2016 KAWASAKI ZX-10R
FIRST RIDE
P84
WHOA, NELLY!
The front brakes house a radial
Brembo master-cylinder and the
same M50 four-piston monobloc
calipers as found on the Ducati
Panigale and KTM 1290 Super Duke
R. This one however comes with
race-ready braided brake lines and
330mm discs, as opposed to the
310mm units previously found. It's the
exact same system as found on the
H2R. Hey, it works for that beast, why
change it?
1. SPORT-KAWASAKI
TRACTION CONTROL –
S-KTRC
Kawasaki's version of trac-
tion control. Takes informa-
tion gathered by the Bosch
Inertial Measurement Unit
across five parameters every
five milliseconds to deter-
mine the amount of traction
available. There are five
selectable TC modes and
the system is activated by
cutting ignition and reducing
the opening of the throttle
valves. Kawasaki claims
that unlike the competition
which has preset limits, the
S-KTRC system is a predic-
tive system that adapts to the
encountered riding condi-
tions and available grip. For
example, a power wheelie at
the racetrack versus a ham-
fisted wheelie on the road.
A sixth parameter is ex-
clusive to Kawasaki's propri-
etary software – yaw – which
is the angular velocity around
a vertical axis and works
with the S-KTRC system to
further enhance available
traction.
2. KAWASAKI
INTELLIGENT BRAKING
SYSTEM – KIBS
When engaged, this system
allows for maximum braking
pressure to be maintained
before going overboard and
engaging the ABS. It also
means the chassis stays on
line when learned over with
NEW CLOTHES
The bodywork on the new ZX-10R is
an evolution of the radical redesign
the bike went through back in 2011.
The front of the machine has now
been reshaped, along with the tank,
side fairings and seat. The indicators
have now been relocated from the
inside of the seat cowling to outside
as per convention. Kawasaki says this
design makes for easier removal at
the track.
The dash is the same as the 2011
machine with a digital rev counter
running horizontal across the top of
the display, and comes with road and
track settings.
UNDERSTANDING
T
he Kawasaki ZX-10R is loaded to the brim with
electronic gizmos and understanding them can be
a bit of a nightmare. Even for us, there's a lot to get our
heads around, so here's a quick breakdown of what's up:
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