The closest thing to an all-new model in Kawasaki's street bike line-up (leaving aside the Mean Streak Power Cruiser reviewed earlier by MD) is the ZZ-R1200 sport tourer. The ZZ-R1200 derives many, but not all, of its components from Kawasaki's existing ZRX1200R and Ninja ZX-11 motorcycles (the ZX-11 is discontinued for 2002). The 1164cc four-cylinder engine plucked from the ZRX1200R is a superb unit (see our review of the ZRX1200R). According to Kawasaki, it has been tweaked for even more low and mid-range power (hard to believe) and has a revised cylinder head and different carburetors. Additionally, the pistons have been altered from the ZRX1200R design. The ZX-11 derived frame has been stiffened with thicker rails and a new steering head, and features a steel subframe to provide the strength necessary to accommodate saddlebags (color matched luggage will be offered by Givi).
Steering geometry changes were made for quicker handling, and the swingarm of the ZZ-R1200 has been lightened and lowered versus the ZX-11 unit.
The ergonomics of the ZZ-R1200 are relaxed versus the ZX-11, with closer bars and lower, more forward footpegs.
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