Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Performance - 2012 Specifications and Reviews

The 2012 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Performance is a lightweight middleweight sport bike engineered for aggressive track-focused riders seeking sharp handling and responsive acceleration. Powered by a 599cc inline-four engine producing 126 horsepower, it excels in corner speed and mid-range punch, making it ideal for racing and road course work. Known for its precise steering geometry and compact dimensions, this model represents Kawasaki's commitment to accessible, performance-oriented supersport riding.

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General information

CategorySport
Year2012
ModelKawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Performance

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemAkrapovic exhaust
DrivelineX-Ring Chain
Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemForced lubrication, wet sump
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance
Fuel controlDOHC
Fuel systemInjection. 38 mm x 4 (Keihin) with oval sub-throttles, dual injection
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x stroke67.0 x 42.5 mm (2.6 x 1.7 inches)
Compression13.3:1
Torque66.70 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.2 ft.lbs) @ 11800
Power126.19
Engine typeIn-line four, four-stroke
Capacity:599.00 ccm (36.55 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions180/55-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspensionBottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, top-out spring and pillow ball upper mount Compression damping: Stepless, dual-range (high/low-speed) Rebound damping: 25-way Spring preload:Fully adjustable (5.5-15.5 mm)
Front suspension41 mm inverted fork with top-out springs Compression damping: Stepless Rebound damping: Stepless Spring preload: Fully adjustable (0-15 mm)
Trail103 mm (4.1 inches)
Rake (fork angle)24.0°
Frame typePerimeter, pressed-aluminium

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity17.03 litres (4.50 gallons)
Wheelbase1,400 mm (55.1 inches)
Overall width711 mm (28.0 inches)
Overall length2,090 mm (82.3 inches)
Overall height1,115 mm (43.9 inches)
Seat height815 mm (32.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc191.1 kg (421.2 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsLime Green/ Metallic Spark Black, Passion Red/ Metallic Spark Black, Metallic Spark Black/Flat Ebony
Factory warranty12 months

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

126.9 hp
Peak Power
3.3s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track95%
City45%
Cornering95%
Daily Riding40%
Touring30%
Passenger25%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis is a high-revving supersport best suited to experienced riders comfortable with sharp throttle response and a top-heavy power delivery that rewards riding above 10,000 RPM.
PurposeBuilt primarily for track days and aggressive cornering, with road use as a secondary, less comfortable compromise.
Rider FitExpect a committed forward-leaning riding position with high pegs and low bars that puts real weight on wrists and wears on the back and shoulders during long rides.
CharacterA precise, revvy middleweight supersport that thrives on corner speed, sharp inputs, and a howling inline-four soundtrack near redline.
Not Ideal ForThis is not the right bike for riders wanting a relaxed commute, long-distance touring comfort, or any kind of off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2012 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Performance Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 815mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Performance, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 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.

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⚠ Safety Recalls (1)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY Feb 2012 · 12V064000

KAWASAKI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 NINJA ZX-10R, AND 2009-2012 NINJA ZX-6R MOTORCYCLES MANUFACTURED FROM DECEMBER 14, 2007 THROUGH JULY 26, 2011. DUE TO A MANUFACTURING ERROR, THE REGULATOR/RECTIFIER MAY INSUFFICIENTLY CHARGE THE BATTERY.

Risk: IF THE BATTERY DISCHARGES, THE MOTORCYCLE MAY STALL WITHOUT WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: KAWASAKI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE VOLTAGE REGULATOR, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 24, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KAWASAKI AT 949-770-0400.

Source: NHTSA. View all Kawasaki recalls →

Rider Reviews

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