Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Review – Green Blur

This piece is all about spending a few days with a true-blue (or, in this case, green) supersport.

Story: Joshua Varghese
Photography: Apurva Ambep

There are as many as three motorcycles from the current line-up of WorldSSP race machines that are sold in India but only one of them is an in-line four: the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. Most of our time with this Ninja went by in a green blur but here are the things that stood out for us.

Among the other 600s in the supersport class, the ZX-6R possesses the largest displacement. Its engine is a 636-cc, 16-valve, DOHC, in-line four that has a compression ratio of 12.9:1 and a 15,000-rpm red-line. It develops 124 hp (129 hp with ram air) at 13,000 rpm and a peak torque of 69 Nm at 10,800 rpm. If we are comparing spec-sheet data, then this model is not as powerful as the previous generation and, I must say, I have not ridden that motorcycle, but having tested the latest model, it is evident that this one is not to be taken lightly. Those who have ridden litre-class motorcycles may find the performance more usable in comparison but for everyone else, the 6R is a force to be reckoned with.

The engine is a screamer and the exhaust note is addictive. It sings through each gear with intent and delivers the full supersport experience. I must point out that at 198 kilograms, it is almost as heavy as a litre-class motorcycle, so the power-to-weight ratio is nothing extraordinary but it does accelerate with zest. Revs build up freely and rapidly with the engine coming alive properly in the upper reaches of the power-band. Which means, to enjoy this motorcycle to its full potential, it has to be ridden fast. Considering that 0-100 km/h is dismissed in less than five seconds and it is capable of doing it in first gear, this is a quick machine but it is easier to use to its full potential than a 1,000-cc superbike.

That said, to fully enjoy the ZX-6R, a rider needs skill, physical fitness, and the ability to focus. This is not a machine that appreciates sloppy thinking when it is singing through its four-into-one exhaust past 10,000 rpm.

Most of the ZX-6R’s power comes in after 7,000 rpm and then it blitzes away to the red-line but it also offers a healthy mid-range. Not only does it deliver on that front but it does so admirably. The flexibility of this engine offers an adequate level of torque even below 4,000 rpm and, to put things in perspective, this missile can pull away from less than 25 km/h in sixth gear. That is nothing short of brilliance.

The ZX-6R also has razor-sharp handling to complement its performance, meaning there is fun to be had around corners also. The chassis comprises a perimeter frame made of aluminium and 17-inch wheels at either end wrapped in Diablo Rosso IV rubber. Suspension is managed by Showa units that are adjustable for compression, rebound, and preload, a 41-mm Separate Function Big Piston USD fork and a linked monoshock.

The 6R responds to steering input instantly and is easily among the most agile motorcycles I have ever ridden. After a quick turn-in, it holds the line well and exits the corner with the front end getting light, if one has the throttle pinned at the exit. Even with the lowest levels of rider aids, the ZX-6R reacts eagerly to a smooth throttle input and remains confidently planted through a curve. At the same time, it will bite back if not treated with the respect it deserves. Thanks to the feel at the lever and powerful bite of the four-piston callipers on the twin discs at the front, it is for the rider to choose how fast to enter a corner because the equipment is fully capable of being extremely precise and urgent.

While its speed and handling are supremely addictive, it is a committed motorcycle and that is reflected in its riding position. When flowing along an open road, one is hardly aware of any exertion, but in town things are different. The flexibility of its engine ensures that it does not need a lot of gear-changes when riding around in town. Furthermore, there are a few riding modes and two power modes to choose from. For example, one does not really need all 125 hp in town. In which case the low power mode “L” makes sense. However, the engine heats up quickly, especially in our traffic. The suspension is sprung on the stiff side to cater to the ZX-6R’s sharp handling but a wide range of adjustability ensures that a reasonable setting is not too hard to find.

With its central scoop for ram air and its lines (so sharp that they could interrupt onlookers’ train of thought and demand attention), this is among the most aggressive takes on the ZX-6R yet. On this machine, the Kawasaki racing colours look appropriate and tasteful. Moreover, there is a 4.3-inch screen as well and, in case you find it relevant, it is smartphone-compatible too. Navigation through menus could have been easier, though.

Kawasaki expect you to part with Rs 11.20 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Ninja ZX-6R. There is no way to tell if that is the right price because it has no direct rival, but for reference, the ZX-10R is priced at Rs 16.79 lakh (ex-showroom).

In conclusion, the Ninja ZX-6R is the best in-line four supersport money can buy if a superbike is not on the cards. It is engineered so well that it is equally capable of setting lap-times around a track as it is as a daily rider. However, the condition of our roads and the congestion in our cities may not make it the most ideal motorcycle to use in town. However, if one is willing to sacrifice some comfort for thrill, then it does make sense because when there is space to let it loose, it delivers very well.