The sporting adventurer need look no further than the Kawasaki ZZR1200 sport-touring motorcycle. An ideal vehicle for motorcyclists obsessed with the road, the ZZR1200 is a perfect blend of performance, comfort and style wrapped in a genuine grand-touring package. Originally conceptualized for the European market, the ZZR comes stateside with the best of Kawasaki’s ZRX1200 and NINJA ZX-11 traits. The result is a machine that offers sporty handling, a powerful yet user-friendly engine, comfortable ergonomics and an upscale appearance.

Kawasaki engineers based the ZZR1200’s double-overhead cam 1164cc inline-four engine after the muscular ZRX1200, but modified the ZZR’s 16-valve engine to be a stronger performer in the low- and mid-range sections of the powerband. Like the ZRX, the ZZR’s aluminum cylinders utilize chrome composite plating rather than cylinder liners to provide a lightweight package and quick heat transfer. The actual pistons feature reinforced ribs similar to those on the ZX-12R sportbike. Actuating the valves are sintered-tipped rocker arms, which ensure less wear and friction and provide optimum lubrication. Meanwhile, a balanced crank similar to that on the ZRX1200 helps bring out the engine’s torquey personality.

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