New Kawasaki ZX-10R Publicity Blurb (from the web)

Boasting a category-leading power-to-weight ratio, an awesomely powerful engine loaded with advanced technology and style evocative of the world of MotoGP, the new Ninja ZX-10R is the definitive expression of Kawasaki's supersport DNA.

Unlike most other Kawasaki machines, the Ninja ZX-10R design started with chassis simulations. The engineers wanted an extremely lightweight and compact chassis that would offer superb handling and stability. The combination of a short wheelbase with a long swingarm is a configuration also seen on the Ninja ZX-RR. An all-aluminium frame with 600-class dimensions mated to a long and highly rigid gull swingarm gives the ZX-10R category-leading handling performance on the track and twisty roads.

No less impressive, the powerful and incredibly compact new in-line four is a showcase of advanced supersport technology. A number of considerations were made to avoid compromising the desired chassis dimensions; use of a one-piece cylinder/crankcase, a compact rear-mounted generator and "stacked" transmission kept the high-spec power unit lightweight and compact. Other engine features include a new fuel injection system, a close-ratio transmission with a back-torque limiter clutch, and magnesium engine covers - all of which contribute to the bike's design aim of being the number one machine on the track.

Those sitting on the ZX-10R for the first time will be amazed that, despite its compact size and race-purpose ergonomics, it is by no means cramped. Thanks to an idealized seat/pegs/handlebar relationship and a concave tank top, which allows the rider to mould himself to the bike, the 10R puts the rider in a position to take full advantage of the engine's awesome power and the superb chassis response.

Best power-to-weight ratio in its class - unbeatable combination of high power, brilliant throttle response and low exhaust emissions from a liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, in-line four featuring a sophisticated automotive-style fuel injection system with 43 mm throttle bodies, dual throttle valves and fine-atomising injectors. It is light weight, care of an incredibly compact engine package, and a compact all-aluminium frame. Newly designed lightweight wheels also contribute to weight savings that result in a litre-class machine with the weight and dimensions of a 600.

Race-Oriented Performance - The combination of a short wheelbase with a long swingarm gives the ZX-10R incredibly nimble handling. The concave tank top and an ideal relationship between the footpegs, handlebars and seat, create an aggressive, compact riding position. Close-ratio transmission, back torque limiter, radial mount callipers, petal disc brakes and fully adjustable suspension are also all designed with the sole purpose of racing in mind.

Engine details: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, 998 cc engine has a bore and stroke of 76 x 55 mm; 43 mm throttle bodies fitted with dual throttle valves ensure massive power output and a smooth, step-free torque curve; automotive-type fine-atomising injectors improve performance, fuel economy and emissions. While fuel spray from conventional injectors has a droplet size of 120 microns, the fine atomising injectors have a droplet size of approximately 70 microns.

• Flow analysis used to develop ideal dimensions for intake and exhaust ports, ensuring efficient cylinder filling and high power output (intake/exhaust valve diameters: 31/25.5 mm, stem diameter: 4.5 mm).
• Hotter spark of the iridium plugs and high-voltage coils improves combustion efficiency.
• Camshaft lobes and tappet surfaces feature soft-nitriding surface treatment for long wear and high-rpm reliability.
• Sintered aluminium valve spring retainers reduce reciprocating weight for reliable valve control at high-rpm

· Forged pistons are lightweight and very tough, for low reciprocating weight and high heat resistance. Their flat tops enable a compact combustion chamber with improved combustion efficiency.

• Compression ratio is 12.5:1
• Plated cylinders are long wearing and offer excellent heat dispersion.
• Passageways in cylinders improve crankcase breathing and reduce pumping loss.
• Intake air is routed via the central ram air duct and through the frame tubes to the airbox. A duct between the frame and the air cleaner prevents ingress of water;
• Compact air cleaner fits snugly between the frame rails, allowing use of a seamless, high-capacity, flat-bottomed fuel tank.
• Flow analysis was also used to ensure efficient air flow inside the airbox;
• Butterfly valve located in the cast titanium collector of the exhaust system ensures smooth, linear power delivery at all rpm;
• One-piece cylinder/crankcase design, compact rear-mounted generator, compact cylinder head and "stacked" tri-axis transmission/crankshaft layout allows an amazingly compact and lightweight engine, permitting the crankshaft location to be ideally located and the bike's centre of gravity to be lowered, thereby contributing to the bike's highly responsive handling characteristics.
• The engine is short enough to fit below the twin beams of the frame, allowing the 10R to have the narrow compactness of a 600-class machine;
• Single valve springs use oval-section wire to realise short springs and a compact cylinder head design;
• Camshafts are machined from forged billets of SCM420K steel for light weight and high strength;
• Lightweight magnesium engine covers contribute to the engine's low weight;
• Newly designed liquid-cooled oil cooler with internal aluminium finning is lightweight and keeps oil temperatures under control;
• All-titanium exhaust system and oval-section muffler with titanium internals and a 1 mm thick aluminium cover designed for light weight.

(Sounds like a cross between a Yamaha R1 (stacked engine internals) and Honda Fireblade (centralized mass). First tests should be interesting. …Ed.)