Road test of Kawasaki1200 ZZR 2002 Focus on tourism

on this fine June afternoon, when we were desperately looking for indicators for Nono's new ZX-6R, chance brought us to Kawasaki to finalize our search. In front of the dealership sits a ZZR 1200, in a black dress that gives it a respectful class... but exciting in my eyes! A few moments later, the keys are in my left hand and the dealer's advice in my right ear - "Watch out, it's unbridled". Tilt - a little over 150 drunks, we're in for a treat! The 4-cylinder snorts happily and flatters the ears. In the age of modern, polished mills, Kawa's mechanics express themselves with more character, a more nostagilic perfume, as if a lot of silent-blocks had been removed. The machine is imposing but manoeuvrable. As I calmly and respectfully warmed up, I discovered a supple, comfortable machine, with a riding position that protects the rider and seems to have been designed to cut kilometers. The steering is neutral, effortless at normal speeds, and you feel at ease cruising along the back roads of... germany.

but the trap threatens: a clear straight line, the desire to know what the mill has in its belly... I can't stand it! Release the Chevaaaaaauuuuuuuxxxxxxx........ Formidable! the 4-legged pushes with joy and power. A huge hand pushes you in the back in any gear, and the vibrations, the melody, the engulfment of the engine make your heart race as fast as the needles race. The chassis is very stable up to 250 km/h (you reach this speed without realizing it), but the forks feel too light beyond that. It pushes with gusto and even rage up to 270-280, then the following kmh are a little harder to fetch. But this Kawasaki still only had a few km and the engine wasn't completely free. The well-protected fairing prevents you from playing the dab in the second half of the speedometer. On the other hand, calories are transferred to your knees, and I can guarantee you that it's hot! Let's see how agile the Kawa is in the mountains. In the small enfilades, the consequent weight is felt and the sequences lack vivacity. Clearly, a sport-GT can't behave like an R6, but the Kawa still holds its own thanks to its impressive engine luggage capacity. By winding up rather than attacking like an idiot, it's an immense pleasure to feel the demonic thrust at every corner exit. The ZZR demands a certain grip and dexterity, and you need to attack it with respect. Braking is disconcertingly easy, powerful and responsive. A real treat, even if the weight means you shouldn't go overboard like you would on a racetrack. The 1200 ZZR is a delight! A lively engine that reminds you of its presence (try it, you'll understand why!), a healthy ride, majestic lines... The few faults it may have will be found by those with a different riding philosophy; those for whom power and agility are one and the same. Gentlemen, if you're staying with Kawa, make no mistake: take the ZX-9R.