The Suzuki GSX-R600, Honda CBR600RR, and Yamaha YZF-R6 are just a few examples of how the majority of top manufacturers have ignored the formerly dominant supersport segment in recent years. But the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is an exception. The most recent update for the inline-four screamer came in 2019; Team Green is about to repeat the process for the upcoming 2024 model year. And unlike the MY2023 announcement, this won’t be another color update; rather, it will be a 600cc Kwacker that has undergone significant revision.
Kawasaki Registers 2024 Ninja ZX-6R in America
The information was obtained by Motorcycle.com from Kawasaki’s EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) filings. The 2024 Ninja ZX-6R has model codes ZX636JR/KR and certificate number RKAXC.636AAF, according to the documents. The “636AAF” is the intriguing part of this, as it suggests that this will be the next generation of the supersport motorcycle when compared to the “636AAE” (for the 2019 model) and “636AAD” (for the 2013 model). As with the 2023 Ninja, the JR/KR at the end of the model code designates the ABS and non-ABS versions.
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Will Make Less Power Next Year
What will therefore change? The updated engine is the most obvious giveaway in the filings, though. The engine’s maximum power output has decreased from the 2023 model’s 95kW (127-HP) to 91kW (120 HP), despite having the same 636cc (four cylinder) displacement. This is probably because the internals have been revised, the redline has been lowered to 13,000 RPM, and new exhaust has been installed in order to comply with the stricter emission standards.
Even after that, the ZX-6R will be unrivaled in the mid-capacity sports bike category (power-wise). Yes, we understand that a seven pony deficit is a big deal. Its primary competitors will be the 105-HP Aprilia RS 660, 94-HP Honda CBR650R, and 72-HP Yamaha R7. If the new 6R debuts in the European and British markets, where it has been absent since 2019, this makes even more sense.
Furthermore, we anticipate Kawasaki to update the ZX-6R’s features. IMU-based improved electronics and Team Green’s TFT instrument cluster, which is already found on the majority of Ninjas, seem like a no-brainer. The ZX-6R currently has a minimal feature set, including a quickshifter that only shifts up, a semi-digital readout, adjustable levers, two ride modes, and rudimentary traction control. But because the filings don’t support these, take this with a grain of salt.
2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R – When Will It Launch?
After completing the formal filings, Kawasaki may introduce the 2024 Ninja ZX-6R to the American market in the coming months, followed by a 2023 EICMA debut for the European market. The cost will increase by a few hundred dollars to about $11,000 for the non-ABS model, as you might anticipate. The Aprilia RS660 will still be significantly outsold by this vehicle by $500 even at this price.
Reference: www.topspeed.com
