2016 Kawasaki Ninja® ZX-10R ABS
User Reviews
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5th Gen Kawasaki ZX-10R ABS
By (I am an Owner) on Jul 13, 2016The much anticipated 2016 Ninja ZX-10R is NOT a revised 2015 model, this is basically a new model. The best way to describe the new bike is smooth and linear. That is the way the power is delivered. It is also a great commuter because let's face it, you will not be able to use that much horsepower ... in the city or around town. I took delivery of my beast Dec 26, 2015. But I could not get any good riding until it warmed up a bit and after a proper break-in. One thing you notice is how much quicker this bike revs. The next thing you notice is how effortless the bike changes direction. When you are in a corner the bike asks for more throttle so I grab even more with confidence. I remain glued in the corner while the tires do their job. I had a 2013 ZX-10R and I can tell the differences in the two bikes. The quick shifter works really well and propels the bike forward as you climb through the gearing. The traction control has been upgraded but read and understand it before using. My first day out I had it set to 1 which is racing setting. And on a cold December day that is not what it should have been. Luckily, I was able to quickly release the throttle before anything bad happened. What people don't realize is that the electronics help the bike use traction instead of high/low siding, brake diving, wheelie and excess wheel spin. All the HP in the world is not good if you can't get it to the ground.
The value of the bike is unmatched. I looked at the Ducati but why pay for an uncomfortable bike? Yes, the power delivery on the Ducati is more exciting but I don't want to race every single time I get on it. And the Kawasaki has the same level of performance and electronics for a couple thousand dollars less. Not to mention less cost in insurance premiums. One thing people forget, is that this ZX-10R has 2017 Euro Emission Specs which are more restrictive. All bikes regardless of destination will receive the same Euro Emissions. But once you de-restrict this bike, it is a beast. The mid-range power has only slightly improved but the high end power is crazy!!! This new Ninja does everything any other liter bike does or more at a reasonable price. No I don't need hand grip warmers or cruise control and for the money you will save from not getting a Ducati 1299, you can get some Carbon Fiber BST Wheels.
The massive brakes are the best I've seen (330 mm). The chassis feels light. I still love the easy to read dash even though it is not TFT yet. That will probably be an area Kawasaki will work on in the upcoming years. But for now this is an all around performer.
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