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 Supercupchampionship 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.
