ZX6R 09 Stunt Bike Build
Preparing a Kawasaki ZX6R 09+ for stuntriding is not fundamentally different from other models, but there are some nuances. The version of this motorcycle with plastic is a street killer rather than a stuntbike, which means that this motorcycle is only good for basic stunts and riding around the city. Also, many professionals ride with plastic to make the bike recognizable and more attractive to viewers and sponsors. From a practical point of view, the plastic is unnecessary that falls apart and breaks during intensive training. While preparing the ZX6R 09+ for stuntriding, we realized that there were no ready-made suitable solutions for many components, so we developed them ourselves.
Steering
We installed adjustable Stuntex clip-ons on the motorcycle — this was the most suitable solution in terms of functionality: they allow you to adjust the bars individually, fit the switchgear and levers thanks to the long tubes, and keep the stock steering damper.
For an easy clutch pull, we fitted the Stuntex clutch lever with two large bearings that minimize backlash and friction. The geometry of the lever allows you to use the Stuntex lever with the stock switchgear.
Extended braided HEL hoses are necessary because the standard ones are short and do not allow you to raise the clip-ons.
ABM aluminum brake fluid reservoirs on a flexible mount are the most practical solution for a stuntbike.
Protection
The frame on the model of these years, as on all ZX6R, is weak and cracks under the engine weight from hard impacts. Replacing it with a steel one solves the problem, but this solution has drawbacks: extra weight, cost and loss of the VIN number, and therefore of the bike's registration documents. We designed the Mad Dog cage with reinforcement brackets that significantly relieve the frame mounts. The first version of the cage was tested by a professional rider Grigorii Taldykin — he had no problems with the frame.
The standard subframe is also fragile. We developed the steel Stuntex subframe (in the photo you can see the third version of it), while trying to make it as light as possible without sacrificing durability. Flatbar and foot stop are included, so everything is easy to install and it looks great.
A subcage is a must as a replacement for the stock passenger footpegs that are too fragile for training. We installed a lightweight American RSC aluminum subcage with adjustable footrests. We hope our own version will be ready for the next project.
It is better to use axle pegs with nylon tips: the nylon wears in at the right angle and does not damage the asphalt. Pegs and sliders without plastic tips cannot be used at any competitions. Stuntex pegs come with a high-strength stud, and the aluminum part follows the shape of the seats so that the pegs will not bend or break.
The stock plastic fairing stay is too fragile. We developed a steel Stuntex fairing stay with a crash bar above the fairing and dashboard. The stay can withstand the weight of a person, while being light enough. The bar gives you a foot rest during stoppies and also protects the plastic in loop-outs.
On the radiator there is a reinforcing frame Stuntex, which significantly relieves the radiator's aluminum mounts in crashes and impacts.
Stuntex neoprene fork socks are excellent protection from dust and dirt, so the fork seals last longer.
Handbrake — secondary rear brake
For the handbrake, we made a Stuntex bracket with a stop and an adapter for a 310 mm brake disc. The three-radial-caliper setup is the most popular and has become classic in stuntriding. The stop against the swingarm is needed to relieve the inner mount, which breaks off on 2009+ models. The adapter for the brake disc allows you to use the factory discs from the Yamaha R6 06+. A Brembo 16 mm master cylinder works perfectly with the R6 calipers. The system is equipped with reinforced HEL hoses.
Exhaust
A Two Brothers S1R slip-on and a Juice Box power controller were installed on the motorcycle, which saved a few kilos without losing low-end power. Also, due to the compactness of the S1R slip-on, it did not need to be cut or modified to keep the canister off the ground.
Sprockets
A 60-tooth rear sprocket is the most popular option. We fitted a hybrid Supersprox sprocket with steel teeth and an aluminum frame as the optimal ratio of durability and weight. The RKGB520GXW chain is as strong as a 530 chain, but much lighter.
Tank
The tank was rewelded and covered with anti-slip coating. Stiffening ribs were set inside so that it would not deform under the weight. Rubber stops against the frame were added on the sides so that it does not move.
The license plate is mounted on a steel ABM bracket, which can be folded under the tail so it does not get in the way during training. Also the oil was replaced with a sporty synthetic oil Total 10W50, because stunt bikes often run at the rev limiter while stationary, without a cooling air flow. A K&N oil filter with a nut on the end was used, so that it can be unscrewed without a special wrench.
The new owner was very pleased with the bike!