Kawasaki ZX-12R

Kawasaki's ZX-12R has been revamped for model year 2002. The fuel injected 1198cc powerhouse of an engine retains it's claim as the most powerful engine available in a motorcycle. 176 horsepower is the number Kawasaki quote for the ZX-12R. But with the added effect of the ram air working at high speed they claim this number reaches right up to 190 horsepower!

Some changes have been made to the engine internals in the aim of providing an even smoother power delivery. This was achieved by, among other things, going to a slightly heavier crankshaft, modifying the throttle linkage and improving the clutch. Kawasaki claim that these changes, which also include a reduction in driveline lash and remapped ignition timing, give the bike more linear power characteristics and make it easier to ride in city traffic and at low speeds. The single radiator fan has been replaced with new twin fans for improved cooling performance in slow-moving city traffic.

Huge 46mm throttle bodies are controlled electronically after taking into account information from sensors that monitor intake temp', ambient air temp', intake vacuum, crank angle, gear position, cam position and water temp'. New for this year is an improved fuel pump design that eliminates the return line for lighter weight, fewer parts and cleaner routing of the fuel lines. Even the throttle cable pulley has been changed from a round to an oval shape for smoother throttle response at low throttle openings.

Even though the Kawasaki does make the most horsepower it seems to lose the top speed war to Suzuki's GSX1300R Hayabusa due to the Suzuki having a more aerodynamic profile.

Kawasaki has seeked to address this for 2002 with more wind tunnel time spent with Kawasaki's aircraft division. This research has resulted in a new upper cowl, which has a shorter nose and a 20mm higher, and wider windscreen helps envelop the rider better. The redesigned flush-surface ram air ducts have a 30% greater intake area. Modified fork sliders and new front fender along with a new lower fairing are just a hint at a whole heap of changes in the aim of a more slippery profile for Kawasaki's ultimate weapon.

Chassis modifications centred on enhancing the 12R's handling characteristics. With the new ZZ-R1200 now neatly filling the role of Supersport tourer, the 12R's chassis could be biased more towards satisfying the needs of the pure Supersport rider. Among the many chassis modifications are an improved monocoque aluminium frame, a new swingarm with a lower swingarm pivot, a steeper steering rake, reduced fork offset and an improved rear suspension linkage. These are only some of the modifications that give the new 12R a lighter, more responsive handling characteristics and an overall sportier feel.

Engine type	4-stroke In-Line Four
Displacement	1,199 cm³
Bore and Stroke	83 x 55.4 mm
Compression ratio	12.2:1
Valve system	DOHC, 16 valves
Fuel injection	4 x 46mm throttle bodies (Denso)
Ignition	Digital
Starting	Electric
Cooling	Liquid
Lubrication	Forced lubrication, wet sump
Transmission	6-speed, return
Primary drive	Gear
Final drive	Sealed Chain
Clutch	Wet, multi-disc
Frame	Press backbone (monocoque), aluminium
Front Suspension	43 mm inverted cartridge fork with adjustable preload, stepless rebound and compression damping
Rear Suspension	Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, piggy-back reservoir, stepless rebound and compression damping
Front Tyre	120/70 ZR17 M/C (58W) T/L
Rear Tyre	200/50 ZR17 M/C (75W) T/L
Caster (rake)	25°
Trail	97 mm
Front brake	Dual semi-floating 320 mm discs, opposed 6-piston calipers
Rear brake	Single 230 mm disc, opposed two-piston caliper
Maximum power	176 horsepower @ 10,500 rpm
Maximum torque	134 Nm @ 7,500 rpm
RRP	$19,390