NEW V-STROM 800RE TO ENHANCE SUZUKI ADVENTURE BIKE LINEUP
Following the launch of its all-new V-Strom 800DE earlier this year, Suzuki has announced a new V-Strom 800RE that will further expand its adventure bike stable, ensuring the V-Strom range is truly ready for any terrain, any horizon, any adventure.
Born to roam, the V-Strom 800RE will provide a more road-focussed offering than its more off-road-ready sibling. With DE denoting the V-Strom 800DE’s positioning as a dual explorer, the adoption of RE for the latest V-Strom 800 model highlights its abilities as the road explorer.
Arriving in November, the new V-Strom 800RE will come with an OTR price of £9,699.
At its heart, the new V-Strom 800RE uses the same new 776cc parallel twin engine as its stablemate, with its double overhead cam and 270° crankshaft design delivering a broad spread of torque throughout the rev range – peaking at 78Nm at 6800rpm – and a rumble and character more akin to Suzuki’s famed V-twins. Peak power is 84.3PS at 8500rpm.
It also uses the same steel main frame, engineered for a balance of straight-line stability and agile handling. The narrow steel tubes also help maximise fuel tank capacity, which comes in at 20 litres. However, the new V-Strom 800RE differs from its more rugged counterpart most notably by swapping 21” and 17” spoked wheels and tubed tyres for 19” and 17” cast aluminium wheels, wearing Dunlop tubeless tyres.
Like the V-Strom 800DE, high quality suspension is still provided by Showa, but with a focus on delivering superior on-road performance. 150mm of travel at the front and rear comes courtesy of preload-adjustable inverted front forks and a link-type monoshock adjustable for preload and rebound damping, delivering sure-footed roadholding and a plush ride for long days in the saddle. Stopping power comes from radially-mounted four piston Nissin calipers.
Further underlying the V-Strom 800RE’s prowess as the tool to explore all roads it comes with a seat height of 825mm, while aluminium, rubber-covered footpegs are set 14mm further rearward and 7mm higher than the V-Strom 800DE, and aluminium tapered handlebars are 13mm lower and 23mm further forwards. They’re also 15mm narrower. A taller and wider screen offers more weather and wind protection on longer rides.
Nestled underneath the screen is a 5” colour TFT screen with dual display modes for day and nighttime riding. All the navigation of menus and features is done via a simple, easy-to-use rocker switch on the left-hand handlebar. There’s also a handy USB port located on the left-hand side.
Displayed on the bright, clear screen is all the information required by the rider, including the current setting selected from its three-mode traction control system – which can also be switched off – and the current power mode selected, from Active (the more sportier and direct throttle map), Basic (ideal for cruising or city riding), and Comfort (perfect for wet or cold conditions). There are also two ABS settings, providing differing levels of intervention.
A ride-by-wire throttle connection provides a natural feel and connection to the rear wheel, while a standard-fit bi-directional quickshifter – allied to a slipper clutch – makes gear changes slick and seamless. There’s also Suzuki’s low rpm assist and easy start function.
Sharing a similar DR Big-inspired look as the 800DE, complete with iconic beak and full LED lighting front and rear, the V-Strom 800RE will come in Pearl Vigor Blue, Metallic Matt Steel Green, and Glass Sparkle Black.
There will also be a full suite of genuine accessories available including a choice of three-piece aluminium or plastic luggage, heated grips, and a centre stand.
V-STROM 650XT ADVENTURETO ARCTIC FINLAND
The call of the open road, the thrill of exploration, and the allure of far-off destinations have always been the hallmarks of motorcycle adventures. Gordon Stuart has been lucky enough to travel some of the world’s greatest roads by motorcycle, from the Dalton Highway in Alaska, The Verdon Canyon in South East France, to the Lofoten Islands in Norway and the F roads across Iceland.
As part of his ongoing quest to ride across The Arctic Circle in every country possible, at the start of 2020 Gordon settled on the V-Strom 650XT as the perfect bike for his next planned adventure to Arctic Finland as well as plenty of day trips around his native Northumberland, and weekend runs to Scotland.
Gordon had ambitious plans, 4,000 miles in nine and half days from home in Newcastle to Arctic Finland via Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and Sweden, popping into Norway on the way home just because. Utilising his personalised champion yellow V-Strom with silver Givi outback trekker side cases, Gordon set off from Newcastle to catch the ferry to the Netherlands from Hawrich in Essex, some 326 miles away.
After the rest of an overnight ferry, Gordon docked early into Rotterdam at 8am on day two, ready for what turned out to be a punishing day in the saddle. Blitzing through the picturesque Dutch countryside and the distant cityscapes of Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Apeldoorn, Gordon was in Germany before noon with 150 miles in the bank. It was another 280 miles across Germany to the Northern town of Puttgarden where he would catch a ferry to Denmark.
Progress was stalled upon hitting major roadworks on the Bundesautobahn 1. Sweltering in the sun, low speed filtering became a chore, slowing progress, making the arrival into Denmark late. Even though the sun was starting to sit low in the sky he pressed on for Sweden, crossing the iconic Øresund Bridge from Copenhagen into Malmo, offering breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea – entering Malmo around 10pm, 545 miles done and 30 shy of the planned mileage.
The final leg of the journey North took him into the wilderness of Finland. The landscape evolved from lush forests to vast tundras and crystal-clear lakes, and not a motorway since Germany. The weather in Finland was cold and wet, up there with some of the worst conditions he had ridden – on par with Iceland in 2018 and Norway in 2011.
Thankfully the final day north saw the weather ease but the roads narrow. This northern wilderness was bathed in perpetual daylight, creating a surreal atmosphere, especially witnessing the midnight sun inside the Arctic Circle, which marked the pinnacle of this adventure and the fourth time Gordon had crossed the Arctic Circle by motorcycle.
The route home took in more of the delights of Finland, as well as the seemingly never-ending forests of Sweden, and a small visit into Norway to enjoy some of the amazing roads and landscapes.
Gordon said of the trip, “My V-Strom 650XT was the perfect motorcycle for the trip and never missed a beat. There was a great amount of power and range in the engine, even when fully loaded with my camping gear, and it was light and nimble enough to really enjoy the Scandinavian roads and mountain passes. The fuel-economy was fantastic which was a helpful benefit considering current fuel prices across Europe. Comfort was good, too, with some long days in the saddle. Needless to say, I can’t wait for my next V-Strom adventure.”
Find out more about the V-Strom 650XT.
NEW AND ICONIC SUZUKIS SET FOR MOTORCYCLE LIVE
Suzuki is bringing a fleet of new and iconic models to Motorcycle Live 2023, which takes place from 18-26 November at the NEC in Birmingham.
The firm’s entire product range will be on display, including its new-for-2024 models, alongside the fresh metal that joined the lineup this year.
That includes the award-winning GSX-8S and its adventure-shaped sibling, the V-Strom 800DE, both of which use the new 776cc parallel twin engine with a 270° crank, with an abundance of torque, and a comprehensive suite of electronics.
Both flavours of V-Strom 1050 – the 1050 and 1050DE – will also populate the adventure bike section of the stand, as will the venerable V-Strom 650XT, while the 8S will be joined by the GSX-S1000 and SV650 in the street bike section.
Powered by the same superbike-derived inline four-cylinder engine as the GSX-S1000, the revered GSX-S1000GT sports tourer will make an appearance, shown in its new colours for 2024, as will the iconic Hayabusa, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2024.
Making up the scooter section will be the trio of new 125s – the Avenis, Address, and Burgman 125 Street EX – and the Burgman 400, the original maxi scooter. Flying the yellow flag in the off-road corner will be RM-Z machinery, including race bikes from renowned supercross team and bike builders SR75 Suzuki. Their special, supercross-inspired V-Strom 650 will also be on display.
Visitors to the show will also be able to test ride a number of the models on display, with a fleet of Suzuki’s learner legal machines available in the Try Ride section, while experienced riders can sample the delights of much of the range out on the roads.
Harking back to Suzuki’s heritage will be a number of icons from the firm’s vintage fleet,, including the Team Classic Suzuki Katana and GSX-R1000 K1 endurance racer, with famous faces stopping by throughout the show, including BSB legend John Reynolds.
During the show Suzuki can be found in hall four, on stand 4D20.
Kawasaki “Change the Game” with new strong hybrid Ninja 7 HEV
Having only recently held the debut of its new A1 licence class EV motorcycles in Paris, Kawasaki is taking another giant step down the road towards its long term goal of carbon neutrality with the introduction of the world’s first* mass produced Strong Hybrid*, the Ninja 7 Hybrid.
Seeking to “Change the Game”, the all new Ninja 7 Hybrid offers a unique window into a world of future motorcycles but in a contemporary time frame with the first models expected to be on showroom floors in January 2024.
At the heart of the Ninja 7 Hybrid is the innovative combination of a brand new 451cc parallel twin, water-cooled four stroke engine – complete with manual or automatically selected gears – and a traction motor plus battery; a futuristic combination that offers a number of new riding experiences plus an engine power of 43.5 kw rising to an impressive hybrid net power of 51.1kw thanks to “e-boost”.
In terms of dimensions, the Ninja 7 Hybrid is a mid-size package offering 650cc to 700cc class overall performance with the instant acceleration to rival that of a 1,000cc-class supersport model from a standing start (with Kawasaki’s e-boost function already seen on their EV machines), fuel economy on par with the 250cc-class and button-shift sport riding. In addition, riders can switch between three riding modes (SPORT-HYBRID, ECO-HYBRID, EV**) that each offer a distinct riding character as they accommodate a wide range of riding situations.
Other innovations include idling stop whereby the internal combustion engine stops at a halt to save fuel and reduce emissions plus Automatic Launch Position Finder (ALPF) which – when selected – automatically selects first gear at standstill plus a forward and reverse “walk mode” to aid low speed manoeuvring and parking.
Utilising a specially designed version of Kawasaki’s familiar trellis type chassis, the “packaging” of the gasoline engine and 9kw max traction motor reveals a compact twinned power unit with the 48V lithium ion battery near the centre point of the chassis to idealise weight distribution. And in terms of styling, the Ninja 7 Hybrid is resplendent in a unique HEV treatment combining a matt lime green under cowl with silver and black bodywork destined – like its engineering innovations – to set this bike apart from the common herd.
Ergonomically, the relaxed and sporty riding position eases the rider towards the high-grade cockpit and carefully considered layout of the switchgear; both designed to be intuitive and to inspire confidence. For the meters, full-colour TFT instrumentation includes smartphone connectivity via a custom version of the RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.
As the first of its kind, the Ninja 7 Hybrid sets the bar for HEV motorcycling. Offering the best elements of ICE and EV models, and able to navigate both the urban jungle and countryside backroads, this revolutionary new model is greater than the sum of its parts. With its exciting character and numerous innovative features for riders to explore, the Ninja 7 Hybrid truly ushers in a new era in riding experiences.
The Ninja 7 Hybrid will be available in the UK from April 2024, with prices to be confirmed nearer the time.
* Mass production models (excluding scooters) from a major power sports manufacturer as of October 6, 2023, per Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. research.
Strong hybrid systems combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor for powerful riding, and because of their large battery capacity they are able to run on electricity alone.
** The Ninja 7 Hybrid’s EV Mode may be helpful for certain situations where quiet riding is appropriate, such as in residential areas or in parking garages. Speed and range are limited.
Pass Your Motorcycle Test with KRTS and Receive a Free Ticket to Motorcycle Live 2023
Join the Kawasaki family! Pass your test with Kawasaki Rider Training Services before 10th November and you’ll receive a free one-day ticket to Motorcycle Live as a welcome to the world of motorcycling!
- We partner with the best trainer in the area.
- High standards of training & service.
- Free advice & guidance from the KRTS Contact Centre.
- Insurance premium discounts offered by major UK Insurance Underwriters.
- Train on well-maintained quality Kawasaki machines.
- Equipped with clean and proper fitting protective clothing.
- All instructors are DVSA Qualified.
- Learn with experienced and enthusiastic instructors
Anyone who passes a practical motorcycle test including CBT, module 1 & module 2 (theory test is not included) through an approved KRTS school between 20th September 2023 and 10th November 2023 is eligible to receive a redemption code for a free one-day ticket to the 2023 Motorcycle Live Show at the NEC, Birmingham 18-26 November 2023. All test passers must email [email protected] to request their unique redemption code which can be used to claim a free one-day show ticket which can be used on any show day of your choice. A maximum of one Motorcycle Live Show 2023 entry ticket is available to each person who completes their test, regardless of how many tests are completed during the offer period. For any questions, or to request your code, please email [email protected]. For further detail on Motorcycle Live visit www.motorcyclelive.co.uk’
Kawasaki set for biggest ever Motorcycle Live!
The countdown to this year’s Motorcycle Live Show is on, with the annual two-wheel extravaganza returning to the NEC, Birmingham from the 18th – 26th November. Kawasaki is excited to confirm it will be returning once again with what is set to be our most exciting year yet!
Axel Bassani to Join KRT
Axel Bassani has been confirmed as a Kawasaki Racing Team rider for the 2024 season and beyond. He will join established KRT rider Alex Lowes to complete the team’s line up for next season on the official Ninja ZX-10RR.
Bassani (24) is one of the most exciting talents to rise from inside the WorldSBK paddock in recent years. He has amassed six podium finishes since he made the jump to WorldSBK racing in 2021, finishing ninth overall that year and scoring his first podium at KRT’s home round of Barcelona – Catalunya, on his MotoCorsa Ducati.
The ambitious and increasingly skilled Bassani would score three podiums the next season as he finished seventh overall. He was the top competitor in the Independent Riders’ standings in 2022, beating his closest opposition by over 100 points.
At time of writing he is fifth in the overall WorldSBK standings in 2023, and easily the best Independent Rider with two rounds to go.
His relative youth and obvious talent has made him an attractive proposition for many teams and with Jonathan Rea leaving the KRT set-up for 2024, Bassani was seen as the best prospect to be teamed up with Alex Lowes for a full campaign next year.
Bassani has scored six WorldSBK podiums already and is looking forward to having his first ride on the official KRT Ninja ZX-10RR machine once his contract with his current team expires.
Axel Bassani, stated: “I'm really happy for the important opportunity that Kawasaki is offering me. I will give the best of myself on and off the track to achieve the best possible results, hoping to give all the Kawasaki fans great emotions and satisfaction! I want to thank my family for the sacrifices made and Lorenzo Mauri for the path we have taken together which has allowed me to stand out in recent years. See you soon on the track.”
Guim Roda, Team Manager of KRT, stated: “Our 2024 strategy was set months ago, but Rea's move made us rethink the organisational logic at KRT. We spoke internally with KMC and the decision was to take a younger rider with the potential to win races and who knew how to take advantage of all the KRT experience. His image is fresh, sincere, fun and has a lot of potential to represent Kawasaki's image in the world. Alex Lowes will now need to apply all of his experience, while Axel will have a bit of time to learn. We are very happy with the structure we have proposed for 2024 and we are very motivated to enjoy racing and take advantage of the best aspects of the Ninja ZX-10RR. I hope the fans enjoy next season with this latest project we are working on.”
Steve Guttridge, Kawasaki Motors Europe, Race Planning Manager, stated: “While we continue to compete for wins and podiums in the remaining races of the 2023 season with Jonathan and Alex, already the Kawasaki Racing Team is long-term planning for next season. It is almost impossible to express the impact that Jonathan has had within the Kawasaki racing family and as he leaves us at the end of the season there is a golden opportunity for a rider new to our racing project to make an impression. We are delighted to have signed Axel and our feeling is that his impressive track record so far is only a small indication of his future potential. We look forward to realizing that potential and seeing him blossom on the KRT Ninja ZX-10RR.”
Shigemi Tanaka, General Manager of Marketing and Sales Division, Kawasaki Motors Ltd., Japan, concluded: “Our WorldSBK racing project has achieved multiple manufacturer and rider World Championships in recent years; first with Tom Sykes and then thanks to Jonathan Rea. The news that Jonathan will move elsewhere in 2024 signifies the end of one incredible chapter and the beginning of another in Kawasaki’s illustrious racing history. The global Kawasaki family welcomes the news that Axel Bassani joins the KRT racing project for the coming season and we are confident that, in partnership with Alex Lowes, we will once again field two exciting and success hungry riders on our iconic Ninja machinery in the 2024 WorldSBK Championship.”
2024 Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki livery unveiled at Motorcycle Live!
The official Kawasaki British Superbike team, Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki, unveiled their 2024 livery today on the opening day of Motorcycle Live. Riders Jason O’Halloran and Max Cook were present in front of a large crowd on the Kawasaki stand.
2024 will be the first time that Australian rider O’Halloran will ride for Kawasaki, but the 26-time British Superbike race winner has already got his first taste of the Ninja ZX-10RR at a positive shakedown test last month. Joining the experienced Aussie will be Cook, who remains with the team following an impressive debut Superbike season in 2023.
The team welcome new title sponsor Completely Motorbikes for 2024, alongside AJN Steelstock, with both brands featuring prominently on the FS-3 Racing prepared Kawasaki. The team have continued with the popular retro-inspired livery for next year, mirroring the special Ninja 40th anniversary edition of the road-going Ninja ZX-10R, which will be available from Kawasaki dealers from January.
“The retro scheme has always gone down incredibly well with race fans, so that, combined with the fact customers can now purchase a ZX-10R in similar colours, meant it made sense to continue with this theme for 2024. It’s a stunning look and one that stands out incredibly well on track, and we can’t wait for it to do so once again in 2024, hopefully at the front of the pack!”
Tracker announced as the Title Sponsor of the Kawasaki British Superteen series
Kawasaki UK is excited to be welcoming the UK’s leading stolen vehicle recovery (SVR) specialist, Tracker Network U.K., as the Title Sponsor of the all-new one-make series, the Tracker Kawasaki British Superteen Championship.
First announced in July, the series is designed to provide a valuable stepping stone for young riders, with each entrant racing the all-new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR. After a series of test sessions at the final rounds of the British Superbike Championship, combined with rave reviews of the bike in the press, grid spots are filling up fast ahead of the opening round at Oulton Park in May.
Alongside prominent branding on each Superteen bike, in turn raising awareness of its offering to the next generation of riders, Tracker has also become an official partner of Kawasaki UK. This exciting collaboration enables all new Kawasaki owners to purchase Tracker Vantage – the ultimate defence in the event of bike theft – through their local Genuine Kawasaki dealer.
Tracker Vantage boasts integrated GPS technology supported nationwide by UK police forces. In addition to its unique police partnership, Tracker offers its customers a wide range of security features including geofence alert, bike down safety feature and movement alert. Customers choosing to equip their new Kawasaki with Tracker Vantage will also enjoy lower premiums when purchasing through Kawasaki Insurance.
Mark Rose, Managing Director at Tracker:
“We have been protecting riders for decades against the risk of theft. Our stolen vehicle recovery solutions won’t prevent a bike from being stolen but it will significantly improve the chances of it being quickly located by the police and returned to its rightful owner. We are thrilled to not only have this opportunity to showcase our brand to track side enthusiasts during the series but also partner with Kawasaki UK to safeguard its customers.”
Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki UK:
“We are delighted to welcome Tracker as the title partner of our new series and also to Kawasaki UK. We are really excited about the Superteen Championship in 2024 and look forward to seeing a packed grid of riders all on board our Ninja ZX-4RR machines with the Tracker logo sitting pride of place on each bike. We also fully endorse their fantastic SVR solution, which will be available to purchase with your new Kawasaki at every genuine dealer.”
Kawasaki Ninja and Z EV models Spark a New Era
From Kawasaki – a company with seventy years of motorcycle experience – a new era is about to dawn with the unveiling of two ground breaking battery powered, zero emission EV machines set to underline its “Go with Green Power” commitment unveiled at the 2022 EICMA motorcycle show.
Created to sit proudly within the 125cc class of current motorcycles, the new Kawasaki EV machines will be available in Ninja and Z family styles as Z e-1 and Ninja e-1 with both able to boast mid-capacity type chassis and running gear specifications delivering typical Kawasaki fun to ride characteristics mated to zero emission desirability.
With a near silent and efficient brushless motor rated at 5kw (with a useful maxim of 9Kw on demand) this duo of EV models rely on an innovative twin (removable) battery solution with the batteries wired in parallel unlike competitors delivering the advantage of more efficient charge usage. Enjoying a variety of charging options this twin battery configuration allows the sort of portability that heavy single item applications simply prohibit.
Clutchless, with no gears to change and with a simple “twist and go” riding style, the fun to ride feeling is augmented by some clever rider-centric features such as two riding modes (Road and Eco) plus an exciting “e-boost” option delivering an on-demand max of 9kw of power and acceleration (plus a potential top speed of 99kph where permitted) over a short distance thanks to a e-boost button on the right bar under the twist grip.
Kawasaki Z e-1 and Ninja e-1 riders can also amaze their friends with a walk mode that allows these machines to manoeuvre at walking pace in both forward AND reverse – particularly useful for tight parking spots or moving backwards up an incline.
Enjoying a unique Metallic Bright Silver and Metallic Matte Lime Green appearance – which is to be the signature livery of future Kawasaki EV models – the rider view is pleasingly dominated by a TFT meter with smartphone connectivity. Relaying such things as machine riding status, range, availability of boost function and riding level selected (Road or Eco), the TFT meter seamlessly combines with the easy-to-use throttle and 400cc motorcycle class ABS brakes and trellis type chassis to create genuine on road presence and the riding reassurance that has so far been missing in the entry level EV powered two-wheeler class.
Charging options include a charge docking station which a battery can be placed in or via a lead which can link the off-board charger unit to the machine via an under-seat socket with batteries still in place. Cool features about the advanced Li-Ion batteries include inbuilt charge indicators plus a symmetrical design allowing easier placement within the machine plus a handy lockable stowage area above the batteries below the battery cover.
With a range of accessories including +30mm Ergo-Fit seats and various charging solutions, the naked Sugomi style Z e-1 and sleek fully cowled Ninja e-1 models from Kawasaki are set to create another chapter in the company’s illustrious history and open the door to a greener future for two-wheel fans globally – truly a spark of innovation for a new era.
Both machines will arrive in the UK next month, with prices to be confirmed soon.
GSX-8S NAMED AS THE MCN NAKED BIKE OF THE YEAR 2023
Launched alongside the new V-Strom 800DE at Eicma in 2022, the GSX-8S is a brand new bike in every sense, featuring an all-new parallel twin engine, new chassis layout and futuristic styling. A tubular steel subframe, aluminium swingarm, 43mm upside down front forks and rear shock from KYB, lightweight aluminium wheels, and wide aluminium ‘bars provide the perfect blend of stable roadholding, agility and all round manoeuvrability.
At the heart of the 8S is the long-stroke 776cc twin providing punchy torque with three rider modes to match the rider's style and a bi-directional quickshifter allowing for crisp changes. The patented cross-balancer system and 270-degree crank ensure that the GSX-8S suppresses vibrations creating a smooth riding experience, while also delivering a V-twin esque character and feel, while the 5-inch colour TFT dash, aggressive looks and agile handling complete what MCN have dubbed “the new middleweight king”.
Celebrating 70 Years of Kawasaki motorcycles
In September of 2023, Kawasaki Motors celebrates its 70th anniversary of making motorcycles having first made forays into the motorcycle business in 1953.
After the end of World War II, Kawasaki produced motorcycle engines under the name of “Kawasaki Machine Works.” Since then, Kawasaki has continued to Let the Good Times Roll and has strived to share its “Fun to Ride” philosophy with customers around the world. Today, Kawasaki motorcycles are sold in more than 90 countries and regions.
To commemorate Kawasaki Motorcycles’ 70-year anniversary, AKM (American Kawasaki Motors) will mount a special exhibition to be held at the AKM Heritage Hall in Foothill Ranch, California as well as Kawasaki Good Times World in Kobe, Japan starting in September 2023. The displays will focus on the history of the motorcycle business in the U.S. market, which marked a major turning point in Kawasaki's overseas trading strategy.
Kawasaki’s path to success in the motorcycle industry, which began with the launch of the KE-1 motorcycle engine in 1953, was not a smooth one. Several efforts were made to try to expand sales, including working with trading companies to expand to overseas markets, in addition to a business alliance and subsequent merger with the Meguro Manufacturing Company. However, each of these efforts failed to produce the sales results that the Kawasaki factory in Japan had hoped for.
It was decided that selling directly to dealers would be the better business model, so in 1966 American Kawasaki Motors (USA) was established. Kawasaki’s US operations began with only 10 employees and adopted an innovative policy of “localism” before going on to develop motorcycles like the Kawasaki A1 Samurai 250, Kawasaki H1 500 Mach III and iconic Kawasaki Z1 900 for the U.S. market. Early on, Kawasaki USA launched a new kind of sales policy aimed at expansion that included the industry's first model year system and worked to strengthen relationships with dealers by setting up branches in every region of the U.S., thereby consolidating its base in the U.S. market.
In 1974, Kawasaki made a $20 million investment to build a manufacturing plant in Lincoln, Nebraska to be in-line with a coming shift to a floating exchange rate in the U.S. In fact, Kawasaki’s Lincoln plant became the first plant built by any Japanese car or motorcycle manufacturer in the U.S. It remains Kawasaki’s main plant outside of Japan to this day. It is where all Kawasaki Jet Ski personal watercraft and side by are still manufactured today.
Kawasaki started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies.
Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. is committed to maintaining and furthering these strengths using both internal combustions engines and green technologies such as EV and HEV which will surely give birth to new legends.
Kawasaki unveils the latest array of 2024
While 2023 might still be in full swing, Kawasaki is already lookingahead to next year, announcing today a raft of 2024 models set to be arrivingin the UK over the coming months. From entry-level bikes such as the Ninja 125and Z125 to the retro-inspired Z650RS and supercharged Z H2, the lineupconfirms the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional machines for everyrider and budget.
These 23 models join the already announced Ninja ZX-4RR, Ninja ZX-6R, Eliminator and KX450, as well as the next generation of motorcycles in the Z EV and Ninja EV electric machines., making for an impressive array of bikes that cover every aspect of motorcycling.
The full list of models included in the latest 2024 range can be found in the table below, including the colours, pricing and when they will arrive in the UK. Images can be downloaded here: https://we.tl/t-jvMgU6G54R
Craig Watson, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kawasaki UK:
“We are very pleased to announce this huge selection of models that will form part of our growing range in 2024. With some of our most popular machines included, along with many new and exciting colours and competitive pricing, we are confident that there is a machine for every customer, no matter their preference or experience!”
Model |
Colour |
Price |
Arrival in UK |
Z125 |
Green |
£4,299 |
October |
Z125 |
Grey |
£4,399 |
October |
Ninja 125 |
Green |
£4,699 |
October |
Ninja 125 |
Black |
£4,699 |
October |
Z650 |
Red |
£7,239 |
November |
Z650 |
Black |
£7,139 |
November |
Z650 |
Grey |
£7,239 |
November |
Z650RS |
Red |
£7,839 |
January |
Z650RS |
Black |
£7,839 |
January |
Ninja 650 |
Black |
£7,539 |
January |
Ninja 650 |
Green |
£7,539 |
January |
Z900 |
Red |
£9,799 |
October |
Z900 |
Grey |
£9,799 |
October |
Z900 |
Black |
£9,699 |
October |
Z900RS |
Black |
£11,799 |
September |
Z900RS |
Green |
£12,099 |
September |
Z900RS SE |
Black |
£13,149 |
September |
Z900SE |
Black |
£11,299 |
September |
Versys 1000 |
Grey |
£10,879 |
January |
Versys 1000 S |
Black |
£13,579 |
January |
Versys 1000 S |
Grey |
£13,759 |
January |
Versys 1000 SE |
Black |
£15,569 |
January |
Versys 1000 SE |
Grey |
£15,569 |
January |
Ninja 1000SX |
Green |
£12,349 |
November |
Ninja 1000SX |
Grey |
£12,349 |
November |
Ninja 1000SX |
Black |
£12,149 |
November |
Ninja ZX-10R |
Green |
£17,499 |
January |
Ninja ZX-10R |
Grey |
£17,499 |
January |
Z H2 |
Grey |
£17,299 |
January |
Z H2 SE |
Grey |
£19,799 |
November |
Ninja H2 SX |
Black |
£22,649 |
November |
Ninja H2 SX SE |
Green |
£25,649 |
January |
KX250 |
Green |
£8,099 |
November |
KLX140R |
Green |
£3,499 |
December |
KLX140R L |
Green |
£3,749 |
December |
KLX140R F |
Green |
£3,999 |
December |
KLX110R |
Green |
£2,649 |
September |
Kawasaki UK announce exciting new British Superteen class for 2024!
After the highly popular unveil of the all-new Ninja ZX-4RR, Kawasaki UK is pleased to announce that it will be launching an all-new one-make series, the Kawasaki British Superteen Championship. The series will feature as part of the 2024 Bennetts British Superbike Championship calendar, giving young riders a chance to race in front of huge crowds at the best circuits in the UK.
New 2024 Ninja ZX-4RR due in September
Following a universally enthusiastic reception when recently announced, the new for 2024 Ninja ZX-4RR is due to arrive in the UK in September 2023 with dealers already anticipating strong demand and many already taking pre-orders.
Available in one colour (Lime Green / Ebony), the all-LED lighting equipped mid-weight street and track machine is rated at an incredible maximum with Kawasaki Ram Air of 80ps at 14,500 rpm while the rev limit itself lays beyond an incredible 15,000rpm.
As the only full-fairing supersport model in the 400cc class with a parallel four-cylinder engine, dealers are gearing up for demand for the high spec machine equipped with a WorldSBK inspired chassis and full-colour LCD screen integrating a track mode that displays lap times, gear position, and RPM from 10,000 rpm and above. KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control) and Power Modes also feature, along with a dual direction KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter).
Augmenting the already impressive Ninja family for 2024 – while adding yet more choice in the popular mid-capacity sector – the unique in class Ninja ZX-4RR will certainly deliver Kawasaki’s tag line for the model to a legion of lucky owners in the 2024 sales season – “Awaken Your Supersport”.
Due to customer demand, the UK will only be importing the ZX-4RR, and to ensure it is as accessible to as many riders as possible, the incredible machine will cost just £8,699.