New 2012 Ninja 1000: Why Fix What Isn't Broken?

Kawasaki has been building the highly acclaimed since Ninja 1000 since 1986. The motorcycle has seen tremendous improvements over the years, but little has changed about the 2012 model.

"Like the original – and highly acclaimed – Ninja 1000 of 1986, the 2012 version delivers a dominating mix of power, handling, looks, technology and rideability."

Kawasaki's Ninja 1000 has been at the top of the motorcycle game for the last few years, and the Japanese manufacturer is pretty much leaving well enough alone with the 2012 model.

Of course, no one can sit and do nothing with a Ninja 1000 in the garage. Kawasaki gave the new motorcycle a lightweight frame, a fully adjustable inverted fork, a bigger gas tank, and a three positions windshield. Kawasaki is also offering an ABS version of the Ninja 1000 in 2012.

The Ninja 1000 is powered by a highly advance inline-four. The 1,043cc, DOHC, liquid cooled, 16-valve engine features a long stroke design for instant power. The electronic fuel injection means that the bike delivers the same performance whether it's hot or cold.

Kawasaki explains:

"The four 38mm Keihin downdraft throttle bodies inject a perfect mix of fuel and air into each combustion chamber with help from an advanced ECU, oval sub-throttles and a cool air intake system that routes fresh air to the airbox via ducts at the front of the bike. A balance shaft driven off the crankshaft keeps the solidly mounted engine operating smoothly, while a beautifully styled 4-into-2-into-2 catalyzer-equipped exhaust system offers a pleasing growl without being overly loud. It's a perfect engine for a road-going sportbike – smooth, powerful, flexible and blessed with the legendary reliability Kawasakis are known for."

All that power is brought to a stop by the 300mm race-spec brakes. The ultra rigid radially mounted calipers are fed hydraulic preasuer by a race spec radial pump master cylinder. The 2012 model can also be equipped with an anti-lock brake system.

The Ninja 1000 also takes a note from the race-ready ZX-6R and the ZX-10R with its sleek, wraparound bodywork. The bike's edgy look is designed to cut through the air while providing a cocoon of air for the rider. Upfront the Ninja 1000 has a 3-position windscreen which allows the Ninja 1000 to be the bike of choice for riders of any height.

But despite the aggressive look, the Ninja 1000 actually positions the rider slightly more upright than other sportbikes. The handles are a little higher and the footpegs are a little lower, which makes the bike capable of short distance tours.

"It's rare to find such all-around functionality in a sporting motorcycle today. But the 2012 Ninja 1000 is a different beast – one with wide-ranging talent in sport, sport-touring and commuting roles."

New for 2012

• 1,043cc inline-four with DFI® offers prodigious torque for effortless passing and backroads entertainment
• Lightweight aluminum frame is narrow and tuned to transmit optimal feedback to the rider
• Fully adjustable inverted fork has settings designed for sporty performance and ride quality
• Design of horizontal back-link rear suspension contributes to mass centralization
• Radial-mounted front brake calipers combine with the radial-pump front brake master cylinder to offer superb control and feel
• Sleek, supersport styling gives the Ninja® 1000 a distinctive look
• Relaxed, upright riding position contributes to all-day comfort
• Larger fuel capacity offers substantial range
• Windscreen is adjustable to three positions, allowing for optimum wind and weather protection

The new 2012 Ninja 1000 will be available in metallic spark black and metallic flat micron gray. The standard version will be available for $11,199. The ABS version will be available for $11,899.