We’ve just heard about updates to the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and the ZX-10RR, with a new look based around aerodynamics with integrated winglets, TFT display with smartphone connectivity, cruise control, integrated rider modes as well as some chassis and engine updates.
On the ZX-10RR, which will only be produced in 500 units worldwide, there’s some unique up-spec race and competition specific changes as well. So let’s have a look through the changes, with an update overview…
The liquid-cooled 998 cc in-line four powerplant is retained, but 2021 will see it in Euro5 compliant form, with power now claimed at 203 P.S. peaking at 13,200 rpm. On the ZX-10 RR that’s boosted to 204 P.S at 14,000 rpm with a higher red line, and the torque is actually a little lower at 112 Nm, at 11,700 rpm.
Things get more interesting with the ZX-10RR, with different height intake funnels eliminated, creating a new effective height of 5 millimetres for all of them which helps high rpm performance. Camshafts are likewise specially designed for high rpm performance, along with the valve springs, with machined retainers.
Titanium connecting rods and lightweight pistons on the RR are also designed by Pankl, saving 500 grams in total, with 20 grams off each piston, and running one less piston ring, for a shorter height and reducing friction. Piston pins are also DLC coated to reduce wear. This all results in the rev limit being raised to 14,700 rpm, from 14,300 rpm.
For the full run down check out the video.