With 2024 marking the 40th anniversary of the Ninja brand, Kawasaki UK have created a range of liveries for the ZX-10RR inspired by retro colourways from the last four decades. Kawasaki’s social media followers voted for their favourite three most popular ones, turning them into reality. There are just 40 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RRs available, each with anniversary plates set into the top yokes bearing the special moniker of 1 of only 40 and the anniversary logo. Customers will be able to choose their favourite from the three designs.
VAI (Variable Air Intake) System
Fitted inside the airbox, the VAI system uses a set of movable intake funnels to alter the intake funnel height. When the VAI funnels are raised, intake air bypasses the system for optimal highrpm performance; when lowered, intake air passes through the taller intake funnels, for increased low-mid range performance. Movement of the funnels is regulated to maximise output at all rpm.
The use of the VAI system is limited to racing applications. To activate the system, the bike must be fitted with the race-kit ECU and sub-controller. In street-legal configuration, the system is inactive: the funnels are fixed in the raised position.
Lightweight Pankl Titanium Connecting Rods
The use of lightweight titanium connecting rods contributes to the Ninja ZX-10RR’s high rev limit, as well as its 1 PS† peak power advantage versus the standard model Ninja ZX-10R.
Lightweight Pankl Pistons
Lightweight pistons save 20 g each. The lower reciprocating weight aids in achieving the higher rev limit and contributes to smoothclimbing revs.
Newly designed RR-specific Camshafts
The RR-specific camshafts were newly designed to elicit high-rpm performance.
New Valve Springs
Intake and exhaust valve springs designed for the higher-revving engine contribute to higher performance. Machined valve spring retainers can be produced with greater precision, contributing to the increased reliability needed for high-rpm operation.
DLC Piston Pins
Piston pins are matched to the pistons and feature a DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating to protect against wear.
High-Grade Suspension
More circuit-focused settings for the WSB-developed BFF (Balance Free Front Fork) and BFRC lite (Balance Free Rear Cushion) shock facilitate front-rear weight transfer, and contribute to light handling.
Single Seat
The single seat enhances the track focus of the Ninja ZX-10RR.
Marchesini Forged Wheels
7-spoke multi-directional forged aluminium wheels specially developed by Marchesini contribute to lighter handling – especially when changing direction. They offer a balance of high rigidity and a significantly reduced moment of inertia, while their machined finish contributes to a high-quality appearance.
Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tyres
The Ninja ZX-10RR is fit standard with top of the range Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tyres.
High-Performance Brembo Brake System
Dual high-spec Brembo M50 monobloc calipers gripping large ø330 mm discs, specially prepared radial-pump master cylinder and race-quality steel-braided lines* deliver next-level braking performance. *Steel-braided lines on the Ninja ZX-10RR only
Light-Handling Chassis
Complementing the highly acclaimed stability of the 2019 model, updates to the chassis geometry contribute to increased cornering performance and light handling.
Air-Cooled Oil Cooler
Based on feedback from Kawasaki’s WSB race machine, the new air-cooled oil cooler features an independent circuit – a design often seen on highperformance models.
Integrated Winglets
Winglets built into the upper cowl generate downforce that helps keep the front wheel on the ground during strong acceleration.
Powerful 998 cm3 Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke In-Line Four
Updates to the Ninja ZX-10R’s powerful engine offer cleaner emissions while maintaining the performance of its predecessor.
Aerodynamic Riding Position
Updated handlebar and footpeg positions contribute to a more aggressive, circuit-focused riding position, while a new seat design helps riders minimise drag when tucked behind the windshield going down the straight.
Integrated Riding Modes: Sport, Road, Rain, Rider (Manual)
All-inclusive modes that link S-KTRC and Power Mode allow riders to efficiently set traction control and power delivery to suit a given riding situation.
TFT Colour Instrumentation
The compact new all-digital TFT colour instrumentation gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance. The new meter also offers additional features unavailable on the previous model.
Next-Generation Ninja Styling
The aerodynamic racer-inspired front cowl, highlighted by compact LED headlights, new Ram Air intake and a taller windshield, is the “face” of the Ninja ZX-10R’s nextgeneration Ninja styling.
Close-ratio Transmission
The Ninja ZX-10R’s gear ratios were idealised for circuit riding. A larger rear sprocket (39T >> 41T) and shorter ratios for 1st, 2nd and 3rd gears offer strong low-mid range acceleration for quicker corner exits, as well as quicker off-the-line acceleration for strong launches on the circuit.
Electronic Cruise Control
Kawasaki’s cruise control system allows a desired speed to be maintained with the simple press of a button. Once activated, the rider does not have to constantly apply the throttle. This reduces stress on the right hand when traveling long distances, enabling relaxed cruising and contributing to a high level of riding comfort.
Kawasaki River Mark
In recognition of its achievement in the Superbike World Championship, special permission to use the River Mark on the Ninja ZX-10R was granted. This is its first use on a nonsupercharged mass-production model.
