Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2024 Review: Power and Precision

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2024 stands out with its 636 cc engine, delivering 124 hp at 13,000 rpm and a torque of 69 Nm at 10,800 rpm. The chassis offers a front suspension travel of 120 mm and a rear suspension travel of 151 mm, which, combined with the 310 mm front brakes and 220 mm rear brakes, ensures excellent riding stability. The agile handling is supported by the sporty geometry and the relatively low weight of 198 kg. The seat height of 830 mm and a fuel tank capacity of 17 liters make it suitable on paper for day tours.

The HJC helmets in superhero design, which our editors wore for the Kawasaki Supersport motorcycle test, are not only real eye-catchers but also technically advanced. The RPHA 1 and RPHA 12 models offer a perfect combination of safety, comfort, and stylish design. The RPHA 1 is particularly designed for aerodynamics and stability at high speeds and provides excellent protection through its premium materials. The RPHA 12, on the other hand, impresses with its versatile range of use and excellent ventilation, which ensures pleasant freshness even on longer rides. Both helmets are adorned with striking superhero graphics, making them a special highlight for all comic fans and motorcycle enthusiasts.

For more information, visit: HJC Helmets.

Our editors not only wore the striking HJC helmets during this supersports motorcycle test, but they were also dressed in high-quality motorcycle gear from Segura. Segura is known for its combination of classic design and top-notch protection. The tested outfits included sturdy leather jackets, which provide maximum safety with their abrasion-resistant properties and integrated protectors on the shoulders, elbows, and back. Additionally, breathable and weatherproof pants and gloves offered optimal grip and protection. Segura's motorcycle gear combines stylish looks with functional details, ensuring that our editors were not only well-protected but also comfortable and fashionable on the go.

For more information, visit: Segura Motorcycle Gear.

Martin Bauer describes the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R as a very sporty bike. Originally equipped with a 600cc engine, Kawasaki early on increased the displacement to 636cc to gain more torque from low revs. Despite the slight displacement advantage, the four-cylinder engine still requires high revs for optimal performance. The riding performance of the ZX-6R is described as extremely sporty, with high stability that is particularly advantageous for track use. The machine offers good feedback from the front tire, which builds confidence at high speeds. However, it lacks agility on twisty roads at around 100 km/h and requires significant steering input to change direction quickly at high speeds. A major criticism is the riding position, which is extremely sporty and cramped. The rider sits very close to the handlebars, which can be problematic on longer rides or for taller riders over 1.80 meters. This makes handling more difficult and requires a lot of effort. The chassis of the ZX-6R is fully adjustable and sportily tuned, but still suitable for twisty roads. The brakes are effective, although the ABS could be a bit more aggressive. Another drawback is the lack of a ride-by-wire system, which does not support modern features like a blipper function.

He particularly highlights the 636cc engine, which offers more power than the usual 600cc engines in this class. The quickshifter works well, but Horvath criticizes the lack of a ride-by-wire system and consequently a blipper, which he considers outdated and disappointing for this class. Horvath criticizes the riding position as too aggressive. The clip-ons are turned too far inward, and the knee angle is very acute, affecting comfort and ease of riding. Although it is a supersport bike, adjustments here would be desirable. However, the suspension and brakes are positively rated and described as sportily tuned. Overall, the riding position leaves the biggest point of criticism.

Even in 2024, the Ninja ZX-6R continues to offer this performance feature. The gear ratio is relatively short, meaning that even in second gear, there is enough torque to accelerate out of corners. The bike's display appears somewhat spartan for this class and price category. The quickshifter works very well and requires minimal input to change gears, but it lacks a blipper function. The seating position is described as comfortable and not too radical for a supersports, making it suitable for longer rides. However, for track use, the handlebars could be set a bit lower. The suspension is firmly set, which is pleasant on country roads but would need to be adjusted on the race track to provide more feedback. In summary, Alessio emphasizes that the Ninja ZX-6R continues to impress with its strong performance and good handling, even though there are some aspects that could be optimized for the race track.

Amelie describes the Kawasaki ZX-6R as a very fun and enjoyable bike. She emphasizes the sporty riding position with a tight knee angle, which could become tiring on long tours, but did not cause her any issues during the week-long test. She particularly liked the engine and the early clutch point, which makes starting off easier. The gear shifting worked smoothly and without problems. Another positive aspect is the well-visible mirrors and the clear display, which is not always a given with supersports. She describes the handling of the ZX-6R as very easy and intuitive. Despite the bike's imposing appearance, she had no trouble maneuvering it. Overall, Amelie gives the Kawasaki ZX-6R a positive overall impression and a thumbs up.

As part of the supersports motorcycle test, a standard tire was used: the Bridgestone S23. This tire is known for its balanced performance and versatility on different road surfaces. The Bridgestone S23 offers reliable traction and stability, both at high speeds and in corners. Its rubber compound and tread design are engineered to ensure even wear and good longevity. This allowed the editors to ride the motorcycles safely and controlled under various conditions, making the Bridgestone S23 a suitable choice for the test.

Here you can find more information: Bridgestone S23 Tire.

The positive experiences with the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R include:

Powerful Engine: The 636cc engine offers more grunt and power than the usual 600cc engines in this class.

Well-functioning Quickshifter: The quickshifter allows for smooth and fluid gear changes without much effort.

Good Handling: The bike is easy to maneuver and provides a pleasant riding experience.

Clear Display: The display is easily readable and provides all necessary information at a glance.

Good Feedback and Stability: The chassis and brakes are sportily tuned, offering stable and reliable performance.

Positive Riding Experience: The machine is a lot of fun to ride and conveys a strong sense of control and safety.

Missing Ride-by-Wire System: As a result, there is no blipper, which is considered outdated and disappointing for this class.

Aggressive Riding Position: The clip-ons are turned too far inward, and the knee angle is very sharp, which affects comfort and makes riding more difficult.

Lack of Comfort: The aggressive riding position means that longer rides can be tiring.

Spartan Display: The display seems somewhat plain compared to other bikes in this class and price range.