API GL-4 SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific grade and brand recommendations)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.6 Liters (2.7 US qt) for gearbox and clutch operation
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
2135 mm (84.1 in)
Width:
750 mm (29.5 in)
Height:
1175 mm (46.3 in)
Wheelbase:
1440 mm (56.7 in)
Ground Clearance:
135 mm (5.3 in)
Seat Height:
830 mm (32.7 in)
Weights
Dry Weight:
203 kg (447.5 lbs)
Curb Weight:
217 kg (478.4 lbs) (approx.)
Front Tire Size:
120/70ZR17M/C (58W)
Rear Tire Size:
190/50ZR17M/C (73W)
Wheelbase Type:
Aluminum D-section twin-spar
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is primarily user and design dependent)
Active Features
Braking System:
Powerful dual front discs with radial-mount 6-piston calipers and single rear disc with 2-piston caliper
Suspension Design:
Adjustable front forks and rear monoshock for stability and control
Tire Technology:
High-performance radial tires for optimal grip
Slipper Clutch:
Reduces rear-wheel hop under aggressive downshifting (introduced from 2001)
Passive Features
Lighting:
Dual headlights for enhanced visibility
Aerodynamic Fairing:
Provides wind protection and aids high-speed stability
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
N/A (Focus is on performance and rider control, not infotainment)
Driver Assistance
Rider Aids:
Slipper clutch (from 2001), advanced fuel injection system for precise engine management.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A
Engine Management
ECU Type:
Digital Engine Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel injection and ignition timing.
Aerodynamics
Ram Air System:
Ram-air intake system forces more air into the engine at higher speeds, increasing power output.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Initial Inspection:
1000 km (600 miles)
Regular Oil Change:
Every 6000 km (3750 miles) or 6 months
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6000 km (3750 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12000 km (7500 miles)
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years or as needed
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Fully synthetic SAE 10W-40 or SAE 10W-50 API SG or higher, JASO MA
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.2 Liters (3.4 US qt) without filter change, 3.5 Liters (3.7 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol based), mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Fork Oil Type:
Kawasaki Suspension Oil G10 or equivalent (e.g., 5W) - refer to manual for precise viscosity and quantity
Chain Lube:
High-quality O-ring chain lubricant
Known Issues
Early Model Tendencies:
Some early models experienced slightly snatchy throttle response or potential over-heating in extreme conditions, addressed through ECU mapping and cooling system improvements in later revisions.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, chain and sprockets, fork seals, brake pads, and tires are typical wear items due to the bike's performance potential.
Maintenance Recommendations
Importance Of Manual:
Emphasizes adherence to manufacturer's specifications for all maintenance and repairs to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and safety.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. has a long-standing reputation for producing powerful and innovative motorcycles, particularly in the sportbike and hypersport categories.
Model Evolution
Zx12R Introduction:
The ZX-12R was introduced in 2000 as Kawasaki's flagship hyperbike, designed to be the fastest production motorcycle in the world.
Major Updates 2000-2006:
Key updates include the introduction of a slipper clutch and minor ECU and fueling tweaks for smoother power delivery from the 2001 model year onwards. Frame and suspension revisions were also made to improve handling. The basic engine architecture and overall design remained consistent throughout this generation.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production Period:
2000-2006
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motorcycle Press Awards:
While specific awards vary, the ZX-12R was widely recognized by motorcycle publications for its class-leading speed and performance upon release.
Ratings
Performance Ratings:
Consistently rated as one of the top hyperbikes for straight-line speed and aerodynamic efficiency.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Designed to meet emissions standards of the era for its respective markets.
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