Updates for the already fantastic ZX-6R 636 include a restyle, quickshifter and new dash...
For 2019 Kawasaki have announced a host of updates to their Ninja 636, including revamped styling to more closely align with their WorldSBK machinery, the addition of a quick shifter as standard, revised gearing and LED headlights.
While in some ways these changes represent a relatively modest upgrade to this machine, the Kawasaki ZX-6R 636 was an early adopter of a range of rider aid technologies, including power modes, traction control and their own ABS system, which continue to be found on these machines.
The updated Ninja ZX-6R ‘636’ features gearing aimed at delivering stronger low-end response, making the new model even more fun on the street and winding roads, and goes from 43/16 to 43/15, in a move that no doubt mirrors the choice of many owners on the previous edition.
KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shift) is now standard equipment, complementing advanced support technology like three-mode KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control), Power Mode selection and KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent Braking System).
New styling also offers the next evolution of Ninja design, and gives the new Ninja ZX-6R strong family looks to the brand’s highly successful WorldSBK winning machinery, with a revised front fairing and the adoption of twin LED headlights. The tail has also been revised and now also incorporates an LED taillight.
Kawasaki are also boasting improved performance with the 636cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke in-line four-cylinder engine, which offers greater performance across the rpm range, particularly for low and mid-range torque for usability in everyday riding situations. Updates for 2019 also ensure emissions clear Euro4 regulations.
Shorter gearing care of the revised final ratio works alongside race-inspired clutch technology offering both a back-torque limiting function as well as a light feel at the lever. In addition to the standard fit assist and slipper clutch, other rider friendly features include a handy 12V power outlet.
The race-developed perimeter frame is the key to balanced flickable handling, mid-corner composure and an ability to change lines on command, along with excellent chassis feedback. SFF-BP forks (Separate Function Fork – Big Piston) offer both racetrack performance and everyday usability, while preload and damping (rebound and compression) are separated, facilitating setup to suit owner’s needs. Adjustability for the rear monoshock includes preload, rebound damping and compression damping.
A two-piece rear frame is an aluminium die-casting consisting of a front and rear section. This layout enables a very lightweight construction, which is also very narrow, allowing the rear of the bike to be very compact and slim.
Bridgestone’s Battlax Hypersport S22 Tyres are also standard fitment, to contribute to lighter handling, while offering superior grip in both dry and wet conditions, which translates to greater rider confidence and enjoyment.
Large 310 mm petal rotors, radial-mount monobloc calipers and a radial-pump front brake master cylinder complete the front brake package. A 220mm rear petal rotor and lightweight caliper slow the rear.
The Ninja 636’s riding position is also ideal for sport riding, offering an intuitive fit, with tank, seat and rear frame ergonomics which offer good contact with the bike for enhanced rider feedback.
A new high-grade instrument layout is also now featured, with a large analogue tachometer flanked by warning lamps on one side, and a gear position indicator, fuel gauge and remaining range function and multi-function LCD screen on the other.
The 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 636 will be available in Lime Green/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Gray and Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black.
2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 636 Specifications
Price: TBA
Claimed Power: 95.4kW[130PS]@13,500rpm
Claimed Torque: 70.8Nm@11,000rpm
Wet Weight: 196kg
Fuel capacity: 17L
Engine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-cylinder, DOHC, 636cc, 67 x 45.1mm bore x stroke, 12.9:1 compression ratio, EFI, KRTC, Ride Modes, KQS
Gearbox: Six-speed, return
Clutch: Wet multi-disc, slip and assist
Chassis: Perimeter pressed-aluminium tubular diamond frame, two-piece die-cast subframe
Rake: 23.5°
Trail: 101mm
Suspension: 41mm Showa SFF-BP forks, rebound, compression and preload adjustable, Bottom-Link Uni Track rear shock, piggyback reservoir, compression, rebound and preload adjustable
Brakes: KIBS, semi-floating 310mm stainless-steel front petal rotors, radial-mount four-piston monoblock calipers, radial-pump master cylinder, 220mm rear rotor, single-bore pin-slide caliper
Wheels & Tyres: 120/70 – 17, 180/55 – 17
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 1400mm
Seat height: 830mm
Ground clearance: 130mm
Overall width: 710mm
Overall Length: 2025mm
Overall height: 1100mm
Instruments: Analogue tacho, digital multifunction display