Tag: news

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.  

Craig Watson, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kawasaki Motors UK

“The retro theme has become very popular over the past couple of years, and we thought it would be great to further celebrate 40 years of Ninja with these special liveries commemorating the designs of historic Ninjas from the 90s. We are sure they are going to be very popular, so it’s key that you speak to your local Kawasaki dealer as soon as possible!”

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:

Z500

Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray

Z500 SE
Candy Persimmon Red/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray
Candy Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray 

Colours for the 2024 Ninja 500 models are:

Ninja 500

Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Raw Graystone 

Ninja 500 SE
Lime Green/Ebony
Metallic Matte Dark Gray/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Moondust Gray

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.

Colours Z 7 Hybrid:
Metallic Bright Silver/Metallic Matte Lime Green/Ebony

Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Gray

*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.

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! 

In the blue-riband class, the FS-3 Racing team had one of their strongest seasons to date, with Lee Jackson taking five podiums over the year to finish a hard-fought fourth place in the Championship standings. Despite it being his maiden season in the Superbike class, teammate Max Cook impressed everyone to finish 15th overall and secure the R&G Rising Stars award as the top rookie.
 
2023 also proved to be a breakthrough year for GR Motosport Superbike rider Storm Stacey, who had his best-ever season, which included his first front row start, highest points tally, and finishing top independent Kawasaki team. Rookie riders Bradley Perie, Jack Scott and Lous Valleley also enjoyed a strong end to the season as they continued to get to grips with the Ninja ZX-10RR.
 
In the British Supersport class, Gearlink Kawasaki rider Tom Booth-Amos had a brilliant season, taking more race wins than any other rider on his way to second overall in the series. Luke Stapleford also had a strong season, taking a pair of wins alongside a further eight podiums.
 
More Ninja ZX-6R success came in the National Junior Superstock Championship, where Cameron Dawson and Asher Durham finished second and third in the series, taking two wins and nine podiums between them.
 
The Ninja 400 was the machine of choice in the British Junior Supersport class, with the top 16 riders in the Championship opting for Kawasaki power. The title came down to the final round, but it was Finn Smart-Weeden who was eventually crowned Champion ahead of Lewis Jones and Lennon Docherty.
 
While the season might have only ended a few days ago, 2024 has already begun as FS-3 Racing’s new signing, Jason O’Halloran, got his first laps of the ZX-10RR Superbike earlier this week. You will be able to meet Jason and Max Cook next month on the Kawasaki stand at Motorcycle Live.

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.”

Ducati DesertX Rally: adventure without limits

  • The DesertX Rally is dedicated to adventurous motorcyclists who love challenging journeys and rallies
  • Unique and distinctive style thanks to a dedicated livery, high front mudguard, and benchmark technical equipment for off-roading such as suspension with closed cartridge fork and specific wheels for the most extreme off-roading
  • Already a protagonist with Antoine Meo at the Erzbergrodeo, the DesertX is coming to dealerships starting from February 2024. Contact your local dealer for further information.
Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), 3 October 2023 – With the third episode of the 2024 World Première, Ducati unveils the new DesertX Rally.
From the DesertX, the first Ducati equipped with a 21-inch front rim and 18-inch rear, now comes the new DesertX Rally model. It is characterised by the best race-bred components: the DesertX Rally adopts high-quality solutions that are both specialised and effective in off-road use and sophisticated as on all Ducatis.
 

Developed and tested also on racetracks, the DesertX Rally prototype was the protagonist of the Iron Road Prolog at the Erzbergrodeo 2023 with Antoine Meo (multiple Enduro World Champion and European Supercross Champion) who took it to the top step of the podium in the twin-cylinder category ( video illustrating Meo’s achievement here).
 

Like all Ducatis, the DesertX Rally has a unique and distinctive style. Thanks to the new livery and solutions typical of the off-road world that characterise it's appearance, the DesertX Rally communicates its character from the very first glance. However, it is thanks to the technical equipment that the Rally becomes a real off-road motorbike.
The high front mudguard guarantees usability even in particularly difficult ground conditions, the Kayaba suspensions with increased travel with closed cartridge fork and shock absorber with larger piston are derived from motocross and allow the rider to overcome any obstacle, while the new central-spoked wheels with sizes and characteristics specific to off-road racing make the Rally an unstoppable motorbike on any type of terrain. These solutions together with a light and resistant forged carbon sump guard, gear pedals and rear brake lever machined from solid, unequivocally identify the Rally as a motorcycle designed to tackle the most extreme adventures.
 

Chassis
The DesertX Rally's suspension is designed to tackle even the most difficult obstacles, improving the DesertX's already strong off-road ability. Both the fork and the shock absorber, in fact, are characterised by the same technologies used on professional cross and enduro bikes.
At the front end, the DesertX Rally is equipped with new billet aluminium plates, rigid and light. The fork is a closed cartridge KYB, a technology used on motocross and enduro racing bikes.
This solution involves pressurising the oil inside the cartridges to avoid cavitation, thus guaranteeing a homogeneous and consistent behaviour of the front suspension and the necessary support during the most extreme uses.
Furthermore, to improve smoothness and resistance to wear, the fork tubes are equipped with Kashima Coating and the sliders with DLC surface treatment. Wheel travel increases by 20 mm, for a total of 250 mm.
The rear is made up of an aluminium swingarm with a different attachment point compared to the standard DesertX, with a fully adjustable shock absorber with a larger piston to improve the bike’s behaviour in the most demanding off-road use. Rear wheel travel increases by 20 mm, for a total of 240 mm. Finally, to improve handling on the most demanding off-road terrain, the DesertX Rally is fitted with an adjustable Öhlins steering damper, fixed directly to the handlebars with supports machined from solid.
The new suspensions have allowed the DesertX Rally to increase the ground clearance, which is now 280 mm (30 mm more than the standard), to enable it to overcome even the most difficult obstacles.
Always with the aim of improving off-road performance, the DesertX Rally is equipped with wheels characterized by specific measurements for off-road, more robust and lighter thanks to hubs machined from solid, carbon steel central spokes and high-strength Takasago Excel rims with inner tube.
Finally, to underline the versatility of the DesertX Rally, as with the DesertX, triple homologation is envisaged for the tyres with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR proposed as original equipment. To enhance its off-road capabilities, it is possible to mount Scorpion Rally, while for those who prefer to ride the bike on asphalt, Scorpion Trail II is available.
Thanks to the use of high-level components, the DesertX Rally has a dry weight of just one kilogram more than the standard model despite the increase in length and size of the suspension.
 

Engine and Electronics
The DesertX Rally is equipped with the 937 cc Ducati Testastretta 11° twin-cylinder with desmodromic distribution. Maximum power is 110 hp at 9,250 rpm and maximum torque of 92 Nm at 6,500 rpm. This engine, characterised by regular and manageable power delivery to tackle any route, has been optimised for off-road thanks to a dedicated ratio and specific strategies and calibrations of the electronic systems.
The six Riding Modes of the DesertX Rally (Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, Rally) have Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) recalibrated according to the new chassis and for more challenging off-road use.
The electronic functions of the DesertX Rally are managed through the vertically oriented, high-resolution 5″ colour TFT display positioned to offer optimal visibility even when riding standing. This display is designed for integration with the Ducati Multimedia System which allows you to connect your smartphone, thus activating new functions such as music control, call management and Turn by Turn navigation* (optional) with road directions directly on the dashboard. Furthermore, the DesertX Rally offers the Utility Bar as standard for mounting the satnav.
Service intervals for the DesertX Rally are every 15,000 km or 24 months, with valve clearance checks every 30,000 km. DesertX Rally will also be available in a 35 KW version for A2 license holders.
 

Accessories and Apparel
The DesertX Rally has all the essential components for off-road use as standard, but those who want to customise it can do so by choosing from the Ducati Performance accessories catalogue. To extend autonomy, it is possible to mount an additional 8-litre tank which guarantees almost 40% more, perfectly integrated into the line of the motorbike. Aluminium side cases are available which, combined with the top case, give the motorbike a total load capacity of almost 120 litres. For travellers who never stop there are also additional LED spotlights and heated grips.
The steel tube engine guards protect the tank and engine from falls or impacts during off-road use. Finally, enthusiasts who wish to make the image of their bike even more racing can choose the Termignoni homologated exhaust. Anyone wishing to use the DesertX Rally in competition can improve the power and torque values by +7% by means of a racing exhaust, again Termignoni.
Enthusiasts who want to complete their look will be able to choose from various specialist apparel proposals with graphics coordinated with the DesertX Rally livery. The collection, which also includes the women's line, is made up of the Explorer jacket-trousers set, Atacama gloves, Explorer T7 boots and Arai Tour-X5 helmet.
 

The DesertX Rally will be available in dealership starting from February 2024. Check with your local dealer for further information.
 

DesertX Rally
 

Main standard equipment 

  • Testastretta 11° 937 cc engine with 110 hp at 9,250 rpm and 92 Nm at 6,500 rpm
  • Tubular steel trellis frame with cast aluminium double-sided swingarm
  • Tank capacity 21 litres
  • High front mudguard with split brake line *
  • Spoked rims with billet hubs 21” x 2.15” and 18” x 4”, carbon steel spokes and high-strength Takasago Excel rims with inner tube *
  • Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres in sizes 90/90-21 at the front and 150/70 R18 at the rear (alternatively: Pirelli Scorpion Rally, Pirelli Scorpion Trail II)
  • KYB Ø 48 mm closed cartridge fork, 250 mm travel, adjustable compression and rebound, Kashima Coating treatments on the fork tubes and DLC on the sliders *
  • Fork clamps machined from solid *
  • KYB shock absorber with 46 mm piston, 240 mm travel, adjustable in compression at high and low speeds, in rebound and preload *
  • Ground clearance of 280 mm *
  • Adjustable Öhlins steering damper fixed to the handlebar *
  • 6 customizable Riding Modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, Rally)
  • 4 Power Modes on 3 power levels
  • ABS Cornering Bosch adjustable on 3 levels
  • Ducati Traction Control adjustable on 8 levels
  • Ducati Wheelie Control
  • Engine Brake Control
  • Ducati Cruise Control
  • 5″ colour TFT instrumentation with Ducati Link App support and turn-by-turn navigation
  • Utility Bar
  • Ducati Brake Light
  • Ducati Quick Shift Up & Down (DQS)
  • Full LED lighting system
  • Dedicated Iron Giant livery *
  • Adjustable brake and gear pedals machined from solid *
*Equipment and features exclusive to DesertX Rally
 

#DesertX #DucatiWorldPremiere2024 #Ducati2024 #RaceWilder 

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.