The Y2K Ninja

Two years ago the Kawasaki NINJA® ZX-9R revolutionalized the big-bore sportsbike class with its lightweight, compact chassis and incredible performance. Entering the new millennium, Kawasaki is again poised to up the ante in the class with a new ZX-9R for 2000.

A thoroughly revised 899cc engine pumps out more power and provides stronger acceleration. The lightest big-bore engine in the class sheds a few more pounds, while weight was also removed from the frame. The whole package is finished off with a new aerodynamic fairing that gives the ZX-9R a more aggressive look.

The new all-aluminium cylinder block is two pounds lighter than its predecessor. Each oversquare cylinder bore now has an electroplated lining that resists wear and improves heat dispersion. The cylinder head was reshaped to provide a higher compression ratio, while cam timing and the cam profile were changed for more torque across the rev range.

Lengthening the intake tract and exhaust header help smooth the power delivery. New Keihin 40mm downdraft carburettors deliver improved throttle response and are equipped with the Kawasaki Throttle Responsive Ignition Control (K-TRIC) system. Linked to the ignition system, K-TRIC adjusts ignition timing for all throttle settings. A new 16-bit microprocessor more accurately adjusts timing from more sensors not only at the carburettors but also the crankshaft.

The carburettors breathe through an all-new Ram Air system that has a larger intake duct for improved intake efficiency. A right-side cam drive allows an extremely tight angle for the direct-actuation valves to further enhance intake efficiency.

On the exhaust side, not only are the header pipes lengthened but they have a larger diameter too. The four-into-two-into-one system features a lightweight, all-titanium muffler with the Kawasaki Clean Air System catalyzer, except for California models which have a stainless steel unit and an additional catalyzer for reduced emissions. The catalyzer allows the engineers to tune the engine for maximum performance knowing a catalyzer will reduce emissions downstream.

The short-wheelbase aluminium frame has 10mm wider spars and a 12mm longer steering head pipe for increased rigidity and remarkable handling. A new aluminium sub-frame is now detachable for easy access to the rear suspension.

The new extruded aluminium swingarm now features a hexagonal structure with ribbing for reduced weight and exceptional rigidity. The hollow swingarm pivot shaft is larger in diameter for better rigidity and reduced weight. Kawasaki's Bottom Link UNI-TRAK® system has revised linkage ratios that provide a more linear progression of damping and spring rates on the fully-adjustable single shock as the suspension is compressed. A ride height adjuster has been added to allow riders to fine-tune the chassis to suit specific conditions.

Up front the 46mm inverted fork is also recalibrated to match the stiffer chassis. Fork offset has been reduced for improved handling.

New front disc brakes have larger diameter 310mm semi-floating discs clamped by opposed six-piston calipers. The rear brake holder has been redesigned to save weight. A new rear wheel now has a six-inch wide rim that allows a wider rear tire for better traction, while both front and rear axles have increased diameter and are hollow for increased rigidity and light weight.

Finishing off the package is a redesigned fairing incorporating wind tunnel-tested aerodynamics that enables the ZX-9R to slip through the air. Dual multi-reflector headlights enhance the sportbike's new predatory styling. Below the windscreen is a new, more compact electronic speedometer/odometer with LCD display driven by sensors located on the countershaft sprocket nut.

With its thoroughly revised engine, suspension and chassis, the 2000 ZX-9R continues to lead the 900cc sportbike revolution.