[LoopyLee]

First introduced in 2006 the ER-6, (known as the Ninja 650R in the USA) was released as the ER-6f, a faired version, and the ER-6n an unfaired model. The development of this bike began with the team at Kawasaki focusing their attention on the riding posture and designed the bike with that in mind and came up with a machine which is comfortable and suitable for male and female riders, both novice and the experienced alike and simple to use,. Due to the comfortable low seat height, low weight and compact size, responsive handling and sportsbike like performance, the ER-6 is a bike which is as happy commuting in city traffic as it is having a blat round a race track on the weekend.

The powerful DOHC engine, a 649cc parallel twin, is tuned so the power is delivered in a smooth and responsive way, especially at the low to mid range. Throttle response is precise due to the digital fuel injection, the bike is easy to start and warm up thanks to an automatic fast idle, while the timing, controlled by a microprocessor, is maintenance free. Emissions are kept in check with the use of a precision fuel injection unit and the implementation of a three way catalyzer in the exhaust system. The below engine mounting of the catalyzer and the exhaust lowers the center of gravity and centralizes the weight making this a very stable feeling machine.

Other features include the computer designed lightweight frame, and lightweight six spoke wheels, designed with engineering borrowed from the ZX-6R and ZX-10R. The petal brake discs, similar to other supersports designs, give enhanced braking with better resistance to warping and improved brake cooling. A slim design overall with a low, narrow seat enabling both feet to be planted firmly on the ground, improves confidence in new riders while also optimizing rider comfort. This comfort is further enhanced when riding with the use of an aerodynamic screen and full fairing.

Specifications

Engine Type: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four-valve per cylinder, parallel twin
Displacement: 649 cc
Bore & Stroke: 83.0 x 60.0 mm
Compression Ratio: 11.3:1
Horsepower: 71 hp (53kW)
Maximum Torque: 48.5 lb/ft @7,000 rpm
Cooling: Liquid
Fuel Injection: Digital fuel injection with two 38mm Keihin throttle bodies
Ignition: Digital CDI
Transmission: 6-Speed
Final Drive: O-Ring Chain
Frame: Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Rake/Trail: 25°/4.2 in.
Front Tire Size: 120/70-17
Rear Tire Size: 160/60-17
Wheelbase: 55.5 in (1.4m)
Front Suspension / wheel travel: 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 4.7 in.
Rear Suspension / wheel travel: Single offset laydown shock with adjustable spring preload / 4.9 in.
Front Brake Type: Dual 300mm Petal Disc with 2-Piston Caliper
Rear Brake Type: Single 220mm Petal Disc with hydraulic caliper
Fuel Tank Capacity: 4.1 gal.(15.5l)
Seat Height: 31.1
Dry Weight: 393 lbs.
Overall length: 82.9 in.
Overall width: 29.9 in.
Overall height: 50.0 in

Models and colours

UK Model - ER6n
2006 Ebony, Galaxy Silver Type 2
2007 Metallic Diablo Black, Pearl Wildfire Orange, Galaxy Silver Type 2
2008 Candy Lime Green, Metallic Diablo Black, Candy Plasma Blue

UK Model - ER6f (same model as Ninja 650R)
2006: Ebony, Silver
2007: Metallic Diablo Black, Candy Plasma Blue
2008: Metallic Diablo Black, Lime Green

US Models - Ninja 650R
Colors
2006: Black & Grey, Silver & Grey
2007: Candy Plasma Blue, Passion Red
2008: Sunbeam Red, Lime Green, Metallic Diablo Black

Photos - UK ER-6f and ER-6n 2006

[LoopyLee]

Photos USA Ninja 650R 2006

[LoopyLee]

Photos - UK 2007 ER-6n and ER-6f

[LoopyLee]

Photos USA Ninja 650R 2007

[LoopyLee]

Photos UK 2008 ER-6n

[LoopyLee]

Photos USA Ninja 650R 2008