Having already owned a few Kawasaki-manufactured items, we were familiar with the performance of their engines. Kawasaki has a longstanding history with motorcycles, so the decision to go with that brand was clear. The Ninja will be modded to be a practical, affordable, and fun three-season work commuter. With fuel mileage already above 60mpg, and a top speed well above highway legal, modifications will be centered around improving safety and enhancing all-around performance.
12/07/'09: The bike has been winterized. During it's first summer of use, we made a few changes to it, which are detailed on the Modifications page. Most performance stats won't be tested until next spring, however we do already have an average fuel economy of just under 69MPG (@ 62mph)! The bike is fun to ride, though, so keeping at a low speed to maximize its mileage is difficult at best.
11/01/'10: Dusk has been a great project bike. It's the perfect starter bike; sporty, predictable, and great fuel economy. With the 2010 mods (see the mods page) we reversed the MPG setback of the better flowing exhaust and carb re-jet, and pulled an amazing 71 MPG! That's real-world combined city/highway riding, and without giving up acceleration, handling, or any other aspect of performance. Our little Ninja has served its purpose well, and was traded in last month, with nearly 12,000 miles on the odometer.
