Kawasaki has postponed the release of the new ZX-10R in Australia, but it should be lifted in late January.

Kawasaki Motors Corporation USA today announced that the recent sales hold placed on the 2011 Ninja ZX-10R sportsbike is expected to be lifted in late January and that sales of the highly-anticipated unit will resume as normal.

According to Kawasaki engineers, the proactive sales hold resulted from a finding that indicated possible surging of the intake valve spring when the unit is operated under unique riding conditions, such as on a racetrack.

The surge could cause the intake valve to seat improperly, resulting in poor engine performance, according to Kawasaki in the U.S.

The camshaft, valve springs, and spring retainers are being replaced to prevent the valves from surging, without affecting engine performance.

No official update has been released by Kawasaki Australia at this point.