Kawasaki revealed the all-new Kawasaki ZX-10RR at the end of 2020, but as testing progressed on track, many new elements appeared on Akashi's machine. During the official test which took place at the Barcelona circuit, the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK tested a new fairing, new parts on the seat backrest and new fins on the tank of Alex Lowes' machine. Both riders also had a new swingarm.
After six seasons of dominance in the Superbike class at the hands of Jonathan Rea, Kawasaki is looking to raise the bar even higher. Leaving Barcelona with the first time in the general classification, the Irish rider clearly showed the level of competitiveness of the ZX-10RR.
Concerning Alex Lowes, seventh during the second day of Superbike testing, a fuel tank equipped with a fairly specific new part appeared.
Akashi engineers have perfected the ergonomics of Alex Lowes' machine: a strange fin has appeared on the British driver's tank. It allows him to support his thighs when braking, without disrupting the aerodynamic flow of the motorcycle.
Here is this new element seen from the side: we understand better how it allows Alex Lowes to lean against the tank during braking phases. He also uses a grip, which allows him to hold his thighs in position when he is on the angle.
In the photo above, we note the careful work of the engineers regarding the integration of this wedge to hold Alex Lowes. On the sides of the saddle, the aerodynamic profile of the ZX10-RR has also been reworked, and incorporates air passages, to smooth it at the rear of the motorcycle.
The seat backrest was also redesigned this winter, in order to better support the rider during acceleration phases.
Seen from the side, this appendage which helps hold the pilot is more visible. Unlike the Ducati, on which it can look like a common piece of recut foam, the Akashi engineers wanted to integrate it soberly into the rear hull.
The latest developments in engine preparation have allowed the beautiful green to approach the monstrous speed of the Ducati, which makes it an increasingly complete weapon. In Barcelona, the Kawasaki Racing Team tested a new, completely redesigned swingarm.
Like the Honda et Ducati, the Kawasaki team also had the opportunity to test the new caliper offered by Brembo. It seems to have been adopted by all the machines entered in Superbike.
The Kawasaki factory team tested new aerodynamic profiles at the front and rear, which can be seen in this photo. The beautiful green one has a very aggressive look!
Will the development of the Kawasaki ZX-10RR be enough to keep its rivals at bay in 2021?
Photos: WorldSBK
