Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14
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Saturday, July 19, 2008This most powerful of all Kawasaki-branded motorcycles was created to do everything right. Right from the beginning. Its aerodynamics reminds users that Kawasaki is indeed an aircraft maker. The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 is based around Kawasaki motorcycles 1352cc four-stroke engine. An inline-four, the ZX-14 is liquid cooled, and has four valves per cylinder. To make the engine super smooth, Kawasaki added two secondary balancers. With absolutely no engine vibration reaching the rider, it almost feels like like the ZX-14 doesn't have a powerband like most motorcycles.
It redlines at 11,000 rpm and the power tops out at 9,500 rpm, but you never notice any rush of power or peaks or valleys in the torque curve. The engine just makes power everywhere in the rev range. The ZX-14’s chassis design is every bit the equal of its power plant. It is an advanced version of Kawasaki’s unique aluminum monocoque frame, lightweight and very strong. This sophisticated approach gives the ZX-14 a responsive handling quality and incredible highway stability. By utilizing this frame technology, engineers were able to concentrate on delivering, as mentioned, a very slim, compact package.
Inherently more rigid than twin-spar frames, and with the engine rigid-mounted, the monocoque’s strength is greatly increased. Offering a very relaxed sport riding position, it is compact without being cramped, and the 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 the rider to keep his 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 planting feet on the ground when stopped a cinch.That kind of performance demands world-class handling, and the Kawasaki ZX-14 delivers.
Its solid chassis was developed using the latest lessons learned on the race track. And with fully adjustable, titanium-nitride/coated 43mm inverted front forks and a state-of-the-art rear suspension system, it offers precise responsiveness in tight corners and solid performance in sweeping turns - matched by a plush ride on the highway.