As a Club Kawasaki member you’ll receive an exclusive £1500 of FREE Helmet and Protective clothing cover worth £29.99 when you purchase an annual motorcycle insurance policy through Kawasaki Insurance using the Club Kawasaki phone number. Kawasaki Insurance can cater for the entire model range as well as offering multi bike policies and every policy comes with new bike replacement for newly registered bikes written off within six months, uninsured driver accident cover and unlimited accessories cover, as well as up to £100,000 of FREE legal expenses. As a Club Kawasaki member, you could also receive a premium discount of up to 10%.
All you need to do is call the Club Kawasaki Insurance line on 0800 085 6551 and let the specialists at
the right insurance cover for the right price, giving you peace of mind to concentrate on what’s really
• •
• Provisional & A2 licence holders
• Personal Accident cover
So remember, to claim your £1500 of FREE Helmet and Protective clothing cover worth £29.99, take a policy out with Kawasaki Insurance by calling the dedicated Club Kawasaki insurance line on 0800 085 6551.
Lines are open: 9am to 7pm Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm Saturday 10am to 2pm Sunday
•
• Club Kawasaki Member Discounts
• Limited Mileage Discounts
• Track Days 0800Calluson0856551
WELCOME
Welcome to Club Magazine – issue 27!
Hi everyone, my name is Charlotte and I’m here to bring you the Spring issue of the Club magazine. I started at Kawasaki UK back in October 2023 and I have been learning the ropes for the last seven months. I will be looking after Club Kawasaki and you will see me at some of our upcoming events – please come and say hello, I would love to meet you!
In this issue, we are excited to bring you an insight into our two new hybrid bikes. Each harnessing unique, innovative and groundbreaking technology, these bikes are effectively three machines in one thanks to electric power allied to hybrid and internal combustion technologies.
The issue also features details of our 2024 events, including our list of Dealer Demo Days, so you can keep track of where the Kawasaki UK team will be throughout the season and have the chance to check out and test ride the latest models. Of course, it’s not just Dealer Demo Days where you’re able to enjoy the Kawasaki experience; you can also join us at BSB, shows, events and exhibitions –we’ll see you there!
Have a read of our 2024 road trips feature for inspiration on new routes to explore. If you enjoy meeting people and exploring new places, get involved in the Club Challenge, where you can earn double points by submitting a selfie with another club member! We have also included an article on how to get the best snaps, which offers helpful tips on capturing great shots of you and your bike.
Once again in this edition, we bring you our My Kawasaki & Me feature –get to know Club Kawasaki member Nigel Tully and his adventures with the 14 Kawasaki bikes he has owned over the last 50 years.
We’ll be back with you for issue 28 before the end of the year, where we’ll be able to unveil the full 2025 model range.
I hope you enjoy this issue of the magazine and would love to hear your feedback on the forum.
Charlotte Stow | Editor
Editor: Charlotte Stow
Designer: Kar Lee
Exclusive content: Martin Lambert
Contributors: Mike Aylwin, Dialogue Agency
Thanks to:
Steve Moore, Nigel Tully, Ben Wilson, Joni Lovell, Ross Burridge, Jemma Newman
Photography: KME, KMUK, Tim KeetonImpact Images
Published by Kawasaki Motors UK www.kawasaki.co.uk
Petrol and electricity working in harmony. Kawasaki’s hybrid motorcycles are unique in the world of motorcycling as the first “strong hybrid” massproduced machines ever.
P17 A VIEW FROM BEHIND
Hear from club member Joni Lovell about her experience from the back of the bike, including her top pillion pointers on getting the safest and most comfortable ride.
P21 2024 CLOTHING & MERCHANDISE
Check out our latest range of clothing and accessories, including our new WSBK and MXGP collections.
P28 FAMILY TYRES
From Supersport to British Superbike, Kawasaki rider Ben Wilson takes us on a trip down memory lane.
P32 2024 ROAD TRIPS
Discover a new route this summer – we have put together six routes across the UK for you to get out and explore!
P40 IN THE FRAME
If you are taking part in our Club Challenge this year, or just want to learn how to take better pictures of you and your bike, check out our top tips on how
P45 MY KAWASAKIS AND ME
We caught up with Club member Nigel Tully to hear about his Kawasaki story and where it has taken him over the last 50 years.
P55 NINJA 40th ANNIVERSARY
Come with us on a trip to celebrate the 40-year journey of the Ninja family.
P6 EVENTS
P26 50th ANNIVERSARY OF KAWASAKI MOTORS UK
P35 CLUB CHALLENGE
P42 THE BENEFITS TO BELONGING
P51 KMUK STAFF INSIGHT
Helite’s newest most innovative airbag has become one of the Industry’s fastest selling products…. To avoid supply disappointment email: orders@heliteuk.co.uk and quote KAW / HMOOV and we will ensure you get the best option of quick supply
DEALER DEMO DAYS
2024 event calendar
DEALER DEMO DAYS
The incredibly popular Kawasaki Dealer Demo Days are returning this summer, giving riders the chance to experience the latest 2024 models. With dates across the country, and more to be confirmed, this is set to be the biggest Dealer Demo tour yet.
BSB
Join us at BSB this year to enjoy fantastic value weekend circuit entry tickets. If you haven’t witnessed the atmosphere first hand, the explosive acceleration off the line or the riders rubbing elbows at incredible speeds – then you really should!
BRITISH SUPERBIKES
JUNE
1 Dealer Demo Day J W Groombridge Motorcycles
8 Dealer Demo Day P & H Motorcycles 14-16 BSB Round 4 Knockhill
15 Dealer Demo Day Chris Walker
20-23 Royal Highland Show Ingliston, Edinburgh
Showcasing the best of food, farming and rural life at Ingliston in Edinburgh. See a range of the latest Kawasaki ATV and MULE machinery
22 Dealer Demo Day Kirkcaldy 28-30 Adventure Bike Rider Festival Ragley Hall, Warwickshire
Celebrate life and travel on two wheels with three incredible days of festival action and entertainment. Test ride a new Kawasaki motorcycle, have a go off-road and visit the Kawasaki stand
JULY
5-7 BSB Round 5 Snetterton
6 Dealer Demo Day Fowlers Kawasaki
12-14 World Superbikes Hospitality Donington Park
Join us for VIP hospitality at the sole UK round of WorldSBK at Donington Park this July 19-21 BSB Round 6 Brands Hatch
Club Kawasaki members have a unique chance to get trackside at Brands Hatch BSB in our Kawasaki suite! Weekend circuit entry and Saturday hospitality are included in the £134 ticket price
20 Dealer Demo Day Shirlaws
22-25 Royal Welsh Show Royal Welsh Showground
26-28 Game Fair Ragley Hall, Warwickshire
An annual gathering for people passionate about countryside pursuits. See a range of the latest Kawasaki ATV and MULE machinery
27 Dealer Demo Day Bolton Kawasaki
If you've ever wanted to sampe a supercharged Kawasaki, now's your chance at one of our Dealer Demo Days!
AUGUST
9-11 BSB Round 7 Thruxton 17-18 Dealer Demo Day M & P Kawasaki
24-26 BSB Round 8 Cadwell Park
SEPTEMBER
13-15 BSB Round 9 Oulton Park
27-29 BSB Round 10 Donington Park
OCTOBER
11-13 BSB Round 11 FINAL Brands Hatch
Club Kawasaki members have a unique chance to get trackside at Brands Hatch BSB in our Kawasaki suite! Weekend circuit entry and Saturday hospitality are included in the £134 ticket price
NOVEMBER
16-24 Motorcycle Live NEC, Birmingham
Visit the largest motorcycle show in the UK to see the latest 2025 Kawasaki model range revealed. Look out for further details to be released about the Club Kawasaki preview event on the opening Saturday –show ticket included
Additional events are constantly being added by local Ambassadors and Kawasaki dealers so to purchase tickets to any official Club Kawasaki event, including BSB, please visit www.club-kawasaki.co.uk.
Everything you need to know about Kawasaki’s new breed of motorcycle – meet the Ninja 7 and Z7 Hybrids
hybrid know it all
Kawasaki’s hybrid motorcycles in both Z 7 and Ninja 7 form are unique in the world of motorcycling as the first “strong hybrid” mass-produced machines ever.
There are some hybrid type machines around – mostly scooter-based – but they don’t do what the Kawasaki Z 7 and Ninja 7 do. With a compact traction (electric) motor mounted behind the cylinder bank of the 451cc parallel twin internal combustion engine, the Kawasaki strong hybrid power unit combines ICE (internal combustion engine) and traction motors complementing each other to produce a rider-friendly character with strong low and mid-range torque, plus stunning acceleration and rideability.
So, put simply, strong hybrid systems combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor and, because of their large battery capacity, they are able to run on electricity alone. Other hybrid-powered two-wheelers simply cannot do this. OK, that’s the (relatively) simple bit done, but the two big questions are “why” and “how”?
A HYBRID BIKE – WHY?
If you take a step back and look at not just the global, but also the European powered two-wheeler market, things are not simple and certainly not as defined as the car market. For car makers, the transition towards low and zero emissions has had its bumps along the road but, thanks to the shadow of incoming legislation and increasing establishment of inner-city low or no emission zones, the acceptance of this type of vehicle by the buying public has been matched by manufacturers – particularly Tesla – eager to deliver hybrid, electric and even hydrogenpowered vehicles. But cars have some things going for them that are hard to port across to motorcycles. For a start there are the issues of weight,
451cc parallel
in
vehicle dynamics and range. A car platform not only has a void in front of the driver normally occupied by an internal combustion engine; there is also a huge, flat area of floor under the driver and passengers ideally suited to the installation of batteries. In a car installation then, batteries are easy to find a home for and, equally, can be installed low in the vehicle, contributing to an idealised centre of gravity.
At this point – and before moving on - we have to stir into the mix the long-established and undeniable benefits of the internal combustion engine. Kawasaki have been successfully manufacturing internal combustion engines for a little over seventy years allied to the fact that the KHI group can harness an incredible swathe of technology from within the vast manufacturing conglomerate. Whilst dates and years are bandied about for a move to zero emissions, these are largely targeted at cars and the motorcycle lobby has a legitimate claim to not only continue to develop the gasoline engine in terms of clean burn running and frugality but also negotiate the date of any incoming legislation; in fact the Motorcycle Industry Association in the UK is actively engaged currently with the UK Government to try to navigate a more logical and fair path for powered two-wheelers as part of a future transport framework.
Now let’s look at the dilemma for no and low emission motorcycles.
A trellis steel frame holds everything together
twin works
tandem with an electric motor to deliver incredible economy and performance
“Strong hybrid systems combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor”
hybrid know it all
THE ANGLE OF THE DANGLE
“Range anxiety” is now gradually evaporating for car drivers with electric or hybrid vehicles but for powered two-wheelers it creates a dilemma. Scooters and “town bikes” do not require enormous range so therefore don’t need huge batteries (and the attendant weight). Riding from and to a place of work and plugging in, the electric scooter owner enjoys the larger voids of a scooter type bodywork for packaging and the low overall range required by most urban users. Into this arena arrived the Ninja-e1 and Z-e1 from Kawasaki, porting the range demands of urban and suburban performance and distance needs of users who would rather ride a machine with motorcycling looks with the added benefit of removable batteries and “e-Boost” for swift overtaking. Introduced a year before the hybrid concept, Kawasaki’s all-electric models answered an existing need while the hybrids offer something genuinely unique as well as sharing some attributes of those e-machines as part of a forward looking two-wheel philosophy.
It’s true that more than one manufacturer offers mid and longer range electric motorcycles but –with current (sic)
“Kawasaki’s all-electric models answered an existing need while the hybrids offer something genuinely unique”
battery technology – the issues of accommodating larger and larger batteries with the attendant “pendulum” effect of weight transfer through corners (or when braking) are an incredible challenge. Only a bumblebee can defeat physics!
WHEREFORE ART THOU – HYBRID HEROES
Surveying the established two-wheel landscape – and what is likely to come into view over the horizon – Kawasaki decided to investigate hybrid technology as an alternative to rushing down the electric-only EV road.
While design and development were initiated in secret in Japan, Kawasaki realised the low carbon race was being fought not just in the market but also in the media. With the outline brief and a packaging concept in place (in secret), the formal announcement was made at the EICMA
Unique aesthetics and performance are standard fitment with the Ninja 7 Hybrid
motorcycle show in Milan in 2021 by Mr Ito, President of Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. His bold promise was to “introduce ten EV or hybrid motorcycles by 2025”.
A year later, at EICMA 2022, plans had moved on and the media plus public got sight of not only the two new EV machines but further news of the hybrid project (plus the shock news of a hydrogen machine under development). Corporately speaking, there was now no going back.
BEHIND THE CORPORATE CURTAIN…
What was not made public at the time – or since – was the sheer effort and resources that had to be marshalled in order to hit the ambitious launch deadline. A bike that is effectively two (or three) machines in one demanded a much higher head count in the design and development phase. In essence, the equation was to double the headcount while effectively reducing the creative process by 50%. Add to that the fact that not only numerous patents had previously been lodged but also new innovations were expected to be unearthed.
In fact, when factory staff were asked at the media launch of the Ninja 7 Hybrid in Barcelona they could honestly not count how many patents were in the pipeline for processing. In anticipation, no single person was tasked
with coordinating patents. Instead, each person involved was empowered to report back to the Kawasaki legal department at the end of each day with what they thought were “patent-worthy” innovations.
THE PROOF IN THE PUDDING
Having promised so much, the aforementioned Barcelona launch of the world’s first strong hybrid motorcycle, the Ninja 7, took place in autumn 2023. The pre-event anticipation of the invited media was palpable while the factory sent nearly a dozen staff of various levels to observe and collect feedback.
Barcelona was chosen for a variety of reasons, not simply benign weather. As a city with a widely recognised green vehicle agenda the canvas was in place to introduce a truly innovative vehicle. The plan for the media – as with most launches – was to mix saddle time with photo/video gathering sessions.
Starting in full electric mode, journalists left the host hotel, The Hoxton, riding 3.5km to Parc del Fòrum, one of the Olympic sites from 1992. A vast flat area on the coast equipped with a huge and iconic solar panel, journalists had an opportunity to experience a number of fascinating facets of the hybrid machine including “walk mode” using just battery power and “reverse” using the same technology via the initially counter-intuitive method of rolling the throttle forwards.
On top of that, journalists lined up to experience maximum acceleration using the combination of the 451cc parallel twin gasoline engine plus the electric motor on full boost. With initial acceleration akin to a Ninja ZX-10R, the ability to move off from standstill using
A modern TFT dash displays all the info you need with crystal clear clarity
hybrid know it all
a sub-500cc four stroke parallel twin, plus the same basic electric motor from the Z/Ninja e models, was certainly eye opening. Oh, and it also delivers 250cc class fuel economy! In terms of sheer “choreography”, the harnessing of scenarios at the launch to showcase all the possible riding options and environments was a challenge in itself.
With full EV and walk mode covered plus maximum acceleration in a closed course environment, the next phase was riding on public roads exploring the other two of the riding modes apart from zero emission full electric.
Sport Hybrid prompts the engine to start utilising fullengine power with the assistance of the electric (traction) motor and the benefit of e-boost at the touch of a button. Speaking of which, we have not mentioned so far the fact that the Kawasaki hybrid has no “gear lever” as such, just a left footpeg to rest your foot on. All of the six gears are selected either manually (as when operating in Sport Hybrid mode) or automatically selected such as when in Eco-Hybrid mode (where you can also opt for manual changing).
Taking some time to get used to – and initially feeling for the foot gear lever when first introduced to the machine – the “paddle” shifters up and down on the left handlebar soon become second nature. Interestingly, when establishing the event in Barcelona, younger riders found this paddle shift scenario easier to adjust to compared to older riders and that is only to be expected but, by the end of the event, everyone appreciated the technology and convenience offered by the paddle shift system.
FULLY FEATURED FACTS
Earlier in this article we mentioned two salient facts: firstly that there will be so many patents applied for in relation to Kawasaki’s hybrid technology, and that much of this was groundbreaking stuff.
The Kawasaki approach – perhaps in contrast to some other manufacturers – is to try as much as possible to keep things simple. The elegance of the hybrid models lies in their compact dimensions and subtle answers to the many engineering challenges. The clutch, as an example, is a simple single affair in contrast to the DCT unit developed by Honda.
In themselves, these compact machines offer amazing “idealised” performance. By that we mean that the physical size of the machines is matched by their range and performance; and that is a crucial point to make. A hybrid
“Kawasaki’s hybrid machines charge as they go”
scooter can only be ridden a certain distance and also often needs to be plugged in to top up the batteries. Full sized EV machines do increasingly offer longer and longer range but, in doing that, they need bigger and bigger batteries (adding more and more weight) plus being idle during recharging.
Kawasaki’s hybrid machines charge as they go, can operate in zero emission zones but also benefit from the convenience of the gasoline engine and the proliferation of fuel stations. You are never going to be stranded on a Kawasaki hybrid bike! Also – and this is important – the Ninja 400 sized package and 600>700cc acceleration (hence the 7 naming) is an ideal balance.
At the launch many people asked “why not a 250cc size machine or even a litre class bike?” which is logical. We’ve mentioned that all-electric longer range bikes are heavier and take longer to recharge. For hybrid bikes, the same is true. Although a more powerful electric motor may not be vastly larger, it would need more (heavier) batteries to power it. A larger capacity motor would need a stronger and
The Ninja 7 Hybrid will be joined by the naked Z7 in 2024
heavier (plus larger) frame.
In essence you might end up adding a load more weight and complexity for a marginal gain in performance. Utilising the new 451cc engine (which is already highly praised in the new Z, Ninja and Eliminator 500 models) just feels logical. So too the adoption of much of the tightly packaged tech of the existing electric motor (albeit with the addition of water-cooling) from the 125cc sized EV bikes. Put simply, Kawasaki have created the ideal “sweet spot” for the Z 7 and Ninja 7 hybrids to inhabit.
In terms of facts and features, what’s been outlined so far is but the tip of the iceberg. The Z 7 and Ninja 7 hybrids would be groundbreaking even with the features highlighted so far but there is so much more.
Like a lot of modern cars, an idle stop function can be selected whereby the machine effectively “shuts off” at a standstill such as when at traffic lights. Additional to this there
“Kawasaki have created the ideal ‘sweet spot’ for the Z7 and Ninja 7 hybrids”
is an automatic launch position finder (ALPF) which auto shifts the gearbox to first as the machine comes to a halt, ready to pull away again in the lowest gear. Allied to paddle shifting and idle stop – plus the ability to link the machine to the rider’s smartphone – it’s easy to see how these features will engage current motorcyclists while attracting a new, more car savvy audience.
ARE YOU A HYBRID CUSTOMER?
That is something only you can answer but there certainly are some major plus points to hybrid ownership. First you get the best of all possible worlds. Whether you agree with zero emission zones or not it’s nice to be able to ride in them – and they are expanding almost daily. Likewise, the benefits and feel of a gasoline engine are part of many riders’ emotional landscape, so a 500cc class machine that can initially accelerate like a Ninja ZX-10R but return 250cc class fuel economy with green credentials is not something to turn your nose up at.
You wont be seeing “hybrid motorcycle group tests” in your favourite biking magazine or website any time soon as these bikes are unique. But that should not delay you in visiting your local Kawasaki dealer and booking a test ride when a machine becomes available. Kawasaki is steeped in twowheel history and can count a raft of “motorcycling firsts” among its numerous accolades. The Z 7 and Ninja 7 Hybrid models – even before they become a common sight on our roads – already feature in this pantheon. At the very least, you owe it to yourself to see what the fuss is all about. Book a ride when test bikes have arrived, put your preconceptions aside and experience a new, innovative and green take on the what, why and how of these unique hybrid powered two-wheelers! n hybrid know it all
Make sure to check with your local Kawasaki dealer and book a test ride to see what all the hype is about first hand!
Meet Joni Lovell, a pillion Kawasaki rider with big miles under her belt
A view from behind
PILLION RIDING
Joni Lovell’s first experience on a bike was back when she was a girl, when her brother spotted her walking home from hockey practice and gave her a lift on the back of his bike. However, it wasn’t until many years later that she was properly introduced to the motorcycle world.
As she explains: “Later in life, I met a guy whose friends said he was so light, he would go faster on his bike with more ballast on the back wheel! So, I became that ballast. It was an incredible feeling being on the back of his bike, and at the time, it all felt so new and euphoric. I think from that moment on, I was hooked.”
So began a lifelong love of motorcycles that would eventually lead Joni to try learning to ride herself. However, it wasn’t to be.
“For personal reasons, I was late in life to motorcycle training, and being under five feet tall, the ground fell away from me one too many times,” Joni recalls. “The final straw was most definitely dropping the instructor’s bike; I can still remember his reaction!”
Joni came to realise that the practical challenge of riding was going to be too large an obstacle to overcome. “The problem for me has always been the height and weight of modern bikes,” she explains. “I’d rather be pillion on a bigger bike than ride a small cruiser where I can get my feet down securely.” She is happy about the way things turned out and has thoroughly embraced the road she’s taken. “Looking back, I’ve got no regrets about that decision; riding pillion is a privilege and a pleasure, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Perfect pairing
In 2009, Joni met Robert, via an online motorcyclist’s social club, and a love story started there and then.
“Our first date involved a ride out to Rutland Water and the following day we headed to Bakewell and the Peak District,” Joni shares. “So, a pattern was set, and our lives together for the last 15 years have revolved around bikes, travelling and
motorcycle events ever since.”
Since that fateful day, the pair have enjoyed countless rides together, covering an average of 10,000 miles each year with Joni in prime position on the back of Rob’s 2023 Kawasaki Z900RS SE, which allows enough room for the two of them plus their luggage. According to Joni, the traditional styling of the SE always attracts attention from other riders and coupled with the bike’s modern performance and light weight, makes for the perfect bike for their adventures together.Their love of riding has taken them here, there and everywhere, with the couple travelling on two wheels to the Republic of Ireland, the Isle of Man, France, Spain and Germany. In fact, it was during their trip to Germany that the pair took on one of the most iconic racetracks in the world: the Nürburgring.
As Joni describes it: “The Nürburgring is an incredibly special place and comes with a certain reputation – the ‘Green Hell’, as Jackie Stewart once described it. Whenever the track is open to the public, you can purchase as many laps as you can afford. We were there as part of a longer holiday and completed just one lap (13 miles). There’s a wide variety of other vehicles there, from bikes to high performance cars, to tourist buses! As a one-lap experience, it’s quite daunting, with many blind crests and corners, but an experience that everyone should do at least once – even if you do spend much of the time keeping out of the way of the fast guys/girls!”
As well as tackling this legendary circuit, Joni has also ridden the courses at both Mallory and Cadwell Park. For these outings, she traded the pillion position for a somewhat
Nürburgring’s Nordschleife was a box that just needed ticking, even if for just one lap
Joni and Robert –they’ve clocked up around 150,000 miles in total together over the past 15 years!
The pair have enjoyed countless rides together, covering an average of 10,000 miles each year
PILLION RIDING
A view from behind
more unusual form of transport – a sidecar! This way of riding is also commonly known as a ‘taxi ride’.
“The taxi rides were organised by the Classic Racing Motorcycle Club. A regular driver took me round as a passenger. On the first occasion, I was in a Formula 1 outfit at Mallory Park, and I’ve had two more rides in Formula 2. A few demonstration laps only heightened my respect for the skills of the regular passengers. The g-force you feel when riding is simply incredible, as well as the changes of speed and direction; it’s like nothing I’ve ever experienced before.”
With thousands of miles under her two-up seat, what is it exactly that draws Joni back to the bike time and time again? She answers without hesitation: “Rob is an accomplished and advanced motorcyclist with eons of experience,” Joni enthuses. “He is so smooth, and I trust in his judgements exclusively.”
Riding pillion together has opened up a world of possibilities for Joni and Rob. Are you a pillion rider with a story to share? Or perhaps you have a pillion passenger of your own? Share your stories with us on the community forum, we’d love to hear from you! n
joni’s pillion pointers
Joni has lots of pillion experience under her belt. Here are three of her top tips
2
You have to have complete trust in your rider and relinquish control, going with the rider and machine as one
1
In the nicest possible way, the rider should almost be unaware of your presence –particularly under braking and acceleration conditions
3
Make sure you always use four points of contact: ankles, knees, seat and hands
At Mallory Park circuit Joni experienced a spin in a Formula 1 sidecar
2024 WSBK REPLICA WEAR
WSBK 2024 Jacket MALE
RRP £158.95 | CLUB £143.06
Padded water-resistant jacket in Kawasaki WSBK 2024 team colours. It has zipped inner and outer pockets and internal sleeve cuffs.
n Taped seam
n Horizontal quilted thermal lining
n Internal stretch cuffs
n Outer pockets and inner breast pockets are zipped
n Kawasaki racing and sponsor logos
n Sponsor logos applied as badges
n KRT and Ninja logos in silicone print
n 96% polyester 4% elastane
The WSBK jacket will keep you protected from showers
WSBK 2024 Beanie
ADULT
RRP
Knitted beanie with racing logos in Kawasaki 2024 WSBK team colours.
n Double layer with turn up
n Kawasaki racing logos
n Knitted
n 100% acrylic
Feel snug as a bug in a rug with the WSBK bodywarmer
WSBK 2024 Bodywarmer MALE
RRP £89.95 | CLUB £80.96
Softshell body warmer with zipped outer pockets.
n Outer pockets are zipped
n Inner open pockets
n Kawasaki racing and sponsor logos
n Sponsor logos applied as badges
n KRT and Ninja logos in silicone print
n Fleece bonded / 96% polyester 4% elastane
WSBK 2024
Sweatshirt MALE
RRP £85.95 | CLUB £77.36
Zipped sweatshirt in Kawasaki 2024 WSBK team colours with zipped outer pockets, standup collar and ribbed hem and cuffs.
n Zipped front opening and pockets
n Ribbed hem and cuffs
n Embroidered KRT and Ninja logos
n Sponsor logos embroidered badges
n Side panels polyester with sublimation print
n Unbrushed French terry fabric
n 80% cotton 20% polyester
WSBK 2024
Sweatshirt FEMALE
RRP £85.95 | CLUB £77.36
Zipped sweatshirt in Kawasaki 2024 WSBK team colours, with zipped outer pockets, standup collar and ribbed hem and cuffs.
n Zipped front opening and pockets
n Ribbed hem and cuffs
n Embroidered KRT and Ninja logos
n Sponsor logos on embroidered badges
n Side panels polyester with sublimation print
n Unbrushed French terry fabric
n 80% cotton 20% polyester
WSBK 2024 Neck tube ADULT
RRP £12.95 | CLUB £11.66
Neck tube with Kawasaki racing logos in Kawasaki 2024 WSBK team colours.
n Single layer
n Kawasaki racing logos
n Sublimation print
n Knitted 100% polyester
WSBK 2024 Polo
MALE
RRP £55.95 | CLUB £50.36
Kawasaki 2024 WSBK team-coloured short sleeved polo-shirt with three-button neck opening with self-fabric collar.
n Printed KRT and Ninja logos
n Sponsor logos transfer printed to give effect of badges
n Piqué fabric
n Side panels polyester with sublimation print
n 95% polyester 5% elastane
WSBK 2024 T-shirt KIDS
RRP £40.95 | £36.86
SUMMERTIME WITH KAWASAKI
Inflatable lounger
RRP £67.95 | CLUB £61.56
Kawasaki Ninja H2R
RRP £68.95 | CLUB £62.06
This 1:8-scale model is perfect for kids (10+) and adults alike. It’s a great way to engage a curious mind as you build working steering, suspension, a two-speed gearbox, a fourpiston articulated engine and supercharger. When you’re done playing, the bike can be
RRP £38.95 | CLUB £35.06
Struggling to find a comfortable place to relax when out and about? This compact inflatable lounger with handy carry bag can be brought anywhere. Made from rip-stop fabric and easily inflated with natural airflow, it’s an ondemand lounge station.
This compact green Bluetooth speaker connects easily to your smartphone so you can play music wherever you go. It boasts the following specs:
Bluetooth range: 10-25 M
Size: 81mm (H) x 81mm (W) x 65mm (D)
Play time: 3-6 hours
Kawasaki Rivermark Umbrella
A great present to instil the joy of motorcycles in children at a young age, while helping to prepare them for their future on two wheels. The air-filled rubber tyres make for a smooth ride and soft rubber grips keep their hands comfy and in control. Comes complete with a stand for storage or display purposes and rider number stickers in the box. It was designed by Kiddimoto in the UK, sporting the 2024 WSBK colours. It’s made from sustainably sourced birch plywood and weighs in at 5kg.
Kids short-sleeved rounded neck t-shirt in Kawasaki 2024 WSBK team colours.
n Printed KRT and Ninja logos
Are you sitting comfortably? You could be with the coolest, fastest, Kawasaki bathrobe
n Sponsor logos transfer printed to give effect of badges
n Single knit fabric
n Side panels polyester with sublimation print
n 50% cotton 50% polyester
RRP £39.95 | CLUB £35.96
This large Kawasaki-branded umbrella is 135cm in diameter. It’s black on the outside and green underneath, and provides shade from the sun or shelter from the rain. Whether you’re trackside supporting your favourite racer or walking the dog in the park, this umbrella has you covered.
2024 TOURING FOR HIM AND HER
TRIER TEXTILE JACKET
MALE & FEMALE
RRP £213.95 | CLUB £192.56
BAMBERG TEXTILE TROUSER
MALE & FEMALE
RRP £153.95 | CLUB £138.56
Whether you’re crossing the Continent or popping down to the shops, the Trier Textile Jacket and matching Bamberg Textile Trousers are the perfect companion for both men and women alike. The three-layer system includes the protective outer shell that holds the armour and provides hardwearing abrasion resistance as well as ventilation, a SinAqua waterproof shell to keep you dry on the inside, and a thermal layer for when the sun isn’t shining as hard as you would like. They are both CE-certified to Level A. For more information on this versatile textile set or any other gear featured on this page, please visit the parts and accessories section of Kawasaki.co.uk, select Clothing and then Rider Gear –Touring.
SEE THE FULL RANGE
www.kawasaki.co.uk
Use code CLUB10 for 10% membersonly discount
NEUSS TOURING BOOT
MALE & FEMALE
RRP £94.95 | CLUB £85.45
The NEUSS touring boot packed with features to keep your feet protected. Made from a microfibre construction, the boot features a breathable SinAqua waterproof membrane. Added to this are the integrated shin, ankle and heel protection. The boot also features an integrated reinforced toe box and is CEcertified as standard!
all the elements. CE-certified to 1KP, the glove comes with TPU knuckle protectors, memory foam thumb protectors and TPR finger protection. Constructed with a hard-wearing softshell fabric chassis and a full grain leather palm with silicone sections added for a secure hold. The SinAqua membrane lining works solidly to ensure the gloves stay waterproof. Additional features include finger motion panels and precurved fingers for great comfort, a handy visor wipe and smart touch leather on both index and thumb which works with touchscreens.
This jacket and trouser combo will keep you warm, dry and protected
MXGP
MXGP 2024 T-Shirt MALE
RRP £36.95 | CLUB £33.26
Kawasaki MXGP Team replica short-sleeved crew neck t-shirt.
n Printed KRT and KX logos
n Sponsor logos transfer printed to give a badge effect
n Single knit fabric
n 50% cotton 50% polyester
MXGP 2024 Beanie ADULT
RRP £21.95 | CLUB £19.76
Black Kawasaki beanie with green knitted detail and turn-up edge.
n Double layer with turn-up edge
n Embroidered KRT logo
n KX logo knitted into beanie
n Knitted
n 100% acrylic
MXGP 2024 T-Shirt FEMALE
RRP £36.95 | CLUB £33.26
Kawasaki MXGP Team’s green and black replica short-sleeved t-shirt with round neckline.
n Printed KRT and KX logos
MXGP 2024 Cap ADULT
RRP £25.95 | CLUB £23.36
Six-panel flat peak cap with embroidered air holes and logos.
n Adjustable snap closure
n Kawasaki racing and KX logos
n Twill
n 100% cotton
MXGP 2024 2-in-1 Jacket MALE
RRP £175.95 | CLUB £158.36
This jacket features detachable inner thermal liner, zipped inner and outer pockets and internal sleeve cuff. Seams are taped to keep the rain at bay. Unzip the liner to convert the jacket for mid-season use. Also available in an Extra Small size.
MXGP 2024 Zipped Sweatshirt MALE
RRP £82.95 | CLUB £74.66
Kawasaki MXGP team replica zipped sweatshirt with zipped outer pockets, standup collar and ribbed hem and cuffs.
n Zipped front opening and pockets
n Ribbed hem and cuffs
n Embroidered Kawasaki and KX logos
n Sponsor logos on embroidered badges
n Unbrushed French terry fabric
n 80% cotton 20% polyester
n Sponsor logos transfer printed to give a badge effect
n Single knit fabric
n 50% cotton 50% polyester
MXGP 2024 Polo MALE
RRP £51.95 | CLUB £46.76
Kawasaki MXGP-team replica short-sleeved polo shirt with three-button neck opening and self-fabric collar. Also available in an Extra Small size.
n Embroidered KX and KRT logos on front
n Sponsor logos on embroidered badges
n Printed KX and KRT logos on the back
n Piqué fabric
n 95% polyester 5% elastane
n Taped seam
n Detachable quilted thermal liner
n Internal stretch cuffs
n Zipped outer and inner pockets
n 96% polyester 4% elastane
MXGP 2024 Sweatshirt FEMALE
RRP £82.95 | CLUB £74.66
Zipped sweatshirt with zipped outer pockets, standup collar and ribbed hem and cuffs.
n Zipped front opening and pockets.
n Ribbed hem and cuffs
n Embroidered Kawasaki and KX logos
n Sponsor logos on embroidered badges
n Unbrushed French terry fabric
n 80% cotton 20% polyester
Zipped pockets for that extra security
years in the making
Did you know that 2024 marks 50 years of Kawasaki Motors UK?
That’s right, we’re celebrating our golden jubilee this year and back in March, we held a special event with some of our dealers, VIPs and staff, past and present
Held at the beautiful De Vere Latimer Estate, the event was an opportunity to look back over five decades of success for Kawasaki UK and was hosted by former Grand Prix rider Keith Huewen. Over the course of the evening, a number of speakers took to the mic, including Geoff Sherley, Tony Willis, Geoff Selvidge, Glynn Fisher, Richard Metcalfe, Martin Lambert, Howard Dale and Craig Watson.
In addition to commemorative videos and presentations, the De Vere Latimer Estate hotel also featured a host of iconic Kawasaki machines from the last 50 years, while two very special guests were able to join in the festivities, Kawasaki Motors Europe Managing Director Mr Masaya Tsuruno and Finance Director Mr Daisuke Hata.
The event took place at the De Vere Latimer Estate
Ladies and gentlemen, meet your KMUK family!
In amongst the celebrations, the evening also hosted our annual Dealer Awards, which aim to recognise those businesses that have achieved outstanding results over the past 12 months. Our 2024 winners include:
2023 DEALER OF THE YEAR (A JOINT AWARD)
Coleraine Kawasaki and Greenham Kawasaki
2023 MOTORCYCLE SALES ACHIEVEMENT
Kirkcaldy Kawasaki
2023 TRAINING ACADEMY DEALERSHIP SUPPORT
Derby Kawasaki
2023 CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE REPORTING (SALES)
Bournemouth Kawasaki
2023 CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE REPORTING (AFTERSALES)
Alf’s Motorcycles
Craig Watson, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kawasaki Motors UK, said:
“It was a fantastic evening celebrating 50 years of Kawasaki Motors UK, and it was an honour to not only welcome some of the faces that have played such an important role over the years, but also our colleagues from Kawasaki Motors Europe.
“While a lot of the evening was spent looking back at the many successes we have enjoyed since 1974, it was also a chance to highlight the dealers who are contributing to our ongoing results, and I would like to say a huge congratulations to all of our 2023 Dealer Award winners.”
“A fantastic evening celebrating 50 years of Kawasaki Motors UK”
Craig Watson, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kawasaki Motors UK
Dealers like Bournemouth Kawasaki who had achieved outstnding results in 2023 were also recognised at the event
Happy days on te podium
ZX-6R was a bas!
Family Tyres
Catching up with the Wilsons
from supersport to british superbike, kawasaki racer ben wilson takes us on a trip down memory lane
When it comes to the British Superbike paddock, fewer riders have had as long and as successful a relationship with Team Green as Ben Wilson. From Supersport to Superbike, the Lincolnshire rider was powered by Kawasaki for much of his career; however, the Wilson name has ties with two wheels and with Kawasaki that go much further back…
The start of the journey
“Biking’s always been in the Wilson blood,” said Ben. My grandad raced at the Isle of Man TT and loved two wheels, and my dad did a bit of racing as well, but he soon realised there was more money in selling them than racing them, so in the early 1970s he opened up Wilson’s Motorcycles near our home in Lincolnshire.
“It was, and still very much is, a family-run business, so I spent most of my early years surrounded by bikes, and it was probably no surprise that when I left school at 16, I went to work in the shop with my dad. By that time I was already racing, and I remained working in the shop until around 2004 when my racing career took off full-time, and I had to step back a little bit, although I was still working in the shop as often as I could.”
The racing years
“I think my first time on a bike was when I was three years old, and given that my grandad and my dad raced, I guess I was always going to give it a go! I began racing when I was around eight years old, and one of my first wins was at the Mablethorpe sand races, which I won on a Kawasaki KX60, so it’s safe to say Team Green has been with me from the very beginning!
“I spent a while longer off-roading before making the switch over to tarmac, with my Supersport debut coming in 2000! I spent a few years in Supersport before stepping up to the Superbike class in 2005, again on a Kawasaki, before joining the Superstock class in 2007.
“I re-joined the Supersport class in 2009, signing with the Gearlink Kawasaki team and we had some fantastic years together. We were fourth in that first season, third in 2010 and then second in 2011, missing out on the Championship by just one point!
“After a few more years with Gearlink, we stepped up to the Superbike class together, but I unfortunately had a big crash at the North West 200, which saw me out from racing for a few years. I came back in 2019 with Gearlink, but the injury was holding me back, so I decided it was time to hang up my leathers and explore pastures new.
“Looking back, nearly all of my career has been with Kawasaki, and we’ve had a lot of success together. I never purposely set out to be part of Team Green, but with my dad being a dealer and me starting off-road, everything I raced in motocross was a Kawasaki.
"When I switched to circuit racing, Kawasaki stuck by
me throughout, and I’ve got a fantastic relationship with everyone there. I think one of the highlights for me was taking my first Supersport win at Knockhill on the ZX-6R – I genuinely reckon if you cut me, I’d probably bleed green at this point!”
Life after racing
“When I retired from racing, I took on a more active role at the dealership. We had a massive fire in 2014, which saw us lose absolutely everything, but we were able to rebuild and grow the business to where we are today.
“Although I’m not racing anymore, I’m still heavily involved in the Gearlink Kawasaki team. I always saw myself becoming a crew chief when I stopped racing, and I started doing that with Ben Currie; however, Michael [de Bidaph, Gearlink Kawasaki Team Owner] asked if I would be interested in becoming the Team Manager shortly after. It was never something I had planned, but he was considering packing the team up, and I didn’t want the journey to end there, so I took on the role. I love it. It’s very full on as I’m now in charge of everything, but it’s fantastic, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can do this year.”
The next generation…
While Ben’s racing career might have ended a few years back, the Wilson name is continuing through his son, Ollie. At just 11 years old, Ollie has already shown his talent, winning the same Mablethorpe sand races that his dad did in the 1990s over the winter, and will be embarking on a season of flat tracking before setting his sights on following in his father’s footsteps by switching to circuit racing.
So, who knows, there could still be a lot more to write about in the Wilsons' family history yet! n
One of Ben's first race wins was at Mablethorpe on a Kawasaki KX60
"One of the highlights for me was taking my first Supersport win at Knockhill on the ZX-6R"
Wilson's Motorcycles in the late 1980s
ENGLAND
NORTH NORFOLK COAST
(143 MILES)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/sLcoT94UQAhqemix6
This circular route ticks off some of the hotspots on Norfolk’s scenic coastline. Starting and ending in Norwich, you’ll first make your way out west through the towns of Dereham and Swaffham before turning north and reaching the 20,000-acre royal estate of Sandringham. Continuing along the A149, you’ll soon reach the Victorian coastal resort of Hunstanton, with its distinctive striped cliffs – if you’re visiting at the weekend, you’re bound to see plenty of bikes
lined up along the seafront.
Keeping on the A149, you’ll pass through a series of charming seaside towns, with plenty of opportunities for an ice cream or fish and chip stop. Highlights include Cromer Pier, Happisburgh Lighthouse and the Winterton Dunes, where you can often spot seals bobbing in the water or hauled up on shore. From here, the route turns inland to wind through the iconic Norfolk Broads, before arriving back in Norwich.
expand your
Looking
ENGLAND
CHARMS OF THE COTSWOLDS (63 MILES)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/EBHtrs2m9LpPLq568
This route gives you a whistle-stop tour of some of the most picturesque parts of the Cotswolds, the UK’s largest designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Famous for its quintessential English villages, rolling meadows and wonderful country pubs, it’s the ideal destination to visit on two wheels, and this itinerary has a great mix of country lanes and faster roads to enjoy.
The route sets out from Chipping Campden and takes in plenty of market towns and quaint villages that are perfect for a pit stop – from antiques haven Stow-on-the-Wold to picture-perfect Bibury, which featured in the film Stardust. There are some excellent views to enjoy along the way, with a highlight being the ancient Minchinhampton Common. Once you reach the end of your ride, you can enjoy a pint at the 300-year-old Woolpack Inn, which was the local of Cider with Rosie author, Laurie Lee.
ENGLAND
MIDDLEHAM LOOP, YORKSHIRE (57 MILES)
Recommended by Pootler https://maps.app.goo.gl/nSpgPYUdkGR7ASJWA
This short but rewarding loop in the heart of Yorkshire makes for a great day out. The route starts and finishes in the small market town of Pateley Bridge, situated around 15 miles from Harrogate and nestled in Nidderdale National Landscape, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The route follows quiet country lanes with plenty of bends to enjoy and attractions to
take in along the way, including waterfalls, caves and heritage sites. There are plenty of opportunities for detours and you can easily build the loop into a longer itinerary if you want to stay on the road for longer – you could head west for the Ribblehead Viaduct or turn north to take on the famous Buttertubs Pass, which is considered to be one of England’s most spectacular roads.
horizons
our round-up of fantastic rides around the UK
PATELY BRIDGE
MIDDLEHAM
KETTLEWELL
NORTHERN IRELAND
A2 FROM DERRYLONDONDERRY TO BELFAST (126 MILES)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/MJNygSy4ZTk6k9kg6
Often referred to as one of the world’s most impressive driving or riding routes, this stunning coast road takes in a series of awe-inspiring sights – from the Giant’s Causeway to the isolated Dunluce Castle. The route is easy to follow as you keep to the A2 throughout the duration of the ride; for much of the way, you’ll be riding just a few metres from the sea, taking in beautiful bays, rugged rock formations and dramatic cliffs.
You can easily complete the route in a day, but it’s worth stretching it over a couple so you can take your time and fully explore all that this beautiful region has to offer. TOP TIP: be sure to make a detour and check out the famous ‘Dark Hedges’, an avenue of imposing beech trees along Bregagh Road between Armoy and Stranocum, which became famous after featuring in Game of Thrones
SCOTLAND
GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY TO DUNDEE VIA THE CAIRNGORMS (99 MILES)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/djFpc5fNtCsTYTVL8
The Cairngorms National Park is the largest in the UK and its dramatic scenery offers bikers challenging but beautiful riding opportunities. This 99-mile ride starts on the A939, also known as the Old Military Road thanks to the 18th-century route that it follows, passing luscious pine forests, vast moorland and stunning mountainsides. Take a moment at the quaint Bridge of Brown tearoom, with its home-cooked food and lovely views.
After riding on through Tomintoul and passing Gairnshiel Lodge, you’ll turn onto the B976 for a short respite from the main tourist route. Arriving in Crathie – with the imposing Balmoral Castle just across the river – you’ll turn right onto the A93. At nearly 700m above sea level, this road is one of the highest in the UK and boasts some truly magnificent views. From here, it’s an exhilarating run down to Blairgowrie and Rattray, with twists and bends aplenty to enjoy.
You will join the A923 for the last stretch of the ride, following it all the way to the dynamic coastal city of Dundee, where you will finish at the Museum of Transport.
WALES
EISTEDDFA GURIG
THE ELAN VALLEY (66 MILES)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xjVN7sudMQY9dJfv5
Situated in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains in mid-Wales, this panoramic route explores the magnificent reservoirs and dams of the Elan Valley. Building work on these architectural feats first began in 1883, with the last one opening in 1953. These structures are truly a sight to behold, surrounded by lush, untouched countryside. Leaving the starting point of Rhayader, you’ll take the B1145 alongside the Elan. Then, once you’ve meandered around the dams, you’ll cross the Elan Bridge and head west to Devils Bridge, with its stunning waterfalls. Taking the A4120 north from the falls, you’ll meet the A44 and enjoy an exhilarating final stretch through the mountains before heading back to your starting point in Rhayader. n
RHAYADER
Pic: mew14zzr
Over 150 trees were originally planted over three centuries ago and fewer than 90 are still present today to make up the “Dark Hedges”
2024 THE
RIDE YOUR BIKE & WIN GREAT PRIZES!
CLUB CHALLENGE
All members are invited to join the Club Challenge! This is your chance to visit new places, meet fellow Club members and gain points for the chance to win prizes at the same time. Below are the locations and details you need to be in with a chance at winning the top prize of free bike insurance.
The 2024 Challenge is open from 1st March 2024 to 10th December 2024.
HOW IT WORKS
1 Visit the locations listed
2 Snap your Challenge Selfie
3 Submit your Challenge Selfie using the upload tool*
4 We will add your points to the Challenge Leaderboard and photo to the gallery
5 Repeat steps 1-3 as many times as you can before the closing date!
n We will announce the winners in December 2024
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS
1 Visit: www.club-kawasaki.co.uk and head to the Challenge tab.
2 Go to the ‘Selfie upload tool’*, choose your location from the list and add your photo.
3 We’ll receive a notification to say you’ve submitted a photo for the Challenge and we’ll approve it –as long as we can see that it includes the location listed.
4 Your photo and points will then appear on the gallery and leaderboard.
THE POINTS
Standard locations are worth 25 points Hero locations are worth 50 points Kawasaki dealer locations are worth 20 points each
Kawasaki UK events are worth 30 points NEW Win double points if you take a selfie with another Club member! Submit your photo with their username and you will earn yourself double points for that location.
The 2024 Challenge is open from 1st March 2024 to 10th December 2024
IRELAND
Receive an exclusive £1500 of FREE Helmet & Protective Clothing cover worth £29.99 when you purchase an annual motorcycle insurance policy. As a Club member, you could also receive up to a 25% discount so make sure you have your membership number ready and call Kawasaki Insurance on 0800 085 6551 to claim the offer. Ts & Cs apply.
*Find it at: www.club-kawasaki.co.uk/challenge-selfie-upload
IRELAND
1 VARTRY RESERVOIR LOWER DRAW TOWER 50 POINTS
The Lower Draw Tower is one of the most unique features of the Vartry Reservoir project, situated just above the dam.
2 RATTOO ROUND TOWER
25 POINTS
Built around 1100, this well-preserved tower features an arched doorway with very unique moulding.
5 NATIONAL MONUMENT OF SCOTLAND
50 POINTS
The National Monument, a commanding neoclassical structure on Calton Hill, stands as a tribute to the fallen Scottish soldiers of the Napoleonic Wars.
6 GLENFINNAN VIADUCT BRIDGE
25 POINTS
Iconic 1901 railway viaduct with a curving, 21-arch span, featured in several movies.
7 CARRADALE HARBOUR
25 POINTS
LOCATION
3 THE WONDERFUL BARN 25 POINTS
The Wonderful Barn is a corkscrewshaped building on the edge of Castletown House Estate.
A hidden gem nestled on the East coast of the Kintyre peninsula, mainly used for fishing and leisure purposes.
9 SOUTH TYNEDALE RAILWAY
50 POINTS
The North of England’s double gold award-winning narrow gauge railway, winding from Alston into the South Tyne Valley in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
10 WHALE BONE ARCH
25 POINTS
A celebrated replica of a whale’s jawbone that replaced the original arch erected in 1853.
11 ARNSIDE PIER
25 POINTS
25 POINTS
4 KING JOHN’S CASTLE
Also known as Limerick Castle, a 13thcentury castle located on King’s Island in Limerick, next to the River Shannon.
Beautiful location for a walk and to take in the views.
LIGHTHOUSE
Located near Portpatrick in Dumfries and Galloway, south-west Scotland, this lighthouse served as a waypoint in the North Channel of the Irish Sea.
Highly
WALES & SOUTH-WEST ENGLAND
PENDENNIS
CASTLE 50 POINTS
Pendennis Castle was built from 1539 to 1545 when England faced a possible invasion from the united powers of Catholic Europe.
14 TWO HOOTS AT DEVIL’S BRIDGE
15
STONEHENGE
25 POINTS Legendary neolithic monument made using stones transported from Wales.
16 BARGATE 25 POINTS
Medieval gatehouse built as part of original city walls.
Pendennis castle
EAST ENGLAND
THE PRIZES
CHALLENGE HERO
KAWASAKI INSURANCE POLICY
£500
Visit the most ‘Hero’ locations to be in with a chance of winning a free Kawasaki Insurance policy up to the value of £500, including free helmet and leathers cover. If more than one person has visited the same number of ‘Hero’ locations, a winner will be chosen at random from those entries.
POINTS COLLECTOR
TRACKER VANTAGE UNIT
RRP £429
Gain the most points overall to be in with a chance of winning a Vantage Bike Tracking and Security System from Tracker, plus a one-year subscription!
DEALER SUPERSTAR
TWO WEEKEND PASSES TO BSB
RRP £200
TOWER
A Grade II listed building, one of many ranging along the Kent and East Sussex shoreline.
19 ABBOT’S CLIFF SOUND MIRROR 25 POINTS
Built in 1928, the sound mirror was one of several positioned along the south coast, and was used to give an early warning of approaching enemy aircraft.
Visiting any official Kawasaki dealership across the UK will gain you points towards winning this prize. The person who visits the most dealers will win two x Weekend Passes to BSB.
EVENTS CHAMPION
SILKOLENE BUNDLE RRP £106
Visit the most events throughout the year to be in with a chance of winning a Silkolene bundle including 1 x Pro Chain Aerosol, 1 x Pro Prep Aerosol, 1 x Brake & Chain Cleaner Aerosol, 1 x Wash-off, a t-shirt, hoodie and cap!
REGIONAL WINNERS
RAC RENEWAL RRP £90
Visit all four locations within a region to be in with a chance of winning Kawasaki assist vehicle based cover for a year. This includes roadside assistance, at home, recovery and onward travel. There will be one winner per region so you have five chances to win this prize.
BEST REGIONAL PHOTO
CLUB CLOTHING BUNDLE
RRP £129.90
Submit your best selfie for a chance to win a Club Cap and a Club Kawasaki Gilet! One person from each region will win this prize.
The Long Walk
You don’t need a fancy DSLR camera with a plethora of interchangeable lenses to create stunning shots – a simple smartphone and an understanding of the basics will see you right!
in the frame
With the quality of modern smartphone cameras you simply don’t need to lug around a huge Canon or Nikon DSLR. Here’s how to get the very best shots of your Kawasaki
The sun is shining, the views are first class and your bike is looking at its best; it’s the ideal moment to snap a photo on your phone and capture the memory from your ride. But all-toooften the picture you end up with doesn’t quite convey the magic of the setup. Read on for our expert advice on how to get it right every time – no fancy gear required!
BEFORE YOU SET OUT
Plan ahead: while there will always be unexpected photo opportunities, it’s worth thinking ahead before a ride to consider where might make a great backdrop. Team up: if you want some shots of yourself and your bike, bring along a friend. Otherwise, consider a selfie stick or mini tripod.
Clean and clear: be sure to clean your camera lens (or lenses) to avoid softness in your photos and “lens flare” light artefacts taking over your image. Check before each photo.
CONSTRUCT YOUR SHOT
Careful composition: think about applying the rule of thirds, where your subject is off to the left- or right-hand side of the shot and the primary subject or the horizon is in the top or bottom third. Most phones allow you to turn on a framing grid which will make this easier.
Make it fit: most phones have more than one lens; chose the right one to get everything in, but remember wide lenses will distort the image, while tighter ones will create a more narrow and “flat” perspective. As well as lens choice, also try framing the oldfashioned way: move yourself!
Draw the eye: use roads, fences or curves to bring the viewer into the scene. Play with perspective.
Get close: if you want to capture details, move closer or use the telephoto lens. Combine that with “portrait mode” (if your phone has it) to isolate specific parts, logos or other features.
Shift it: experiment with shooting your bike from up high, down low and at an angle. Often the best positioning is in the middle of the object(s) – for example, shooting your bike at cylinder level or a person and a bike centred around the person’s waist. For bikes specifically, a 45-degree angle (known as front ¾ view) is usually the most appealing. Landscapes and groups: if you want to get a lot of background in or you’re taking a group shot, try to get up high and have the bike(s) placed bottom centre, with the background over the bike seats or the group’s shoulders.
Rob Bellingham
anatomy of a photograph
n RULE OF THIRDS GRID Place your primary subject in the bottom third and the horizon in the top for a strong composition.
n FOREGROUND INTEREST Usually, though not always, placed in the lower third of a photo. This can add depth and help the viewer’s eyes navigate the image.
n LEADING LINES These can draw the viewer into the picture, direct the eye and aid overall symmetry.
n STRAIGHT HORIZON A straight horizon is easier on the human eye to process and feels more comfortable to view. There are times when this advice can be ignored – for instance in action photography when a sense of movement or instability is preferred.
n FOCUS POINT On a portrait it’s widely recognised that the nearest eye should be the focus point. On a motorcycle it’s the headlights that should be sharp, with details getting softer the further back you go.
COME RAIN OR SHINE
Embrace the drizzle: cloudy or rainy conditions can make for highly dramatic photos – but watch out for wet lenses! Bathed in light: the so-called “golden hour” just after sunrise or just before sunset can make for particularly effective shots. Make sure you set focus and exposure on whatever you want to stand out. Also try silhouetting yourself and/or your bike with a golden background.
Mix it up: try visiting the same location at different times or in different conditions –for example, shadows can add a positive or negative impact.
HAVE SOME FUN
Consider colours: try to incorporate both warm and cool shades for some contrast –black and white can also look highly effective Capture reflections: make use of bodies of
water – even puddles! – or the mirrors on your bike for something a bit different.
ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES
Set in place: most phones are stabilised – if you’re using yours mounted as a satnav, consider whether it can be angled to capture road shots.
All about the action: if you want riding shots or video, a GoPro or similar action camera is a good option. Don’t just mount it on your helmet – the frame, bars or a suction mount on a screen can also give you good angles. Try facing it sidewards, backwards or as low as you can on the bike to capture wheel and road motion.
SAFETY FIRST
Take it easy: don’t get carried away and take unnecessary risks for that “perfect” shot. Focus: don’t take photos while riding; find a
It’s worth remembering that these guidelines are just that – guidelines! This ZX-10R is backlit and shooting into the sun but the result is a neat flare effect. Normally the bike would be in shadow but smartphone software can easily bring out the detail again. Note how the sun sits right on the rule of thirds grid
Getting higher up will reveal more context for the subject, great for group shots. In this image of a ZZ-R1400, the rule of thirds is used and intersects on the headlight and sidelight. The rows of parked bikes act as leading lines. Shooting from a lower perspective with a wider view selected can add drama too
safe place to stop first.
Be aware: keep an eye out for traffic and make sure you’re not blocking other road users.
GOT THE BUG? WHY NOT DEVELOP IT FURTHER…
As well as using the filters and effects already offered on your phone, you can also try specialist editing apps such as Snapseed, Photoshop Express, Colour Splash or VSCO. If you want to use more advanced techniques such as stopping high speed action and boosting contrast/cutting reflections using polarising filters, try the fast shutter speed possibilities offered by many digital cameras or DSLRs. If you’re not experienced using one, find a riding friend who is! n
Club Kawasaki
benefits to The
Whether you’re new to Club Kawasaki or you’ve been here for the long haul, we’re so glad you’re here! And we just know that the more you get involved, the more you get out of your membership. So, whether it is race weekends, local ride outs, exclusive content, Kawasaki experiences or friends for life that you’re looking for from your membership… you will find it here. So, here’s a quick reminder of everything that’s included with your account.
n FROM BRITISH AND WORLD SUPERBIKES TO LOCAL WEEKEND BIKING FUN
One of our most popular benefits offered to members is the fantastic value tickets to the British Superbike Championship. Every year we look to provide access to our factory-supported Kawasaki BSB team with a fantastic value package so that you can see what is widely acknowledged as the premier domestic superbike racing series in the world for yourself – as well as exclusive hospitality at the sole UK round of World Superbikes with a visit from the Kawasaki Racing Team riders.
Wherever we go, you’re welcome to come along, enjoy a hot drink, find somewhere to rest your feet and relax. Be sure to come along and say hello to the Club Kawasaki team at Motorcycle Live, MCN London Show and more throughout the year.
On top of all of that, you’ll also find regular local meet-ups organised by your Ambassadors and dealer open days with added extras for Club members like goody bags and exclusive competitions.
Keep up to date with the Club calendar on our events page at club-kawasaki.co.uk.
Come and see ALL of the latest models and exclusive reveals at Motorcycle Live
Club members can enjoy VIP hospitality treatment
n CLUB KAWASAKI SHOP
n THE CHALLENGE
You still have a chance to join in with the Club Kawasaki 2024 Challenge, open now until December 2024. All members are invited to join the Club Challenge! This is your chance to visit new places, meet fellow Club members and gain points for the chance to win prizes at the same time. Below are the locations and details you need to be in with a chance at winning the top prize of free bike insurance and a runner-up prize of a Tracker Vantage Unit.
You’ll need to visit the specified Challenge locations and submit your photos to us; we’ll allocate your points and you’ll work your way up the leaderboard for the chance to win prizes. Boost your points by visiting official Kawasaki dealers and events throughout the year too!
Everything you need to know can be found at: www.club-kawasaki.co.uk/thechallenge - get involved!
n MEMBERS MAGAZINE
n MEMBERS WEBSITE
YAou are reading issue 27 of our exclusive, printed members-only magazine – right now! We release two printed issues per year. Look out for regular features from our contributors focusing on the worldwide racing scene, interviews with Kawasaki UK staff, new model news, heritage articles and so much more.
n KAWASAKI EXPERIENCES
Bs part of your membership, you have a secure login to our website which allows you to view the calendar, shop, forum and news, and is the only way to access your digital service history online. Log in now at: www.club-kawasaki.co.uk and don’t hesitate to email us at club@ kawasaki.co.uk if you have any questions about your account.
e it on road, track or off-road, we believe we have something suitable for everyone to experience the thrill of riding a Kawasaki motorcycle. We have joined forces with carefully selected riders and trainers throughout the UK to provide the very best experiences, on the very best motorcycles… And the best part is, as a Club Kawasaki member, you can book with at least a 10% discount.
The Long Walk, Windsor
Whether you’re new to the Club or not, we want to hear your story too! Get online to the Club Kawasaki forum by visiting: www.club-kawasaki.co.uk/ forum and tell your fellow members all about your Kawasaki and you.
she's been riding almost 50 years, so it's no surprise that nigel tully has ridden and amassed a small collection of kawasakis in his biking career
Nigel and his Z650 RS, just one of a Kawasaki collection he rides regularly
When Nigel Tully's interest in bikes transitioned from casual to mildly obsessive, it was Kawasaki's GPz 550 that started the ball rolling, one that has only gained momentum since. We quizzed the building services engineer from Surrey about his biking journey.
What got you into bikes, and specifically into Kawasakis?
When I was studying engineering in the mid 1970s, the buses were infrequent and sometimes did not run at all. At that time, it was much simpler to buy a motorbike, put on L plates, and start riding. Initially, riding was purely an easy
Same owner, same bike: 1985 GPz900 A2 then (above) and now (right)
means of affordable and reliable transport. However, that developed into a particular interest.
I was always aware of Kawaski Heavy Industries and their global reach on large-scale engineering projects.
That image was reflected in the Kawasaki motorbike range, which represented a strong engineering input, providing the rider with pleasure in riding and a long period of trouble-free ownership.
What was your first Kawasaki?
My first bikes were purely a means of transport, but as time went on and the interest developed, the choice of bike became more aspirational.
As a side note, in the 1970s Kawasaki dealers were solus outlets and the equivalent Kawasaki bike was often between £50 and £100 more than an equivalent offering. That may not sound much today, but in terms of a 1970s weekly wage, it was quite a big difference.
When Kawasaki began the GPz badged range, using the standout Firecracker Red paint, the desire to own a Kawasaki became stronger. At the time the Unitrack version of the GPz550 was added to the range in 1982, it was quickly a must-have bike purchase.
As a mid-range bike, the GPz550 punched well above its weight, offering the performance and handling usually only expected from a much larger bike.
The GPz550 did everything and more that was asked of it, including visiting the IOM TT in 1984.
Whilst there, I saw the wins in the Production race of the early GPz900R Ninjas. So, the GPz550 was sold to
buy my first GPz900R. I always regretted selling the GPz550, and I now have replaced it with a similar bike to keep those initial impressions alive and fresh.
How many Kawasakis have you owned?
In over 50 years of riding, I have owned 14 of them.
How many do you have today?
There are presently 10 available to ride. Over half of these are 900s, as this represents the strongest part of Kawasaki’s line up of production bikes, from over a period of some 50 years now.
What do you do with your bikes, and where do you go on your bikes?
They're used for work, leisure riding and holidays. All of the bikes, whatever their age, I consider reliable and ready for any ride mission that I choose. That may be a local ride
"Even at 40 years old the GPz 900R is very capable of riding up to Scotland or down to the South of France"
When visiting Indonesia, do as the locals do and ride a Kawasaki!
around the South of England or a longer day ride into Wales.
The bikes are also used for holidays within the UK or Europe. Even at approaching 40 years old, the GPz 900R is very capable of riding up to Scotland or down to the South of France.
When overseas, a Kawasaki is my preferred hire bike. In Indonesia, a bike from the KLX range makes a perfect choice for the mix of on- and
off-road riding to be found there.
What’s your favourite thing about having a collection of Kawasakis?
The feeling of strong synergy across the whole range and age of all the bikes. They all have the same sense of riding engagement and greatly impress when in motion, riding out on the road or when stationary, back in the garage for routine maintenance. The quality of all the original designs
New and old: the Z900RS striking a pose alongside a 1977 Z900 A4
The 1973 Z1 is Nigel's oldest bike
When four cylinders aren't enough there's a 1979 Z1300 in the garage that Nigel can swing a leg over
and builds is evident during everyday riding and reinforced by continued reliability over many years.
Having a collection allows several examples of Kawasaki’s 900cc capacity bikes to be well represented. The number 900 is very special to Kawasaki, from the original Z1 to the present day. They've very much made the 900cc capacity their own and always had a strong offering in this part of the market.
It's so rewarding to be able to enjoy a mix of these bikes from over five decades and appreciate how the original strengths of performance and the riding pleasure have been continuously developed and strongly promoted to the benefit of enjoyable Kawasaki ownership.
You can only keep one, but which? Easy to answer actually – my first
GPz900R. It represents all the outstanding strengths of a Kawasaki bike and has carried me further than any other bike that I have owned from new. Approaching 40 years now, the first of the long line of Ninjas is still totally fit for purpose and rides and runs as well as when it was new. It also has that special IOM connection and needs to be ready for trips over there, whether to the TT or Classic Manx racing events.
How do you choose which to ride?
Not quite so easy, but I try and share an annual 15,000 miles between them. Whilst the GPz550 is able to do a 300-mile day ride to Wales, a larger capacity choice is more obvious. Having the newer RS bikes to choose from does make it harder still, but I do try to share the riding around all of the bikes.
Is there a Kawasaki tempting you to be added to the collection at the moment?
I have been keeping a close eye on the 40th Anniversary Ninja models. I saw the bikes in the metal at the NEC during Motorcycle Live there in November last year.
All of them have great styling connections with the original bikes which they are linked back to. It’s a bonus that Kawasaki appreciate the long-lived lineage of the Ninja range, so there may well have to be an addition to celebrate this!
Did any of your bikes impress you more than you thought it would?
I decided to take the Z650RS on a recent holiday riding tour of mainly the West Coast of Scotland. When released, the Z650RS was an obvious choice to park alongside the original
Z650 and that was pleasing in itself. Just like the Z900RS having the strong links with the original Z1.
However, the Z650RS has been surprising in how able it is at undertaking long journeys and giving pleasurable riding when exploring the destination. In true Kawasaki tradition, it is the sum of more than its component parts and works very well as a commuter bike or when used for long-haul riding.
The engine is flexible enough for steady riding or picking up the pace and getting sportier when conditions permit. The handling abilities exceeded what I was expecting. So I have been very pleasantly surprised by how the whole bike works to provide a rewarding riding experience.
In terms of being more impressed that I expected, I have already
"The Z650RS has been surprising in how able it is at undertaking long journeys and giving pleasurable riding when exploring the destination"
remarked on the 1980s GPz550. That was true when I first rode it in 1982 and is still true today. In terms of the bike’s actual capacity, but ability in terms of performance and handling, it is very much a mid-range Ninja and still very
able in current road riding conditions.
If Kawasaki could build a bike just for you, what kind of bike would it be?
The original Z1300 has its detractors, but in terms of that time period, it represents the pinnacle of Kawasaki’s design abilities which resulted in a definitive and well-engineered bike. I would like to see the Z1300 sixcylinder reimagined for today. I realise this is unlikely due to the general economic direction that engine and bike design is now taking. However, riding a six-cylinder bike is a sublime experience that no other engine configuration provides! It'd be interesting to see this made newly possible again today, using the latest design and materials. n
1979 Z650 C3
The first Ninja: 1984 GPz900R A1
This 1983 GPz550 H2 is part of Nigel's collection too
KMUK STAFF INSIGHT steve moore
Regional Business Manager - North | Sales and Marketing Department
Maintaining our dealer network and ensuring that our Kawasaki customers are able to get the best experience possible every time they visit one is something that we pride ourselves on. One of the people in charge of that is Steve Moore, our Regional Business Manager for the North. We caught up with Steve to learn more about his role.
“It’s
a very varied role, ranging from helping to manage sales expectations to ensuring each dealer represents Kawasaki the way we expect”
How did you get started with two wheels and at Kawasaki?
My background is in engineering, and I worked across various industries, such as aerospace and digital systems, which saw me travel around the world. However, I had a young family, and that travelling got to be a bit too much and I wanted a change. It was around that time that I started to learn to ride, and I was able to get a role at Triumph doing a very similar role to what I do now. I was there for around 13 years before leaving to start my own business, working on classic cars and bikes for five years. Then, when this role at Kawasaki came up, I knew it was what I wanted to do, and three years later, I’ve not looked back!
tell us about your role at Kawasaki
I’m the Regional Business Manager for the North, which means I’m responsible for looking after all of the Kawasaki dealers across that region. It’s a very varied role, ranging from helping to manage sales expectations to ensuring each dealer represents Kawasaki the way we expect, supporting sales and marketing and helping them adhere to each of our dealer standards.
I also provide support with things such as managing stock levels and ensuring that dealers are able to get the right bikes for customers.
If you could go on a biking holiday, where would you go?
I’ve been on quite a few long trips through Europe before, which were fantastic, but I think my dream would be to go across America. I would have a starting point and an end point, but for the rest, I would like to just see where we go!
“Dream Kawasaki garage? I’ve already got my dream old Kawasaki with the 1975 Z900”
What’s the most rewarding part of the job?
I really enjoy going around and meeting the dealers. We have a fantastic network, so I really enjoy working with them. I also take a lot of pride in seeing them improve and succeed, so it’s definitely rewarding helping to boost the Kawasaki brand.
Do
you still work on the old cars and bikes?
I do! It’s all in my free time now, but I still love working on them and have a garage full of them, including an original Z900, which is currently in pride of place.
What about your dream Kawasaki garage?
Well, I’ve already got my dream old Kawasaki with the 1975 Z900, so I would say I would add the Z900RS from the current fleet so I can compare the two properly.
Outside
of KMUK, what do you get up to?
Classic bike and car restoration is still a big passion of mine, so I’m often found working in the garage on whatever latest project I’m obsessed with. I’m lucky enough to live in the Peak District and love the countryside so I also like to get out walking in the hills with my dog and family.
Steve owns this classic Z900
best best of the
Our pick of some of the many iconic Ninjas of the last four decades
BACK TO THE FUTURE…
It’s likely that most of you reading this will be unaware of the British motorcycle brand Panther manufactured in Cleckheaton, Yorkshire, but you may have been more aware of the name if it were not for Mike Vaughan of Kawasaki Motors Corporation in America.
For it was he that steered Kawasaki from the name “Panther” for their planned range of Supersport machines, suggesting instead the Ninja epithet – far more fitting you will agree. And the first machine to carry the name (in the US mainly), was a suitably iconic debut model, the Ninja ZX900-A1 or GPz900R in other territories. Winner of the 1984 Production TT thanks to rider, Geoff Johnson, and legendary Kawasaki dealer, Mike Grainger, the flame of Ninja was lit, a flame that burns as brightly four decades later. Being a global brand, Ninja has been joined over the years by
“competing” brands within the Kawasaki family such as ZX and ZXR, so it’s impossible to define one global narrative – as an example, bikes stickered ZZR in the UK went under the moniker Ninja in the USA. Even so, “this side of the pond” the list of famous Ninja machines from the past 40 years (and their track success) is the stuff of legend. Let’s look at a (good times) roll call of selected Ninja models from the past four decades.
And before getting carried away, a special word for the Ninja 900 (GPz). The world’s first out-of-the-crate 150mph superbike that also handled impeccably with a groundbreaking water-cooled 16-valve four-cylinder engine. Receiving its debut in the USA thanks to drag legend Jay “Pee Wee” Gleason, the 900 broke the quarter mile lights in 10.55 seconds – formerly the preserve of bona fide drag bikes. Developed over a six-year period in high
secrecy, perhaps the finest hour of the ZX900-A1 was a central role in the Top Gun movie (even though the film bikes were sprayed to look like its 750 sibling). The compliment was repaid recently with the Ninja 900 featuring in the garage scene of Maverick along with Pete’s new love, the Ninja H2 (more on that later).
RUSSELL’S REGAL RIDE
Crowned World Superbike Champion in 1993, Scott Russell and his Muzzy Kawasaki were just the first in a long line of racers, and road riders, to appreciate the genius of the Ninja ZX-7R (and RR). In the UK the H models of ZXR750 appeared in advance of the 7R but the focus here is on the water-cooled 750 four that won more than its fair share of silverware on track while winning the hearts of countless road riders, including the late, great Anthony Gobert, who burst onto the Superbike scene at Phillip Island in 1994 also mounted on one of Rob Muzzy’s machines.
Like the ZXR750 before it, the ZX-7R was a success on both road and track
Never the lightest or most frequently updated of 750 class machines across a staggering 14-year lifespan, the “7R” in all its
iterations proved that speed was only one part of the overall spec of a winning bike. For starters its front end and steering precision was class-leading (perhaps helped by its bulk, which was at the heavy end of the scale for such a machine). Mechanically robust, the 7R took well to tuning and Kawasaki offered racers a plethora of kit parts for the machine, even going to the extent of providing a gear driven camshaft option for ultimate timing precision in highly tuned engines. So if you wonder what that cast “boss” is on the side of the cylinders, it’s the location for the idler gear bolt when converting from cam chain to geared camshafts.
Available from 1989 to 2003, the role of honour for 7R/R wins and famous riders associated with the model stretches into the distance. In the UK top of the list is surely Chris “Stalker” Walker but ZX-7RRs were also ridden to victory by the likes of Terry Rymer, Glen Richards and Michael Rutter – who achieved the last ever win in BSB for the 7R at Rockingham Speedway in Northants in 2001.
“Mechanically robust, the 7R took well to tuning”
On the international scene in Superbike racing, Russell was but the first of many, yet the name that falls from many lips is the legendary Akira Yanagawa. The combination of the fearless Japanese rider and the ZX-7RR was a perfect fit and even as the class rules were changed, and larger V-Twins and fuel injected bikes came to the fore, the likes of Yanagawa and such luminaries as Gregorio Lavilla kept the green flag flying. Just as Rutter had stuck a flag in the sand at Rockingham in 2001 to show the Ninja was still capable of a win in its dotage (as the ONLY four cylinder machine to win a BSB race that year), so too did Hitoyasu Izutsu a year earlier at Sugo in Japan, winning both World Superbike races in a masterclass of skill, speed and agility in the face of newer and more powerful opposition. Add the fact the Ninja ZX-7R also captured a World Endurance crown (in 1993) and you have a picture of one of the most adaptable, tuneable yet rugged racing machines ever.
The 1984 GPz900R smashed quartermile drag times at the hands of Jay “Pee Wee” Gleason
“The ZX-12R called upon the services of the best engineers at Kawasaki including the aircraft division”
CLASS CREATOR
Next on our list is the game-changing Ninja ZX-6R. The 600cc class did not exist before Kawasaki launched the GPz and GPX600 machines, combining compact and good handling sports chassis with high power engines. Into this arena emerged the Ninja ZX-6R in 1995. A water-cooled across the frame four, the mid-weight Ninja packed a heavyweight punch, outhandling and outperforming many of the 750 class machines of the day and all within a lower insurance class bracket and with more compact dimensions and reduced all-up weight.
Of course, other manufacturers joined the party, and for the rest of the 90s and beyond the competition to be 600 Supersport class leader was particularly hard fought, with machines being frequently updated. The G series of 1998 saw a major revamp of the ZX-6R concept, which saw a near 10 percent power increase then, for 2002 into 2003, Kawasaki increased both the power and the torque with the introduction of the 636cc motor and, eventually,
fuel injection. While 599cc RR machines were still successfully battling it out on track, the “636” captured headlines and hearts on the street.
Power outputs over the life of the ZX-6R increased from sub 100hp to a giddy 131hp in later models, testament to the skill of Kawasaki engineers and the basic “rightness” of the engine design. On track the two names that rise above all others are of an Australian and a Turk, Andrew Pitt and Kenan Sofuoğlu. Pitt won the Supersport World Championship in 2001 while the remarkable Sofuoğlu on his Puccetti Racing machine won in 2012, 2015 and 2016.
After a period without the ZX-6R in the range, the 2024 UK Kawasaki offering once more features the 636 machine with all the expected hardcore attributes allied to some useful rider aids, making it more flexible and rider friendly than before. Make no mistake, though – it is still more lion than pussycat!
SINGLE-MINDED MONOCOQUE
Normally the preserve of race cars, monocoque construction is rare in the two-wheeled world. But that did not stop Kawasaki when creating “Project 320”, the Ninja ZX-12R. Why 320?... well in km it equates to the “magic 200mph” – on closed roads obviously.
A design tour de force, the ZX-12R called upon the services of the best engineers at Kawasaki including the aircraft division, who advised on the fairing wings, the Ram-Air scoop and also detail touches like the lower fork “winglets”.
A formidable machine at launch in 2000, the ZX-12R acted as a marker along the way for Kawasaki in terms of company pride, precursing the Ninja H2R by 15 years yet showing just what a normally aspirated machine is capable of.
Say cheese! ZX12R, ZX-9R and ZX-6R line up for a family photo
The unmistakable style of Scott Russell
best best of the
LITRE CHAMPIONSHIP EATER
No snapshot of the Ninja line would be complete without a few words dedicated to the icon that is the Ninja ZX-10R. Multiple race and championship winner globally… and the tool of choice for seasoned track day and hard road riding enthusiasts.
In every iteration, the Ninja ZX-10R has been the real deal, all the way from the fast and flighty C model through the brutal powerhouse of the D series and across a total of 20 years so far and counting.
A ZX-10R or ZX-10RR are never going to be ideal bikes to go to the shops and back on. Other manufacturers make litre class machines and they are very good, but none has the visceral character and hard-edged personality of the Ninja.
road race world champion, Ana Carrasco, in 2018.
“We don’t make pianos and lawnmowers”
Winning its first World SBK Championship in 2013 in the experienced hands of Tom Sykes, the ZX-10RR went on to bigger and better things in partnership with Jonathan Rea – who amassed no fewer than six world championships on the KRT machine managed by Provec from Granollers in Catalonia. And let’s not forget Shane Byrne, who won the BSB crown twice on the Ninja ZX-10R, and 2018 Champion Leon Haslam, plus Dean Harrison winning the 2019 Senior TT on his Silicone Engineering Ninja.
LIME GREEN ACORNS
Four decades of Ninja is not all about big bikes. Ninja is all things to all riders and a Ninja 125 rider is as proud of their machine as a Ninja H2R owner is. Into that arena emerged the Ninja 300 and, recently, the Ninja 400. Both machines have achieved podium and Championship success in the WorldSSP300 series – making Kawasaki the dominant force with five rider and manufacturer championships in seven seasons of racing, including the FIM’s first
Famed as much for its rugged reliability as its handling, the race tracks of the world have borne witness to the essential qualities of the Ninja 300 and 400. And now the four-cylinder Ninja ZX-4R and RR are in the range plus highlighted in a special one-make series within BSB for 2024 thanks to Kawasaki Motors UK and Tracker UK Ltd.
H2 – A FITTING FINALE
We referred to Top Gun at the start of this feature and we end with the bikes that fulfilled Pete Mitchell’s “need for speed”, the Ninja H2 and H2R
Bike-crazy Tom Cruise owns a selection of Kawasaki machines and it is he who rides the Ninja H2 in the latest Top Gun film, Maverick. Conceived – like the ZX-12R – as a corporate way to say “we did this”, both the road-going H2 and track-only, 300+ horsepower H2R extend the realms of superlatives to new levels and are worthy recipients of the Ninja moniker.
Boasting CAD-created tubular trellis chassis and single-sided swinging arms, the Ninja twins also sport paint schemes that include real silver in their formulation, plus Superchargerequipped engines, with not some but all the technology and manufacturing undertaken in-house by Kawasaki. We don’t make pianos and lawnmowers, but we do make fearsomely fast supercharged Ninja motorcycles!
…AND THE NEXT 40?
OK, only a snapshot was available and if we did not feature your fave Ninja we apologise. From our side we wanted to include the MotoGP ZX-RR and MSS Kawasaki’s “Big Bertha”, but space precluded it. Yet that just goes to show what a plethora of models there have been these past forty years. They all differ and they all seek (and find) enthusiastic owners bonded by a singular passion for a sports bike family that is globally known and globally loved. Who knows what comes next – maybe a hydrogen Ninja? (we already have EV and hybrid Ninjas). Whatever emerges, if it’s as good as what has gone before then we are in for a fast ride. In Top Gun terms, look out for the “Best of the Best”! n
The H2 and H2R were the first supercharged Ninjas
The Ninja 300 delivers true big bike performance
Jonathan Rea collected six world superbike championships on the ZX-10RR platform
