Rumor Control: Kawasaki May Be Updating the ZX-10R

Altered emissions levels suggest a revamped Big Ninja for 2019

It's amazing what kinds of cool, interesting things you can find in a document as dry and boring as a CARB filing. For example, a recently published document on the California Air Resources Board website shows that the Kawasaki's 2019 ZX-10R has a slightly increased carbon output. So, what does that mean and why might it be important for next year's Ninja? Let's break it down.

CHECK OUT: 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400 - First Ride

Looking at it closely, the new document shows two ZX-10 models for 2019—the -10R and the -10RR. These models have a hydrocarbon emissions output of 0.12 grams per kilometer (we're as surprised as you are that CARB does its measurements in metric). Last year's models had a carbon out put of 0.1 grams per kilometer. Now, to us that may sound like a completely inconsequential change, but think about it. What about those bikes is causing that increase in emissions? Are they getting more horsepower? Maybe? Who knows? It's pretty interesting though.

CHECK OUT: Kawasaki Gets Naked With New Z400 for 2019

One thing to point out is that Eurospec ZX-10Rs have more horses than our American ones—197 horsepower at 13,000 rpm compared to our paltry 185 horsepower at 11,500 rpm. Maybe Kawasaki is tuning American market Ninjas for that same kind of power. That'd be interesting, right? Who doesn't like more horsepower?

CHECK OUT: 2016 Kawasaki ZX-10R Review

The last time we spent any significant time with the Big Ninja was back in 2016 when Bruce Speedman reviewed one. In that story he stated that, "the 2016 Kawasaki ZX-10R is the next evolution in fun, easy-to-ride superbikes." A pretty bold statement, but one we stick to. Maybe with this new 2019 model with its mysterious carbon emissions increase, we'll see the next evolution.

If we hear any more about it, and we very likely will, we'll make sure to let you know.

Source: CARB, VisorDown