Kawasaki will first release a race-only model of its flagship supersport Ninja ZX-10R, which has recently undergone a model change and attracted a great deal of attention, as a 2026-spec model. Orders will be accepted from November 21 to December 16, 2025. It will be priced at 2,090,000 yen and will be available in only one color, Metallic Matte Grafen Steel Gray x Metallic Spark Black.

New winglets improve aerodynamic performance and maneuverability

The new ZX-10R is equipped with the same 998cc liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder engine that delivers sharp power output that blows up sharply to the high rpm range, and newly designed winglets have been added to the front cowl on both sides. This increased downforce and received an update that optimized the front wheel load when cornering and traveling at high speeds. Accompanying these changes, the front fork and rear shock settings and chassis geometry have also been redesigned to improve ground contact during cornering and stability at high speeds. The result is a higher speed performance than ever before.

The new ZX-10R, which was just announced this month and is expected to be introduced in Japan, is first introduced as a competition-only model.

On the electronic control side, the ZX-10R features an electronic throttle valve (ETV), IMU (inertial measurement unit)-based traction control "KTRC," and launch control "KLCM. It is also equipped with a quick shifter (KQS) that does not require clutch operation and can shift gears in both up and down directions. As before, SHOWA's BFF (Balance Free Front Fork) and BFRC-lite rear shock are used for the suspension. The BFRC-lite rear shock provides excellent ground contact and stability. In addition, an Ohlins steering damper is installed, and the twin-tube structure provides a high level of handling stability. The latest Bridgestone BATTLAX RACING STREET RS12 tires are used. These tires provide both high-grip performance for circuit use and ease of handling for street use. The meter is equipped with a full-color TFT LCD that supports voice command operation and smartphone integration.

The main difference between the new model is the presence or absence of winglets, as well as a new front mask design. The new model has a more combat-oriented appearance.

The design was redesigned from the frame up to match the aerodynamic performance that changes with the winglets.

While the official introduction of a public road version of this machine is expected, the first model to go on sale is a race-only model (ZX1003BTFAL). This model cannot be driven on public roads or in public traffic, and the necessary documents to obtain a license plate will not be issued. It is also not equipped with ABS and is based on U.S. California specifications. Orders are limited and will be accepted from November 21, 2025 (Friday) through December 16, 2025 (Tuesday). The manufacturer's suggested retail price is 2,090,000 yen, up 187,000 yen from 1,903,000 yen for last year's model. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in early March 2026.

Ninja ZX-10R Race Base (2026)

Order period: Friday, November 21, 2025 through Tuesday, December 16, 2025 MSRP: 2,090,000 yen

Metallic Matte Graffen Steel Gray x Metallic Spark Black

Ninja ZX-10R Race Base (2026) Metallic Matte Graffen Steel Gray x Metallic Spark Black

Ninja ZX-10R Race Base (2026) main specifications

-Length x Width x Height: 2085 x 750 x 1180 mm -Wheelbase: 1450 mm -Seat Height: 825 mm -Vehicle Weight: 208 kg -Engine: liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 4-valve inline 4-cylinder 998 cc -Max Power: -Max Torque: -Transmission: 6-speed return -Fuel tank capacity: 17L - Brakes: F=W disc, R=disc - Tires: F=120/70ZR17M/C, R=190/55ZR17M/C - Price: 2.09 million yen Go to  (6)

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