James Hillier and Bournemouth Kawasaki reunite for TT 2024!
Kawasaki UK is excited to announce that James Hillier will be returning to Team Green for the 2024 Isle of Man TT, reuniting with long-time partner Bournemouth Kawasaki Racing to compete in the Supersport class aboard a 40th anniversary-liveried Ninja ZX-6R!
The pairing have enjoyed a rich history at the iconic event, securing multiple podium finishes together across multiple classes. However, it’s been the Supersport class where they have enjoyed the most success, scoring five podiums with the Ninja ZX-6R.
After several years away, the Bournemouth Kawasaki team is returning to the Isle of Man TT and will be partnering with Hillier once again. With 2024 marking the 40th anniversary of the iconic Kawasaki Ninja brand, the team will be running the latest ZX-6R in the highly popular green, white and blue anniversary colours.
James Hillier:
“I’m excited to be back with Pete and the team at Bournemouth Kawasaki once again for the Supersport races. We collectively have a lot of knowledge and data after many years racing together and at the TT that’s a crucial element to being competitive.”
Pete Extance, Bournemouth Kawasaki Team Owner:
“We are really looking forward to our return to the Isle of Man TT as Bournemouth Kawasaki Racing, which we are proud to say is an in-house dealer effort. The TT is, without doubt, the best road race in the world, and we are over the moon to be back involved in 2024. It’s a great honour to be running James again, and even more so with the 40th Anniversary liveried Ninja machine. Big thanks to Kawasaki UK for the support.”
Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department:
“We are really happy to welcome James back into the Kawasaki fold for the Supersport races this year. Together with Pete and the Bournemouth Kawasaki team we have collectively enjoyed a great deal of success over the years, so we are really hopeful of more trophies in 2024! We’d like to thank both Pete and James for pulling this together, and we can’t wait to see him head off down Bray Hill on what will be a stunning retro-themed Ninja ZX-6R!”
The popular Kawasaki Dealer Demo Days return for 2024!
This summer, riders across the UK will once again be able to enjoy the latest models in the 2024 Kawasaki range when the brand's popular Dealer Demo Days roadshow returns. Kicking off in April, the event will visit dealers the length and breadth of the country.
With summer just around the corner, the Kawasaki Dealer Demo Days is the perfect opportunity for riders to get out on the road and try the latest 2024 Kawasaki range. This year's event will run between April and September and will see the roadshow visit dozens of dealers across the UK, so customers should keep an eye on their local dealers for their closest event.
Each event will see a huge array of machines for riders to book test rides on, including the exciting new Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z 7 Hybrid machines, Ninja ZX-4RR, Z500 and Ninja 500. Alongside these new models, attendees will also be able to try the ever-popular Ninja 1000SX and Versys range.
Craig Watson, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kawasaki Motors UK:
“With the better weather just around the corner, the excitement to get out riding again is definitely building! Our Dealer Demo Days have been a huge success in recent years, so we're pleased to be bringing them back again for 2024, offering bikers a chance to experience some of the latest and exciting machines in our range.”
Full line-up of models available to test ride:
Z500 SE
Ninja 500 SE
Eliminator SE
Ninja 650
Ninja ZX-4RR
Ninja ZX-6R
Z 7 Hybrid*
Ninja 7 Hybrid*
Z900 SE
Z900RS
Ninja 1000SX
Versys 1000 SE
Ninja ZX-10R
Ninja H2 SX SE
Z H2 SE
*Hybrid machines are subject to availability
SUZUKI OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND SET FOR 15TH-17TH MARCH
Suzuki dealerships nationwide will take part in a Suzuki Spring Open House weekend on 15th, 16th and 17th March, with all new Suzuki models available to test ride and all the latest information available on the brand’s current range of offers and deals.
Over the three days, dealerships will open their doors to celebrate the start of the riding season, with new Suzuki models available to test ride including the GSX-S1000GX, GSX-8R, and V-Strom 800RE.
The GX, powered by Suzuki’s proven 999cc inline four-cylinder, superbike-derived engine, gets a suite of electronics topped by Showa semi-active suspension. There’s also a lean angle-sensitive innovative roll torque control, traction control, ABS, a bi-directional quickshifter, cruise control, and selectable power modes. A 6.5 colour TFT dash provides all the information and boasts smartphone connectivity.
The recently launched GSX-8R – which shares the same torque-laden 776cc parallel twin engine with its 270 degree crank as the award-winning GSX-8S, plus its electronics package – will also be sought after. Cocooned in a full fairing, those taking a test ride will notice the sportier riding position over its roadster sibling, and the firmer suspension setup afforded by the Showa SFF-BP forks and rear shock.
Enhancing the V-Strom range for 2024 is the road-focussed V-Strom 800RE, providing an alternative to the off-road-ready 800DE. The RE swaps spoked wheels for cast aluminium, with a 19” front replacing the 21” rim of the DE. There’s a lower seat, reduced suspension travel, radial brakes, and a taller screen. It keeps the same 776cc parallel twin engine, already renowned for its copious amount of low-end grunt, plus the bi-directional quickshifter, traction control settings, power modes, and colour TFT screen.
At dealerships across the weekend, other models available to test ride will include the GSX-8S, V-Strom 800DE, the Hayabusa – which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2024 – and the GSX-S1000GT.
Dealership staff will be on hand to answer any questions, and also provide information on Suzuki’s current range of offers.
Contact us to book your space.
SUZUKI ANNOUNCES GSX-S1000GX+
Suzuki has announced a GSX-S1000GX+, a pannier-equipped version of its new-for-2024 GSX-S1000GX which comes with an OTR price of £15,599, just £1,100 over the GSX-S1000GX.
For customers looking for the added carrying capacity the GX+ offers, it represents a saving of £175 over the individual cost of the panniers and fitting. Moreover, including the genuine accessory panniers as part of the standard specification and price means even better value for customers buying on finance, too.
Two colour-coded, 36-litre panniers provide plenty of storage space, with each pannier capable of accepting a full-face helmet.
The panniers represent additional practicality for a machine built with all-day distance and riding comfort in mind. Topping the spec sheet is semi-active suspension from Showa, which has an automatic rear preload setting or three selectable options for solo riding, a rider and pillion, or rider and luggage. Riders can also select from soft, medium, and hard damping settings.
Cruise control features alongside seven traction control settings, encompassed within which is a roll torque control that uses a six-axis IMU to govern available power output when the bike is at lean. The IMU from Bosch also enables cornering ABS. There are three selectable power modes, and a bi-directional quickshifter.
All the information for which is displayed on a 6.5” colour TFT screen, with smartphone connectivity via the free Suzuki mySPIN app.
152PS and 106Nm of torque are provided by Suzuki’s revered, superbike-derived, 999cc inline four-cylinder engine, which is housed in a twin-spar aluminium frame.
NEW SUZUKI GSX-8R PRICING ANNOUNCED
Fresh from its reveal at Eicma in Milan, Italy, earlier this month, Suzuki has announced UK pricing of the new GSX-8R: the new middleweight sportsbike will come with an OTR price of £8,899 when it arrives in dealerships in February.
The GSX-8R uses Suzuki’s new 776cc parallel twin engine, with its 270° crankshaft providing a V-twin-esque feel and soundtrack. Thanks to its long stroke design it produces an abundance of torque throughout the rev range, peaking at 78 Nm at 6800rpm. Peak power is 82.9PS at 8,500rpm.
While the main chassis is shared with the GSX-8S, suspension comes from Showa, and there are lower handlebars to provide a sportier riding position, with riders tucked behind the new, GSX-R-inspired full fairing.
As standard there is a bi-directional quickshifter, three power modes and three selectable traction control modes, with all information displayed via a 5” colour TFT screen.
Kawasaki UK unveil three special colourways for the 2024 Ninja ZX-10RR
Voted for by fans, the three stunning machines were revealed live on the Kawasaki stand at Motorcycle Live today and are available to order from dealers now.
With 2024 marking the 40th anniversary of the Ninja brand, Kawasaki UK worked with Kar Lee Design to create a range of liveries for the ZX-10RR inspired by retro colourways from the last four decades. Kawasaki’s social media followers voted for their favourite, with UK specialist SprayBay then turning the three most popular ones into reality before their appearance on the Kawasaki UK Motorcycle Live stand.
There are just 40 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RRs available, each with anniversary plates set into the top yokes bearing the special moniker of 1 of only 40 and the anniversary logo. Customers will be able to choose their favourite from the three designs.
In addition to the unique colourways, each bike will be a Performance Edition, featuring an Akrapovic muffler, pillion seat cover, smoked windshield and tank pad. Customers will also receive a paddock stand, a special bike cover, and a Ninja 40th anniversary keyring.
The anniversary ZX-10RR will cost £26,599 and is available to order from dealers now.
NEW SUZUKI GSX-S1000GX & GSX-8R REVEALED AT EICMA
Suzuki has pulled the covers off two more new models for 2024, with the reveal of a new GSX-S1000GX crossover and GSX-8R middleweight sportsbike today at Eicma, in Milan, Italy.
- With the GSX-S1000GX Suzuki steps into a new segment for the first time, offering a new sports crossover machine with a comprehensive suite of electronics.
- Electronic suspension from Showa tops a spec sheet that also includes IMU-governed ABS and other braking systems, anti-wheelie, a new Roll Torque Control system, traction control, cruise control, selectable power modes, a bi-directional quickshifter and smartphone connectivity, accessed via a 6.5” colour TFT screen.
- A 999cc inline four-cylinder delivers an abundance of power and torque throughout the rev range, peaking at 152PS and 106 Nm.
- With an OTR price of £14,499, first customers can have their bikes by Christmas.
Also revealed, the new GSX-8R is the fourth new model to be launched on Suzuki’s new 776cc parallel twin platform, which features a DOHC and 270° crankshaft design and delivers punchy drive throughout the rev range.
- New Showa suspension provides more support and increased damping force over the GSX-8S to account for the increased from weight bias and delivers a controlled, sporty ride.
- Lower handlebars also contribute to a sportier riding position, with more of the rider’s weight over the front end.
- The package is wrapped in new, angular, GSX-R-inspired bodywork.
- There are selectable power modes, traction control, and a bi-directional quickshifter as standard, with all information displayed on a 5” colour TFT dash.
GSX-S1000GX
With a design and product concept of the ultimate sports crossover, the GSX-S1000GX is set to become the benchmark in the category, as Suzuki moves into the crossover sector of the market for the first time.
It boasts Suzuki’s most sophisticated electronics package to date, with a number of new and innovative systems enabled by a six-axis Bosch IMU and electronic suspension from Showa.
The GSX-S1000GX is the first Suzuki to adopt Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension (SAES). The GX gets 150mm front and rear suspension travel to create an upright riding position, broadening the rider’s field of view and providing all-day riding comfort. The longer suspension travel also helps the GX smooth out bumps when riding over uneven surfaces.
There are four selectable modes of SAES: hard, medium, soft, and a customisable user setting which offers +/- three increments on the selected base setting of hard, medium, or soft.
Further helping smooth out those bumps and undulations is Suzuki Road Adaptive Stabilisation (SRAS). An original Suzuki system, in use for the first time on the new GX, it detects uneven road surfaces based on input from the IMU and wheel speed sensors, and, if required, triggers the Suzuki Floating Ride Control (SFRC) to help smooth out the ride. As part of the SFRC it also adjusts the electronic throttle valve settings to deliver softer, more controllable throttle response.
The rear suspension’s spring preload settings are also electronically controlled, making it easy for a rider to use a handlebar switch to quickly choose between auto or one of the four available modes they find best suited to their immediate needs or preferences.
Riders can select between single rider, single rider plus luggage, or tandem (with or without luggage). In addition, the preload setting for auto mode can be adjusted by +/- three increments and the three manual modes can be adjusted by +/- four increments to match the rider’s needs more finely.
The GSX-S1000GX also uses an alpha version of the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector. SDMS-a provides three riding modes: active, basic, comfort. Those three integrated riding modes control power output characteristics, as well as the level of traction control, which, on the GX, is integrated with Lift Limiter (anti-wheelie) and Roll Torque Control, and electronic suspension settings. Riders can opt to use the default settings of many of those systems or customise them to match their needs or preferences more closely. There are seven selectable modes of traction control – integrated with Roll Torque Control and Lift Limiter – and three selectable throttle maps.
Making its debut on the GX is Suzuki’s new Roll Torque Control. Based on data received from the IMU and wheel speed sensors, this new system calculates the bike’s lean angle and speed to predetermine what level of power output and acceleration is optimal at that time, for example, when exciting a corner. It then reduces torque output before the motorcycle exceeds the amount of power the system deems necessary to clear the corner effectively. One key benefit of this system is a smooth operation and uninterrupted drive. With regular traction control the system is reactive, cutting in when rear wheel slip is detected. This can create a jerkiness or 'on and off' feeling as the power comes in and out. It can also cause the rear suspension to compress and rebound. This is reduced significantly with the introduction of Roll Torque Control, as the torque ceiling is set, and then raised as the bike exits the corner and as speed increases and lean angle decreases. It is an extra layer of pre-emptive protection that operates silently in the background, with its settings determined by the level of traction control selected.
Completing the GX’s comprehensive suite of electronics is a ride-by-wire throttle, bi-directional quickshifter, cruise control – updated on the GX to allow the system to continue operating when the rider changes gear – lean angle-sensitive ABS, Slope Dependent Control, which prevents rear wheel lift when braking downhill, easy start, and low RPM assist.
Monitoring all of the GSX-S1000GX’s electronic systems is done via a 6.5-inch colour TFT screen, which also offers smartphone connectivity, allowing riders to access maps, view contacts and make and receive phone calls, see their calendar, and play music. All this is done via the free Suzuki mySPIN app. A USB socket in the side of the instrument cluster makes for easy phone charging.
Powering the new GSX-S1000GX is Suzuki’s creamy smooth, 999cc, inline four-cylinder, superbike-derived engine. Known for its abundance of lowdown and midrange power, it produces 152PS at 11,000rpm and 106 Nm of torque at 9,250rpm.
That engine is housed in a twin spar, aluminium frame mated to a race-proven aluminium swingarm from the GSX-R range and a lightweight subframe.
All of that is wrapped in new, aggressive bodywork, with full LED lighting front and rear. Hand guards and a spacious luggage rack add extra practicality. Luggage capacity can be increased with genuine accessory 36-litre panniers.
With an OTR price of £14,499, the GSX-S1000GX is available to order now, with first customers able to take delivery in time for Christmas. It will come in Suzuki’s trademark Metallic Triton Blue, Glass Sparkle Black and a new Pearl Matt Shadow Green.
GSX-8R
Immediately highlighting the R element of the new GSX-8R is its full fairing, wind tunnel-tested to increase aerodynamic performance and provide weather protection for the rider. Bold 8R logos adorn the side panels, while fairing-mounted mirrors also aid in reducing drag.
Perched in the middle of the angular face is the recognisably GSX series stacked LED headlight, topped by an LED position light. The rear combination light is also full LED, as are the indicators.
At the heart of the new GSX-8R is the 776cc parallel twin engine – which it shares with the GSX-8S – with its long stroke and 270° crankshaft design providing an abundance of low-down torque, usability, and flexibility, while a free-revving nature comes from a DOHC and four valves per cylinder. Peak torque is 78 Nm, delivered at 6800rpm, with peak power of 82.9PS coming at 8500rpm.
The 270° crankshaft also provides a power delivery, character, and rumble reminiscent of Suzuki’s much-lauded V-twin ranges, while a patented cross balancer design ensures a smoothness, as well as aiding in a compact, lightweight engine design.
A two-into-one exhaust system with dual-stage catalytic converter keeps the 8R conforming to Euro 5 emissions standards, and ends in a short, underslung silencer further enhancing the compact, slimline look.
All of that is housed in a steel frame engineered for direct handling characteristics. Those handling characteristics are further enhanced by low, forged aluminium handlebars that provide positive control and a sporty riding position, placing more of the rider’s weight over the front wheel. Bolted into the rear of the steel frame is a lightweight aluminium subframe and lightweight aluminium swingarm,
Dealing with the increased weight bias towards the front, Showa provides the suspension, with SFF-BP* (Separate Function Fork – Big Piston) inverted forks and monoshock in the rear. Mounted radially to the forks are Nissin four-piston calipers, providing stopping power by biting 310mm discs. Tyres are Dunlop Roadsport 2s.
Aiding rideability, usability, and flexibility is a suite of electronic systems that includes a bi-directional quickshifter as standard, three selectable engine power modes, and three selectable traction control settings, plus the ability to disengage the system entirely. There’s also Suzuki’s low RPM assist and easy-start function.
The GSX-8R’s settings are easy to navigate via a single rocker switch on the left-hand handlebar, with the information displayed clearly on a colour 5” TFT screen.
Three colour options will be available when the GSX-8R arrives in dealerships in early February 2024: Metallic Triton Blue, Metallic Matt Sword Silver and Metallic Matt Black No.2.
Kawasaki adds original Ninja colourways to 2024 model line
Having already unveiled several 40th anniversary Ninja models for the 2024 range in the racetrack influenced ZXR livery of blue, white and green, Kawasaki has now gone full throttle with the announcement of two further celebration models – but with a twist.
Reimagining the famous 1985 Ninja 900 colours for a today’s riding generation, the new season line will now include 40th Anniversary Editions of the Ninja 1000SX and Ninja 650, resplendent in black, silver and red livery redolent of early USA market Ninja models retailed in Europe under the GPz brand name.
The unmistakable two-tone Firecracker Red and Ebony colours are inspired by the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ900R with the colour of the silver line separating the red and ebony panels carefully selected to match the brightness of the original.
Additionally, on top of the fuel tank, a 40th anniversary emblem sit proudly. Designed in a style similar to a championship sticker and reminiscent of the 1980s racing scene, the outline of the “Ninja” logo was reproduced using the original designs while the “Liquid-Cooled” logo used elsewhere symbolises the transition from air-cooled to liquid-cooled engines in the late 80s.Attention to detail abounds with the eye-catching addition of silver-coloured wheel rim tape representing the texture of the machined wheels of the 1980s.
Predicted to be a highly popular and collectable iteration of the Ninja family, all 40th Edition models will be available in showrooms alongside a vibrant range of standard colourways for the 2024 season.
Making the future a feature of today, Kawasaki hopes that a new generation of riders will enjoy and celebrate four decades of Ninja in the nest way possible; on the open road at the controls of an iconic sports machine.
Kawasaki adds spice to the 500cc class in 2024
Since the legendary Mach III of 1969, the model name “Kawasaki 500” has energised and excited riders globally. For 2024, Kawasaki is set to unleash both a Ninja 500 and Z500 to join the battle for sales in the hard-fought mid-capacity sector.
The aggressively styled Z500 is powered by a new twin-cylinder, water-cooled engine equipped with an Assist and Slipper clutch. The responsive power unit is housed in a lightweight trellis type chassis delivering reassuring handling and easy reach to the ground for A2 licence holders. More experienced riders will be keen to take advantage of the lithe cornering and instant urge during sporting weekend rides.
Equipped with a LCD meter, the 2024 Z500 will also be available as a Special Edition model with its own unique livery plus the addition of an under-cowl, a colour TFT meter providing the ability to access information via the latest version of the Kawasaki Rideology App on the rider’s Smartphone and USB-C outlet.
According to the market where it is sold, the SE version might also include smoke style instrument panel cover, radiator screen, crash sliders, pillion seat cover, tank pad plus knee grip pads. In terms of genuine accessories, the Z500 owner enjoys a plethora of choice including large windshield (in clear or smoke), an ERGO-FIT high seat (+30 mm), tank bag and wheel rim tape.
Enjoying the same core trellis type chassis and invigorating twin-cylinder, water-cooled engine as the Z, the 2024 Kawasaki range also features a new Ninja 500. Presented in the new more aggressive Ninja family look with angular upper cowl and a comprehensive performance styling package, the Ninja 500 meets European A2 licence regulations widening its appeal across experienced riders with a desire for a narrow chassis and easy reach to the ground plus reassuring low speed manoeuvrability matched to genuine sporting performance.
Boasting the possibility to increase the seat height by 30mm via the fitment of an ERGO-FIT high seat, the range of other genuine accessories is comprehensive allowing riders to create a truly personalised mount. And for those that want to start their Ninja 500 ownership experience with an increased specification straight out of the box, the Ninja 500 Special Edition is a bike made for them. Equipped with its own unique colour graphic treatment, the SE includes KIPASS keyless ignition as standard plus a TFT meter and USB-C outlet. Like the Z500 SE, it may also feature a variety of other parts in its specification according to market including, radiator screen or pillion seat cover among other items. In the 500 class, 2024 is the right time to make a statement!
Colours for the 2024 Z500 models are:
Colours for the 2024 Ninja 500 models are:
Kawasaki doubles its Hybrid offer with new Z model
Hot on the heels of the Barcelona media launch of its globally unique Ninja 7 Hybrid, Kawasaki has now doubled its presence in this exclusive market with the announcement of the Z 7 Hybrid.
Harnessing the same innovative, unique* and groundbreaking technology as its fully faired sibling, the 2024 Z7 Hybrid is a naked style bike – or should that be bikes? as it is effectively three machines in one thanks to electric power allied to hybrid and internal combustion technologies.
With two power sources, a 43.5kw max power 451cc water-cooled four-stroke twin cylinder internal combustion engine and a 9kw maximum rated electric traction motor, the latest (and most technically advanced) – Z is ready for what the city, the suburbs and countryside can challenge it with … plus come back for more!
Calling out its strong hybrid** credentials, the Z7 Hybrid can operate in three ways. As a full EV with automatic transmission, the machine is suitable for zero emission zones and can operate for up to 12kms on electric only before the internal combustion engine seamlessly provides battery charge – remember this is a true Hybrid so the machine recharges itself.
In Eco-Hybrid mode, the electric motor works in harmony with the internal combustion engine providing a “best of both worlds” solution offering the choice of either six speed automatic transmission or manual gear selection via “up and down” paddles on the left handlebar – which, naturally, features no clutch lever. A “walk mode” is also a feature for ease of manoeuvring and parking plus selectable auto engine stop at standstill reflecting current automotive thinking.
Finally, sports mode unleashes the full performance potential of both the electric and gasoline motors with the addition of an “E-Boost” function (via a paddle switch on the right handlebar) that effectively harnesses all the potential power available in a short five second burst for litre class acceleration from a standing start or truly impressive thrust while riding. Matched to a potential for fuel economy in the 250cc class category, the Z7 Hybrid truly represents the best of both worlds and looks set to change the game.
Relying on the same trellis type chassis layout and running gear as the Ninja 7 Hybrid, the ‘Sugomi’ styled Z7 Hybrid opens up a new world in the naked class sector while doubling the Strong Hybrid offer from Kawasaki in the market from one to two machines. Expected to be on sale during the Spring of 2024, the Z 7 Hybrid moves Kawasaki firmly to centre stage in the constantly evolving universe of powered-two-wheeler technology.
*1 Mass production models (excluding scooters) from a major power sports manufacturer as of October 6, 2023, per Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. research. **2 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.
GET THE RIGHT WINTER BLUES WITH 2.9% OFFER FROM SUZUKI
It might be getting colder but Suzuki is making it easier to get the right sort of winter blues by offering 2.9% APR finance on a number of models. Available over four years on both PCP and HP, the offer includes the Hayabusa – including the new 25th anniversary edition – both the V-Strom 1050 and V-Strom 1050DE, the GSX-S1000, and both the GSX-S1000GT and GT+.
There’s also £500 off the GSX-R125 and GSX-S125, plus £750 worth of free accessories available on the V-Strom 1050 and V-Strom 1050DE. All three offers run until 31 January 2024.
As a part of the 2.9% finance deal, the flagship, 25th anniversary special edition Hayabusa – complete with its legendary 1340cc inline four-cylinder engine, sophisticated electronics package that includes power modes, cornering ABS, traction control, anti-wheelie, a bi-directional quickshifter, multiple engine braking settings, launch control, and cruise control, and striking bodywork – can be ridden for £149 per month on a four-year PCP deal, with a £4,210.48 deposit.
Or, those looking to cover big miles on a big adventure bike can pick up the V-Strom 1050, with its similarly all encompassing suite of electronics, DR Big-inspired style, and punchy 1037cc V-twin motor, for £109 per month over the same period with a £2,711.30 deposit, while also equipping it with their choice of complementary extras.
New riders or those looking for the perfect tool to tackle city congestion and keep running costs to a minimum can also enjoy £500 off the GSX-S125 and GSX-R125.
Jonathan Martin, Suzuki GB head of motorcycles, said, “The clocks have gone back, the nights have drawn in, and the temperatures have dropped, but it’s still a good time for riders to put a new Suzuki in the garage for less this winter. We understand that monthly payments remain key for our customers and by offering an incredibly low 2.9% through the winter we believe more customers will take advantage now and not wait until spring to ride away on a new Suzuki.”
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!
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.”