Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R - 2018 Specifications and Reviews

The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is a track-focused hyperbike delivering 210 horsepower and advanced electronics including cornering ABS, traction control, and launch control. Engineered for experienced riders seeking superlative performance on road and circuit, it combines aggressive styling with sophisticated rider aids. Best known for its blistering acceleration, nimble handling, and comprehensive technology suite that defines modern superbike capability.

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General information

CategorySport
Year2018
ModelKawasaki Ninja ZX-10R

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Greenhouse gases136.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption5.90 litres/100 km (16.9 km/l or 39.87 mpg)
DrivelineSealed chain
ClutchWet multi-disc, manual
Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemForced lubrication, wet sump with oil cooler
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance and Sport-Kawasaki Traction Control (S-KTRC)
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. DFI® with 47mm Mikuni throttle bodies (4) with oval sub-throttles, two injectors per cylinder
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x Stroke76.0 x 55.0 mm (3.0 x 2.2 inches)
Compression13.0:1
Torque113.50 Nm (11.6 kgf-m or 83.7 ft.lbs) @ 11600 RPM
Power200.00 HP (146.0 kW) @ 13000 RPM
Engine typeIn-line four, four-stroke
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Optional ABS.
Front brakes diameter310 mm (12.2 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. Floating discs. Optional ABS.
Rear tyre190/55-ZR17
Front tyre120/70-ZR17
Rear wheel travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Rear SuspensionHorizontal Back-link with gas-charged shock and top-out spring. Compression damping
Front wheel travel119 mm (4.7 inches)
Front Suspension43mm inverted Balance Free Fork, adjustable stepless rebound and compression damping, spring preload adjustability
Trail107 mm (4.2 inches)
Rake (fork angle)27.0°
Frame typeTwin spar, cast aluminium
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)
Wheelbase1,440 mm (56.7 inches)
Ground clearance145 mm (5.7 inches)
Overall width740 mm (29.1 inches)
Overall length2,090 mm (82.3 inches)
Overall height1,145 mm (45.1 inches)
Seat height835 mm (32.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc206.0 kg (454.2 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Comments154,4 kW (210 PS) at 13.000 with RAM air. Small windscreen. Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM), Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS), Kawasaki Sport Traction Control (S-KTRC), Kawasaki Engine Braking Control, Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) (upshift only), Kawasaki Corner Management Function (KCMF).
StarterElectric
Color optionsMetallic Matte Fusion Silver/Metallic Flat Spark Black

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

207 hp
Peak Power (est.)
2.8s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track70%
City35%
Cornering65%
Daily Riding40%
Touring45%
Passenger55%

Rider Profile

Best ForNote: the specifications provided are actually for the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R 40th Anniversary Edition, not the ZX-10R, so this profile reflects that hyper-sport-tourer rather than the more track-focused ZX-10R; it demands an experienced rider comfortable
PurposeBuilt primarily as a straight-line speed and long-distance high-performance machine rather than a nimble corner-carving trackday weapon.
Rider FitIts substantial weight and long wheelbase require a physically confident rider, though the seating position is more upright and forgiving than a pure supersport.
CharacterA brute-force in-line four hyper-sport bike that blends drag-strip acceleration with surprising highway comfort and stability.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for new riders, off-road use, tight urban commuting, or anyone seeking a lightweight, flickable corner-carver.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 835mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

⚠ Safety Recalls (2)

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION Nov 2020 · 20V676000

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Ninja H2 SX, Ninja H2 SXSE, and 2019-2020 Ninja H2 SXSE+ motorcycles. In the event of a gear misengagement the engine electronic control unit (ECU) programming doesn't have the capability to suppress high RPM during transmission. If the transmission gears are not properly engaged while shifting into 4th or 5th gear, high engine RPM can cause the output gears of 4th or 5th to fracture when the gears re-engage.

Risk: Damaged gears and the inability to shift can cause the engine to lock up, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: KMC will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owners are advised to not ride their motorcycle until the repair has been completed. The recall began November 16, 2020. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC's number for this recall is MC20-10.

STRUCTURE:MOTORCYCLE:KICKSTAND/CENTER STAND Aug 2018 · 18V580000

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (Kawasaki) is recalling certain 2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE (ZXT02BJ) motorcycles. The pin for the center stand spring may have been improperly welded, and, as a result, the pin may shift or fall off resulting in the spring detaching and the center stand dropping to the ground unexpectedly and dragging while riding.

Risk: The dragging center stand can cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Kawasaki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the left center stand bracket, free of charge. Owners may contact Kawasaki customer service at 1-866-802-9381. Kawasaki's number for this recall is MC18-05.

Source: NHTSA. View all Kawasaki recalls →

Rider Reviews

Total comments: 1
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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is a powerful and versatile motorcycle that offers superb performance on both the track and the street. With its 998cc engine, advanced electronics, and high-quality components, this bike delivers impressive acceleration, precise handling, and excellent stopping power. The ZX-10R also features a sleek and aggressive design that turns heads wherever it goes. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for a competitive edge on the race circuit or a street rider who craves adrenaline-pumping speed, the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is a fantastic choice. In conclusion, the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is a top-of-the-line sportbike that offers an exhilarating riding experience. Its combination of power, performance, and style make it a standout motorcycle in its class. Whether you're a speed enthusiast or a trackday rider, the ZX-10R is a fantastic option that delivers on all fronts. With its cutting-edge technology and aggressive design, this bike is sure to satisfy even the most demanding riders. If you're in the market for a high-performance motorcycle that commands attention, the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is a fantastic choice.
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