With the first half of 2023 just around the corner, a topic has emerged for the second half of Kawasaki's year. The topic is the new ZX-6R, which was announced in the US and Europe in June and is expected to be released in Japan by the end of the year.
The new Versys 650 is also expected to be released in Japan.
Kawasaki's 636cc straight-4 to continue in Japan
Kawasaki's ZX-6R, which was officially lined up for the 2019 model year in Japan, was released in October of last year for the 2023 model year, but production has been discontinued because it does not meet the 2020 emission regulations. It was thought that the model would be discontinued as is, but the announcement of the 2024 model overseas has raised expectations for its continuation.
The new ZX-6R, which was announced on June 6 in Europe and the United States, features a new face design based on the current model, and the engine complies with Euro 5 emission regulations in Europe by reviewing the camshafts, intake, and exhaust. It also introduces a 4.3-inch color TFT meter and new riding modes.
The new ZX-6R is expected to go on sale in Japan in 2023, according to sources. The specific timing is unknown, but it is certain that it will be introduced in Japan. There are also reports that Honda is also standing by for a new CBR600RR that complies with emission regulations, so the middle SS is likely to continue to gain momentum in 2024 and beyond.
Ninja ZX-6R [KAWASAKI] The 2024 model has evolved into an image similar to the ZX-10R with a new front half of the cowl. In Europe, it complies with emission regulations and has 6PS less power (124PS).
The ZX-10R-inspired upper cowl with overhanging sides also protects the rider from wind pressure. The headlight features a hybrid structure of projector and reflector for the first time.
The 310mm diameter is retained, but the disc is changed from petal to circular. The Bosch ABS unit has been updated from the previous version 9.1MP to 9.3MP.
TFT meter that allows for a variety of displays. It also displays the newly introduced Riding Mode Indicator, smartphone incoming call and text notifications, and a Bluetooth indicator.
2024 Ninja ZX-6R Main Specifications for Europe
Overall Length x Overall Width x Overall Height: 2025 x 710 x 1105 mm
Wheelbase: 1400mm
Seat height: 830mm
Weight: 198 kg
Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke, in-line four-cylinder, DOHC 4-valve, 636cc
Maximum output: 124 PS at 13,000 rpm
Maximum torque: 7.0kg-m/10800rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 17 liters
Transmission: 6-speed return
Brakes: F=W disc, R=disc
Tires: F=120/70ZR17, R=180/55ZR17
New Versys 650 also features exterior changes and TFT color meters
The new Versys 650 will be redesigned for the 2022 model year outside of Japan, with updated styling that conforms to the Versys 1000. It also features a color TFT meter with smartphone linkage and traction control. Originally scheduled to be released in Japan in the summer of 2022, this has been postponed until now.
This will be the first time that it will be released in Japan in the fall of 2023 with the information that it will be available in the official lineup as opposed to the traditional reimportation.
In 2023, Kawasaki will also join the middle adventure tourers with the new introduction of Honda's XL750 Transalp and Suzuki's V-Strom 800DE, which will also be very exciting.
VERSYS650 [KAWASAKI] The new VERSYS650 features the latest electronic controls and updated styling. The front and rear 17-inch wheels are unique to Kawasaki, and it will finally be released in Japan in the fall of 2023.
The wide handlebars are adventure-like. The 41mm-diameter front fork is equipped with a spring on the left fork and a damper cartridge on the right.
New 4.3-inch color TFT meter. The background automatically switches between black and white backgrounds for photos. It can also be connected to the RIDEOLOGY THE APP smartphone app to check vehicle status.
Main Specifications of the 2022 Versys 650 European Model
Overall Length x Overall Width x Overall Height: 2165 x 840 x 1360-1420mm
Wheelbase: 1415mm
Seat height: 845mm
Weight: 219kg
Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke, in-line twin-tube, DOHC 4-valve, 649cc
Maximum Power: 67PS/8500rpm
Max. torque: 6.2 kg-m at 7000 rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 21 liters
Transmission: 6-speed return
Brakes: F=W disc, R=Disc
Tires: F=120/70ZR17, R=160/60ZR17
