Kawasaki UK has announced a new partnership with former racer and TV pundit James Whitham, confirming that Kawasaki ZX-10R and Kawasaki ZX-6R models will be used as instructor bikes across Whitham’s 2026 track-based training events.
The four-cylinder Ninja models will form the backbone of the James Whitham Track Training Days programme, which is open to riders of all experience levels. Events are scheduled to take place at a number of UK circuits, including Cadwell Park, Mallory Park, Anglesey Circuit, and Croft Circuit.
Kawasaki will supply the motorcycles used by the coaching team, which features a line-up of experienced racers from British Superbike and the Isle of Man TT. Among those involved are Max Cook and Joe Talbot, who currently race for the AJN Steelstock Bimota squad.
A total of 25 training dates are planned across the year, with the first event set to run at Anglesey from March 31 to April 1.
From a technical standpoint, the ZX-6R carries over unchanged into the programme, while the ZX-10R arrives with recent updates. For the latest model year, Kawasaki has added front winglets, which the manufacturer claims generate 25% more downforce than the previous version. The ZX-10R has also been updated to meet Euro 5+ emissions regulations, with minor geometry revisions introduced to complement the aerodynamic changes.
Commenting on the collaboration, Whitham highlighted his long-standing relationship with the brand, noting the Ninja range’s reputation on track and its suitability for high-level instruction.
Perspective
From a broader viewpoint, the partnership reflects Kawasaki’s continued focus on performance credibility and rider development beyond racing. By placing current Ninja models in the hands of experienced instructors, the brand reinforces its track-oriented image while giving participants access to tuition delivered on modern, high-performance machinery. Whether this approach translates into long-term brand loyalty among trackday riders is something that will likely become clearer as the 2026 programme unfolds.
