Kawasaki ZZ-R 600
The ZZ-R600 is one of Kawasaki's most successful sports models. First introduced in 1990, along with its 1 lOOcc sibling, the ZZ-R1100, the ZZ-R600 offered an extremely fast and powerful roadbike package. A strong inline-four liquid-cooled engine producing nearly 75kW (lOObhp), aerodynamic bodywork and a power-boosting ram-air intake system all conspired to produce a top speed of well over 240km/h (150mph).
But it wasn't only the ZZ-R's top speed which made it so remarkable. Its advanced, stiff, lightweight aluminium twin-spar frame was unknown in the Japanese 600 class at the time, and it immediately marked the ZZ-R out as a high-quality product. Detail styling cues like the faired-in rear indicators and aerodynamic mirrors all suggested speed, although Kawasaki clearly hadn't forgotten about more mundane matters like chain oiling - a centrestand is tucked neatly away under the twin silencers.
The chassis is less sporting than the strong engine, but is capable of handling most road-based sports riding. Its four-piston front brake calipers give strong, progressive stopping power. But the suspension, updated in 1995, is rather soft, and compromises ultimate braking, as well as offering a rather vague feel when pushing hard on the track. Ground clearance is, again, ample for the road, but is a limit on track. Not that this bothered John Reynolds - the British racer won the 1990 600cc Supercup championship on a lightning-quick Team Green ZZ-R600.
Throughout the 1990s, the ZZ-R was a consistently strong seller, even when Kawasaki's own ZX-6R pushed the ZZ-R back into a sports-touring role. The ZZ-R's excellent road manners, high equipment levels and sound build-quality made it the ideal choice for many high-mileage riders. Minor modifications over the years have further refined the ZZ-R600 with a fuel gauge, clock, suspension damping adjustment and improved power delivery.
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