MCN Fleet: ZX-10R - plush like a racer

Published: 11 July 2016

One of the most impressive things about this latest model ZX-10R is its supple ride quality and stability. It’s all down to the Kawasaki’s new chassis and Showa suspension set-up, which includes new gas forks – a system only ever seen before on race bikes… or the road-going Ducati Desmosedici RR MotoGP replica.

On the road the suspension is so controlled and plush that I haven’t felt the need to twiddle with any of the adjusters. On track the ZX-10R finds lots of mechanical grip, but the steering is a little lazy. Ideally I’d like to dial in some more rear preload, but the adjuster is impossible to get to with a conventional C-spanner and I don’t fancy hammering away at the adjuster collar.

It’s not a big problem, though, as my Kawasaki spends most of its life on the road, gliding over bumps like a well-sorted race bike.

Looking for the perfect two-wheeled companion? Visit MCNbikesforsale.com or use MCN’s Bikes For Sale App.

By Michael Neeves

MCN Chief Road Tester - Neevesy’s been an MCN Road Tester since 2002. He’s reviewed everything from mopeds to Rossi’s Yamaha M1, and plenty in between He covers tens of thousands of miles a year on the world’s roads and racetracks in his role with MCN, and when he’s not working he’s still on two wheels, racing both modern and classic superbikes for a variety of teams. To cement his position as one of the most influential motorcycling journalists on the planet, Neevesy spent many years as an Elite Instructor at the Ron Haslam Race School, based at the famous Donington Park race circuit. He regularly presents videos on riding tips and road safety, working alongside the likes of Highways England to deliver a strong and consistent message.