2015 KAWASAKI NINJA 300 ABS

Transcription

1 Contact: Kawasaki Media Relations ext FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2015 KAWASAKI NINJA 300 ABS The Premium Lightweight Sportbike Offers Power And Agility The well-respected and highly capable Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS returns for 2015 with new colors, graphics and sporty Dunlop tires. The lightweight sportbike also continues to offer the ideal entry point for novice riders, track-day enthusiasts, commuters and riders of all sizes. At first glance, it might appear to be a larger capacity sportbike, and its diminutive engine size certainly packs a mighty punch in terms of its spec sheet. The Ninja 300 ABS boasts many of the features found on the larger Ninja models, such as a Digital Fuel Injection (DFI ), an FCC clutch with assist and slipper functions as well as an ABS braking system. Not only is the Ninja 300 ABS regarded as the best lightweight sportbike in the range, it is more than capable of surprising competitors with higher displacement in tight, technical corners. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 2015 KAWASAKI NINJA 300 ABS 296cc parallel-twin engine with Digital Fuel Injection for power and economy ABS brakes increase rider confidence (Ninja 300 ABS models only) Low, tapered seat accommodates riders of all sizes Ninja sportbike DNA apparent in bodywork design, performance and agility New Dunlop TT900 GP tires for 2015 Updated colors and graphics for 2015 Special SE colors also available (SE models only) 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, page 1 of 9

2 ENGINE The heart of the Ninja 300 is its liquid-cooled 296cc parallel-twin engine that is tuned to deliver strong low- and mid-range torque for crisp city responses as well as excellent high-rpm power on the open road. Much of its prowess can be attributed to its advanced Digital Fuel Injection (DFI ), which helps manage cold starting, while providing excellent throttle response and good fuel efficiency. In addition to its long-stroke engine configuration, the Ninja 300 features a lowfriction cam chain, lightweight pistons with a hard anodized coating for low-friction, as well as a 10.6:1 compression ratio to allow the use of regular-grade gasoline. The high-tech pistons are cooled by an oil spray across the bottom surface. Lightweight piston pins also help reduce reciprocating weight without sacrificing the high redline, and the sleeveless open-deck die-cast aluminum cylinders feature a frictionreducing T-treatment plating for maximum durability. The large-volume, 2.4-liter oil pan has cooling fins to keep operating temperatures in check, and is shaped to allow maximum ground clearance. An easy-to-access cartridgetype spin-on oil filter simplifies maintenance. TRANSMISSION & BRAKES To assist newer riders, the six-speed sequential transmission features Kawasaki s positive neutral finder to make finding neutral a cinch when stopped. A premium FCC clutch with assist and slipper functions has an assist function that reduces lever effort by up to 25% to reduce fatigue on long rides. It also has a race-style slipper design to reduce rear-wheel hop that can be associated with high-rpm downshifting, giving the rider greater control on the track or the street. The petal-type 290mm front and 220mm rear brake discs utilize a lightweight Nissin ABS system on the Ninja 300 ABS model, offering some riders peace of mind when road conditions change. The discs are gripped by powerful two-piston calipers and, like all Ninja models, the 300 is equipped with components that were developed by professional riders to help ensure class-leading performance for even the most advanced riders Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, page 2 of 9

3 CHASSIS & BODYWORK Wide main frame pipes under the fuel tank are made from high-tensile steel. They have extra gusseting to enhance torsional rigidity for improved sportbike handling. Kawasaki engineers designed the front engine mounts to tame vibration and these help make the Ninja 300 to feel noticeably smooth, despite the power produced by its 296cc engine. The suspension was tuned to complement the rigid frame, so its spring rates provide a comfortable ride on city streets without compromising its legendary sportbike handling that confirms it is a true Ninja motorcycle. The aggressive bodywork features an edgy design that is superbly aerodynamic, and effective at managing engine heat. To help keep the ride comfortable, Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) uses a special deflector to channel hot air from the back of the radiator so it exits from the bottom of the motorcycle, instead of being blown onto the rider. The Ninja 300 also has a modern, floating windscreen design that helps minimize airflow buffeting around the rider s helmet. For 2015, the Ninja 300 and 300 ABS are available in two different colors: Lime Green and Pearl Stardust White. Customers can also specify the Ninja 300 SE and Ninja 300 ABS SE in Metallic Moondust Gray / Ebony, which offers even more graphic design elements than the standard models. A combination of digital and analog instruments feature a large, easy-to-read analog tachometer coupled with a digital multi-function display including a speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge and digital clock. The digital screen also incorporates an Economical Riding Indicator (ECO) that alerts the rider when they are operating the Ninja 300 in a style that maximizes fuel economy. A natural riding position and comfortable ergonomics combine with lightweight handling and nimble responses to deliver a pleasurable ride on city streets and highways, twisty backroads and racetracks. The full-size, 17, ten-spoke wheels contribute to this great handling package and, for 2015 the Ninja 300 will be equipped with Dunlop TT900 GP tires to improve the 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, page 3 of 9

4 riding experience. These remain the same 110/70-17 front and 140/70-17 rear sizes as before. Lightweight and agile, the Ninja 300 delivers low ownership costs coupled with class-leading sportbike performance! ACCESSORIES An extensive range of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories, including a tank bag, custom seats, engine guards and many more are available through authorized Kawasaki dealers. ABOUT KAWASAKI Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and Jet Ski watercraft through a network of more than 1,200 independent retailers, with an additional 7,400 retailers specializing in Kawasaki power products and general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with 300 of them located at KMC's Irvine, California headquarters. Kawasaki s tagline, Let the good times roll, is recognized worldwide. For five decades, the Kawasaki brand has become synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at # # # 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, page 4 of 9

5 Features and Benefits 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS Key Features ABS brakes increase rider confidence on the Ninja 300 ABS model Low 30.9 seat height and tapered seat boosts confidence with easier reach to the ground 296cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine design offers superior highway passing ability and acceleration compared to other single-cylinder lightweight sportbikes Digital Fuel Injection (DFI ) system uses dual 32mm throttle bodies to provide outstanding throttle response and superb fuel economy FCC clutch with Assist and Slipper functions provides excellent power handling capabilities and the Assist function provides a light lever feel. The Slipper function reduces the effect of backtorque to minimize wheel hop when downshifting Sportbike bodywork features an aggressive, edgy design with strong Ninja family DNA that sets the Ninja 300 apart from its lightweight sportbike competitors High-tensile frame provides optimum rigidity for superior feel and agility compared to the competition Ten-spoke 17 sportbike wheels look great and are fitted with Dunlop TT900 GP sportbike tires for optimum handling Six-speed transmission features a roller-type shift drum for smooth actuation. It also has strong gears for maximum durability and a positive neutral finder makes it easy to find neutral when stopped Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) uses a special deflector to channel hot air from the back of the radiator, so it exits from the bottom of the motorcycle, instead of being blown onto the rider when the fan is activated 296cc Parallel-Twin Cylinder Engine Compact parallel-twin design offers good mass centralization for nimble handling Tuned to deliver smooth, step-free power with excellent mid-range and high-rpm power for effective highway performance Low-friction cam chain promotes maximum power and efficiency Moderate 10.6:1 compression ratio allows use of regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline and helps reduce operating temperatures High-tech pistons reduce reciprocating weight and feature a hard-anodized coating to minimize friction and boost performance Sleeveless open-deck die-cast aluminum cylinders minimize weight and feature a frictionreducing T-treatment plating Crank journal bearings are made from a strong alloy for maximum durability Large-volume oil pan features cooling fins and does not compromise ground clearance Easy-to-access cartridge-type spin-on oil filter simplifies maintenance Exhaust System Long, curved 2-into-1 header design contributes to the Ninja 300 s low- and mid-range torque as well as the smooth, step-free power curve Complex-geometry silencer design offers modern styling and meets all regulations without compromising engine performance Large brushed-finish metal silencer guard reduces noise and helps protect the passenger from exhaust heat Meets strict Euro 3 emission standards with a single catalyzer in the collector section 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, page 5 of 9

6 Liquid-Cooling with KAMS Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) uses a special deflector to redirect hot air from the radiator fan, so it exits from the bottom of the motorcycle instead of being blown onto the rider Lightweight Denso radiator offers effective engine cooling with minimal space and weight Fan design uses a quiet-running motor that also saves space Fins on the crankcase provide additional engine cooling Six-speed Transmission with FCC Assist and Slipper Clutch Premium FCC clutch with assist and slipper functions can handle more power with significantly less lever effort than traditional clutches Clutch design also makes it easy to modulate and helps reduce the effect of back-torque for reduced wheel hop when downshifting Six-speed transmission features a roller-type shift drum for smooth actuation and strong gears for maximum durability. It also offers a positive neutral finder that makes it easy to find neutral when stopped Involute splines minimize friction and backlash between the gears and shafts for easy gear synchronization and smooth shifting under power Digital Fuel Injection (DFI ) Dual 32mm Keihin throttle bodies and a digital ECU offer easy starting, crisp throttle response, and help low fuel consumption ABS Brakes with Petal-Type Discs (Ninja 300 ABS model only) ABS brakes feature a compact Nissin ABS unit The entire ABS system weighs only 4.5 lb Large-diameter, 290mm front petal-type disc and a balanced action two-piston caliper offer excellent performance and a natural feel at the lever Two-piston caliper grips the 220mm rear petal disc Rigid Sportbike Chassis High-tensile steel frame uses rigid main tubes for optimum chassis response and steering precision Frame design and chassis tuning offer confidence-inspiring stability at both high and low speeds Beefy swingarm bracket contributes to the frame s rigidity and helps achieve an optimal balance of chassis stiffness Square-beam swingarm complements the frame s rigidity Suspension 37mm telescopic front fork complements the rigid frame and wide rear tire Uni-Trak rear suspension linkage helps provide predictable sportbike handling and good ride comfort Rear shock features five-way adjustable preload to help manage rear ride height whether riding solo or with a passenger Wheels & Tires Attractive 17, ten-spoke wheels allow modern sportbike tires to be fitted Dunlop TT900 GP tires are the perfect match for the agility of the 2014 Ninja 300 sportbike High-Tech Instrumentation Large easy-to-read analog tachometer Multi-function digital display features an easy-to-read speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, digital clock and warning lights Economical Riding Indicator (ECO) illuminates to tell the rider when they are riding to maximize fuel economy 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, page 6 of 9

7 Aerodynamic Bodywork Sportbike bodywork features an aggressive and edgy design with strong Ninja family DNA that sets the Ninja 300 apart from its lightweight sportbike competitors Modern floating windscreen design helps reduce turbulence and rider fatigue Aggressive dual headlight design, slim tail section and separate seats enhance the sportbike s aggressive appearance Two helmet holders conveniently located under the rear seat Two-stage under-seat storage compartment can hold a small U-lock or similar device and is hinged for easy access to the tool kit Two hooks under the tail, plus two behind the rear passenger pegs provide anchor points for securing items to the rear of the bike New colors for the 2015 Ninja 300 and Ninja 300 ABS include Lime Green or Pearl Stardust White The Ninja 300 SE and Ninja 300 ABS SE models are available in Metallic Moondust Gray / Ebony Ergonomics Rider s seat is narrower towards the front, making it easier for riders to reach the ground Passenger seat features a flat angle, making it easy to also secure cargo or soft luggage Slightly forward-slanting seat and slightly raised, wide handlebar give the Ninja 300 a comfortable riding position Genuine Kawasaki Accessories All accessories approved by Kawasaki engineers Color Matched Seat Cowl is factory designed with a molded pad and color-matched to your Ninja 300 Three optional gel seats provide additional comfort. They are available in standard, carbon fiber, and Kawi Girl finishes for a custom look A Tank Bag and Soft Top Case are among the custom-designed tank bags made exclusively for the Ninja 300. They can be installed or removed quickly, including multiple storage areas for your gear, offering an expandable section for carrying larger items A Tall windscreen was factory designed for easy installation. the 3 taller bubble design adds wind protection A Fuel Tank/Knee Pad has matching graphics and helps protect the paint while providing better grip for the rider Engine Guards were factory designed for easy installation, helping reduce bodywork damage in case of a tip-over 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, page 7 of 9

8 Engine: Displacement: Bore x stroke: 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 Specifications* Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin 296cc 62 x 49mm Compression ratio: 10.6:1 Cooling: Fuel injection: Ignition: Transmission: Final drive: Frame: Liquid Wheelbase: 55.3 DFI with dual 32mm throttle bodies TCBI with digital advance Six-speed with positive neutral finder O-ring chain Rake / trail: 27 degrees / 3.7 Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel Front suspension / wheel travel: 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 4.7 Rear suspension / wheel travel: Uni-Trak with five-way adjustable preload / 5.2 Front tire: 110/70-17 Rear tire: 140/70-17 Front brake: Single 290mm petal-type disc with two-piston hydraulic caliper Rear brake: Single 220mm petal-type disc with two-piston hydraulic caliper Overall length: 79.3 Overall width: 28.1 Overall height: 43.7 Seat height: 30.9 Curb weight: Fuel capacity: Colors Ninja 300: Colors Ninja 300 SE: MSRP Ninja 300: MSRP Ninja 300 SE: Warranty: Kawasaki Protection Plan (optional) Wholesale distributor: lb 4.5 gallons Lime Green or Pearl Stardust White Metallic Moondust Gray / Ebony $TBD $TBD 12 months 12, 24, 36 or 48 months Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A Jeronimo Road, Irvine, California *Specifications are subject to change. Media are encouraged to visit for most current specifications Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, page 8 of 9

9 Engine: Displacement: Bore x stroke: 2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS Specifications* Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin 296cc 62 x 49mm Compression ratio: 10.6:1 Cooling: Fuel injection: Ignition: Transmission: Final drive: Frame: Liquid DFI with dual 32mm throttle bodies TCBI with digital advance Six-speed Chain Wheelbase: 55.3 Rake / trail: 27 degrees / 3.7 Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel Front suspension / wheel travel: 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 4.7 Rear suspension / wheel travel: Uni-Trak with five-way adjustable preload / 5.2 Front tire: 110/70-17 Rear tire: 140/70-17 Front brake: Single 290mm petal-type disc with two-piston hydraulic caliper and ABS Rear brake: Single 220mm petal-type disc with two-piston hydraulic caliper and ABS Overall length: 79.3 Overall width: 28.1 Overall height: 43.7 Seat height: 30.9 Curb weight: Fuel capacity: Colors Ninja 300 ABS: Colors Ninja 300 ABS SE: MSRP Ninja 300 ABS: MSRP Ninja 300 ABS SE: Warranty: Kawasaki Protection Plan (optional) Wholesale distributor: lb 4.5 gallons Lime Green or Pearl Stardust White Metallic Moondust Gray / Ebony $TBD $TBD 12 months 12, 24, 36 or 48 months Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A Jeronimo Road, Irvine, California *Specifications are subject to change. Media are encouraged to visit for most current specifications Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, page 9 of 9