Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R 2015 vs. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE 2018

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R model year 2015 and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE model year 2018 are both powerful supersport motorcycles with similar technical specifications. They both have an inline engine with a bore of 76 mm and a stroke of 55 mm. The engine power is 200.1 HP and the compression ratio is 13. They both have 4 cylinders and a displacement of 998 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both models feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension also has adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The chassis of both models is made of aluminum, providing a strong and lightweight frame.

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R 2015

The braking system on both models consists of double disk brakes at the front, with radial technology and a petal design. This ensures efficient and reliable braking performance. The front tire width is 120 mm and the rear tire width is 190 mm, with both models having a 17-inch diameter for the tires. The wheelbase of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R 2015 is 1115 mm, while the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE 2018 has a longer wheelbase of 1440 mm. The seat height is 813 mm for the 2015 model and 835 mm for the 2018 SE model. Both models have a fuel tank capacity of 17 liters.

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R 2015 is known for its great basis as a racing bike, with a strong engine in the upper rev range and a good chassis. However, it has some weaknesses, such as a gear ratio that is too long, resulting in little power in the lower rev range. Additionally, the traction control system of the 2015 model cannot keep up with the systems found in top bikes.

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE 2018

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE 2018 offers great confidence in a well-functioning package. The electronic chassis provides surprisingly great ride comfort, even during brisk laps on challenging tracks like the Nordschleife. The SE model also boasts very good components at all corners and ends, with a geometry, chassis, and steering dampers that fit together exceptionally well. The engine of the 2018 SE model is powerful and rev-happy in the upper rev range. However, it also has some weaknesses, including long gearing with little pressure in the rev range, requiring more gear changes than desired. The information displayed on the screen is not large enough in hectic situations, and the overall impression of the bike appears high-quality but not up-to-date.

In conclusion, while both the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R 2015 and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE 2018 are powerful supersport motorcycles with similar technical specifications, the 2018 SE model offers improvements in terms of ride comfort, components, and overall package. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as long gearing and a less modern overall impression.