Kawasaki is one of three manufacturers still producing 600cc inline-four sportbikes. In fact, it continues to develop them as well. The ZX-6R just received an extensive overhaul for 2024. Before riding the new bike, we wanted to throw the previous generation (2013–2023) Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R on our Dynojet 250i dynamometer for what will likely be the last time.
Kawasaki’s Ninja ZX-6R has always had a slight displacement advantage over its competition. With the bike utilizing a 636cc inline-four DOHC 16-valve engine with 38mm Keihin throttle bodies, the unorthodox engine displacement is an attempt to provide more usable low- and midrange power for casual street riding. The 2023 model also features two power modes, three levels of Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), and a quickshifter (up only). And of course, the chassis is fitted with track-ready components. The 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has a fully adjustable 41mm Showa Big Piston Separate Function Fork, a fully adjustable gas-charged shock, and dual Nissin Monoblock four-piston calipers up front.
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Before loading the Ninja onto the Cycle World dyno, we placed it on our automotive scales and recorded a wet weight of 432 pounds. On our in-house Dynojet 250i dynamometer, the 2023 Kawasaki ZX-6R produced 108.4 hp at 13,200 rpm and 45.8 lb.-ft. of torque at 10,900 rpm. For reference, the 2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 produced 102.9 hp at 13,520 rpm and 44.0 lb.-ft. of torque at 11,580 rpm. The ZX-6R’s extremely linear power delivery and flat torque curve is routine for this class. Although the increased low-end torque is noticeable, like any 600cc sportbike, revving it to the moon yields the best results.
