The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R/ ZX 1000 E is a Kawasaki sport bike, and the follow-up to the ZX-9R. It was originally released in 2004 with minor revisions in 2005. It combines an ultra-narrow chassis, low weight, and radial brakes. In 2004 and 2005 the ZX-10R won Best Superbike from Cycle World magazine and the prestigious international Masterbike competition.

This kit is a 2012 version that took part in the 8 hours of Suzuka during that year. As a racing version, there are some differences between it and the street bike. Here is information on this variant: The 2011 ZX-10R underwent major overhaul both mechanically and visually. Most notably, Kawasaki introduced their S-KTRC (Sport Kawasaki Traction Control) system as a standard feature; responsible for predicting when traction will be lost and adapting accordingly. Also new are KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent Braking System) as their optional ABS system, a completely new design, adjustable foot-pegs, larger throttle bodies, a horizontal rear suspension, lighter three-spoke wheels, Showa Big Piston Fork (BPF) front suspension, and an LCD panel dashboard. The 2012 model is identical to the 2011 with the only exception being the slightly different paint schemes offered. In 2013 the models went under another small revision where the colors offered changed again and the front dampener was replaced with an Ohlins electronic front steering dampener.

First off, let me say that I see no reason for the three main female characters from Evangelion to be on the box cover other than to possibly attract attention to the kit, though the bike is in the same colors as EVA-01 (which is not piloted by any of the characters on the box).

What you get inside is the racing bike as shown on the box top. Typical of Fujimi bike kits, it is quite detailed and the sprues, for the most part, are those used in other Kawasaki super bike kits produced by Kawasaki. Hence the darkened out parts shown in the sprue diagram. You get a very complete engine and drive train. This fits into a nicely molded chassis. Fujimi includes vinyl tubing so that you can make the brake lines, and a cutting chart is given for this purpose. A racing exhaust is also included with a large resonator at the end.

The large fuel tank is nicely molded as is the small seat behind it. Most of the bigger bits are for the forward cowling and the cowling around the engines. In some way, this will make one's previous work hidden from view, but one should be able to seem much of it. Typical of a racing motorcycle, the front disc brake assembly is huge in comparison with the rear. Tires are hollowed out single piece vinyl/rubber and look quite convincing.

Instructions are mostly in Japanese, but appear to be easy to follow with crisply drawn construction sequences. Any detail items are easy to see and Fujimi provides a full page to show how the brake lines are routed. A full page is also included for the near box-size decal sheet. The builder will need to paint the purple areas of the bike. Gunze paint references are provided.

Overall, it is a very nicely done kit. Fujimi big scale motorcycles are quite detailed and do require patience and care to get the best result. However, that result is an outstanding looking replica.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kawasaki_ZX-10R

March 2014

Thanks to www.dragonmodelsusa.com for the preview kit. You can find this one at your favorite hobby shop or on-line retailer.