KAWASAKI ZX-6R (2007 - 2008) Review

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Power: 110 bhp
Seat height: Medium (32.3 in / 820 mm)
Weight: Low (368 lbs / 167 kg)

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
5 out of 5 (5/5)

In the Kawasaki ZX-6R, Kawasaki has built a race ready 600 which is road legal, just.

Everything about the ZX-6R is track focused, you could enter a standard Kawasaki ZX-6R into a club race and you wouldn’t be far behind the top runners. The more you thrash it the more fun you’ll have. The Kawasaki ZX-6R is easily the most fun 600 on track but let down by its real world capabilities.

Watch the Kawasaki ZX-6R take on Honda's CBR600RR, Yamaha's R6, Triumph's Daytona 675 and Suzuki's new GSX-R600 K8

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The track-focussed Kawasaki ZX-6R is built for carving up race tracks. The brakes are outstanding, and the Kawasaki ZX-6R remains stable no matter how late you dare to brake. You can carry a stupid amount of corner speed on the Kawasaki ZX-6R, which is really confidence inspiring. The Kawasaki ZX-6R's front will give the odd twitch over bumps and imperfection on the road.

Engine

Next up: Reliability
5 out of 5 (5/5)

A measured 109.61bhp at the back wheel made the Kawasaki ZX-6R the most powerful 600 in our recent group test. You have to keep the Kawasaki ZX-6R motor singing to get the most out of it above 9,000rpm ideally, but revving it to its 16,000rpm redline sends shivers down your spine.

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Kawasaki has never had a problem with engine reliability or build quality and the Kawasaki ZX-6R is no exception. An MCN staffer who owned one of the original high revving ZX6-RRs says it never missed a beat despite its hard life. The Kawasaki ZX-6R feels well built and solid with attention to detail in the finish.

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
5 out of 5 (5/5)

At £7190, the Kawasaki ZX-6R is the second cheapest 600 on the market and it’s a new model for 2007, only Suzuki’s older GSX-R is cheaper. Haggle with a local dealer and you should be able to steal a Kawasaki ZX-6R for under £7,000 which for the latest, track-focussed 600 which will hold its own against almost anything on track, is a bargain. Find a Kawasaki ZX-6R for sale.

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Kawasaki ZX-6R has fully adjustable suspension front and back, radial brakes up front... it ticks all the boxes for a 600 supersport machine. The standard slipper clutch is one of the best on the market something the Kawasaki ZX-6R has always led in term of development for the original ZX6-RR. Compare and buy products for the Ducati Monster 100 in the MCN Shop.

Specs

Engine size 599cc
Engine type Liquid-cooled, 16v transverse four
Frame type Aluminium twin spar
Fuel capacity 17 litres
Seat height 820mm
Bike weight 167kg
Front suspension Fully adjustable
Rear suspension Fully adjustable
Front brake 2 x 300mm wavy discs, four piston calipers
Rear brake 210mm wavy disc, single piston caliper
Front tyre size 120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size 180/55 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 39 mpg
Annual road tax £84
Annual service cost -
New price -
Used price -
Insurance group 15 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance

Max power 110 bhp
Max torque 45 ft-lb
Top speed 164 mph
1/4 mile acceleration 11.22 secs
Tank range 140 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

2007: All new Kawasaki ZX-6R, now 599cc.

Other versions

None (RR version discontinued now that Kawasaki ZX-6R is 599cc).

Owners' reviews for the KAWASAKI ZX-6R (2007 - 2008)

22 owners have reviewed their KAWASAKI ZX-6R (2007 - 2008) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your KAWASAKI ZX-6R (2007 - 2008)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Engine: 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5)
Reliability & build quality: 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Value vs rivals: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Equipment: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
5 out of 5 My favourite of all the 600cc machines.
15 April 2016 by Ben

Year: 2008

Just change the front sprocket to a 15t and enjoy brilliant, rev hungrier acceleration that will leave other 600`s wondering.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Well, I love it, just adjust suspension to your weight and preference and your good. No steering stabiliser which I think would be nice. You get used to palm strain after about 2 hours especially because they are so much fun.

Engine 5 out of 5

I don`t care for outright 0-60 times or screaming pulls low down, I just love the way you can ride it so easily at low revs but get going and open her up and the engine just screams and howls all the way to 16,000/16,500rpm. It really makes loads of fun power, that screams. Oh, forget slip ons or filters, just leave the damn thing stock and be happy.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Just normal service and parts replacement, nothing out of the blue.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Just change the oil, filters, plugs yourself.

Equipment 5 out of 5

My favourite tyres are Pirelli Angel GT`s (so far) for their durability and more rounded profile as I`m not a track guy, they`re better for the street and rain especially, confidence inspiring. Slipper clutch is lovely, a must. My favourite thing the the under seat exhaust, just love it, cleaner look.

Buying experience: Bought privately.

5 out of 5
27 December 2015 by CARBON_ZX6R

Year: 2008

Bike its excellent, just wants better brakes.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Ride Quality its a 5, but the brakes are a 3... Does not have the brake power that it should have

Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Great Value
03 May 2013 by Robinjj

Bought the '08 model in early '09 as the new model was coming out, got a great deal for £5,500 new. First 600cc i'd ridden, i've now owned a second 600cc so i think i'm in a better position to review. This bike is immense power wise if you keep the revs over 6k - sluggish acceleration below this. Great fueling, clinical throttle response and the handling is exquisite - far beyond my ability. Slipper clutch is fantastic, and the Bridgestone B-014 tyres fitted OEM were very predictable and confidence building. A fuel indicator would have been nice, but frankly you're buying a track bike with a numberplate. 'Fuel' flashes frantically on your dash once your tank is down to a certain point. This was the cheapest supersport i could buy in 2009. In 2013 i've just bought a Honda CBR600F new for £6,800; much more comfortable seating position (i'm 6'2) than the Ninja, but frankly the Ninja is a classier act - i felt i could trust it implicitly.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Easily the best value supersport bike!
16 October 2011 by tamlin23

I have had about 5 of this model this year (I trade), and am shocked at the price every time I ride one. Kawasaki really do their own legs with their 0% deals and end of season discounts, not good if you are buying new - but these are a used bargain as a result. The engine revels in revs, egging you on to go that bit further each time with it's confidence inspiring handling. If you are a nervous rider you should steer clear of these until your confidence is up, not because they are scary to get on with, far from it in fact, these really need to be revved to get the most from them - but thats my point. If you arent going to carry a little speed into a corner to put this bike at an angle it was designed for, or carry speed and go rigid, you won't enjoy this bike, its the same with the engine, it needs to be revved hard, so leave your mechanical sympathy at home when you take this out, or all you are left with is a firm ride (and a stunning bike of course). I am 6'1" and fit ok on this bike, it is one of the better ninjas for fit, unless you go back to the A1P, but then that model is left wanting in the 'top trumps' department against this model of course. These are one of the best 600 sports bikes available - elevated to the best sport 600 when the used value is considered. Buy one of these and you won't be sorry, they are a joy to own and earn nothing but respect on the road.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 Top Bike
13 April 2010 by billi808

Quick bike, needs to be above 10k rpm to really make the most of it. Well built and fun, recommend for occasional rides and track days. Long days out or touring is a no no. After three or four hours solid riding you'll be in pain, real pain. That said you'll forget about all of that if you keep this machine above the magic 10k. If you want a very quick, superb handling, race ready 600, this is the only way to fly!!!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 NINJA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
13 October 2009 by ninjachris79

Great Bike love it - Am new to road bikes after being a MotoX'r for yrs. Love the feel and it sounds amazing. Great corner speeds and get it above 9K on the Revs and its a real Dream - SUPERB!!!!!!

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 08 ZX6R Ninja
23 August 2009 by topgolfer

had it about 5 weeks after replacing my er6. Bike is bonkers. The thrill as the revs go above 10k is amazing. The harder it revs the better it sounds and just keeps on pulling. Can't wipe grin off my face. However the brakes are so strong that they could wipe the grin all over the screen if you don't hold on!!! Magic machine and looking forward to trip to watch WSB in Germany next month

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 2007 ZX-6R
21 June 2009 by kpaul

I bought mine in 2009, it was brand new still in the box. A dealer had a special allocation of surplus 07 and 08 models. Compared to my old bike an 01 ZX-6R it was giant leap in handling and engine performance. My only problem is the short wind screen which blocks my view of the tach (I am 6ft.) Plan to get a bubble screen as was suggested by other riders on MCN. I have almost 2000 miles on it with no problems. Fun to ride in the twisty roads near Seattle can keep up with liter bikes easily because of agility and corner speed. Some small vibration right at 6000 rpm but it's a nit.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 08 model on 09 plate :-)
17 March 2009 by pistol86

Got this bike on a fantastic deal a couple of weeks ago. So far i think its amazing. Unfortunatley im still runnning it in so i haven't pushed the bike atall. With comfort on the bike i think its not bad. When i picked it up i spent 4 hours on the bike pretty much non stop, and it was only the last 30mins that my arse started to hurt. With weight on your wrists, its not as bad as i thought it would be, but if you buy a supersport bike then what do you expect. Overall i can't fault the bike. It's my first bike ever, so if your a newbie like me it's easy to handle. Looking forward to more sunny days this year :-) Could do with a fuel indicator but i will get used to it.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Ninja bike - Ninja cramp.
17 January 2009 by carl27

This bike is the first four stroke I have only done 1300 or so miles since I got it in the summer. The bike didn't seem like a massive step-up at first, but when I started to hold each gear longer and harder it felt like a rocket and sounded amazing. For me the handling and brakes feel brilliant, and why don't all bikes have gear indicators? it's of massive use especially to a relative novice like myself. I have had no mechanical problems with mine or any problems with the general build quality/finish of the bike. The main problem I have with the bike (as did it's previous owner) is the comfort of it. When I was told how painful it was to ride I kind of thought it can't be that bad as I never had any problems on my Aprilia RS250 which isn't exactly luxurious. The Ninja however is agony on my wrists after more than a hour or so, especially in traffic and I've come close to pulling over a few times due to this. I'm only 5'10" so not exactly massive and it's not like the bike feels small - it's just wrong! After riding other sports bikes more recently I'll be getting rid of this when the weather brightens up and I'll most likely be getting a Mille. Shame.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 ZXR-6R Ninja
09 November 2008 by JesteR6

This is a great bike, I can't fault it but I just don't feel right when I'm on it. I suppose it's becase I've only ridden Yams for the past 10 years. I think I'll just have to give it a bit longer as I've only had it since August. Will let everyone know how I get on in the months to come and update the review.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 ZX6R 07
08 September 2008 by clearblu

I've only got good things to say. Just creeping over the 3k mark and loved every minute of it. Throwing it into coners is a delight and inspires confidence. Smooth power delivery, although a power commander is going to be necessary before the end of the year.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 zx6r 07
02 September 2008 by j82clark

Just done 2000 miles on it. Great fun although the front ends a little to stiff for our battered UK roads. Also there seems to be an engine fault, mines just dropped a valve and i'm told its a known problem with the 07 model.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 3 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 gazz rm
18 July 2008 by gazzd

Can't knock it,added a power commander to mine and a few little tweeks.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 08 Candy Plasma Blue
09 April 2008 by g_mcquet

Ive test rode a cbr600rr 07. Also an excellent bike, but in comparison, the zx6r sounds better and feels more fun to ride. Had the fairing panels off. Fit and finish is above my expectations. Instruments very easy to ready. Cant say much more as Ive only did 200 miles on it. Looks alone, nicest 600 you can get. Blue doesnt look so hot in pics of it for some reason. In real life its a show stopper

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 Cortina engine ?
20 September 2007 by DUG49

Bought the bike new and ran it in meticulously, loved it but it now sounds like an old ford cortina with a knackered cam when cold, bit better when its warm but kawasaki say they are all like this ! if you want a 600 buy a Honda, suzuki or a yam , i have had all three and even tho they were older than the kawi they were all far better engineered engine wise

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 2 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Zx6r07
14 August 2007 by 7x6r07ninja

Cracking Bike Agile handling ideal for back road blasts . Just come back from 350 Mile trip to Wales . Found the bike was hard work on the A55 inadequate wind protection from standard fairing . Could do with a slight amount more of low down grunt , never rode the 636 .Probably spoiled on previous bikes Aprilia Falco , Bandit 1200 . Cheap Insurance and tax a fun little bike .

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Better than the '05 model
06 August 2007 by 650biker

Had the bike for 4 months and I LOVE IT. Much better set up than the 05 model that I crashed last year. I'm tall and only problem is I cant see the dials so bought a double bubble and its great. Great handling, great brakes and good riding position. Bring on summer!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Better than the '05 model
06 August 2007 by 650biker

Had the bike for 4 months and I LOVE IT. Much better set up than the 05 model that I crashed last year. I'm tall and only problem is I cant see the dials so bought a double bubble and its great. Great handling, great brakes and good riding position. Bring on summer!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 zx6r
26 July 2007 by jocasaja

only had the bike for 2 months - just got back from 1500 mile 6 day trip to scotland - handling and engine fantastic - even pretty comfortable - traded in an 06 (56) yam r6 which was also a great bike scratch or tour the 600 sports bikes are all you need

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 Why me !!
10 June 2007 by Tony Wong

I've had my 2007 Ninja for just over a month and a half now with 900 miles on it and it mysteriously broke down on the M25 ! My dealer told me it would need a new engine but its surely a manufacturer fault ! Currently battling it out with the dealer and Kawasaki to get a completely new bike. Overall a fantastic bit of kit !

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 test
25 February 2007 by TestDant

test test test test

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
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