2003 KAWASAKI ZX-6R After the remarkable admission from Kawasaki consumer division president Shinichi Morita that their bikes had dropped below par, the first new machine unveiled was the 2003 ZX-6R. Where some recent Kwaks had been a bit soft and unthreatening, this was a full-on bad boy. Launched at Malaysia’s Sepang circuit, the ZX-6R wowed everyone who rode it. It shared the name with previous ZX-6Rs but little else. They
were versatile and spacious; this was a compact track weapon. It came loaded with the latest kit – radial brakes, lap timer, LED brake lights, digital console, upside down forks. The racegoing ZX-6RR even had a slipper clutch. The engine’s 636cc capacity doesn’t sound much bigger than the 599cc used by the competition, but in a hard-fought class it gave a colossal edge. The ZX-6R had midrange power that made a mockery of its rivals but it also had as much or more than them
From Midland Superbikes 01858 469164 at the top end too. And it had soul. Even blipping the throttle at tickover, the airbox snarls and you can hear it slurping in litres of air too. Pulling away’s much easier than on the CBR thanks to the low-down torque. Progress was fast and flowing on the more open parts of the RiDE test circuit. Open A-roads were scythed along and overtakes dispatched easily on this potent, lively machine. Although the gearbox isn’t quite so good, the brakes are ace. Tighter
ReAR ShocK Hard as standard and some experts say many came from the factory with the wrong amount of gas in them. A full overhaul’s worthwhile (budget £200+) but even if you don’t do that get someone like Set Up Engineeering (0208 8773255) to make sure the gas pressure’s correct.
RAce / tRAcK bIKeS This 636cc version wasn’t raced as the capacity’s too big for super sport rules. But plenty have been trackday bikes. Look for typical signs like a tired radiator with lots of dings on a bike with very fresh-looking bodywork.
SIlenceR StRAp The original item can develop cracks so inspect carefully. Aftermarket exhausts like the one on the test bike should be fine.
tyReS We fitted new Bridgestone BT-016 tyres as testing bikes on worn rubber’s unfair. They suited the bike well on the road and would have plenty of grip for fast trackdays too. They also last well for such capable rubber. The original size front is an unusual 120/65-17. We fitted a 120/70-17. There were no clearance issues and it made the steering a little calmer which worked well on the road.
GeAR lInKAGe
cAMchAIn tenSIoneR
FoRK SeAlS
If it’s not lubricated it could become loose and sloppy. It’s not a big deal but it’s worth replacing if there’s too much play.
A bit of noise is not unusual if the tensioner’s about to advance a notch. May need replacing at higher miles but it’s not a big or expensive job.
It wheelies well and owners tend to be the sort who like to lift the front. Check fork seal and head bearing condition.
20 Ride MAY 2009
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