Sportbikes

2006Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R

35 fields on record

The 2006 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R is a high-performance sport bike designed for experienced riders seeking extreme speed and power. Its 1198cc inline-four engine and aggressive styling made it one of the fastest production motorcycles of its era. Best known for its top-speed capability and track-focused handling, it appeals to riders who demand maximum performance and precision engineering.

Capacity: 1198.0 ccm
Engine: In-line four
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 210.0 kg
Seat height: 820 mm
Power: 215.0 HP (158.1 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2006 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R

vs the 2004

Spec	2004	2006
Power	178.0 HP (130.9 kW)	215.0 HP (158.1 kW)
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 suspension	43mm inverted hydraulic telescopic fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload	43 mm inverted hydraulic telescopic fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload.
Rear suspension	UNI-TRAKÂ® system with single shock, adjustable compression and rebound damping, adjustable ride height, and adjustable preload	UNI-TRAKÂ® system with single shock, adjustable compression and rebound damping, adjustable ride height, and adjustable preload .
Wheelbase	—	1450 mm (57.1 inches)

Other years 2004 2006

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering80%

City riding40%

Daily riding45%

Touring40%

Two-up35%

Track85%

Best for: Built primarily as a high-speed sport and hypersport machine for open roads and track days rather than commuting or exploring.
Built for: A brutally fast, big-bore in-line four with a stiff aluminum monocoque frame and premium adjustable suspension, delivering top-tier straight-line performance and confident high-speed stability.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for new riders, those wanting an upright relaxed commuter, or anyone seeking off-road capability or long-distance touring comfort.

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 2006 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: 1198.0 ccm
Power: 215.0 HP (158.1 kW)
Engine type: In-line four
Power/weight ratio: 1.0238 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 length: 2085 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: 43 mm inverted hydraulic telescopic fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload.
Rear suspension: UNI-TRAKÂ® 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°