Kawasaki ZX-14

INTRODUCTION

Dominant is a word often misused to describe products which don’t actually fulfill that promise. However, it is precisely the right word to describe Kawasaki’s Ninja® ZX™-14. Since its debut in March of 2006, this motorcycle has won every major magazine comparison test it participated in. Earning universal praise for massive torque, effortless power, stable handling and a comfortable riding position, the 1352cc Ninja ZX-14 has set the highest performance standard in the motorcycle industry.

The ZX-14 isn’t just a straight line wonder. It also excels with light, neutral handling and comfortable ergonomics which challenge dedicated sport touring motorcycles for rider comfort. Indeed, this most powerful of all Kawasaki-branded motorcycles was created to do everything right.

Just because a motorcycle has overwhelming power, doesn’t mean it has to be intimidating to ride. With electronics tuned to deliver a predictable spread of torque in low-gear/low-rpm situations, the Ninja ZX-14 inspires far more rider confidence than expected from such a powerful motorcycle. A twist of the throttle delivers a seamless spread of torque that is so linear, the "power band," becomes irrelevant. Those that have ridden a ZX-14, marvel at a power delivery which makes it possible to pull away smoothly from a total stop in almost any gear.

The ZX-14’s chassis design is every bit the equal of its power plant. An advanced version of Kawasaki’s unique aluminum monocoque design, its frame is lightweight and very strong. By utilizing this frame technology, engineers were able to concentrate on delivering a slim, compact package.

Offering a very relaxed sport riding position, the ZX-14 is compact without being cramped, and its bars are positioned so riders don’t have to stretch to reach them. The narrow engine, monocoque frame, and fuel tank make it easy for riders to keep their knees close together in any riding conditions. Footpegs are low-set to give ample legroom and the low seat height and narrow seat front make it a cinch to plant both feet on the ground when stopped. Its comfort levels might make the rider think they are on a dedicated sport tourer, but one twist of the ZX-14’s throttle is all it takes to remind them they are on the world’s quickest, fastest and most powerful production motorcycle.

Kawasaki engineers and designers have created a motorcycle that turns its Ram Air and fuel-injected engine into the core of a powerful, torque-producing, aerodynamic stunner that will draw attention from onlookers whether on the road, or parked on the roadside.

When the rider is stopped, the motorcycle will be the center of attention. Because the monocoque frame goes over the engine and doesn’t protrude through the fairing, the fairing design lines are uninterrupted, giving it a smooth, flowing appearance from front to rear. Quadruple projector beam headlights adorn the ZX-14’s front cowl, with the outer lenses containing high beams and position lamps. Low beams are located behind the two center lenses. The turn signals are cleanly integrated into the fairing and rear cowl, and a LED tail lamp features a unique "V" design. Overall, the ZX-14’s aerodynamics remind users that Kawasaki is indeed an aircraft maker. This blending of form, power, and handling characteristics have delivered a motorcycle with appeal that extends far outside of its high performance audience. All told, Kawasaki brought its engineering and design expertise to the forefront of motorcycle creation. The Ninja ZX-14 lives up to its Ninja heritage, and far surpasses the competition. The meaning of the word “dominant” has found its true definition.

SPECIFICATIONS


Engine:
Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valve per cylinder, inline-four

Displacement:
1,352cc

Bore x stroke:
84.0 x 61.0mm

Maximum torque:
113.5 lb-ft @ 7,500 rpm

Compression ratio:
12.0:1

Fuel Injection:
DFI® with 44mm Mikuni throttle bodies (4)

Ignition:
TCBI with Digital Advance

Transmission:
Six speed

Final drive:
X-Ring chain

Rake / trail:
23 degrees / 94 mm.

Front Tire:
120/70 ZR17

Rear Tire:
190/50 ZR17

Wheelbase:
57.5 in.

Front suspension / wheel travel:
43mm inverted cartridge fork with adjustable preload, stepless rebound and compression damping adjustments / 4.6 in.

Rear suspension / wheel travel:
Uni-Trak with adjustable preload, stepless rebound and compression damping adjustments, adjustable ride height / 4.8 in.

Front Brakes:
Dual floating petal discs with four-piston calipers

Rear Brakes:
Single petal disc

Overall length:
85.4 in.

Overall width:
29.9 in.

Overall height:
46.1 in.

Seat height:
31.5 in.

Dry weight:
474 lbs.

Fuel capacity:
5.8 gal.

Color:
Diablo Black, Candy Plasma Blue, Special Edition: Pearl Crystal White

MSRP:
TBD

Warranty:
12 Months