The supersport segment refuses to die with Kawasaki announcing a substantial update to their Ninja ZX-6R Ninja after six years of little change.
Sales of supersport bikes have dwindled in recent years sparking claims the segment would be killed off.
However, there are now rumours that Honda and Suzuki will update their supersport models and Aprilia will join the fray.
Meanwhile, Kawasaki Australia has announced a massive discount to move remaining stock of the current ZX-6R.
From October 31, 2018, it will be $14,799 (+ on road costs), down from $16,749 (plus on road costs).
Ninja ZX-6R
Kawasaki will unveil their 2019 ZX-6R at the EICMA motorcycle show on November 6.
Most of the updates are cosmetic and ergonomic.
They include a redesigned upper fairing and windscreen, twin LED lighting, a slimmer and shorter seat, slimmer tail section, clutch lever adjustment and a new muffler finish treatment.
The instruments now feature a tacho needle that changes colour to indicate when it’s time to upshift on the new KQS quickshifter. You can set the alert at intervals of 250rpm between 5000 and 16,000 revs.
There is also a new display that shows how economically you’re riding plus fuel gauge and remaining range.
It is still powered by the long-stroke 636cc inline-four. However, it now has two-stage power modes, a broader spread of torque and one tooth less on the countershaft sprocket for better acceleration on road and track.
There is also a slipper clutch and a 12V charger for electrical accessories.
The Showa BFF separate-function forks are now fully adjustable.
For 2019, the ZX-6R will be shod with Bridgestone Battlax S21 tyres.
Optional accessories include Öhlins steering damper, axle sliders and colour coded pillion seat cover.