Kawasaki - NINJA® ZX-9R
The 1984 Kawasaki NINJA® 900R was the world`s first production 16-valve, liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder motorcycle, and it was also the world`s first stock motorcycle to exceed 150 mph when evaluated under timed track conditions, putting Kawasaki at the forefront of the next generation of motorcycles. For 2002, Kawasaki continues to extend its performance heritage with the new Kawasaki Ninja® ZX-9R. Combining Open-class performance and real-world versatility, the newest ZX-9R delivers improved engine response, sharper handling, and updated styling in a trim, 404 lb. chassis.

The heart of the ZX-9R is its lightweight, all-aluminum cylinder block, with electroplated lining for wear resistance and superior heat dispersion. The cylinder head itself is shaped to provide a high compression ratio, while the cam timing and profile are designed for abundant torque across the rev range. For 2002, Kawasaki paid particular attention to lower-rpm performance. Engineers increased crank mass by 10 percent by adding material to the crank webs, and decreased the size of the flywheel. Additionally, the flywheel cover is now aluminum instead of magnesium so that it can be more easily modified for racing applications.

Four new Keihin 40mm downdraft semi-flat-slide carburetors deliver excellent throttle response and are equipped with the Kawasaki Throttle Responsive Ignition Control (K-TRIC) system. Linked to the ignition system, K-TRIC adjusts ignition timing for all throttle settings. A 16-bit microprocessor accurately adjusts timing from sensors at both the carburetors and the crankshaft.

Spent gases exit via a four-into-two-into-one exhaust system with a lightweight, all-titanium muffler equipped with the Kawasaki Clean Air System catalyzer (with the exception of California models, which have a stainless-steel unit and an additional catalyzer for reduced emissions).

On all models, the exhaust system benefits from an extended divider plate just aft of the collector for increased mid-range response. And the muffler was repositioned for additional cornering clearance and a more aggressive appearance.

The short-wheelbase aluminum frame now features a front engine mount that`s closer to the steering head to improve the engine`s ability to function as a stressed member of the frame and increase rigidity. The angle of the detachable aluminum sub-frame was also modified to accommodate the new streamlined seat and tail section. The ZX-9R`s passenger grab rails were dispensed with, in favor of a lighter-weight seat strap. A cowling that converts the cockpit into a solo seat is standard fare.

The extruded-aluminum swingarm features a hexagonal structure with ribbing for reduced weight and exceptional rigidity, and a brace was added to increase stiffness by 20 percent. Kawasaki`s Bottom Link UNI-TRAK® system features linkage ratios that provide a linear progression of damping and spring rates on the fully adjustable single shock as the suspension is compressed. For 2002, the lower link mount was moved forward and linkage rates were changed to provide an even more linear feel.

The shock comes equipped with a ride-height adjuster that allows for fine-tuning the chassis to suit specific conditions. Damping settings have been modified to accommodate the stiffer chassis, and the shock reservoir was repositioned to provide clearance for the new swingarm. Also new is the stepless damping adjuster, which uses a check valve for improved damping performance.

Up front, damping settings in the 46mm cartridge fork were also modified to match the stiffer chassis and rear suspension settings. Offset was reduced to positively affect handling and pitch was increased to provide extra cornering performance and stability. Like the rear shock, the fork now features the new stepless damping adjuster.

The ZX-9R`s dual front disc brakes are even larger for 2002, with 320mm semi-floating discs clamped by opposed four-piston calipers, while the rear brake holder is designed to save weight. The rear wheel has a six-inch wide rim that allows a wide rear tire for better traction, while both front and rear axles have a large diameter and are hollow for increased rigidity and light weight. Also contributing to the ZX-9R`s rolling resistance is a new 525 chain that replaces the 530 version.

With extensive refinements throughout, the newest NINJA ZX-9R combines the virtues of Open-class power, all-day riding comfort, and true Superbike handling better than any sportbike Kawasaki has ever offered.