Back to back testing may have shown that the new ZX-10R doesn’t quite match up to the likes of the latest BMW S1000RR on track, but it’s still a superb piece of engineering.
With close to 200bhp at the back wheel, it’s still a very fast bike, but with the cramped riding position it’s certainly no tourer….. or is it?
In this week’s MCN, Senior Road Tester Michael Neeves takes his long termer for a spot of riding around Europe as he heads for World GP Bike Legends at the Sachsenring circuit in Eastern Germany.
A pair of padded cycling shorts under the race leathers improved comfort on the seat, and the rearsets were placed on their lowest setting, although the riding position was still cramped. A taller screen improved wind protection, making it possible to sustain speeds of 115mph on the autobahns. That Showa suspension also works a treat, giving you a very plush ride.
For the trip Michael used Metzeler’s Racetec RR K3 tyres, a Racing Street tyre derived from the manufacturer’s Supersport & Superstock race tyres, with a wider operating range making it ideal for fast road and track use.
Michael says:
“It’s the second big trip in as many years on K3 compound Metzeler Racetec RR tyres. They’re meant for fast road riding and trackdays, but they last unbelievably well and perform well in the wet. I’ve had them on for 3000 miles, and the rear still looks good and hasn’t squared off.”
Stopping on the way at the famous Nordschleife circuit, and coming home via Spa in Belgium, Michael certainly packed the miles in with no complaints whatsoever, although taking the Kawasaki did entail travelling as light as possible.
It can be done!
View the full range of Metzeler Racetec RR K3 tyres here.
