Sunday 9 November 2008

2009 Kawasaki ER-6f - Features

Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve 649 cm3 Parallel Twin with fuel injection delivers smooth, responsive performance, especially in the low and medium rpm ranges. The engine was tuned for rider-friendly power characteristics that will inspire confidence in new riders. Revised fuel injection settings result in smoother response (especially below 4,000 rpm) and contribute to the new ER-6n’s quicker-revving character. The engine’s excellent mid-range power characteristics make the bike especially fun to ride at medium speeds on city streets. Roll-on response is exceptional, offering impressive passing performance. Large-bore 38 mm throttle bodies feature sub-throttles for high power output with smooth, sensitive throttle response. Wider radiator (by 40 mm) offers increased cooling efficiency (17.4 kW >> 19.4 kW).


New dual headlamp design features twin position lamps – just like on our Ninja supersport models. The designed shape of the multi-reflector headlamp’s bulb hoods is an example of to the attention given to detail on this model.



Flowing lines are also evident in the design of the new MotoGP-inspired multi-function instrumentation. Features include a new fuel gauge, digital speedometer, clock, odometer, dual trip meters and a bar-style digital tachometer like our MotoGP racer. The new layout allows the clock and trip meter to be viewed simultaneously. Red backlighting for the LCD screen adds to the sporty image.



Dual 300 mm front petal disc brakes and 220 mm rear petal disc look great and deliver plenty of braking power. In addition to the very effective petal disc brakes, customers looking for an added degree of reassuring braking performance can also choose models with front and rear ABS (available in certain markets). Front brake lever uses a new ball-joint (instead of a unitised piece) and revised pivot location to deliver smoother actuation of the master cylinder piston. Now common, standard and ABS models both use a front brake master cylinder with 14 mm piston, and twin-piston front brake calipers with 27 mm pistons. While performance and touch of standard models is maintained, with the new master cylinder pistons and larger caliper pistons, braking performance and lever touch on ABS models is noticeably improved. As the lever is actuated, grip is immediate (minimal lever play) and firm, and a new ABS programme with a wider range of conditions ensures very consistent braking performance. The new settings contribute to excellent road-holding performance, especially on roads that are less than circuit-smooth.



Fuel tank is taller – especially noticeable when viewed from the side – which adds to the bike’s crouching appearance. Sharp-edged line motif gives it a look very distinct from that of its predecessor. Flush-surface fuel cap contributes to the sleek lines.



Rubber mounts instead of rigid mounts used for the upper-rear engine mounts reduce vibration transmitted to the rider through the seat. Handlebar is rubber-mounted to reduce vibration transmitted through the handle grips. Rider and pillion footpegs are rubber coated to further reduce vibration.



While the frame is completely new, its design continues to be a key component of the ER-6f’s identity. Like on its predecessor, the ER-6f’s bodywork accentuates the frame, rather than hiding it. The design of the frame, rear suspension and swingarm create an integrated line running from the steering head to the rear hub. Swingarm now has a D-shaped cross-section (instead of a square tube). The pipe-like design of the new swingarm and revised stabiliser further contribute to the ER-6f’s higher-quality appearance. Finish at frame joints is much cleaner, improving overall quality of the bike.



Viewed from the rear or from the side, the tail cowl and seat’s sharper design is evident. Thin new LED tail lamp and rear turn signals reinforce this image.



The combination of efficient fuel injection and a 3-way catalyser inside the muffler make for very low emissions which pass the stringent Euro-III regulations. 300-cell catalyser offers more compact size and lighter weight compared to previous 200-cell unit. Muffler internals were revised to suit the new catalyser.


Windscreen set at a sharp angle contributes to the supersport image. A lip at the top of the screen helps to deflect air away from the rider. A duct in the centre of the cowling creates an “air curtain” which reduces wind buffeting at higher speeds and improves rider comfort.



The addition of an inner fender helps keep the underside of the tail cowl clean and contributes to the ER-6f’s sporty look.


Side view of the front cowling and the fairings (especially the top corners at the front) have distinctive Ninja design elements. Fairing design judiciously combines coloured and black panels to create a compact appearance – an approach similar to that used on the Ninja ZX-10R.

No comments: