Motorcycle specifications KawasakiZX-10R 1000 2010 Ever closer to the circuits.

2010 - an even year, a year of evolution for the 1000 hypersports from certain manufacturers, including Kawasaki. The ZX-10 R is no exception, but as times are hard, we won't be treated to a spectacular evolution of the meanest sportbike on the market. Some wanted more horsepower, as is customary for new collections? Come on, come on, the Ninja already has more than enough. How many machines do you know that spit out 200 horsepower (with forced air intake) at the boiler? I know 3: the Desmosedici RR, the F4 1080 CC, and the ZX-10 R. And how many riders are capable of controlling and transforming such colossal power? No, believe me, there's enough to go around in the Japanese 4-cylinder. The trick is to use it. That's why the 2010 version has been fine-tuned, modifying its gear selection mechanism for smoother, more precise gear changes. The 10R's lively, rigid chassis is bolstered by a new Öhlins steering damper.

it's on the styling side that most of the changes can be seen. And you'll have to get up close and personal. The muffler has been redesigned, its surface treatment has been grained, and the end cap is simpler in design. You'll see that in a few years' time, everyone will be going back to the classic side-mounted muffler that once accompanied all motorcycles - could Kawa be the first to feel the wind shift?
Other changes: the inside of the forkhead is streamlined around the handlebars. The face is clearly identified with that of the ZX-6R, which in turn was radically inspired by the previous 10 R. Ah, the family! The fairing sides have also been reworked, with a slightly more refined look. It's a pity the stylists didn't take the opportunity to get rid of those ugly blinkers that gangrenate the rear-view mirror stalks.

the pace to which the Japanese have become accustomed when it comes to renewing their sports bikes leaves us a little disappointed when we discover this new ZX-10 R... But it's the same for all new sports bikes (modified vilo for the CBR 1000, engine management for the R6, etc.). A little calm in this frantic race wouldn't be a bad idea, so that everyone can fully appreciate their bike without it going out of fashion too quickly (that's a personal opinion). The fact remains that, despite this limited evolution, the ZX-10 R remains one of the most charismatic machines on the market... and, as inflation remains moderate, its price remains lower than that of the R1 and RSV4 R. Food for thought!

M.B - Manufacturer's photos