The major Japanese manufacturer has just released information about the range of models planned for release next year. Looks and performance improvements have been made across the range - in some cases enhancing the bikes' handling characteristics. New technologies have gone in to giving some bikes an easier and smoother ride - especially in the new series of large capacity tourers planned for release in 2009.
2009 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
Precise control for maximum excitement.
An evolution of the 2007 Ninja ZX-6R, the 2009 model takes the performance of its track-oriented predecessor to a higher level. Development of the rider active package has been focused on offering riders more precise control. Changes to engine and chassis for enhanced controllability result in a confidence-inspiring character that enables a calm assuredness as high-level riding is pursued. And it is this ability to push harder - to be able to extract this bike's full potential - while firmly retaining control, that makes the new Ninja ZX-6R so exciting to ride.
Key features:
- CONFIDENT, FLICKABLE HANDLING
- LIGHTER WEIGHT
- CORNER-ENTRY CONTROLLABILITY
- PRECISE ENGINE CONTROL AT ALL RPM
- AND POWERFUL MID-RANGE TORQUE
2009 Kawasaki ER-6n
Sharper style. Even easier. Move fun.
The new ER-6n takes the key concepts of its highly acclaimed predecessor - fun, easy to ride for a wide range of riders. Top-class styling - and brings them to the next level.
Key features:
SHARPER, MASCULINE STYLING
While maintaining the distinctive character of its predecessor, the new ER-6n gets sharper, more muscular bodywork, giving it a more "active" and aggressive image. Curved lines are replaced with angular ones, and all lines move forward, giving the bike a crouching appearance. Simple in design, the new ER-6n avoids all superfluous design flourishes; lines were made to flow as long as possible. The new, taller fuel tank, pulled-back shrouds and sharp tail cowl make the bike look more compact front-to-back. Attention to the smallest details contributes to the new bike's high-quality finish.
COMPACT, QUICK-REVVING ENGINE
The balance of compact size and good power offered by the original ER-6n was the key to its success. To fit into its trim package, an In-line Four would have been too wide and a V-Twin too long. The only engine design that offered both good power characteristics and the requisite compactness was a Parallel Twin. While maintaining this balance, the new engine gets a number of tweaks that offer smoother low-mid response and a quicker-revving character.
LIGHT-HANDLING CHASSIS
The key to the ER-6n's compact size is its amazingly compact Parallel Twin engine, which permits the use of a narrow, lightweight frame. The result is a bike with the dimensions of a 400 and the power of a 650 that welcomes beginners with a "Come on, let's go for a ride!" attitude, while also offering plenty of performance for more experienced riders. Changes to the frame, swingarm and suspension result in reduced vibration and lighter handling, making the new ER-6n more accessible than ever.
Styling inspired by our Ninja supersport models gives the front fairing of the ER-6f the look of a modern supersport machine. Sharp edged lines move forward, giving the bike a more aggressive, crouching appearance. Simple in design, the ER-6f avoids all superfluous design flourishes; lines were made to flow as long as possible. The new, taller fuel tank, minimalist-design bodywork and sharp tail cowl give the bike a compact, purposeful appearance. Attention to the smallest detail contributes to the new bike's high-quality finish and undoubted appeal.
2009 Kawasaki Z Series
New Z series in attention grabbing two-tone treatments
Being two of the first models to be introduced for 2009, the popular Kawasaki sports naked bikes Z750 and Z1000 will feature stunning fresh new colours, which make them even more noticeable on crowded city streets.
Z1000
A perfect synergy of Candy Burnt Orange and Metallic Diablo Black makes the Z1000 even more of an eye catcher than it already is. The new colour scheme complements the sharp design lines of the Z, adding further to its already high visual impact.
The well-known Z1000 now becomes an even more impressive piece of rolling art, combining matt and gloss black parts with fresh metallic Candy Burnt Orange tones. The fuel tank top half shares its orange colour with the top and sides of the bike's cowling "face" and also the passenger seat now comes in orange. The bottom half of the fuel tank, as well as the tail section, the central part of the front fender, the cowling section under the headlights and the side shrouds of the bike are painted in Metallic Diablo Black.
The other new Z1000 is an intriguing play of black, white and silver tones. The top half of the fuel tank and the top and sides of the bikes "face" in sparkling Pearl Crystal White, whereas the tail part of the bike, the lower part of the fuel tank and the side shrouds are painted in Atomic Silver. To complete the picture the central part of the front fender and the "face" part under the headlights come in Metallic Diablo Black.
And for the full on commited streetfighter fans, the Z1000 for 2009 is also available in Metallic Diablo Black.
Z750
Standing alongside its bigger brother, the Z750 also features a stunning new duo-tone design, making use of the highly contrasting Candy Lime Green and Metallic Diablo Black colours. This latter colour covers the lower side of the fuel tank, as well as the front fender and the shrouds on each side of the bike.
Additionally, the Z750 will also be available in the new colour Candy Imperial Blue, which is a lighter and more contrasting hue of blue than Metallic Ocean Blue, which is used on the current 2008 model.
Newly added for 2009 is a Metallic Diablo Black version of the Z750
2009 Kawasaki VN1700 Series
Introducing a new series of 1700cc V-Twin cruisers.
For 2009, Kawasaki is proud to introduce its newest series of big V-Twins. The VN1700 series, successors to the VN1600 models, all featuring powerful 1700cc engines, confidence inspiring handling and trademark Kawasaki craftsmanship.
The new engine design is similar to that of the mighty VN2000, but features a SOHC rather than OHV arrangement. Its increase in displacement and long-stroke design ensure both torque and horsepower gains over the VN1600 models. New features include Kawasaki's first fully electronic throttle valve system, a new 6-speed transmission with overdrive, and belt final drive like the VN2000 and VN900 models.
The new lightweight chassis is more compact than that used on previous models. Chassis design and suspension settings result in light handling while maintaining good straight-line stability.
Bodywork and engine covers were completely redesigned. Like on all Kawasaki Cruisers, meticulous attention to detail and exquisite craftsmanship result in a motorcycle that turns heads whether parked in front of a café or cruising down the highway.
The VN1700 series is comprised of three models: VN1700 Voyager, VN1700 Classic Tourer and a VN1700 Classic. Variations in tuning and equipment mean there is a VN1700 model for all Kawasaki Cruiser fans.
Brief overview:
VN1700 Voyager: Kawasaki's first V-Twin "full-dress" tourer features all the comfort features, equipment and optional accessories necessary for long-distance two-up touring.
VN1700 Classic Tourer: Cruise control, large windshield, hard panniers, passenger floorboards and luxury backrest enable comfortable two-up touring. Ideal for overnight or weekend tours with a passenger.
VN1700 Classic: Whether looking to ride around town or to escape the city for the day, the Classic offers a great V-Twin pulse, effortless handling and timeless looks.
2009 Kawasaki VN1700 Voyager
First ever Japanese full-dress V-Twin tourer.
Designed for those riders who set their sights beyond the horizon, the new VN1700 Voyager offers everything needed for comfortable long-distance touring with or without a passenger.
Kawasaki's first full-dress V-Twin, the new Voyager is equipped with a large front cowl and windshield, as well as leg shields for superior protection from the wind and elements. Ample storage care of a rear mounted "trunk", hard panniers and dual glove boxes ensure that all the touring necessities, and even a few luxuries, can be accommodated.
Essential touring features like cruise control and a 6-speed transmission with an overdrive gear are joined by Kawasaki's latest innovative technology. Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology (K-ACT) complements rider actuated brake control with supplementary brake force enhancement for confident, highly effective braking in all situations. Kawasaki's first fully Electronic Throttle Valve (ETV) system offers smooth, natural engine response.
The new 1700cc long-stroke liquid-cooled V-Twin engine offers increased torque and power output for superior passing performance. The new powerplant is mounted in a compact, lightweight frame that delivers both light handling and straight-line stability.
