Open-class superbikes are the ultimate representation of technical excellence. Each is built with everything needed to strive for the perfect lap time and nothing it doesn’t. They’re raw yet refined. It’s a category where manufacturers combine mass horsepower with knife-edge handling and top-tier electronics, then cut them loose to mere mortals as road-legal machines.

Editor’s note: This is a secondary, onboard review of the updated 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. Read the in-depth test of the Ninja ZX-10R First Ride Review. Also learn about the Ninja’s technical details in the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR First Look Preview.

We swing a leg over the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R in this review. At the track, no less. (Brian J. Nelson/)

The 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is at the forefront of superbike technology, as its six-consecutive World Superbike championships titles prove. But in an effort to evolve and make the Ninja easier to ride fast for all consumers, Team Green provided the 2021 model a list of evolutional updates.

In this episode of MC Commute, we sample the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R at Southern California’s Auto Club Speedway as part of its official US press introduction. The technical 2.4-mile, 21-turn layout offered a chance to put every aspect of the Ninja to the test via a blend of high-speed straightaways, challenging braking zones, and quick side-to-side transitions. Bridgestone Battlax V02 racing slicks were fitted to the Ninja, signaling Team Green’s intent.

Gear Box

Helmet: Shoei RF-SR

Suit: Alpinestars Missile Tech-Air

Gloves: Alpinestars GP Plus R

Boots: Alpinestars Supertech R

2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Technical Specifications and Price

The new-generation Ninja styling is the most obvious update to the 2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R. Aside from aesthetic differences, the new fairing is said to improve aerodynamic efficiency by 7 percent, while integrated winglets claim a 17 percent downforce increase. (Brian J. Nelson/)

This 4.3-inch TFT display is a long-overdue replacement of the outgoing LCD tachometer. A lap-time function is activated via switch gear on the left handlebar. (Brian J. Nelson/)

The internal gear ratios of the Ninja’s six-speed transmission have been optimized for stronger acceleration. The bidirectional quickshifter makes for seamless action while toeing through the gearbox. (Brian J. Nelson/)

Footpeg position has been moved upward 0.2 inch (5mm) for a more aggressive lower-body stance. This is appreciated in hustling the Ninja through quick side-to-side transitions. (Brian J. Nelson/)

Wheelbase increases 10mm (0.4 inch) via an 8mm difference at the chain adjuster and a 2mm fork offset increase. The rear sprocket is now 41 teeth (instead of 39). (Brian J. Nelson/)

The ZX-10R’s Showa Balance Free Fork gets revised internal damping settings and a softer spring rate (21.0 N/mm from 21.5 N/mm). The result is an increased feel at the contact patch, especially noticeable at midcorner. (Brian J. Nelson/)

A new exhaust system has been installed to maintain power output while meeting tighter emissions standards. (Brian J. Nelson/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com