Club Kawasaki Magazine - Preview Issue 18

ISSUE 18

CLUB KAWASAKI MEMBERS MAGAZINE W W W. C L U B - K AWA S A K I . CO . U K

WELCOME I S S U E _ 1 8

M E M B E R S

M A G A Z I N E

Editor: Eleanor Berry Designer: Kar Lee Exclusive Content: Martin Lambert Contributors: Milo Dokmanovic, Ross Burridge Thanks to: Nathalie Fasé, Ana Carrasco, Mara Soto, Courtney Duncan, Gillian Brades, Brian Morrison, Howard Selby, Iain McPherson, Keethy, Susan Parker, Steven McAllister, Kawasaki Precision Machinery Photography: KHI, KME, KMUK, Tim Keaton – Impact Images, Martin Lambert, GeeBee Images, MediaCross, Gillian Brades Published by Kawasaki Motors UK www.kawasaki.co.uk Printed by Mortons Publishing

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elcome to issue 18 of Club Kawasaki Magazine! It’s that time of year where we have a continuous stream of news come from the KHI factory in regards to new models and we couldn’t be more excited to share it all with you.

You’ll find out full details of everything by reading our ‘New Metal’ feature which you’ve no doubt come to expect in this Winter time issue each year.

We’re especially excited as one of the bestselling Kawasaki models for the UK market has received serious updates… including a new name.

Along with new model news, in this issue we explore a number of racing focused features with the usual round up from our UK Racing expert here at Kawasaki UK – Ross Burridge. Revisit the 2019 racing season in images with Ross’ captions and look forward to the new year.

Membership www.club-kawasaki.co.uk Of course, you meet lots of new names and faces in this issue too including a fellow member in ‘My Kawasaki & Me’ but this time, we meet so many more and you will learn about how you can discover more member stories online…

For those of you who have been long term members, you’ll probably remember that after early versions of what we have today came to an end some time ago, a very similar offering was re-introduced in 2010. Apply some very quick maths to that and you’ll soon realise that 2020 marks the 10th anniversary of Club Kawasaki! So of course we’re already thinking about having a yearlong birthday party…

Don’t forget to check the back cover to see if your Challenge photo made it into print!

Enjoy,

©2019 Kawasaki Motors UK. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All information contained within this magazine is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press.

Kawasaki Motors UK cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information.

Eleanor Berry | Editor

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CONTENTS P8 NEW METAL 2020

P17 FEATURED

P28

P44

CONTENTS

8 NEW METAL

36 WHEN THE FLAG DROPS

Take a look at what is in store for another whirlwind season of ground breaking new motorcycles and off-road machinery from Kawasaki Motors UK in 2020.

For the vast majority being a racer is a 24/7 all consuming passion, so what happens when the flag drops for the final time?

17 WOMEN AND RACE

44 VERSYS VERSUS VERSYS

With no less than two female champions currently or in the recent past, Kawasaki has been at the forefront of promoting female riders in a positive way but there is more to it.

Hear from Kawasaki guru, Martin Lambert as he compares his Kawasaki Versys, to his Kawasaki Versys.

28 ROSS’ RACING ROUNDUP Showcasing the year in pictures, relive the 2019 season with Kawasaki UK Senior Racing Coordinator, Ross Burridge.

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P36

52 PRECISION MACHINERY Established in 1968 the Precision Machinery division of Kawasaki has been at the forefront of hydraulic technology and development for nearly 50 years.

P52 5 News 22 The Benefits 26 Massingberd-Mundy 34 Chiltern Young Riders 42 Bimota and Kawasaki 48 My Kawasaki & Me 56 Kawasaki Staff Insight See if your 2019 Challenge photo has made the back cover…

NEWS

Rea Five Times Champion A fter overcoming a tough early season Jonathan Rea became the WSBK World Champion for a record fifth time in the best way possible - with a race win. No other rider has won five titles in this category, never mind five in succession. Jonathan’s race two victory was his 12th win of the season.

Jonathan’s latest title win came with two rounds to spare.

Just after his win at the time, Jonathan Rea, stated: “I am just super-happy.

It has been the biggest challenge to date and we have just chipped away.

The beginning of the season was really tough, to be beaten the way we were.

But to mentally accept the challenge Jonathan Rea has enough fingers for another five championsip titles

and keep working as a team - also away from the track – we kept strong. I have worked and kept working. We all go to each weekend looking for the opportunity and we have had lots of opportunities this year, and won a lot of races. It is beyond my wildest dreams to win the title here because after four rounds I would have bitten your hand off if you told me I was going to be champion. With yesterday’s race being quite chaotic I was nervous going into today because I did not understand the points situation.

The target all weekend was to try and – realistically – win it in Argentina, so we could go to Qatar with less pressure. But we got another opportunity today and I felt a little bit better with the bike compared to yesterday. With the temperature going up the pace was not so fast I was able to manage the bike, and I could see my opportunity with Michael. He was struggling in some areas where we were strong. And we were weaker in some areas where he was strong. So I was putting that all together, learning that for a few laps and then putting my head down and getting the job done. Massive thanks to Kawasaki, the team, my sponsors, my family, all my friends and everybody in my corner. I am the guy taking the plaudits but it is such a big team effort and I am fortunate to be in this position.”

2019 KRT RIDER WORLDSBK STATISTICS Jonathan Rea: World Champion 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019 2019: Races 37, Wins 18, Podiums 34, Superpoles 7 Career Race Wins: 88 (73 for Kawasaki) Career Podiums: 168 (126 for Kawasaki) Career Poles: 23 (19 for Kawasaki) 7 x Riders’ Championships (Scott Russell 1993, Tom Sykes 2013, Rea 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019), 1 x EVO Riders’ Championship (David Salom 2014) 5 x Manufacturers’ Championships (Ninja ZX-10R 2015 & 2016, Ninja ZX-10RR 2017, 2018 & 2019) 5 x Teams’ Championships (KRT/Provec Racing 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019)

James Westmoreland signs for a season on the Gearlink ZX-6R

Gearlink Kawasaki sign Currie and Westmoreland for 2020 British Supersport season

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fter a strong end to the year with multiple podium finishes, Gearlink Kawasaki are excited to announce their rider line up for the upcoming season. The Salisbury based outfit will continue to focus their efforts in the category they have historically had so much success in, running a two rider team in the BSB Supersport class.

Returning for a full season of racing is James Westmoreland, who is familiar with the team’s running gear after taking a brace of podium finishes towards the end of 2019 with the Gearlink Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. James will no doubt be eager to extend his podium finishing form into the upcoming series.

The team are also pleased to welcome back 2018 Supersport runner-up, Ben Currie. The twenty four year old Australian will be aiming for one better and focusing on the title in 2020, as he returns to the team and class with more experience from a valuable maiden campaign in the Superbike class with the official Kawasaki team this year.

KAWASAKI FIM SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP STATISTICS Total Kawasaki Race Wins: 146 – second overall Total Kawasaki Podiums: 433 – second overall Total Kawasaki Poles: 88 – second overall

#NinjaSpirit #Rea5stars

Ben Currie was Supersport runner-up in 2018 and will make a return to Kawasaki for 2020

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NEWS

It may look like a typical middleweight Ninja on the outside, but there are no pistons under the bodywork

EV bike now: HoverBoard next?

Charging ahead – Kawasaki reveals a possible electrifying future

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fter years of speculation Kawasaki confirmed at the Milan EICMA motorcycle show that it has been working for some years on a battery powered two-wheeler.

Referred to by Yuji Horiuchi - President of Kawasaki Heavy Industries Motorcycle & Engine Company – as “EV or so-called electric vehicles” in his keynote speech as part of the media presentation of six new 2020 models, the EV bike “sparked” a wave of interest.

Based on a mid-weight machine structure akin to, say, a Ninja 400 or Ninja 650, the vehicle is a working research test bed and has performed well in tests at Kawasaki’s Autopolis test track near Kumamoto in southern Japan as well as on a series of secret runs on the streets of Kobe, the nearest big city to Kawasaki’s Akashi factory.

Using conventional Ninja 650 style forks and swinging arm etc. plus very similar bodywork, the clever packaging of the machine allows it to maintain the size and silhouette of any familiar contemporary mid capacity Kawasaki sport bike.

Being KHI the project had to have a

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certain “Kawasaki-ness” and fulfil the criteria of Rideology – the philosophy that all Kawasaki vehicles should do their task well but also be fun to operate and control. Accordingly, the test programme not only looked towards durability and

The EV bike was was tested on a “short circuit” and the results were “positive”

distance but also that elusive “fun factor” that is sometimes absent from electric vehicles.

The answer? Create it with a clutch and gearbox just like the sort of machines that a Kawasaki enthusiast already rides.

Engaging the rider in a new experience – and encompassing Rideology – the four gears available (with normal handlebar mounted clutch lever) are focussed on

harnessing the greatest performance possible in the most fun way.

Naturally, once the shock of seeing a Kawasaki two-wheel EV subsided, the questions cascaded like a waterfall. Sadly information at this time is sketchy, but full power on demand has been confirmed at the equivalent of 26 horsepower and at cruising speeds around half that. The range is currently 60 miles and the weight is just shy of 220kg.

Charging is via a CHAdeMo quick style charger or, in normal use a domestic 240V input. There is even a small lever on the left bar like a thumb brake that is a discretional regenerative brake meaning you can harvest energy during braking if you so wish – a typical clever touch from the overall Project Leader, Matsuda-san.

Before anyone gets excited and starts fixing 13amp all weather sockets in their garages, KHI are at pains to point out that this is not planned to enter production any time soon, if at all. And – more encouragingly – that it is “only one” of the possible avenues they are investigating… perhaps Marty McFly will get his Hoverboard after all!

NEWS

MSS PERFORMANCE TO RUN OFFICIAL KAWASAKI SUPERSTOCK TEAM IN 2020

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fter supporting Kawasaki Motors UK as Team Green Technical Partner for the previous three seasons, MSS Performance will make an eagerly anticipated return to the paddock in a racing capacity next year.

Owner of MSS Performance, Nick Morgan is gearing up to run the official Superstock 1000 entry for Kawasaki Motors UK and Team Green consisting of a two rider outfit that will be challenging for race wins at every opportunity.

Experienced Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR rider and previous race winner, Chrissy Rouse will look to go one step further and aim for Championship success under the banner of the highly regarded Colchester based operation.

“I’m extremely happy to be staying on the Kawasaki after really getting to grips with the Ninja ZX-10RR and having

a strong finish to the season this year. I’m very excited to get 2020 underway, I believe we have all the ingredients to have a successful campaign & I’m really grateful for the support of Kawasaki, MSS & all the sponsors who are making it happen,” Rouse commented.

Joining Rouse will be 2019 Superstock 1000 podium finisher, Tom Ward.

Relishing the chance for a maiden Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR ride, the upcoming season couldn’t arrive soon enough for Ward.

“I’m so excited to be joining MSS Performance and Team Green Kawasaki, it’s something I’ve always dreamed of being a part of! The team looks like great fun and it’s mega to have Chrissy as a team mate as we are good friends. We have all the tools to have a successful season, I have a good relationship with the guys from K-tech

Tom Ward (left) and Chrissy Rouse (right)

& I have run their products for the last 5 years so this will help me massively. I just want to say a massive thank you to Nick & Ross for giving me this amazing opportunity,” said Ward.

Stepping back into the limelight with a team of his own once again, Kawasaki stalwart, Nick Morgan cannot wait to get the wheels turning with an extensive testing programme planned prior to what is sure to be a competitive season of racing, saying, “After a 7 year absence from the BSB paddock we are extremely excited to be coming back in 2020 as the Official Kawasaki Motors UK Superstock 1000 entry. Having signed Chrissy and Tom, I believe we have every opportunity to fight for the Championship.”

Kawasaki Exhibits at Motorcycle Live What’s New for the 2019 Show?

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aking inspiration from the Kawasaki Motors Europe stand that graces the likes of international motorcycle shows such as EICMA and INTERMOT, the all-new Kawasaki Motors UK stand will be a marvel to witness in itself! Delve into the futuristic Kawasaki arena where new 2020 Kawasaki models will be the focal point throughout the show.

Regular crowd favourites will be available at the Kawasaki stand including interviews and signing sessions with the stars. Enjoy visits from 5 time World Superbike Champion Jonathan Rea with his Ninja ZX-10RR, Danny Buchan who has been announced as the No. 1 rider for the official FS3 Racing Kawasaki team in the British Superbike Championship next year and a host of other Kawasaki motorcycle

See the 2020 line-up, including the new Z H2, at the all-new Kawasaki Motors UK stand

racers. Speaking of racing, on day 1 of the show Kawasaki will be making a big announcement about the UK Team Green racing programme and structure in 2020 and beyond. Don’t miss out!

New to motorcycling or have a friend who’s looking to learn? A dedicated team member from our Kawasaki Rider Training Services (KRTS), will be on hand to provide guidance and answer all of your questions about learning to ride.

Club Kawasaki members will be welcomed into our dedicated seating area with free refreshments for you and your guests where you can rest your legs after all the time spent admiring the merchandise in the Kawasaki shop, and making the most of your 10% club member discount. From here, you will have the best views of the Kawasaki stage and you might just get the chance to meet the Kawasaki celebrities as well.

Kawasaki Motors UK cannot wait to open the doors at 2019 Motorcycle Live to share all of these attractions and more with you! n

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kawasaki’s O

ne need only to look back through the brochures to realise that year upon year, Kawasaki have delivered class leading innovations and updates. 2020 will be no different with leading edge upgrades and all-new models in the Kawasaki range. This is what we have in store for another whirlwind season of ground breaking motorcycles and off-road machinery!

Kawasaki’s

off road

KX250

line-up

KX65

KX85

New features and key updates for the KX250 motocrosser

KLX450R

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he Kawasaki off road range for the 2020 season features a total of five KX and two KLX machines in its complete form.

Headed by the highly accomplished KX450, the KX motocross range now showcases a new KX250 for 2020 boasting finger follower valve technology (shared with the Ninja ZX-10RR and KX450) which allows more aggressive camshaft timing and valve lift therefore increased power.

That power-up is also aided by changes to the fuel injection and induction system leading to an increase of 2.4 kW (3.3 PS).

With the addition of a new, upgraded, Kayaba (KYB) ø48 mm inverted coilspring fork. The largeKX450

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diameter inner tubes enable the use of large damping pistons, delivering smooth action and firm damping. Stiffer spring rates front and rear match the KX250’s increased power.

With a comprehensive list of new features and key updates, the 2020 model KX250 motocross machine has already won a World Championship in 2019 with Courtney Duncan and Bike It Dixon Racing Team in the FIM MXGP Women’s Motocross Championship. As the most powerful specification production 250cc four stroke off-roader ever available from Kawasaki, the expectations for podium topping results are understandably high.

Joining the impressive 450 and 250 machines in the KX

range are the “my first racer” two-stroke KX65 which has won countless 65cc class championships and the combination of the small wheel and big wheel two stroke KX85.

For enduro fans the KLX450R continues to offer large capacity competition ability while the KLX110 enables youngsters to take to two wheels and learn the basics of machine control on a rugged and reliable Kawasaki off-roader. Pro racer, national level competitor, weekend track user and entry level rider, for 2020 Kawasaki continues to offer a comprehensive and durable range of lime green machines.

KLX110

NEW MODEL

NEWS

2020 vision Brute Force 750 in Camouflage Real Tree Xtra Green: Remember where you parked it!

BRUTE FORCE 750

MULE PRO MX

MULE PRO DX

Fuel-injected MULE SX 4x4 boasts budgetfriendly running MULE PRO DXT

Staying off-road but moving to four wheels, the Kawasaki MULE and ATV range for 2020 is regarded by many as the professional’s choice in their respective markets.

MULE and ATV range With no less than four MULE variants for the coming season and two ATV’s, there’s a wide range of choice in 2020.

The BRUTE FORCE ATV line comprises two versions of the popular fuel injected 750 V-Twin 4x4 platform offering Camouflage Real Tree Xtra Green for field sports and rural users complimented by a Vibrant Blue colour-way that will appeal to leisure users and those using the vehicles for commercial ventures.

Both ATV’s are equipped with speed variable Electronic Power Steering,

add shaft drive, selectable two and four wheel drive plus front and rear double wish-bone suspension and the features of Kawasaki’s 2020 ATV’s speak for themselves.

The MULE PRO and SX range is no less impressive encompassing a variety of engine capacities and vehicle sizes.

Smallest in the MULE range for 2020 is the now fuel injected MULE SX 4x4. For tight spaces and budget friendly running costs this 401cc air-cooled petrolengined wonder is often users’ first taste of MULE ownership.

Underpinning the SX is the dramatically styled MULE PRO-MX with quad headlamps, automotive style doors and dashboard plus all the necessary practical touches such as a generous

tipping load bed and impressive towing capability.

Spearheading the MULE line in the coming season are the aptly named MULE PRO-DX and PRO-DXT models.

Satisfying single fuel type commercial users with their rugged and reliable 3-Cylinder diesel engines, the PRO-DX and DXT feature electrically selectable 2WD and 4WD, LED lights, large volume tilting cargo beds and, in the case of the PRO-DXT, the ability to quickly convert from one row of seating to two rows, an advantage for working parties and those suddenly needing to transport people in place of loads safely and securely.

TURN OVER FOR THE ROAD BIKES

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Kawasaki’s

Ninja 650 E

ngine flexibility from tick-over to the red line and urban manoeuvrability are just two of the Ninja 650’s recognised strong points. The confidence inspiring twin cylinder engine is also an ideal out of town and weekend thrills machine, either solo or with a passenger who will additionally benefit from a revised and comfier rear seat.

A stunning multi-function 10.9cm colour TFT meter replaces the previous meter and boasts displays items such as gear

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roadbike line-up

position indicator, shift lamp, fuel gauge and Economical Riding Indicator plus other innovations including Bluetooth Smartphone connectivity. Appealing LED lighting front and rear, plus Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tyres are also now fitted as standard.

Pairing via Bluetooth is simple and via Kawasaki’s own Rideology App, functions such as GPS route information and schedule service information can be accessed in addition to all the normal familiar notifications.

Additionally, the colour display itself can be switched between “positive” and “negative” displays while a built-in light sensor alters brightness intensity.

Fuelling the visual connection with the awesome Ninja H2, the trellis type chassis of the Ninja 650

In the world of two wheels, the Ninja label demands respect and in 2020 the Ninja 650 delivers on the famed reputation of its kin.

Versatility is standard with the Ninja 650

remains unchanged while reflecting the no-nonsense visual style of the KRT World Superbike. One of three colour options for 2020 will be a lime green/ ebony look, evocative of the bikes competing in the World Superbike Championship. Joining this version will be a duo of other fresh options comprising of metallic spark black and a final choice of flat stardust white / metallic flat spark black. The 2020 Ninja 650 is also available in Touring and Performance editions.

NEW MODEL

NEWS

A host of updates keeps the Z650 cutting edge

Z650

W800

O

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ne of the toughest mid-capacity streetfighters on the market is packing an even bigger punch in 2020.

The updated Z650 is sporting new TFT instruments, LED lights, Dunlop Sportmax RS 2 tyres and Rideology app connectivity. Featuring fierce new styling, the Z650 will send shivers down the spines of its nearest rivals on the road. The 2020 Z650 is also available in a Performance edition.

he W brand gave Kawasaki worldwide recognition as a big-bike manufacturer following the introduction of the W1 in 1965. The recently launched brace of W800 models from Kawasaki are joined in 2020 by the final machine in the range creating a three model line. Adding a new glister and reflecting the success of the W800 Street and W800 CafĂŠ, the new W800 turns its attentions to the impact created by the original W1 in 1966 and brings the ethos of that machine right up to date for modern taste and legislation.

The frame is a new construction featuring larger diameter tubes with the welcome convenience of a centre stand as a standard fit item. The front forks increase in diameter to 41mm and - combined with wider wheel rims - make for responsive range of W800 machines with the new W800 having the unique benefit of 19inch front wheel for the most classic of looks. Add deep chrome

Park it next to a window so you can gaze at it all day long

mudguards and a chrome handlebar and the visual effect is stunning.

The new ABS disc brakes front and rear are both efficient and necessary for legislative compliance whilst the overall package is focused on meeting Euro5 requirements as they arrive. Inside the engine there is a clever addition of an assist and slipper clutch that eliminates rear wheel hop on down changes and, of course the most modern of heritage style twins features digital ignition, fuel injection and electric start.

The new W800 sits alongside the W800 Street and W800 CafĂŠ

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Z900RS: Classic thrills with a performance edge

Z900RS & Z900RS CAFÉ A

fter only a few seasons in the Kawasaki range, each style of machine has found its own loyal following across a wide range of riders.

These modern classics with their multitude of references to the iconic Z1 Super Four of 1972 move boldly into 2020 with a new Vintage Lime Green / Ebony look for the Z900RS Café continuing the distinctive direction for a machine equipped with a stylish bikini cowl, low handlebars and seat with race inspired “hump” at the rear – just like café racers of old.

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Pursuing a heritage theme highly appreciated by those who cherish Kawasaki history – and those new to the iconic bikes of yesteryear – the Z900RS will be available in Candytone Green in 2020 with an accompanying graphic treatment that echoes the look of the 1973 Kawasaki Z1A, successor to the first year model Z1.

Also available will be a purposeful Metallic Diablo Black colour way and a Metallic Graphite Grey machine.

Z900 S

ince its introduction in 2017, the Kawasaki Z900 has been described as offering one of the purest riding experiences available to modern day motorcyclists. Updates to the 2020 model will only take the riding pleasure further, care of a TFT dash, smartphone connectivity, LED lights, a carefully tuned exhaust note, traction control, rider aids and styling that defines what a motorcycle should be.

NEW MODEL

NEWS

For 2020 Kawasaki’s best seller gets a range of upgrades

Ninja 1000SX T

he 2020 Ninja 1000SX marks the fourth generation of a successful sport touring platform - Kawasaki’s number one selling road motorcycle in the UK just got even better. Cleaner emissions with the same great performance, sportier, more dynamic new styling, a single-sided muffler and all-LED lighting feature on the new spec list. Sport and Touring capability; the 2020 Ninja 1000SX truly offers the Best of Both Worlds.

Increased seat comfort for both rider and passenger is just one of the modifications that also include the debut of Electronic Cruise Control, a Quick Shifter, integrated Riding Modes combining KTRC and Power Modes and 10.9cm all-digital TFT colour instrumentation with smartphone connectivity – making this refined Sport Tourer more attractive than ever.

Ergonomically thicker, wider rider and passenger seats deliver increased comfort, facilitating longer hours in the saddle. Couple this with a new design

of screen adjustable in four positions, the option of a larger accessory screen and distance riding is enhanced further still for the coming year. Rider aids that previously included an electronic cornering management function plus intelligent anti-lock braking are augmented by four selectable rider mode options.

Functions include vehicle information such as remaining fuel, distance covered and maintenance schedule. General settings such as preferred units and date format can be adjusted via Smartphone while the TFT screen itself can also show - via an icon - if a telephone call or email has been received by the smartphone plus the screen brightness automatically switches between three rider-set levels to suit the available light.

An up and down quick shifter is standard equipment in 2020 while twin silencers make way for a single sporty silencer mounted on the right hand side. Dynamic sport riding is enhanced by the adoption of Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22

tyres while the overall look becomes more sporting with numerous subtle changes to the styling including a new front mudguard.

Touring fans can be reassured that the innovative clean mount accessory pannier system continues for 2020 plus the option of accessory heated handlebar grips and even an under seat USB port as part of a long line of practical and sporty genuine accessory items.

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NEW MODEL

NEWS

S

“The virtues of the design are a controllable yet invigorating flow of power”

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Z H2

tretching back in an unbroken series of models over nearly fifty years to the iconic and ground-breaking Super Four model Z1 of 1972, Kawasaki has an enviable Z heritage in the naked class.

Kawasaki is not looking back with its latest top level Z though.

Instead, it encourages riders and fans to look to the future and anticipate meeting the most radical, most technically advanced and most powerful Z ever; the Z H2. Harnessing Kawasaki’s considerable in-house experience with the Ninja H2 and Ninja H2R, the Z H2 forces the world of motorcycling in a new direction with the ultimate Hypernaked machine.

Of course, most attention will initially be focused on the majestic 998cc four-cylinder engine equipped with Kawasaki’s in-house developed and manufactured integrated balanced supercharger.

With a targeted heady peak of 200PS, the virtues of the design are a controllable yet invigorating flow of power building to a satisfying Ram Air assisted crescendo matched to more down to earth subtleties such as a rider friendly character that results in an eminently manageable ride.

Exterior clues to the special nature of this “ultimate Z” abound with a new take on Sugomi styling and visual updates such as all LED lighting including indicators and licence plate illumination. The easy to read TFT meter panel is instantly recognisable and the up/down quick shifter is apparent plus adjustment for the standard fit cruise control and a host of other rider-centric features. Kawasaki’s trellis type chassis used on previous supercharged models is updated for the new Z while Brembo M4 calipers attached to the Showa BPF front forks attest to the high quality specification of this class leading naked machine.

Kawasaki engineers have worked hard to ensure a dynamic balance between performance and durability making a supercharged streetbike a practical yet exotic reality. The Z H2 features an assist and slipper clutch plus dog ring gearbox technology, clever use of oil as a coolant to eliminate the need for a bulky intercooler and manifest oil jets.

A large number of electronic rider aids via the Bosch IMU such as traction control, intelligent anti-lock braking, cornering management function, selectable rider and power modes, anti-wheelie control are matched in the tech league table by Bluetooth connectivity via the Kawasaki Rideology Smartphone app, allows riders to interface with their machine. Allied to practical information such as fuel economy and journey facts, there are also features such as a lean angle meter recorder that are sure to be a popular function.

From its asymmetric supercharger air intake to one side of the menacing twin LED headlamps, via the reverse embossed “Supercharged” icon on the impeller unit to the aggressive Sugomi stance and dramatic colour coded trellis chassis with its imposing bodywork, the Z H2 is a symphony of sensation.

NEW MODEL

ride the Z H2 in las vegas

COMPETITION

this could be you!

The Ultimate Test Ride

Be one of the first in the world to test ride the all-new Supercharged Kawasaki Z H2 at the stunning Las Vegas Motor Speedway!

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o celebrate the launch of the allnew Z H2, Kawasaki Motors UK are offering two lucky winners the chance to ride the most powerful Z ever at the Las Vegas Speedway. The Ultimate Z Test Ride will take place from 13-15 February 2020 and we are calling on anybody who has their eye on this supercharged prodigy with the riding experience to take it on.

The winners will be staying at the Linq Hotel in downtown Las Vegas and will receive hospitality courtesy of Kawasaki Motors UK. This is an all-expenses paid experience excluding travel to and from the airport in the UK. Please read the terms and conditions for full details before entering.

HOW TO ENTER Simply visit www.kawasakinewmodel.co.uk/ competition and complete the entry form.

SUPPORTING VIDEO To have a stronger chance of winning the competition, entrants can post a video of themselves telling us why you should be one of the chosen ones!

Post your video to this Facebook group - Kawasaki Z H2 - Ultimate Z Test Ride (simply join the Facebook group, and then post your video in the discussion section) OR Post the video on your own Instagram account with this hashtag in the description #UltimateZTestRideUK (note - so that we can find your video, your account must be set to public until the winners are selected) n In the video, tell us why you should be chosen n The video should be no longer than 25 seconds n Extra points for creativity!

Competition closes 9th December 2019 Winners will be announced on

18th December 2019 at www. kawasakinewmodel.co.uk and Kawasaki Motors UK social media – search KawasakiUK on Facebook and KawasakiUK on Instagram.

RECORD YOUR VIDEO AT MOTORCYCLE LIVE 2019!

A new addition to the Kawasaki stand at Motorcycle Live 2019 will be The Ultimate Z Test Ride competition video booth!

There will be a dedicated filming area, providing customers with a private area to record their video. Motorcycle Live will take place from 16th to 24th Nov at the NEC in Birmingham. Find out more about the Motorcycle Live show by visiting: www. motorcyclelive.co.uk.

Note: submitting a video is not a condition of entry, however it will assist the panel of selectors choose a suitable winner. View the competition terms & conditions at www. kawasakinewmodel.co.uk/terms-conditions. n

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