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.

Providing efficient fuel flow, the ZZR1200 uses twin fuel pumps that feed four Keihin 40mm downdraft carburetors equipped with the Kawasaki Throttle Responsive Ignition Control (K-TRIC) system. In turn, an alternator produces more output to power the dual fuel pumps, as well as the stylish and functional dual headlights on the ZZR. To keep things cool, the ZZR’s radiator is equipped with two fans, similar to the ZX-12R.
While the ZZR1200’s engine performance crosses boundaries uncharted by other sport touring machines, the same can be said for its chassis.

The aluminum perimeter-style frame is reinforced with internal ribbing to withstand mass miles of sport touring over rough backcountry roads. Meanwhile, a steel subframe accommodates saddlebags available through Kawasaki Accessories or color-matched luggage offered by Givi.
To give the ZZR1200 the light-handling nature associated with sport-touring bikes, ball bearings are used in the steering head to maintain a light-steering feeling. Also, in the name of agility, the lightweight swingarm is designed relatively low to improve traction and squat characteristics. Kawasaki’s UNI-TRAK? rear suspension employs long linkage rods and a progressive rear shock for an overall smooth ride.

Bringing the 1200 to a stop are dual-piston calipers, which grip 320mm dual-discs in the front, while the rear brake caliper is borrowed from the ZX-12R and the 250mm rotor from the ZRX1200.

To give the ZZR1200 all-day touring capacity, a comfortable riding position was created by moving the handlebars back, and the footpegs forward and down, in comparison to the ZX-12R sportbike. From the rider’s perspective, an attractive instrument panel displays pertinent information and incorporates a state-of-the-art ZX-12R fuel gauge. Finishing touches include an elegant, contoured fuel tank and sleek-looking twin-beam headlights. Hollow-spoke wheels, a one-piece fender and clear, automotive-style turn signals round out the complete ZZR1200 sport-touring package.

Features

Four-Cylinder, 16-Valve Engine

• Aluminum cylinders with chrome composite plated bores reduce weight, resist wear and offer superior heat dispersion
  
• Pistons feature reinforcing ribs similar to those in the ZX-12R
  
• Equipped with crank based on that of the ZRX1200

Downdraft Carburetors with Kawasaki Throttle Responsive Ignition Control (K-TRIC)

• A throttle-position sensor tells the ignition control unit how hard the engine is working so that its micro-computer can determine the best ignition timing for more power and better fuel economy
  

Dual Fuel Pumps

• Dual fuel pumps provide a steady fuel flow to cylinders
  
• One pump feeds cylinders one and two, while the other feeds cylinders three and four

Liquid Cooling

• Even-running temperatures mean no “power fade” on hot days and longer engine life
  
• Equipped with twin fans, similar to the system on the ZX-12R
  
• Sintered-Tipped Rocker Arms
  
• Provide longer wear, less friction and better lubrication

Aluminum Perimeter-Style Frame

• Thick frame rails provide extra rigidity
  
• Rake and offset designed to provide nimble handling
  
• Steering head incorporates internal reinforcement ribbing
  
• Steel subframe accommodates aftermarket saddlebags

Bottom-Link UNI-TRAK® Rear Suspension

• Long linkage rods provide a smoother ride
  
• Shock features hydraulic preload adjustment and protective guard over the shaft and seal
  
• Swingarm positioned low to improve traction and squat characteristics, and reduce wear on the chain slipper
  
• Swingarm features ZX-9R mounts that don’t pinch the pivot when tightened
• Cartridge Fork
  
• Comes with leak-resistant seals from the ZRX1200

Bodywork

• Includes twin-beam headlights, modern taillight and automotive-type turnsignals with clear lenses
  
• Contoured fuel tank contributes to bike’s aesthetics

Details

• Attractive instrumentation with ZX-12R fuel gauge
  
• One-piece fender provides easy maintenance
  
• ZX-12R ignition switch deters theft
  
  
  

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