Kawasaki has identified that many sportbike enthusiasts still aspire to own a literbike. However, most prefer to take their time to achieve this goal. To keep these riders within the Kawasaki family, the company believes offering a 600 that caters to their needs is essential. After all, retaining existing customers is just as crucial as acquiring new ones. Therefore, Kawasaki wants to ensure that riders who started on a Ninja 400 can upgrade to a ZX-10R without switching to another brand.

Kawasaki didn't need to revamp the ZX-6R model since its primary competitors in the middleweight category, the Honda CBR600RR and Suzuki GSX-R600, had already lagged behind the ZX-6R in technology. However, Kawasaki allocated resources to the platform to ensure its customers did not switch to other brands. After all, the appearance of the bike is crucial.

The new design of the ZX-10R takes inspiration from its predecessor, the ZX-6R, but features updated front and side cowls to give it a distinct look. Kawasaki representatives have stated that the primary purpose of the fairings is to enhance the bike's appearance, though they provide a slight aerodynamic advantage. The bike's new windscreen, LED lights, and blacked-out engine covers are easily noticeable to the discerning eye. However, the tank, seat, and tail section remain unchanged.

As you ride the ZX-6R, you'll immediately notice an upgrade: a 4.3-inch full-color TFT display. This new display replaces the previous model's outdated LCD and analogue tachometer. The dashboard is an essential component of any motorcycle, as you constantly look at it while riding. It was worth the wait, as the new dashboard gives the ZX-6R a more modern look. Considering that TFT displays have already been in entry-level, small-displacement motorcycles, it's also logical to use one here. You ride the ZX-6R and notice an upgrade: a 4.3-inch full-color TFT display. It replaces the outdated LCD and analogue tachometer found on the previous model. The dash is critical to any motorcycle, as you constantly look at it while riding. It was worth the wait, as the new dash gives the ZX-6R a more modern look. Given that TFT displays have already been incorporated into entry-level, small-displacement motorcycles, it's also logical to use one here.

Kawasaki has tried to upgrade the ZX-6R by introducing three preset ride modes, namely Sport, Road, and Rain, each with a specific setting for power (Full or Low) and traction control. The modes come with three levels of traction control- Sport mode uses TC level 1, Road TC level 2, and Rain TC level 3. Besides, a customizable mode called Rider enables you to select your preferred traction control and power settings, similar to the previous year's bike. However, it is worth noting that even though the integrated ride modes are new, the traction control, power modes, and electronic quickshifter software are the same as the previous year's bike.

While the appearance and features of the new ZX-6R are important, Kawasaki also had to consider the Euro 5 emissions standards when building it. The earlier model complied with Euro 4 standards and was not eligible for European sale. The company introduced new header pipes and updated cam profiles with less lift and duration to address this issue. This update helps to ensure smooth running at lower rpm, though it may not contribute much to top-end performance. Using less aggressive cams is one of many strategies to meet current emissions standards.

The midrange performance is boosted by increasing the length of the middle two intake funnels by around 20mm, further manipulating the power curve. Kawasaki has always been committed to delivering midrange performance, and they introduced the 636cc ZX-6R in 2013, intending to cater to both street riders and racing enthusiasts. The bike's extra midrange power is a testament to this commitment, and the increased engine displacement of 37cc further reinforces the bike's versatility.

There have been no significant changes to the chassis of the new 2024 ZX-6R compared to its predecessors. Kawasaki has continued to use the same twin-spar aluminium frame, which has proven reliable. It's not surprising that Kawasaki chose to stick with this design, as developing a new frame can be costly, and the added costs would be passed on to the consumer. In the 600 class, it is essential to keep the MSRP affordable. Improving the bike's capabilities moderately does not necessarily guarantee higher sales, especially if it comes with a higher price tag.

Kawasaki is committed to investing only in necessary upgrades with the 2024 ZX-6R. The motorcycle still uses the Showa Separate Function Fork - Big Piston (SFF-BP) fork and shock from the previous model. However, it has been fitted with new 310mm round front brake discs (instead of the last type petal) and rides on Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres.

As a middleweight supersport bike, the ZX-6R has an aggressive rider triangle. The tight footpeg-to-seat gap and low-mounted, heavily angled clip-ons make for an excellent tucked-in riding position but also remind us that this bike wasn't designed for riders over 6 feet. It only becomes an issue when adjusting your body position at the corner exit to grab an upshift or when attempting to tuck behind the bubble down a long front straight. The same is true for Honda's CBR600RR, but Suzuki's GSX-R600, which we also tested recently, is more relaxed and spacious.

The ZX-6R sacrifices some comfort for a 37cc displacement increase, hugely beneficial on both the street and the track. While it may be hard to notice the midrange performance increase that Kawasaki claims, the added power is immediately noticeable when compared to a traditional 599cc inline-four supersport. The bike's increased power means you don't have to be as accurate or focused on the throttle and RPMs when exiting corners. 

When you rev the bike's engine on a long straightaway, you'll hear the sweet sound of the inline-four rapidly building RPMs. However, the peak power arrives earlier than in previous models, which causes the engine to stop pulling abruptly as you reach the top end of each gear. It is due to the new cam profiles, which affect the upper limit. Fortunately, this won't be a significant issue when riding on the street.

The ZX-^R is a proper middleweight supersport, allowing riders to develop their skills. It should not be a budget-conscious chassis of a small-displacement bike, nor should it be difficult to manage 180 hp. The ZX-6R meets these criteria and offers riders the opportunity to be more aggressive and focus on carrying good corner speed. It is possible thanks to the well-balanced chassis that remains stable at full lean and provides excellent feedback to the rider.

However, the Showa suspension may fall short for track riding, as it needs to be stiffened up and never really feels as composed as one would expect when pushed to the limits. Kawasaki reminds us that this must be considered when building a suspension setup for a bike that spends much time on the street. For serious track day riders or racers, some great aftermarket options are available."

The stock brake package of a bike may not offer enough bite in the initial pull or sufficient power when the lever is squeezed for a track day rider or racer. Therefore, we might recommend upgraded brake pads. Although you can stop, you might feel that a little more braking performance would be helpful on the track. 

Despite minor issues with the suspension and brakes, the ZX-6R can be pushed to its limits with only a few clicker adjustments. I could ride the bike hard around the racetrack without sudden movements or warnings that we were approaching its limits. The ZX-6R is an excellent bike for riders to improve their skills on the track while also being suitable for riding to and from it.

The ZX-6R uses simple electronics for traction control that rely on front and rear wheel speed, rpm, throttle position, and gear position data to ensure the rider stays safe. In level 2, the cut comes in earlier and lasts longer, but it doesn't hinder the drive excessively. The motorcycle also features Bluetooth technology in the instrument panel, which allows riders to connect to their phone using Kawasaki's Rideology app. Although the app doesn't offer many features, riders can still access vehicle information, log their rides, and receive phone notifications such as calls and emails on the dash. It's unclear how many ZX-6R riders will benefit from this feature.

The electronics package of the ZX-6R is a reflection of the motorcycle itself. Although it may not be the most advanced bike in the market, it is still enjoyable to ride, fast enough and provides sufficient performance to help riders improve their skills on the road or at the track. Its simplicity is its beauty, and it gets the job done.

If you are in the market for a middleweight sportbike, you might want to consider the significant 37cc displacement advantage of Kawasaki's offering. Although it may not seem like much on paper, it provides added midrange, which can make a noticeable difference in your overall experience.

Kawasaki is banking on this advantage, as well as the new styling and modern look, to keep customers returning for more. Considering that the ZX-6R offers all these features at the same price as its competitors, there is no reason why it wouldn't be the most practical choice for riders looking to take the next step in their sportbike journey.

£10600