Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R - 2018 Specifications and Reviews
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is a middleweight supersport designed for riders seeking sharp handling and accessible performance on both road and track. Known for its 134 horsepower inline-four engine, premium Showa suspension, and advanced electronics including KTRC traction control and optional KIBS brakes, it delivers aggressive styling with practical ergonomics. This machine balances cutting-edge technology with rider-friendly characteristics that appeal to both experienced enthusiasts and those stepping up to serious sportbike capability.
General information | |
| Category | Sport |
| Year | 2018 |
| Model | Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Driveline | Sealed chain |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc, manual |
| Transmission type,final drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Lubrication system | Forced lubrication, wet sump with oil cooler |
| Ignition | TCBI with digital advance |
| Fuel control | Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
| Fuel system | Injection. DFI® with 38mm Keihin throttle bodies (4) and oval sub-throttles |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x Stroke | 67.0 x 45.1 mm (2.6 x 1.8 inches) |
| Compression | 12.9:1 |
| Torque | 66.70 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.2 ft.lbs) @ 6800 RPM |
| Power | 126.19 HP (92.1 kW) @ 14000 RPM |
| Engine type | In-line four, four-stroke |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 210 mm (8.3 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Optional ABS. |
| Front brakes diameter | 300 mm (11.8 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Floating discs. Optional ABS. |
| Rear tyre | 180/55-ZR17 |
| Front tyre | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Rear wheel travel | 134 mm (5.3 inches) |
| Rear Suspension | Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, top-out spring and pillow ball upper mount. Compression damping |
| Front wheel travel | 119 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Front Suspension | 41mm inverted Showa SFF-BP fork with top-out springs, stepless compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload |
| Trail | 102 mm (4.0 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 23.5° |
| Frame type | Aluminum perimeter |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 17.00 litres (4.49 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,400 mm (55.1 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 120 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Overall width | 710 mm (28.0 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,090 mm (82.3 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,115 mm (43.9 inches) |
| Seat height | 815 mm (32.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 194.0 kg (427.7 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Comments | Maximum power with RAM air, 98.5 kW {134 PS} at 14,000 rpm. Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), Power Mode, Optional Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS). |
| Starter | Electric |
| Color options | Metallic Matte Fusion Silver/Metallic Flat Spark Black |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
Best For
Rider Profile
| Best For | This is a high-revving supersport best suited to riders with prior experience on sportbikes who are comfortable managing an engine that makes its power high in the rev range. |
| Purpose | Built primarily for spirited canyon carving and track days, with razor-sharp handling as its main selling point over outright straight-line power. |
| Rider Fit | The committed riding position, high footpegs, and low bars mean wrists, shoulders, and lower back will feel the strain on longer rides or in heavy traffic. |
| Character | A revvy, precise, and eager middleweight that rewards riders who like to work the gearbox and chase the tach needle through corners. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for new riders, anyone prioritizing all-day comfort, or those planning to load it up with luggage and a passenger for long-distance touring. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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⚠ Safety Recalls (2)
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.
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
MotorcycleDB Review
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is an impressive middleweight sportbike that offers a perfect balance of power, handling, and style. With a 636cc inline-four engine and advanced electronics, this motorcycle delivers thrilling performance both on the street and the track. The high-quality suspension and brake components help to ensure precise handling and braking, while the aerodynamic design enhances both the bike's performance and its visual appeal. Overall, the 2018 Ninja ZX-6R is a top choice for riders who want a versatile and thrilling sportbike. In conclusion, the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is a highly capable and well-rounded motorcycle that offers an exhilarating riding experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for an upgrade or a newer rider seeking a high-performance machine, the Ninja ZX-6R delivers on both performance and style. With its powerful engine, advanced electronics, and top-notch components, this sportbike is a great option for anyone in the market for an agile and stylish ride.Add a Comment
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