To optimise the 10R’s performance for the track, the new engine has been tuned for even greater high-rpm performance without reducing the engine’s impressive low and mid-range torque. In addition, throttle response was improved by installing secondary fuel injectors, using oval throttle bodies and reshaping the intake ports. These changes give the new engine a performance potential very similar to Kawasaki’s factory superbike racing machines, making it essentially a race-ready engine.
The 10R’s 2nd generation cluster instrument package features special UVblocking glass, making the LED displays brighter and easier to read.
The stiffness balance of Kawasaki’s unique backbone twin-tube frame has been further optimised and contributes to the superb rider feedback. This was achieved by reshaping the frame’s pressed parts, replacing concave pieces with convex pieces. Not really noticeable to the naked eye, the changes alleviate stress concentrations.
The 43 mm inverted fork is fully adjustable and features bottom mounted springs. Mounting the springs at the bottom completely submerges them in oil, reducing frothing for improved damping performance, fork action and roadfollowing ability. DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) fork tube coating is also featured on the ’08 10R. Not only does this high-tech low-friction coating improve fork action, it improves friction control: the initial part of the stroke is slowed, smoothing action for stable braking; once compressed, the reduced friction allows the stroke to move quickly for superb road holding.
Improvements to the Uni-Trak rear suspension include a new mounting location for the linkage. The fully adjustable shock now features dual (low and high-speed) compression damping, enabling the fine-tuning needed for circuit riding. Ride feel is improved, and feedback and traction control are what riders expect of a competition-ready machine.
New Tokico radial mount brake calipers are fitted with dual pads (instead of 4 individual pads). While stopping performance is the same, the change offers superb initial bite characteristics and increased control care of progressive feel after the initial bite. New ø310 mm petal discs replace the earlier ø300 mm units, and the disc thickness has been reduced from t6 to t5.5 for efficient heat dispersion. Because these new brakes are less influenced by heat, brake feel remains more consistent and more responsive during extended periods of heavy use – such as during a race or a trackday.
The sub-frame is mounted to the frame’s upper cross member, allowing the rear suspension to transmit its loads more directly to the sub-frame, and thence to the rider. The 2-piece sub-frame is an aluminium die-casting consisting of a front and rear section. This layout enables a very precise and very lightweight construction. The new sub-frame is also very narrow, allowing the rear of the bike to be very compact and slim.
