It's been a while since we tested a ZX-6R but lucky for us KMA have put a stunning 2021 KRT edition on the press fleet. Pics: SDPics, Stuart Reid
In 2019 Kawasaki did a host of updates to their Ninja 636. For 2021 we have the hot looking KRT edition. We spent a few weeks on the road and a day on track. Here’s our ZX-6R video review, check it out!
Jeff had loads of fun on the ZX-6R 636 KRT edition at a recent Sydney Motorsports Park Ride Day, comfortably lapping in the 1:43s on the Bridgestone S22 rubber and stock settings. A great little bike and comfy to ride home!
The ZX-6R is an excellent little road or track day bike. The extra capacity gives it broad, useable torque for daily road riding and the overall chassis set-up provides comfort and stability on even the worst of our Aussie roads. While the styling is definitely 2021, the rest of the bike is slightly old school, despite having traction control, ABS, a quickshifter and ride modes, in terms of electronics the systems are a few years old now. However, at $15.199 + ORC, you are getting a lot of motorcycle. Anyway, check out the video review for all the info and don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel!
2021 KAWASAKI ZX-6R KRT EDITION VIDEO REVIEW
TECH TALK, 2021 KAWASAKI ZX-6R 636
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 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 also ensure emissions clear Euro4.
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.
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 310mm 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 wheel.
The LED dash feature 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.
2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 636 KRT Specifications
Price: $15,199 + ORC (Click here and add your postcode for R/A pricing)
Claimed Power: 95.4kW[130PS]@13,500rpm (136hp with ram air)
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, Bridgestone S22.
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 1400mm
Seat height: 830mm
Ground clearance: 130mm
Overall width: 710mm
Overall Length: 2025mm
Overall height: 1100mm
Instruments & Electronics: Analogue tacho, digital multifunction display, KQS, Dual Throttle Valves, A&S Clutch, KIBS, ABS, KRTC, ECO Mode, Power Modes
The Verdict | Video Review: 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 636 KRT Edition
Ninja Warrior!
It has been a while since we tested a Kawasaki ZX-6R but thankfully for 2021 KMA have put a stunning KRT edition on the press fleet. Check out our video review…
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