2012 Kawasaki ER-6F
FUN. AGGRESSIVE. EASY
The ER-6f mproves upon the balanced
package of its predecessor. Increased engine performance
adds more fun. A slimmer new frame and seat offer
more comfort and lighter handling. And even more aggressive
Ninja family-like styling, featuring wind-tunnel-derived
bodylines, is complemented by a new adjustable windscreen.
Equally at home in the city, on the highway or in
the hills, the ER-6f is a versatile mount for novice
or expert.
KEY FEATURES
COMPACT, QUICK-REVVING ENGINE WITH STRONGER LOW-MID
RANGE
The ER-6f’s Parallel Twin engine
configuration was chosen as the best balance of good
power characteristics and compact size. Engine tuning
delivered both a rider-friendly character ideal for
new riders and performance to put a smile on the faces
of more experienced riders. The engine’s compact
size was one of the keys to realising the ER-6f’s
slim package. The 2012 engine offers more low-mid
range torque for more fun and greater usability in
everyday riding situations, while maintaining the
smooth, high-revving character of its predecessor.
Engine Performance
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve 649 cm3
Parallel Twin with fuel injection delivers
smooth, responsive performance, especially in the
low and medium rpm ranges.
The engine was tuned for rider-friendly power characteristics
that will inspire
confidence in new riders.
The engine’s excellent mid-range power characteristics
make the bike especially fun
to ride at medium speeds on city streets. Roll-on
response is exceptional, offering
impressive passing performance.
Intake ducts extend through the frame tubes to ensure
a source of cool fresh air for
the engine. This also contributes to the induction
note, adding to rider excitement.
KEY FEATURES
Air cleaner uses a paper filter element (previously
oil-wetted foam) for improved air flow and dirt filtration
performance.
Large-bore 38 mm throttle bodies feature sub-throttles
for high power output with
smooth, sensitive throttle response.
Connector tube joining the header pipes helps eliminate
peaks and valleys in the torque curve, resulting
in smoother power delivery.
Under-engine muffler with larger volume and revised
internal construction delivers increased torque in
the everyday range below 7,000 rpm. The increased
performance facilitates control at lower rpm and contributes
to the enhanced enjoyment of the new ER-6f.
Compact Engine Design
The ER-6f’s 649 cm3 liquid-cooled
power unit is loaded with innovative technology that
enabled its compact design to be realised:
Triangular layout of the crankshaft
and transmission shafts makes the engine very short
front-to-back.
Transmission input shaft, output shaft
and change drum are contained in a “cassette”-style
package that both allows a compact layout and facilitates
transmission maintenance chores.
Semi-dry sump design reduces engine
height.
KEY FEATURES
Plated, linerless cylinder is lightweight, and the
narrow cylinder pitch reduces engine width.
Under-engine muffler improves mass centralisation
and lowers the bike’s centre of gravity.
Euro-III Compliant
The combination of efficient fuel injection
and a 3-way catalyser inside the muffler result in
low emissions.
Revised muffler internal construction and catalyser
layout ensure clean emissions that will pass stringent
Euro-III regulations.
KEY FEATURES
SLIMMER LIGHTER-HANDLING CHASSIS
The ER-6f’s compact size is due
largely to its compact Parallel Twin engine, which
enabled the use of a narrow, lightweight frame. While
the new double-pipe perimeter-style frame maintains
the key design elements of its predecessor, a new
backbone-style rear frame design enables an even slimmer
package. Rigidity balance of the new frame and swingarm,
and new suspension settings deliver lighter, easier
handling, while maintaining the sporty nature of the
previous model. And with a new seat contributing to
both comfort
and peace of mind, care of an easier reach to the
ground, the new ER-6f is more accessible than ever.
KEY FEATURES
More Compact Package
Together with the compact engine and
new rear frame, the frame’s design realises
a package that is slim, low, lightweight and compact.
The compact engine allows use of a
slim, minimalist frame, resulting in a design that
is narrow at the knees and feet.
The compact engine also allows an extremely
short wheelbase, giving light and nimble handling.
Because a long swingarm can be used,
rear suspension action and handling are both improved.
3D analysis was used to achieve the
ideal stiffness balance for the frame, contributing
to the superb handling characteristics.
The frame is constructed of high-tensile
steel, giving it a lightness rivalling that of aluminium
frames.
The layout of the offset single-shock
rear suspension allows the battery to be located beside
the shock instead of beneath it. This elegant arrangement
allows a lower seat height as well as a slim design.
KEY FEATURES
Slim backbone-style rear frame design allows all components
to be positioned closer to the bike
centreline.
Up top, the tubular seat rails are
replaced by a single beam (formed from interlocked
C-section pieces).
The slim design enables the more comfortable seat
construction.
At the swingarm pivot, the lower part
of rear frame is supported by two sleeves through
which the swingarm
bolt passes. This enables a narrower design between
the rider’s feet, facilitating the reach to
the ground.
The new rear frame also enables an increased payload
(180 kg-200 kg). The same characteristics that make
it fun to ride (responsive handling and rider-friendly
ergonomics), also make the ER-6f ideal for new riders.
A short wheelbase and tight turning radius contribute
to the ER-6f’s high manoeuvrability.
Lighter Handling
The rigidity balance of the double-pipe
frame and swingarm contributes to a lighter, easier
handling package.
Rigid-mount engine is a stressed member, contributing
to the frame’s idealised rigidity balance.
The swingarm’s new double-pipe design makes
use of a D-section tube (upper right tube) for optimal
rigidity.
Revised suspension has longer stroke front and rear,
offering both sporty handling and enhanced comfort.
Rear shock length and stroke are 2 mm longer; front
fork is 5 mm longer with 5 mm longer stroke to match
the rear. The longer strokes enable lower spring rates.
The fork tubes slide 4 mm down in the tubes (fork
tube height reduced 4 mm). Damping was revised accordingly.
Increased Comfort
Two-piece seat features thicker cushioning for increased
comfort.
The front seat is not only thicker at the top edge,
but thanks to the new rear frame design the plastic
seat base construction was completely revised, enabling
much thicker cushioning throughout.
Sporty looking tandem seat with thick cushioning ensures
good passenger comfort.
Ergonomic passenger grips are positioned
to make them easy for tandem riders to grab. Good
passenger confidence makes it easier for riders when
carrying a pillion.
Revised suspension settings also contribute to an
overall increase in ride comfort. Handlebar is rubber-mounted
to reduce vibration transmitted through the handle
grips.
Seat bracket is rubber-mounted at the front to reduced
vibration transferred through the seat.
Footpeg stays are rubber-mounted and both rider and
pillion footpegs are rubber-coated to further reduce
vibration.
Rider-friendly Ergonomics
The riding position was specially designed to inspire
rider confidence. An ideal relationship between the
handlebars, seat and footpegs results in a comfortable
and natural position suitable for a wide range of
riders.
Slightly wider handlebar (10 mm each side) offers
larger riders a little more room.
The narrow frame and engine create a narrow overall
package, allowing the rider to keep his or her knees
and feet close together.
Thanks to the low seat height and slim overall design,
it’s easy to keep both feet firmly on the ground
when stopped, an important consideration for many
riders.
While the new seat does not lower the seat height,
its construction and the narrower distance between
the pivot covers (both possible thanks to the slim
new rear frame design) result in a slimmer package
between the rider’s feet. Riders are now able
to put their feet on the ground approximately 50 mm
closer together
(each side), which makes the reach to the ground feel
significantly shorter.
Increased Wind Protection
Sporty new windscreen is adjustable. Three positions
offer a total range of 60 mm.
Wind-tunnel designed aerodynamics package contributes
to increased comfort. The new bodywork and windscreen
offer better wind protection and were designed to
minimise head buffeting.
Heat Management
Large cut-outs in the side fairings
help draw heat from the engine compartment out and
away from the
rider, contributing to rider comfort.
Frame covers protect the rider’s knees from
directly gripping the frame tubes, which can become
hot.
Brakes
Dual 300 mm front petal disc brakes
and 220 mm rear petal disc look great and deliver
plenty of braking power.
Front brake master cylinder uses a 14 mm piston; 27
mm pistons are used for the twin-piston front brake
calipers.
Revised front brake pads for non-ABS models offer
increased stopping power. In addition to the very
effective petal disc brakes, customers looking for
an added degree of reassuring braking performance
can also choose models with front and rear ABS (available
in certain markets).
Compact new ABS unit has a more advanced processor
that enables more precise ABS control.
MORE AGGRESSIVE NINJA-LIKE SUPERSPORT STYLING
Styling cues taken from our Ninja supersport
models give the ER-6f an even more aggressive, sporty
appearance. Like on its predecessor, all lines move
forward and downward, suggesting a crouching countenance,
however the sharp new bodywork gives the new machine
a much more condensed, mass-forward appearance. The
new bodywork is complemented by the new double-pipe
perimeter-style frame and the ER-6f’s characteristic
offset laydown rear suspension. Attention to the smallest
details contributes
to the new bike’s high-quality finish.
Bodywork
Sharp dual headlamp design contributes
to the more aggressive face of the new ER-6f. The
dual headlamp design features twin position lamps
– just like on our Ninja supersport models.
The sculpted shape of the multi-reflector headlamp’s
bulb hoods is an example of the attention given to
detail on this model.
The “chin area” of the front fairing takes
its styling cues from the Z1000SX, further reinforcing
the Ninja family resemblance.
New adjustable windscreen features a sporty shape
and is set at an aggressive angle, contributing the
sporty styling.
Deep grooves at the top of the side fairings resemble
those that are to be found on the new hypersports
flagship, the ZZR1400. Large openings in the side
fairings help with heat dissipation and contribute
to the ER-6f’s sporty looks.
Fuel tank is 20 mm taller, helping to visually concentrate
the ER-6f’s mass at the front of the bike. The
rear of the tank slopes back in a straight line to
the seat
Built-in turn signals are more compact, contributing
to the sporty image. * Slimmer lower cowl contributes
to the sharp styling. Sharper tail cowl is 10 mm shorter,
helping to move volume away from the rear of the bike.
Sculpted new grab bars offer an easy grip as well
as tie-down points for securing small items to the
rear seat.
A sharper new LED taillight contributes to the slimmer
look of the rear.
Sharper front fender design contributes to the aggressive
new image.
An inner fender helps keep the underside of the tail
cowl clean and contributes to the ER-6f’s sporty
look.
Attention given to detailed parts and care taken to
ensure clean welding lines result in a high-quality
finish.
Frame/Rear Suspension/Swingarm
All-new double-pipe perimeter-style
frame is a key component of the ER-6f’s identity.
Double-pipe design of the new frame, made from high-tensile
steel, contributes to the bike’s lightweight
appearance.
The design of the frame, rear suspension and swingarm
create an integrated line running from the steering
head to the rear hub.
Offset laydown rear single-shock suspension flows
smoothly from the frame to the swingarm.
Following the lines of the frame and rear shock, the
swingarm also features the new double-pipe design,
complementing the design of the frame and contributing
to the ER-6f’s high-quality appearance. The
swingarm’s gull-arm style design on the right
side enables the more aggressive angle of the muffler.
Elegant design of the one-piece rider/passenger footpeg
stays complements the new swingarm.
Finish at frame joints is very clean, adding to the
overall quality of the bike.
Engine
The attractively bent exhaust pipes
and under-engine muffler arrangement contribute to
the ER-6f’s
attractive styling.
Muffler end-cap has a sharper design and both the
end-cap and silencer are set at a steeper angle, contributing
to an aggressive and lightweight image.
Hairline finish on the silencer adds to the quality
finish in this area.
Brakes/Wheels
Triple petal disc brakes contribute
to the bike’s sporty image.
Attractive 6-spoke wheels give the bike a light look
while reducing unsprung weight.
Instruments
Stacked instrument cluster features
an easier-to-read layout. Analogue-style tachometer
and multi-function dual-window LCD screen use white
LED backlights for excellent visibility at night.
The tachometer’s white needle is also highly
visible. In addition to the fuel gauge, digital speedometer,
clock, odometer and dual trip
meters, new features include: remaining range, average/instant
fuel consumption and the Economical Riding Indicator.
Key cylinder is located at the front of the fuel tank,
creating a very clean cockpit area.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Engine
Auto-fast idle system simplifies starting
and ensures the catalyser reaches optimum temperature
quickly.
Simplified cooling system routes coolant through the
engine cases to the cylinder and head to reduce external
plumbing.
180° crankshaft drives a balancer shaft for silky
smooth engine operation. The water pump is driven
off the right end of the balancer shaft.
Oil jets located in the rod big-ends direct oil to
the undersides of the pistons for added cooling.
Lightweight plug-mounted ignition coils deliver a
hot spark while saving space. * Lightweight fuel pump
mounted inside the fuel tank. Revisions to the cylinder
head and header joints (now collars and gaskets instead
of flanges and gaskets) offer increased reliability
and durability.
Clutch cable made with thinner strands results in
a lighter lever pull, reducing the effort needed when
shifting gears, and also facilitates feeling the clutch
engagement point.
Chassis
Both clutch and brake levers are position-adjustable.
Thicker front rim is stronger, contributing to the
increased payload. Compact new battery is shorter,
which also contributes to the realisation of the new
seat construction.
Four tie-down hooks allow baggage or
a spare helmet for a passenger to be secured to the
seat.
Under-seat storage space has room for a U-lock or
similar device. The turn signals also function as
hazard lights.
|
