While the prospect of jumping onto a liter-class supersport may seem enticing for a new rider, it may not be the best idea to do so. That’s why motorcycle licenses in several countries have classes. In Europe, for instance, beginner riders only have access to A1-approved motorcycles – engines no larger than 125cc and with no more than 15bhp. Kawasaki’s A1-compliant motorcycles include the Ninja 125 and the Z125, and for 2022, the Japanese manufacturer has introduced new color ways to refresh them.
Like most of its elder siblings in the Ninja line, the Ninja 125 receives a color scheme inspired by the latest Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) colors in WorldSBK, along with 2 other color options. The Z, meanwhile, will also be available in three color schemes that are similar to the ones available on the bigger Z models.
The 2022 Ninja 125 and Z125 remain mechanically identical to their predecessors. Powering both bikes is a 125cc, liquid-cooled, single with humble peak output figures of 15bhp at 10,000rpm and 8.62 ft-lb of torque at 7,700rpm.
The bikes also retain their chassis and hardware components. Suspension activities are handled by a 37mm telescopic fork and preload-adjustable monoshock; at either end are 17-inch wheels shod in 110/80 (front) and 130/70 (rear) section tires.
RideApart reports that prices for the Ninja 125 start at €4,699 ($5,545), while the Z is slightly more affordable, with prices starting at €4,399 ($5,190).