The ZX-10 replaced the GPZ1000RX as the flagship sportbike from Kawasaki.[5]
The engine was designed after its predecessor's, with the same displacement but 36 mm semi-downdraft CV carburetors and a narrower valve angle. Engine internals were altered: Compression ratio was raised to 11.0:1; lighter pistons and bigger valves were used.[5]
It had Kawasaki's first aluminum perimeter frame, a design which has since become standard.[2]
Aerodynamics were claimed to be better than the outgoing models.[5]