CMS has once again teamed up with the Kawasaki Racing Team, announcing a Sportive and Title Race Partnership for both the 2023 and 2024 WorldSBK seasons.

Kawasaki riders can now take a step closer to the WorldSBK paddock with the announcement of a new, updated motorcycle floor mat.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 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.