Bike Trader
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The 2009 Kawasaki ER-6f
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27 October 2008 | |
The latest ER-6f gets sportier performance and new Ninja looks but it still offers a package that is both fun and easy to ride.When the original ER-6f made its debut three years ago, it offered a combination of performance, accessibility and sophisticated good looks. The 2009 ER-6f improves on this combination while maintaining the key character of its predecessor. The biggest change is the decidedly sportier style. Sharper, more aggressive styling gives the bike the look of a modern supersport machine - any similarities to Kawasaki’s Ninja supersport models are purely intentional. The characteristic trellis frame and offset laydown rear shock remain, but the frame has been completely redesigned with even greater attention to detail giving the new bike a higher quality finish. While the frame is completely new, its design continues to be a key component of the ER-6n's identity. Like on its predecessor, the new ER-6f's bodywork accentuates the frame, rather than hiding it. Changes to the slim, compact chassis are not only cosmetic. Revisions to rigidity balance and suspension settings and the addition of rubber mounts result in reduced vibration and lighter handling. The balance of compact size and good power offered by the ER-6f's predecessor was the key to its success. To fit into its trim package, an In-line Four would have been too wide and a V-Twin too long. The only engine design that offered both good power characteristics and the requisite compactness was a Parallel Twin. While maintaining this balance, the new engine gets a number of tweaks that offer smoother low-mid response and a quicker-revving character. The linear power delivery won’t intimidate novice riders and offers a level of control that can easily be exploited for hard riding. Sportier, even easier to handle and wrapped in seductive Ninja supersport styling, the new ER-6f looks a winner. Page 1 |
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