Kawasaki ZRX1200R

If it’s a muscle bike your after then you don’t have to look too far as there are a growing number out there.

Kawasaki’s ZRX1200R being a good choice, what with 6 pot callipers to help bring the REX back to more sensible speeds (although top speed is not what this type of bike is designed for), fully adjustable suspension to play with, which most owners do as it’s set up quite stiff as standard and a pretty good finish to add to it’s presence.

Not the most common naked bike out there which is strange as it’s easily as capable as the competition but I think that adds to it’s appeal. Parked next to the usual brigade of sports bikes it stands out and more often than not attracts the most attention.

As a track day tool you may be inclined to go for one or the more usual suspects, but for a short track much like Knockhill then the ZRX is surprisingly good, what with the wide bars to haul it into the corners and the tremendous torque(82.5 ft-lb and 122PS) to power it out. Aerodynamics aren’t part of the equation as 120mph(ish) is all that is needed. More speed is there but tucking well in is a bit more of a necessity. The only downside was the weight(223kg). Quite a bit of muscle to slow up so braking would be done a little earlier.

As standard it will come with Bridgestone BT 020’s which give a good combination of grip and longevity but stickier rubber may be preferred for those that do endless back road blasts. The older ZRX 1100 came with a 170 rear but that has since been increased to 180’s which is better for grip and choice.

There are a choice of ZRX to chose from depending on you’re taste and what you’re going to use it for. The 1200R comes with a small but functional headlight cowling or there’s the S model with the larger bikini fairing and for those with a dislike to plastic there’s one with the more retro style chromed round headlight.

Colours were the usual Eddie Lawson green for 2001 models with red and blue models for 2002.

Tank range is not bad at 19litres to get you a fair distance before filling up which is the limiting factor as the seat is comfy enough for many more miles. Even the pillion can’t complain with a big seat and low pegs for maximum comfort.

Go and try one – you may be surprised!