2005Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R

35 fields on record

The 2005 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R is a hypersport machine built for experienced riders seeking extreme performance and top-speed capability. Its 1,200cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine delivers brutal acceleration and sustained high-speed runs, backed by advanced fuel injection and a slick six-speed transmission. Best known for dominating the hypersport category with its raw power and aggressive styling.

Capacity: 1199.0 ccm
Engine: In-line four
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 210.0 kg
Seat height: 820 mm
Power: 178.0 HP (131.3 kW) @ 10500 RPM

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What’s new for the 2005 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R

vs the 2004

Spec	2004	2005
Power	178.0 HP (130.9 kW)	178.0 HP (131.3 kW) @ 10500 RPM
Torque	134.0 Nm (13.7 kgf-m or 98.8 ft.lbs)	not listed
Top speed	298.0 km/h (185.2 mph)	not listed
Dry weight	—	210.0 kg (463.0 pounds)
Front brakes	Double disc	Double disc. Hydralic.
Rear brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Hydraulic.

Other years 2004 2005 2006

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering75%

City riding45%

Daily riding50%

Touring45%

Two-up50%

Track85%

Best for: Built primarily as a straight-line and open-road speed weapon, the ZX-12R prioritizes outright power and top-end performance over nimble city maneuvering.
Built for: It has the personality of a brute-force flagship sportbike, favoring muscular midrange and top-end thrust over razor-sharp agility.
Not ideal for: This is not a good fit for beginners, short commutes in heavy traffic, or riders seeking a light, flickable bike for tight, technical roads.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 820mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2005 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1199.0 ccm
Power: 178.0 HP (131.3 kW) @ 10500 RPM
Engine type: In-line four
Power/weight ratio: 0.8476 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 83.0 x 55.4 mm
Compression: 12.2:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Digital
Valves per cylinder: 4
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1450 mm
Overall width: 739 mm
Overall height: 1199 mm
Seat height: 820 mm
Dry weight: 210.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.90 litres
Ground clearance: 119 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Aluminum monocoque
Front suspension: 43mm inverted hydraulic telescopic fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload
Rear suspension: UNI-TRAK® system with single shock, adjustable compression and rebound damping, adjustable ride height, and adjustable preload
Front wheel travel: 43 mm
Rear wheel travel: 140 mm
Rake (fork angle): 23.5°