From a press release issued by Kawasaki Motors Corp. U.S.A.:
2003 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6RR
Class Leading Racetrack Performance
It doesn’t take more than a glance at the 2003 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6RR motorcycle to realize that it was built to conquer racetrack competition. Based on the all-new 2003 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-636 engine, the ZX-6RR has a smaller displacement of 600cc to meet Supersport-racing applications. However, what the 6RR lacks in cc, it more that makes up for in technological engine design and overall performance. Exclusive to the 6RR to enhance racetrack performance is a back-torque limiter which helps prevent wheel hop during corner entry, a new close-ratio transmission, lightweight forged pistons, and a longer rod length and shorter stroke which produces higher revs. Furthermore the new chassis is more track-oriented to match the engine’s progressive design. Engine performance and chassis design come together at the new central ram air duct, resulting in a reduction of weight and improved intake efficiency. Other major chassis refinements include a fully adjustable Kayaba fork and shock, a modified riding position via tank and seat modifications and a newly designed all-LCD instrument panel complete with a lap timer stop-watch function proving that it’s no secret that the 2003 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6RR was designed to meet race homologation regulations.
* Liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder DOHC four-stroke 600cc engine designed for racetrack performance, a factory Kawasaki race kit will be offered
* Lightweight forged pistons, five grams lighter
* Longer rod and shorter stroke produce high revs required for racetrack use
* Clutch back-torque limiter helps prevent wheel hop during corner entry
* Cylinder head lowered 10mm reducing weight and adding engine performance
* Muffler housing changed from aluminum to stainless, providing longer-lasting finish
* Intake/exhaust valves 10mm shorter, reducing weight and improving high-rpm performance
* Ram air duct centrally located, reducing number of parts, weight and improving intake efficiency
* Timing adjustable cam sprockets lighter and more compact with optional race application
* Less lift in camshafts equates to more top-end performance
* Transmission ratios closer to meet the demands of racetracks
* Digital fuel injection replaces carburetors to improve performance and reponsiveness
* Front brake assembly new and more rigid providing improved brake feel over a wider range of operation
* Rear brake leverage ratio changed, improving brake feel and stopping power
* New Kayaba inverted 41mm front suspension fork fully adjustable and more rigid
* Stabilized performance over the entire stroke range is the result of the new Kayaba fully adjustable rear shock, swingarm pivot height is adjustable
* Riding position more aggressive due to modified tank, seat and one piece forged aluminum handlebar, aerodynamic pillion seat replacement cover standard
* Newly designed all-LCD instrument panel illuminates and includes lap timer, stopwatch, 12,000-16,000 rpm adjustable shift light functions, LED taillight
2002 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
Increased Displacement and New Chassis Make The New Generation ZX-6R the Ultimate Sportbike
The chief aim in designing the 2003 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R motorcycle was to increase the performance of the bike, while reducing its weight and making it more compact. By bumping up displacement to 636cc, going to an electronic fuel injection system, incorporating a centrally located ram air duct and redesigning the valve train–along with uncountable other changes–goals were achieved and the new ZX-6R was born. Additionally, the cylinder head, cylinder crankcases, engine covers and most of the other engine components were redesigned to meet Kawasaki engineers’ goals. Built around the new engine is a chassis developed for the racetrack. New radial brakes, a recalculated fully adjustable Kayaba suspension package and a new riding position that accomodates the serious rider with the best performing motorcycle in its class. A compact designed all-LCD illuminated instrument panel, LED taillight and redesigned headlamp make the ZX-6R more than just a force at the racetrack.
* Liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder DOHC four-stroke 636cc engine designed for racetrack performance
* Cylinder head lowered 10mm, reducing weight and adding engine performance
* Muffler housing changed from aluminum to stainless, providing longer-lasting finish
* Intake/exhaust valves 10mm shorter, reducing weight and improving high-rpm performance
* Ram air duct centrally located, reducing number of parts, weight and improving intake efficiency
* Timing adjustable cam sprockets lighter and more compact
* Less lift in camshafts equates to more top-end performance
* Digital fuel injection replaces carburetors to improve performance and reponsiveness
* Front brake assembly new and more rigid providing improved brake feel over a wider range of operation
* Transmission ratios closer to meet the demands of racetracks
* Rear brake leverage ratio changed, improving brake feel and stopping power
* New Kayaba inverted 41mm front suspension fork fully adjustable and more rigid
* Stabilized performance over the entire stroke range is the result of the new Kayaba fully adjustable rear shock
* Riding position more aggressive due to modified tank, seat and one piece forged aluminum handlebar, aerodynamic pillion seat replacement cover standard
* Newly designed all-LCD instrument panel illuminates and includes lap timer, stopwatch function