September 9, 2014

Kawasaki Announces More Of Its 2015 Model Lineup

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2015 KAWASAKI NINJA® 1000 ABS

Bringing Style and Comfort to Today’s Sportbike Rider

Riders seeking the ultimate performance coupled with everyday practicality will be thrilled to throw a leg over the 2015 Kawasaki Ninja® 1000 ABS sportbike.

Real world motorcycle riding demands a great deal from man and machine. Kawasaki has equipped the 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 ABS with the most advanced tools to help ensure the rider is supremely equipped to tackle any situation. Starting with the powerful 1043cc DFI® engine, its usability is enhanced with Selectable Power Modes and the KTRC three-mode Traction Control system to help ensure power can be adequately delivered in all conditions.

The Ninja 1000 is targeted at riders looking for the aggressive styling of the Ninja but with a comfortable riding position, excellent ergonomics and Kawasaki dependability. So the motorcycle has a taller sixth gear for cruising, large fuel tank to reach the destination and remote rear spring preload adjuster to help ensure they arrive in comfort.

KEY NINJA 1000 FEATURES

Subframe compatible with Kawasaki Quick Release 28L hard saddlebags

1043cc inline-four with DFI® and Dual Selectable Power Modes

KTRC three-mode Traction Control system with “off” setting

Tall sixth gear for relaxed cruising and large fuel tank for extended range

Remote rear spring preload adjuster for quick suspension tuning

Distinctive sportbike styling in two new colors: Candy Lime Green / Metallic Spark Black and Metallic Carbon Gray / Metallic Spark Black

ENGINE

Chief among its attributes is the powerful inline-four cylinder 1,043cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, 16-valve engine. It is governed by Kawasaki’s perfectly calibrated electronic fuel injection that utilizes four 38mm Keihin downdraft throttle bodies that inhale through equal-length velocity stacks to provide crisp throttle response. Engine breathing was further improved by a vented airbox that is fed by additional front intakes, along with oval sub-throttles that all contribute to strong performance in the mid-to-high rev-range.

For the important low-to-mid-range response, the Ninja 1000 boasts flexible power thanks to its torque-inducing intake cam that guarantees power where it’s needed on the street.

The engine’s ECU has Digital Timing Advance that further contributes to the responsiveness in the important low- to mid-range powerband, while ignition coils mounted on the spark plugs provide accurate and consistent combustion at all speeds.

Engine warm up is easy, regardless of the temperature, thanks to the ECU’s idle speed control system. The liter-class engine also has a balance shaft that is driven off the crankshaft to keep the solidly mounted engine operating smoothly, while a stylish 4-into-2-into-2 catalyzer-equipped exhaust system offers a pleasing growl without being overly loud.

The result of so much development and technology is a liter engine with phenomenal all-around performance that delivers on the street for commuting, canyon carving, touring or even track days. Yet it is not simply about peak horsepower numbers. The extremely reliable inline-four produces the sort of power that launches you out of corners and away from stoplights in a way that will keep you entertained every time you ride. Regardless of engine speed, the Ninja 1000 produces smooth, instant thrust that will leave most hardcore sportbike riders reaching for another gear.

POWER MODES, TRACTION CONTROL & ABS BRAKING

For those days in the saddle when road conditions are less than ideal, Kawasaki’s dual selectable Power Modes allow the rider to reduce engine output to 70 percent, matching the motorcycle’s performance to the prevailing conditions. This allows the rider to have confidence in any situation, especially when allied to the other attributes of the 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 ABS, such as its ABS braking system and KTRC three-mode Traction Control system.

The braking system uses radially mounted “monoblock” calipers for strength and stability. Using a radial pump master cylinder, the calipers clamp the brake pads onto 300mm wave-style rotors to give the rider feel and control. The precisely calibrated ABS system then helps to ensure the shortest stopping distances in slippery conditions, giving the rider greater stability and confidence to continue his ride.

The same wheel speed sensors used for the ABS system feed information to the KTRC Traction Control system, with its three different modes to allow maximum performance, regardless of the riding conditions.

The first two KTRC modes are intended to maximize acceleration, while the third is tuned for low traction or wet/adverse conditions. The traction control system can be turned off completely if the rider chooses.

The KTRC and Power Mode settings are selected via the bar-mounted switch. The chosen mode can be viewed at-a-glance on the LCD instrument display, along with the ABS and Economical Riding (ECO) status.

FRAME & CHASSIS

The Ninja 1000 sportbike features an advanced aluminum frame similar in design to the Ninja ZX™-10R. Its lightweight assembly curves over the engine, cradling it from above and bolting to it solidly in three places for torsional rigidity, but with a rubber-backed fourth mount to isolate vibration.

The design allowed Kawasaki’s engineers to keep the bike’s waist narrow for superb rider interface, along with maximum comfort and control. The main frame and swingarm pivot pieces are cast as a single unit, with welds eliminated wherever possible for seamless aesthetics.

The Ninja 1000’s subframe design eliminates the need for side covers, allowing a narrower midsection, which will make it easier for most riders to reach the ground. It also allows for dealer installation of Kawasaki Genuine Accessory Quick Release (KQR™) 28-liter hard saddlebags[1]. The KQR bags also feature distinctive styling that is well suited to the Ninja 1000.

Suspension is handled by fully adjustable 41mm inverted front forks. In the rear, the single-shock system is adjustable for preload and rebound, with a remote preload adjuster allowing riders to dial-in the perfect setting for weight, riding style or passenger and luggage.

The horizontal back-link suspension system features a damper mounted almost horizontally above the swingarm for optimal mass centralization and heat resistance. The gas/oil shock offers superb wheel control whether you’re hammering along backroads or navigating potholed city streets. On the Ninja 1000, you’ll always know what’s happening at the contact patches.

The lightweight six-spoke wheels are supersport-style and offer the latest lightweight production technology. Not only do they reduce unsprung weight, allowing the suspension to function better, but they also carry the latest radial tire technology. The result is superb grip, precise handling and extended tread life.

BODYWORK & TOURING

The most stunning aspect of the Ninja 1000 is its stylish wraparound bodywork. Designed with in the spirit of Kawasaki’s race-ready ZX™-6R and ZX™-10R, the Ninja 1000 offers a radical look that is edgy but aerodynamically efficient so that it is both stable at high speed but also creates a quiet cocoon in which to work. It is also available in two new colors for 2015: Candy Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black and Metallic Carbon Gray/Metallic Spark Black.

A manually adjustable, three-position windscreen helps tailor the protection to the rider, allowing riders to pick the right setting for their height and position. Integrated front turn signals, a ZX-6R-style front fender, stylish tail-section and full-featured instrument panel complete the look.

With such a radical appearance, the Ninja 1000 offers surprisingly comfortable ergonomics. The handlebars are mounted higher than on race-oriented supersports, and the rubber-topped pegs are lower, making the Ninja 1000 a capable sport tourer, yet it remains a sportbike you can spend the day aboard without undue strain.

Passenger comfort and security are paramount and include grab-rails mounted to the subframe. And to sweeten the deal, Kawasaki offers a line of touring-oriented accessories, including color-matched hard-case saddlebags and top trunk, seat cowl, axle sliders and so much more.

In addition to all the comfort features, riders who intend to use their Ninja 1000 for touring duties will enjoy the additional range from the taller sixth gear. Its function is to reduce engine revs, making it more relaxing for the rider and allowing you to travel even further on the large 5-gallon fuel tank.

It’s rare to find such all-around functionality in a sporting motorcycle today. But the 2015 Ninja 1000 is a different beast – one with wide-ranging talent in sport, sport-touring and commuting roles. As a leading magazine wrote recently: “In the real world we ride through every day, it doesn’t get much better than the Ninja 1000.”

2015 KAWASAKI Z1000 ABS

Kawasaki’s Streetfighter with Sugomi Style

The Kawasaki Z design language was elevated to a higher level with the Z1000’s “Sugomi” styling, which combines its sculpted shape – invoking a crouching predator – with painstaking details like its special “Z” ignition key, machined aluminum steering stem bolt and the intricate “Z” motif seat cover. This is wrapped in a new color scheme for 2015 that combines Golden Blazed Green with Metallic Spark Black to create a dramatic motorcycle that sets the stage for the excitement to follow.

The Kawasaki engineers concentrated on making the Z1000 sportbike more potent and capable. Its impressive inline-four produces power to launch you away from stoplights and out of corners in a way lesser powerplants simply cannot match. The Z1000 engine produces strong, instant thrust capable of embarrassing many hardcore sportbikes.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The 1,043cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, 16-valve engine features intake cams that boost the low- and mid-range torque – where most street bikes spend their time.

Cylinder connecting passageways strengthen performance in the mid- and high RPM range by reducing the pumping losses associated with displacing air inside the crankcase.

The pronounced intake growl at low RPM, combined with its intoxicating howl on full-song, will put a smile on any rider’s face.

Four 38mm Keihin downdraft throttle bodies inject the optimal mix of fuel and air into each combustion chamber thanks to the advanced ECU. It is supplemented by a cool air intake system that routes fresh air to the airbox via extra ducts in the front fairing. The airbox is fitted with a non-woven filter element that improves flow at high RPM, while four equal-length velocity stacks help provide snappy throttle response to further increase the engine’s fun factor.

Digital Timing Advance contributes to the increased low- and mid-range power, while spark plug-mounted ignition coils help ensure perfect and powerful timing for each cylinder.

It’s the ideal engine for a road-going sportbike – aggressive, powerful, flexible, and blessed with the legendary reliability associated with Kawasaki sportbikes.

A beautifully styled 4-into-2-pre-chamber-into-2 exhaust offers a growl that is well-matched to the aggressive tone of the Z1000’s intake system. A butterfly valve in the right-side muffler not only helps reduce noise at low speed, but tunes back-pressure waves to further enhance low-speed engine response.

In the transmission, short overall gearing complements the more responsive engine to deliver astounding thrust at the rider’s command. When the road opens up, this stylish streetfighter can stretch its legs thanks to a tall sixth gear that maintains a more comfortable cruising RPM for highway riding.

CHASSIS

The Z1000 features an advanced aluminum frame that is similar to the Ninja® ZX™-10R superbike. The lightweight assembly curves over the engine, cradling it from above and solidly bolted to it in three places. The fourth mount is rubber-backed to provide added vibration isolation with torsional rigidity.

The frame design allowed the engineers to keep the bike’s waist narrow for superb rider interface, maximum comfort and control. The main frame and swingarm pivot pieces are cast as a single unit, eliminating welds wherever possible for seamless aesthetics. Its new subframe tapers to a very shallow cross-section at the rear, allowing the bodywork to take-on an aggressive minimalist profile.

Suspension is handled by a fully adjustable 41mm inverted Separate Function Fork – Big Piston (SFF-BP) up front. It has springs in both tubes, with dedicated preload adjustability in the left tube and dedicated damping pistons and adjustability in the right. The Big Piston design provides smooth action during the initial part of the stroke and contributes excellent feel during heavy braking. The beauty of the Big Piston design is it allows the fork oil to act on a larger surface, so damping pressure can be reduced without compromising the effectiveness. Reducing the pressure allows the slider to act more smoothly, giving greater control as the fork compresses and a calm response under braking, leading to greater stability.

The horizontal back-link rear shock is mounted above the swingarm to move it away from the exhaust heat and centralize its mass. The stepless rebound damping adjuster allows the shock’s performance to be tuned to match changes to the spring preload or passenger loads.

The single-shock damper is mounted almost horizontally above the swingarm for optimal mass centralization and heat resistance. The gas/oil shock offers superb wheel control whether you’re hammering along deserted backroads or prowling pothole-infested city streets.

Great looking one-piece “monobloc” radial-mount front brake calipers offer world-class stopping power and feel. The ABS-equipped brake system uses 310mm petal-type front rotors and a race-spec radial pump master cylinder.

The monobloc front calipers are machined from a single piece of aluminum, delivering both increased stiffness and reduced weight compared to standard calipers. Riders will love the responsive braking power and tremendous feel at the lever.

A 250mm petal-type rotor and single-piston caliper provide good rear brake feel for maximum finesse. The power and feel of the brakes at both ends provides supreme confidence when slowing the bike from speed. The Z1000’s standard anti-lock brake system (ABS) promotes additional rider confidence when riding in slippery conditions.

The wheels are lightweight six-spoke supersport-style units that are manufactured using the latest lightweight production technology. Not only do they reduce unsprung mass, which allows the suspension to function better, but also carry the latest radial tire technology. The result is superb grip, precise handling and extended tread life.

BODYWORK & CONTROLS

The sculpted styling of the Z1000 is one of its most stunning aspects. The thin, compact headlight housing was positioned as low as possible, extending the line that starts from the top of the tank.

The reflector-less LED headlight uses four LEDs that enable the housing to be shaped so it contributes to the intense glare of the Z1000’s face. All four of the long-life, low-energy LED bulbs (two low-beam center, two high-beam outer) illuminate when the high-beam is used. A separate LED position lamp is located on the instrument cover.

Slim, futuristic-styled radiator shrouds partially surround the Z1000’s powerful engine, and an under-cowl contributes greatly to the aggressive appearance.

The slender tail section further contributes to the bike’s crouched-forward appearance. The compact passenger pad was designed to integrate with the rider’s seat and gives the appearance of a solo-seat cover, adding to the sporty look of the tail section. The LED tail light design also adds a futuristic touch to the rear end.

In keeping with its radical looks, the Z1000 offers a superlative riding position. The wide, large-diameter aluminum handlebar offers great leverage for aggressive maneuvers, and the knurled metal footpegs grip the rider’s boots to provide a direct-connection to the chassis. It all adds up to the perfect ergonomics for maximum agility without sacrificing comfort.

As a package, the Z1000’s engine and chassis are tuned to act like European “streetfighter” models in both looks and feel. This innovative bike marks a significant step forward, providing an overall experience that is very different from other Japanese motorcycles, with a quicker, more direct feel that is sure to please experienced riders.

A large selection of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories is available through authorized Kawasaki dealers.

2015 KAWASAKI NINJA® 650 ABS

Passion and Performance Meet Practicality

The Kawasaki Ninja® 650 ABS is one of those rare sportbikes that encapsulates the passion and performance of a modern sportbike while also delivering the efficiency and agility of an urban commuter. Yet its overall ability shouldn’t be underestimated. Ninja 650-based race bikes have been successful in flat-track racing against larger displacement V-Twin motorcycles, proving both the performance and durability of the parallel-twin Ninja 650 engine.

Equipped with performance hardware such as ABS brakes, a 649cc engine with Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®), double-pipe perimeter frame and stylish Ninja bodywork, the motorcycle can hold its own on the racetrack or when canyon carving. It also has a practical side, with its easy-to-read analog and digital instrumentation, responsive power delivery and a comfortable tapered seat designed to accommodate shorter riders. With its combination of performance and practicality, it is no wonder the Ninja 650 ABS is popular for everything from track days to bike nights.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 2015 KAWASAKI NINJA 650 ABS

ABS brakes add confidence in adverse conditions (ABS models only)

Double-pipe perimeter frame offers rigidity and a low seat height

Stylish bodywork similar to its larger Ninja sportbike siblings

Front and rear suspension tuned for comfort and performance

New colors and graphics for 2015

ENGINE

The Ninja 650 sportbike is powered by an advanced, compact, liquid-cooled 649cc parallel twin engine that is equipped with a Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system featuring 38mm throttle bodies with sub-throttle valves for precise fueling and response.

This narrow engine produces substantial power with plenty of character – especially in the low- and mid-range – thanks to double overhead camshafts acting on eight lightweight valves. The lightweight pistons run in plated, linerless cylinders, while a 180-degree crank assembly – coupled with a balancer shaft – maintains its smoothness.

With fuel consumption estimated at 50mpg[*] coupled with the Ninja 650’s pleasing twin-cylinder power pulse, this motorcycle might have the most flexible and satisfying streetbike engine around.

FRAME & CHASSIS

Wrapping around the superbly flexible engine is a double-pipe perimeter frame that provides balanced rigidity with a narrow-waisted design that helps make it possible for shorter riders to reach the ground.

The frame is slim, light and compact, while the twin-tube swingarm and forged axle holders allow the rear wheel to move through its suspension travel in style. A backbone-style subframe offers excellent carrying capacity.

The suspension comprises a 41mm front fork while the rear shock has preload adjustment but is offset and laid at an angle to create an integrated line from the steering head to the rear hub. Both the front and rear suspension was tuned to provide the optimum ride comfort without sacrificing control during sport riding.

The braking system utilizes twin 300mm petal-shaped front discs with twin-piston calipers, while the rear has a single 220mm petal-shaped disc and single piston caliper. For the Ninja 650 ABS model, the motorcycle is equipped with an advanced ABS braking system that monitors wheel rotation and controls brake pressure to help control wheel lock-up while braking.

The handlebar, footpegs and seat are rubber-mounted to help isolate the rider from vibration. This leaves the rider to focus on the instrument panel featuring an analog tachometer above an LCD info-center that displays speed, fuel consumption, range and dual trip meters.

BODYWORK

The Ninja 650 bodywork is similar to Kawasaki’s race-winning supersport machines, replicating their aggressive lines and aerodynamic efficiency. An adjustable, three-position windscreen is an added bonus, allowing the rider to minimize buffeting air for maximum comfort. The fairing has large openings to maximize airflow and reduce engine heat.

New for 2015 are three color options that include Candy Lime Green / Metallic Flat Spark Black, as well as Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black and finally Pearl Flat Stardust White / Metallic Flat Spark Black.

Everything adds up to a great all-around mid-sized sportbike, one that works superbly for novices and vets. Pulling away from a traffic light is effortless thanks to the Ninja 650’s torquey engine, light-pull clutch and ideal throttle response. Crisp, linear ABS brakes (where fitted) help assist braking under certain conditions, while the low seat height gives riders lots of confidence once stopped. Experts will also love the Ninja’s powerful yet flexible engine, modern suspension, strong brakes and nimble handling. The 2015 Ninja 650 ABS sportbike can do it all – whether it’s commuting, cruising, touring or track days.

ACCESSORIES

A large range of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories are available through Kawasaki dealers, including items such as a Rear Seat Cowl, different Windshields, a Tank Bag, Top Cases and motorcycle Covers.

2015 KAWASAKI NINJA® 300 ABS

The Premium Lightweight Sportbike Offers Power And Agility

The well-respected and highly capable Kawasaki Ninja® 300 ABS returns for 2015 with new colors, graphics and sporty Dunlop tires. The lightweight sportbike also continues to offer the ideal entry point for novice riders, track-day enthusiasts, commuters and riders of all sizes.

At first glance, it might appear to be a larger capacity sportbike, and its diminutive engine size certainly packs a mighty punch in terms of its spec sheet. The Ninja 300 ABS boasts many of the features found on the larger Ninja models, such as a Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®), an FCC clutch with assist and slipper functions as well as an ABS braking system.

Not only is the Ninja 300 ABS regarded as the best lightweight sportbike in the range, it is more than capable of surprising competitors with higher displacement in tight, technical corners.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 2015 KAWASAKI NINJA 300 ABS

296cc parallel-twin engine with Digital Fuel Injection for power and economy

ABS brakes increase rider confidence (Ninja 300 ABS models only)

Low, tapered seat accommodates riders of all sizes

Ninja sportbike DNA apparent in bodywork design, performance and agility

New Dunlop TT900 GP tires for 2015

Updated colors and graphics for 2015

Special SE colors also available (SE models only)

ENGINE

The heart of the Ninja 300 is its liquid-cooled 296cc parallel-twin engine that is tuned to deliver strong low- and mid-range torque for crisp city responses as well as excellent high-RPM power on the open road.

Much of its prowess can be attributed to its advanced Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®), which helps manage cold starting, while providing excellent throttle response and good fuel efficiency.

In addition to its long-stroke engine configuration, the Ninja 300 features a low-friction cam chain, lightweight pistons with a hard anodized coating for low-friction, as well as a 10.6:1 compression ratio to allow the use of regular-grade gasoline.

The high-tech pistons are cooled by an oil spray across the bottom surface. Lightweight piston pins also help reduce reciprocating weight without sacrificing the high redline, and the sleeveless “open-deck” die-cast aluminum cylinders feature a friction-reducing “T-treatment” plating for maximum durability.

The large-volume, 2.4-liter oil pan has cooling fins to keep operating temperatures in check, and is shaped to allow maximum ground clearance. An easy-to-access cartridge-type spin-on oil filter simplifies maintenance.

TRANSMISSION & BRAKES

To assist newer riders, the six-speed sequential transmission features Kawasaki’s positive neutral finder to make finding neutral a cinch when stopped. A premium FCC clutch with assist and slipper functions has an assist function that reduces lever effort by up to 25% to reduce fatigue on long rides. It also has a race-style “slipper” design to reduce rear-wheel “hop” that can be associated with high-RPM downshifting, giving the rider greater control on the track or the street.

The petal-type 290mm front and 220mm rear brake discs utilize a lightweight Nissin ABS system on the Ninja 300 ABS model, offering some riders peace of mind when road conditions change. The discs are gripped by powerful two-piston calipers and, like all Ninja models, the 300 is equipped with components that were developed by professional riders to help ensure class-leading performance for even the most advanced riders.

CHASSIS & BODYWORK

Wide main frame pipes under the fuel tank are made from high-tensile steel. They have extra gusseting to enhance torsional rigidity for improved sportbike handling. Kawasaki engineers designed the front engine mounts to tame vibration and these help make the Ninja 300 to feel noticeably smooth, despite the power produced by its 296cc engine.

The suspension was tuned to complement the rigid frame, so its spring rates provide a comfortable ride on city streets without compromising its legendary sportbike handling that confirms it is a true Ninja motorcycle.

The aggressive bodywork features an edgy design that is superbly aerodynamic, and effective at managing engine heat. To help keep the ride comfortable, Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) uses a special deflector to channel hot air from the back of the radiator so it exits from the bottom of the motorcycle, instead of being blown onto the rider.

The Ninja 300 also has a modern, floating windscreen design that helps minimize airflow buffeting around the rider’s helmet.

For 2015, the Ninja 300 and 300 ABS are available in two different colors: Lime Green and Pearl Stardust White. Customers can also specify the Ninja 300 SE and Ninja 300 ABS SE in Metallic Moondust Gray / Ebony, which offers even more graphic design elements than the standard models.

A combination of digital and analog instruments feature a large, easy-to-read analog tachometer coupled with a digital multi-function display including a speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge and digital clock. The digital screen also incorporates an Economical Riding Indicator (ECO) that alerts the rider when they are operating the Ninja 300 in a style that maximizes fuel economy.

A natural riding position and comfortable ergonomics combine with lightweight handling and nimble responses to deliver a pleasurable ride on city streets and highways, twisty backroads and racetracks.

The full-size, 17”, ten-spoke wheels contribute to this great handling package and, for 2015 the Ninja 300 will be equipped with Dunlop TT900 GP tires to improve the riding experience. These remain the same 110/70-17 front and 140/70-17 rear sizes as before.

Lightweight and agile, the Ninja 300 delivers low ownership costs coupled with class-leading sportbike performance!

ACCESSORIES

An extensive range of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories are available, including a Tank Bag, Soft Top Case, three optional Gel Seats in Standard, Carbon Fiber and Kawi Girl™ finishes, Engine Guard, color-matched Seat Cowl with a molded pad, a “Tall” windshield with easy installation and better wind protection, as well as Fuel Tank and Knee Pad set with matching graphics to help protect the paint while providing better grip for the rider. These and more accessories are available at authorized Kawasaki dealers.