Have Kawasaki improved the 2021 ZX-10R for the road and track? | MCN review

[@SladeRenegade]

The only reviewer who's words actually mean anything. The passion Neeves naturally exudes for motorcycles is inspirational. Thank you.

[@Pierre-Irwan]

Im french and he is my favourite reviewer! Thanks Michael!

[@booger65man]

Neeves is the best reviewer out there by far I think. I bought the '19 non-abs and put some Braketech floating rotors and OZ Piega wheels. Mine is de-resttricted with full Arrow exhaust. I went to 41t rear sprocket which makes the bike feel more responsive. The soft power down low makes the bike easy to ride on the street but get up into the higher rpm and it is very powerful.

[@jackmac66]

Completely agree no bs and knows his stuff

[@2wheelsonly614]

I have a 19 also and im completely satisfied

[@KyleMicena]

44Teeth is better

[@MMPAspergerian]

I couldn't agree more. He's the standard which I judge other motojournalists. Nobody comes close.

[@RobbieGarciakawasakininja650r]

He's just not biased compared to other reviewers. Very honest reviewer

[@andrewprice1189]

Mr Neeves the best reviewer ever, perfect 10-12 mins reviews the ideal length, any more & you zone out or move on. Love your work

[@wrenchrat]

I bought one of these '21 models last year after watching this video. I'm only 5'10" so I don't experience as much of the issue with cramping but he's def right about it being mellow at low revs. Almost 8k miles and several sets of tires on the bike now and its been very reliable and fun to ride.

[@neddleman26]

8:43 You can see some knee on elbow action. Those pegs are criminally high.

[@rishrevsR13]

Ducking helll I’ve just realised that 🥲😂😂

[@Jaded-Wanderer]

Why don't sports bike manufacturers put adjustable footrests on their bikes? How hard can it be?

[@sk2283]

KTM did on the RC8 years ago …. But if they all did then you wouldn’t buy aftermarket ones would you ! 😉

Suzuki did on many gsxr's don't, now on the last one.

[@martinwellsted4922]

The earlier one did

[@doug3011]

I just bought this bike.my first ever sports bike..I had a ten hour ride to pick it up from South Germany. Needless to say I had aches and pains all through my body and never lasted a full tank cruising at 85/90 on autobahn before needing a stretch.however it was my first time on sports coming from xsr900. Having said that the seat is super comfy..I never got numb bum.never got wrist ache.and tall screen meant never got neck ache and despite having tinnitus my ears where fine. I am just over 6'2" with wide shoulders and long arms. The levers are set to high. And I am getting used to high pegs..my solution is yoga..it actually does help. The engine is so smooth and the brakes super powerful.And maybe its just me as its first time I've ridden a bike with plush suspension, it absolutely glides over bumpy roads like a magic carpet..I love this thing. Having less torque means its not so scary...it doesn't goad me on to do something silly and either lose my license or stack it. For a beginner I think that's a big plus.. I can cruise on it, unlike the xsr which i rode flat out all the time and worried myself . And I think it looks super trick. I am planning my first trackday and can't wait. Great review as always mate.d

[@thetwowheeledintrovert3367]

Congratulations on your purchase. I have a 2016 Yamaha R1M, 6’2 and 125kgs. I really enjoy longer rides, longest pre COVID was 23 hours and 1610 kms. Outside of adjustable rearsets and wider clip ons, what made the difference for me was my clothing. Two piece race suit, which as it’s zipped up gave me back support, and also good boots and gloves. Not sure what you were wearing, but I really notice a difference fatigue between my leathers and just wearing the jacket and riding jeans.

[@doug3011]

@@thetwowheeledintrovert3367 Thats good advice, I dont have any leathers yet,ive only had the bike a few weeks. at the moment just decent boots gloves helmet and Knox vest under jacket and motorbike jeans. if you got any recommendations as to which brand of leathers I should look at please let me know.

[@MrPninja]

I have the 2016 Zx10r, which is flashed by Woolich racing and Akra pipe, and the 2020 S1000rr M pack, and the difference is no vibration at all through the bike like the BMW does and I feel more at home on the ninja, mind you it may be case of getting better tyres and getting used of the BMW

[@moustachio334]

If you watch Moores Mafia tuning video of a ZX you’ll see how limited these are electronically

[@THExKINGxKINGx]

Thanks for the review I am stuck on both myself. You’d choose the new zx10r over a new s1000rr?

[@mujtabakamal]

The most sensible automobile journalist on planet.

[@berkayt5319]

is this irony?

[@professorvoluck9311]

“Cramped in the legs” is all relative. I’m 5’8” and not cramped at all but I guess you giants could buy a set of aftermarket rearsets to help stretch your ostrich legs.

[@GumbyTheFish]

are you tip toeing standing the bike?

[@Mcanozcelik]

What would you say if you compare it to bmw mate im having second thoughts about the suspension and brakes

[@professorvoluck9311]

@evilways777 You can’t go wrong with either bike but I’ve always been a believer in buying an older bike, installing Ohlins forks and shocks and installing your own Brembos. Both companies make models much better than what comes on any new bike. Then you can add a comfy seat, rearsets, exhaust, and really make the bike your own.

[@UnlceDon]

Im 5’5”. Im tiptoeing. No. Complaints

[@nazzalgrylls1403]

am 5.7...I've always been lucky

[@avothfis]

Love MCN and Neevesy especially. Thank you for all the info and invaluable pointers. Keep up the good work. You guys save bikers' lives.

[@mmm4638]

One thing for sure it's the most reliable and highest quality built.

[@jamesdonoghue5907]

I like Neevesy's proper reviews...makes me think maybe you'd do better with your own channel and could produce more in depth vids on bikes and products.

[@mikaeldelta1378]

Mr.Neeves is by far the BEST @the MOTO field for many years now and 101% objective as always!!! Excellent feedback about the new ZX10R. The most objective reports and what exactly is happening with a new motorcycle. Congratulations for the umpteenth time, continue with the same passion dynamically!!! Greetings from sunny Greece!!!

[@Steyreon]

I ride a 2002 ZX9r and love it to bits, such a great bike but already the underdog back in its days.

[@alexstewart2247]

99 C2 here wouldn't swap it for anything newer put it that way

[@regisbagas784]

Top notch production!

[@Mtthwpez]

1000CC Superbikes didn't make much sense on the road 10+ years ago, so buying one today just seems nuts. Thankfully supernakeds are where it's at now. Still powerful, but can actually be ridden without contorting yourself onto them..

[@Mike_P646]

It always amazes me that reviewers state about how the road bike isn't the same as the wsbk bike, it's the same for any bike on the grid.

[@KubuśpuchatekTVN]

Exactly! And it seems everyone says this only about ZX10R.

[@beamdoctor5637]

Foot peg height ridiculous. They should also try 1 inch higher bars too for comfort. Like you said we could change items if we are in a real race. I have a 2015 ZX10R and love it. Only that dash would make me want to upgrade. At 55 years old I guess I am crusty even if I don't want to be. Great review MCN, again

[@martinwellsted4922]

I've had the 2011 model from new, I liked the fact it had adjustable foot pegs no longer available which actually makes it comfortable I found most of its competitors weren't its taller gearing makes it a good road bike I don't do track days so not bothered about chasing tenths I often see in reviews it come out as the better road bike which most of us are interested in

[@TrustLORD1992]

Great review so much info. I like the fact that you seating on the bike while talking about it and riding it.... Perfect review thanks keep up

[@tysoncott7402]

I have this identical bike with the exception of a non-abs version & its absolutely badass, im 46yrs old & 238lbs too

[@stixnfeet7818]

As a younger man I really enjoyed the late 80’s gsxr 750 then z1000. Lots of great memories and fun! Much gratitude for over100k safe miles, never once down. Recent years couldn’t be more satisfied with my ultra reliable FJR 1300. Stopped in here out of curiosity on the latest “Super Bikes”. Great review. Now in my mid 50’s it’s all about practicality. Cheers to all the riders out there. Enjoy and be safe!

[@peterhird3542]

Hi MCN, Thanks for another great review video 👍🎥. I respect Michael’s opinions on the motorcycles that are available in the current market. Always informative and entertaining. I was recently in the market to up grade my ride and my choices came down to this bike or the S1000RR Sport. After reading many reviews and manufacturers sales spin, I just couldn’t justify purchasing the ZX10R over the BMW. Mainly for all the reasons that were outlined in this review video and here in Australia the small pricing difference (comparative to overall costs) wasn’t that much of a jump. I’ve gotta say that the ZX10R looks awesome (in my humble opinion), especially in factory colours but in saying that the BMW is gorgeous as well. Thanks for the insight on this motorcycle 👍. Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺.

[@GFDiablos1984]

I did a test ride on ZX10R and the highlight for Me was how smooth it is,as You said nothing is happening down low but at the top it's a monster that is lifting the wheel in 4th.The worst thing about it for Me is the looks.

[@petermartinaitis8166]

Can't belive that this bike is described as gutless, I haven't ridden a motorcycle for over 25 years and the bikes available then didn't feel gutless, and with a lot less horsepower. We're not all MotoGP riders.

[@kawasakitheking4130]

Last year 2021 bike, MotoGP top speed is 362,4 with 800-900 meter straight line on Losail circuit, Mugello circuit and 200 meter breaking zone to turn 1

[@johnnyhoney2074]

I love your reviews and really trust and enjoy them . Thank you very much and keep up the great work you do 😊

[@benmpearson1]

Fair play MCN, this is a really high quality video. The bike looks super cool too.

[@MyMednas]

As a 2019 ZX6R owner, I'd happily upgrade to one of these if the 6 wasn't such a bargain. The updates are spot on for the road: LED headlights, TFT, cruise control. Price is excellent compared with other 200hp bikes. Servicing costs much more reasonable than the Europeans or Honda's rediculous triple R. As for the comfort, well it's a sports bike. It's supposed to be sporty. Don't take it touring.

[@richardbrooks4549]

£500 more than an S1000RR, less comfortable, lower power, heavier, slower, worse suspension, worse brakes, No thanks!

[@Stratocasterhead51]

Is that the base S1000rr with practically nothing standard?@@richardbrooks4549

[@carlb9009]

Excellent review as always. Thank you MCN / Mr. Neeves 😊

[@collins735]

I had a test ride on one of these a couple of days ago and this is spot on. I'm a short arse and even I was cramped, the throttle is ridiculously snatchy and the low end is absolutely shite. If you're just wanting this as primarily a road bike then look elsewhere.

[@jayh5641]

Great review again from Neevesy 😎 rear sets, braided lines and new pads then this would be a solid performer 👌. Best of all still cheaper than it’s competitors even with simple bolt on mods.

[@arrow0872]

6:45 is just awesome…

[@slvr1.618]

Neeves always gives great reviews,his own personal opinions and objective, I'd imagine a person willing to spend on a new bike won't mind spending extra on some tailoring to suit them better,would have loved to see the track section of the review but ok,the dreamer kid me always wonders if an indoor track is possible 😂

[@MotoVikz]

Can you do 500km in a day comfortably in this?

[@seancaceres619]

I love the front, by far the 2 most attractive front of the super bikes for me. #1. *The 999*

[@Hondaefciviclife]

I love this guy and channel! The most relevant to their audience channel about motorcycles.

[@tommysbk2919]

My dream bike the 10R.... I don’t like that new TFT dash I prefer the old one! Great review neevsey

[@raggysbikes1589]

Not sure why this Gen 6 doesn't have adjustable footpegs. I have a Gen4 it has the adjustable footpegs. When I say adjustable there are two levels of adjustment on the Gen4.

[@VMorghulisreal]

Well, I have one! I like your review, all you say is absolutely true, it couldn't be in other way . But I am worry about Abs on a track day. Do you know if kawasaki have thought about doing something about it? Some reprogramming or something like that. Thanks!!

[@pauleberly6734]

Thank You for the review, Crusty.

[@rdkng06]

Tune it,and its a whole different animal,i have a 23 and its a total beast

[@jongreen3027]

ive had every model of the z10r the last one was the se but by far the best was the 2004/5

[@kingpet46]

Thanks Neeves. All the more reason for me to choose the S1K.

[@kingpet46]

@@robertprosser6856 that's great to know. I love the colour of the ninja but can't ignore the balance on the road and track the beemer gave. Cheers!

[@michaelseverance9213]

Fyi I really appreciate your reviews.... Respect for your knowledge and skills. Many thanks.

[@michaeljkasnter]

Just picked up my 2023- ZX-10-RR, will definitely never buy another Fireblade RR-R-SP, the Honda was absolutely horrible in stock form, this Kawasaki is Sublime!!!!!

[@THExKINGxKINGx]

STOP!!! Tell me more because I was thinking of getting the CBR1000rr actually or even a fireblade

[@oldhead_]

Outstanding honest review that is valuable..especially for us taller riders..thank you. So would a pair of adjustable rears and taller clip ons make this bike something you could recommend for 6’ plus riders?

[@michaeljkasnter]

The Pankl internals in the RR are constantly being felt at the twiist of the wrist, wow does the RR rev up quick!!!!

[@NudaMan]

Front end is Fugly, but everything else I love about it 🤩

[@damienwood1414]

Love the colours reminds me of the zxr750 and the zx7r

[@ianmitchell9102]

Great honest review as always, thank you 🙏

[@Arash_67]

Neeves is the man 🙏 my favorite tester!

[@oxeg3887]

These bikes are like a d feel like bugaties

[@wsbygt]

Great videos with REAL bikes. Good show!

[@checker3694]

I am glad they put the word Kawasaki all across the bottom of fairing, it won't get mistaken for a ducati, also the Zx10r logo needs to be 3 times as large, for the visually impared part of the population. Finally I am glad they used 5 Square meters of stickers rather than paint on body work, to break the flow of what would be a stunning bike if painted, take note ducati used vast amounts of stickers on your bikes if you want them to be taken seriously in italian design studios.

[@0x7FFFFFFFFFFF]

I would really like to hear Michael reviewing the first generation ZX-10R, I wonder what he thinks of it.

[@Captndarty]

At 6’3 my 05 ZX10R is the most comfortable sport bike I’ve ever ridden. Where the heck have they gone wrong?

[@viasevenvai]

I bought a 12’ due to reviewers saying it was almost as comfortable as the RSV4. I found it to be typical sportsbike.

[@86yanns]

@@viasevenvai most say the rsv4 is one of the smallest most cramped sport bikes there are

[@viasevenvai]

@@86yanns yeah depends who you listen to. I think that's true for taller riders. In my experience the BMW fits my legs the best, the R1 is the worst. Knee/tank pads really helped.

[@apriliaguy4life198]

@@86yanns I’m 6’3” and the RSV4 was pretty cramped. My 2020 R1 has a lot more room.

[@angry_genius]

Hes not a fan of japanese bikes thou hahaha

[@Fr34k78]

When can we expect 2021 superbike shootout??

[@ninjamagic5150]

Awesome riding shots. You look great 👍 on that bike 🏍 I don't know who u are but seam like a stand up guy. If I had a sick bike and lived in your area. I would have u teach me the skills. I can ride had a older ninja 750. Was a great experience smooth ride. This is like fast forward into space technology. Ready to blast off.

[@dennisobrien2578]

Nice review. Well done. Cheers from America.

[@jasset88]

The 2005 was the best year for these imo. Thing was an animal

[@Pillokun]

The zx10r is super old now, Kawasaki should have released a new one instead of a refresh. But, who am I to complain, I am only interested in supersport 600 bikes as the tracks are too small here in Sweden. Omg that scared the hell out of me... haha :)

[@abdullaal-shaikh7572]

My cheap Hyosung has adjustable rearsets from the factory, why on Earth does Kawasaki's flagship not have them?

[@chrisgraham9203]

I'm surprised that I really like the styling. My only gripe is the high pegs. At 6'2" with a 34" inseam, it would really be cramped for me.

[@professorvoluck9311]

Buy a set of adjustable aftermarket rearsets. Not a big deal.

[@heilaw7002]

It looks really nice with this color

[@zl1booker]

Excellent review, Thanks

[@pramathewyayawar7857]

Very nice review once again by you Neevesy👍

[@gabrielealdini1052]

BEST BEST BEST BEST BEST reviewer EVER love his passion for it

[@vector409]

on the flybys, those pegs do look high up.

[@zxtenn]

I had a 2005 when they 1st came out, AMAZING power for its day, paid $9500.00 for it, almost double that now so i would look for maybe an Aprilla or BMW but i am a REAL old crusty at age 66

[@wilcaster5311]

Question, did you turn off the traction control on why it was giving you a less kick on the acceleration?

[@markbayato4222]

Actually the traction control is giving him less kick

[@youknowwhoalready]

6:44 i really like that.. Reminds of old kawasaki advertisements.

[@ragerider6283]

Nice review. I quite like it, especially the looks which I'm as surprised as anyone about. With regard to the footpegs, why can't they be adjustable? The GSXR's had them years ago & then stopped for some reason but it's seemingly little touches like that which make all the difference, especially in a class where sales are declining I think? People rightly expect much more from their bikes these days given how much they cost & this is such a simple fix. As is crap ABS.

[@Sunedosa]

New rearsets are a must for me, the pegs needs to be 20mm lower minimum.

[@JK-tu1xx]

I wonder what the percentage difference of bike sales that are sold from Kawasaki of bikes that are kawi green vs any other color.

[@joaoreis1079]

I can’t find a reason to have such a powerful machine on the road. It means I’m old but also means that I prefer a versatile motorcycle to use on the road and if I feel the need for speed, a 6 or 7 year old 600cc to use on track 👍

[@AndrasMihalyi]

I give you the reason I prefer my 2007 1000RR to any 600cc bike. It's not the power, you don't need 170+hp on the road. It's the torque. The low down torque for relaxed shift-lazy riding. And I'm 42, so not a teenager either.

[@JoshuaTootell]

6th gear roll on at 65 MPH was amazing on my Honda 1000RR. I didn't need the HP (could be fun at times), but the power at a lower RPM was nice.

[@ringsting]

The Gixxer 1000 still reigns supreme King of sportbikes

[@stichupman]

Dont kid yourself the gsxr is bottom of the pile these days.

[@johnnygorena5318]

@@stichupman actually it’s still quite popular as well as iconic remember BMW copied the GSXR to bring us the S1000R , sorry but at the bottom of what pile,? The European bikes are cool but at what price and reliability is always in question- and for the average person any super sport will be more than their driving skills could ever handle, that said to each his own. For me I’ll stick with any one of the Japanese bikes(brands) any day of the week,!

[@stichupman]

@@johnnygorena5318 suzuki is always good value no question in that regard but they are lacking compared to all other 1000cc bikes. And I own a suzuki a TL1000R I love it but it has been massively unreliable.

[@2wheelsonly614]

Gsxr isnt king but its a great bike, best feature is its VVT which gives it the best mid range and its price tag.

[@bnt007br]

Another great review! 👏✊

[@batshitcrazymotorcycles7044]

having owned a 2014 model, Mr Neeves is smack on 100% "correctomundo".

[@jasonkeating9958]

I want to see a channel do a mega test with all the big players top spec litre bikes but instead of the usual where they test the mega limited euro5 restricted noise limited nonsense, I want to see all the bikes with after market full system/trumpets/ecu flash/and geared to match the bike, and a high octane petrol station fuel, Basically the things most people do, That would be awesome as i haven't seen anyone do that, Every big channel does the same old stock mega test but I'm sure im not the only one who wants to see this happen, MAKE IT HAPPEN 👍

[@colinburnside4425]

Kawasaki have always made the best Road Bikes in the World got me out of so many bickles.

[@red.riot.2280]

Agreed! That’s why the super naked category is taking off. I’d order a super naked touring like the mt10 sp. hopefully we get one in the states when they update. But the s1000xr is looking good also. I do miss a real liter bike. But like he said, we don’t want to ride like a racer to the store. Make it comfortable. Every racers changes it all up anyways. Lol. Or make the RR,RRR,M the racer. The regular bike for the street.

[@eduardoolivares9653]

Katana 1000

[@mbal4052]

Or you can have lots of bikes like me depending on what you want to do 😉

[@Villani_AV]

That peg height is just.... absurd

[@sheepish9538]

Not really the road but have done for the track still waiting for a fuel gauge as well as electronic suspension as standard so I'll stick with my Zx10r 2018 atm 🤣🤣

[@pags1981]

Gen4 ZX10R is future classic like the K5/6 GSXR. 197kg without ABS and before removing the cat. Just needed shorter gearing.

[@rp6523]

I spent all of my teenage years wishing I was taller. Ever since I got into bikes and sports cars I've been happy to be a short arse!

[@wootks]

Ugh the rider triangle seems awful. As a 2008 zx10r rider that finds the bike super uncomfortable, what are the most comfortable liter bikes stock? I want leg room!

[@rh_8599]

2007 4c8 - 2014 14b R1's really comfey for sportsbike i have had or ridden them all

[@wootks]

Thanks guys. Looks like I need to sit on some bikes.

[@moustachio334]

Unfortunately Kawasaki puts strong electronic limitations on their superbikes now :/ you definitely have to take one to a tuner and it tuned to have an actual powerband

[@buddybestor]

Always an excellent review! Dammit, I'm going to buy one but just not yet!

[@FragEightyfive]

I have always seen the Kawi liter crotch rocket as a good mid-grade track bike, but that is a good point about the rear sets. Why have the rear pegs so high with those huge feelers on them if they are also shooting for it being ridden on the street. Anyone that is going to track it is probably8 going to replace the rear sets as mentioned.

[@claretbuck1882]

Awesome bud cheers 👍🏻

[@Bow-to-the-absurd]

Fortunately, supernakeds are now even more fun.

[@ringsting]

Lol until you go on a breakfast and everybody leaves you behind, or on the track

[@Bow-to-the-absurd]

@@ringsting only a few bikes can leave behind a duke 1290 or tuono

[@tuyenhoang5546]

@@ringsting find the video from Gabro's bike where his Tuono smoked the s1000rr on the front straight of mugello lol.

[@christopheralonge7758]

Too much wind blast on super nakeds

[@williamLrz]

With the intro you gotta review the RR

[@Vincenzo911]

Zx10r is the supersport bike with the smallest bore(76 mm) and longest stroke (55 mm) so it could have lots of torque midrange with the right ECU mapping... Kawasaki just like smooth mapping because it avoids wheelies and other things that slows you down(even if it feels boring)... Show me an R1 or anything except the panigale beating this new zx10r stock on a drag race 😉 This thing takes off from a standstill because of the 8 mm longer swingarm and 51 sprocket instead of the old 49 ... But also the 3 first gears are shorter than the previous model , and the power delivery is smooth so you will be leaving the pack behind without breaking a sweat😉. This 2021 version is a weapon in good hands 👍. The only thing it's missing is aviation brake hose(which is really mean from Kawasaki) and forged wheels or carbons$$$ .

[@sk2283]

Hi Neevesy - your legs are too long ! If you had legs like mine the ZX10r is perfectly comfortable !! 😂🤣😂🤣 I do love the ZX10r I had a 2012 ABS model, it was a lovely bike for a sports bike !

[@rajeshmb6745]

Nice review!

[@drjones694]

why does this bike do so good in Europe but the Yamaha kills it in the US??

[@aeror115]

Great overview mate! I’m a huge Kawasaki fan but they didn’t got me with this one or the RR! Kawasaki needs to make bigger steps forward to the customers than some hyped cosmetics… move on Kawi

[@LeeePowers]

Modified cylinder head,stiffer valve springs,stronger and lighter con rods and pistons on the RR. Not just livery.

[@nameless4031]

“Kawasaki” is a singular entity. Therefore, the title should use the word “has,” not “have.” No: “It’s ran …” Yes: “It’s run …”

[@mikemikef5]

Zx10r is Very cool Bigbike I Love it

[@gunnyhighway4422]

Does this not have brembo stylemas? How can the brakes be terrible? Brake pads maybe?