400 the most logical choice in class.

Track focused fans also have good reason to rejoice in 2023 as the range partner for the Z model will be the highly popular Ninja 400. The base machine for race and Championship winning machinery in the highly competitive WorldSSP300 Championship, the handling and performance credentials of the Ninja need no further amplification. 

The chosen mount of current champion, Adrian Huertas, the new 2023 Ninja 400 shares its A2 licence compliance with the Z400 along with a tubular trellis chassis and powerful 286mm front disc brake coupled with an equally effective 193mm rear rotor.

Ninja style never goes out of fashion and the Ninja 400 revels in its family resemblance to the mighty Ninja ZX-10R, a machine that has achieved unparalleled levels of WorldSBK Championship success. And like its Ninja big brother, the 400-class machine also features an assist and slipper clutch facilitating smooth gear down changes and a 20% lighter lever pull at the handlebar.   

Anticipation for the re-introduction of not one but two A2 licence compliant 400cc class machines in Euro5 specification will build towards their addition to a comprehensive range for the 2023 model year creating tough yet enjoyable choice for prospective owners. Naked style or Ninja style, Kawasaki has the 2023 mid-capacity class bases covered.

Both machines will be available from mid-August with the prices to be confirmed. 

Ahead of practice kicking off on Saturday, 28th May, we thought we would catch up with reigning Senior TT winner Dean Harrison to find out the five key parts of the course for a fast lap and the five best places to watch from. 

Five sections for a fast lap

As one of the fastest men ever around the legendary TT course, Dean talks us through the five key sections to a quick lap:

1 – The Pit Stop
This is definitely one of the most important parts of any race, and with margins so close, a pit stop can be the difference between standing on the top step of the podium and not. For the Supersport and Supertwin races, we usually just fill up with fuel, while for the Superbike races, it also requires a tyre change. 

This can be a tense time for my team, but everyone has a specific role. One of them will focus on the rear tyre and making sure the spindle goes in correctly and doesn’t become threaded. Another will focus on filling the bike up with fuel, while another will help with replacing my visor and cleaning the screen. If all goes to plan, then it will take just over 50 seconds.

2 – Quarry Bends
When it comes to a fast lap, Quarry Bends is a crucial part of the course. This is around half way around the lap and the entry is essential if you want to get a fast run onto the Sulby Straight, which is the fastest part of the course. This can be a very physical part of the course as you have to lean the bike over from side to side at incredible speeds. While it’s tough, it can also be a lot of fun when you get it right.

3 – Rhencullen Jump
Another important part of the course is the run through Rhencullen. This is a very bumpy section of the track, and you really have to wrestle your machine to keep it on line. Getting the jump right here is crucial, as although you don’t really gain time if you do, it can be very easy to lose time if you get it wrong.

4 – Ballagarey
There’s a reason this section is nicknamed Ballascary! It’s an incredibly fast blind corner, and you are completely flat out on the approach, and it is one where you have to be perfect every lap as there’s no runoff, just stone walls on either side of the road. As you enter the corner, I will click down a gear, and then as you hit the apex, you’re doing around 130mph and are then back on the throttle again immediately as you head towards Crosby.

5 – The Mountain Run
The Mountain is one of the most iconic parts of the course, and it is the key to a fast lap. This section has a bit of everything from slow corners to flat out high speeds. Brandywell is one of the most essential parts; it’s the highest point on the course, and getting the run into this section right from Hailwood’s Rise is essential. The run back down towards the Grandstand is equally as important, and coming past the Creg, which is always packed with fans, is special, particularly on the last lap! Five sections to watch fromWhile those might be the key locations to a fast lap, where is the best place to watch from? 

Dean tells us his five favourite spots: 
1 – Bray Hill
Bray Hill might be one of the more popular places to watch from, but it’s definitely one of the best. Sitting in the gardens and watching a bike come flying through at over 180mph is something you won’t forget.

2 – Greeba Bridge
The exit of Greeba Bridge is another great space to watch, and if you head to The Hawthorn pub, you can watch as the riders exit and head down towards Gorselea and Ballacraine.

3 – Barregarrow
This is an incredibly fast corner, and the sense of speed is incredible; if you watch from the top, then you get a great view of the bikes leant over at high speed. Take a walk down to the bottom to watch the bikes bottom out – get there early, though, as space is limited! 

4 – Kirk Michael
Spectator spots are a little limited in Kirk Michael, but Whitehouse Park is one of the better options and offers great views through the village. There are also several spots on the side roads that you can watch from. 

5 – End of the Mountain Mile
The Mountain is always a special place to watch from, and the end of the Mountain Mile is a great place to see the bikes at incredible speeds alongside spectacular views over the island. 

Everyone here at Kawasaki Motors UK wishes Dean and the DAO Racing team the best of luck and hope to see as many people as possible cheering him on from the hedges!