Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R

Quick Review by Maxabout Team

The up-dated version of ZX-14R has become more stylish and premium in terms of appearance. Kawasaki has made noticeable changes in this bike which differentiates it from the outgoing model. The multi chamber headlights at its front give it a unique identity. These circular headlights look extremely classy at night. The heart shaped air-inlet separates the headlights of this bike. The broad V-shaped front cowl of this bike gives it aggressive looks and makes it look futuristic. The tinted visor also complements the style language of ZX-14R. The rear view mirrors of this bike are mounted on its front cowl which could have been more appealing. It has a full size front fender which looks sharp and attractive with extended sides. Its beefy side fairing, disc plates and multi-spoke alloy wheels makes this bike look macho. The aerodynamic side fairing comes with integrated side indicators and racing cuts which suits the design of this bike. The slim waist fuel tank looks quite appealing and gels well with the full size rider’s seat. The up-swept triangular mufflers on both sides look flashy with its tall positioned rear cowl. This rear cowl comes integrated with LED side indicators and V-shaped LED tail light. The compact rear fender and broad tyre adds visual bulk to this bike.

Instrument Console

The bike has a wide instrument panel which features two circular dials with black background and a centrally positioned multifunction LCD. The left dial houses an analogue speedometer while the right dial features an analogue tachometer which is easily readable. The LCD displays its digital odometer, 2-trip meter, gear position indicator, clock and fuel gauge. It also informs the rider through traction control indicators. Other LED indicators are also positioned in this instrument panel.

Engine and Gearbox

The new age ZX-14R is now powered by a four-stroke, 4-cylinder 1441cc engine. This liquid-cooled, DOHC engine pumps out a power output of 197.3 Bhp @ 10000 rpm. The torque output of this 16 vales engine has also improved and now it produces around 162.5 Nm @ 7500 rpm. Kawasaki has mated this engine with a six-speed manual gearbox. This gearbox has one gear down and five gears up-shift pattern.

Acceleration and Performance

The bike proves itself to be one of the fastest bikes in the world. It reaches the speed of 100km/hr from standstill in just 3 seconds while it takes only 7.5 seconds to reach 0-200km/hr. The bike is available with two riding modes which supplies the power of this engine in different manners. The bike comes with a limited top speed of 299km/hr. The anti-slipper clutch also adjusts itself accordingly and gives positive feedback to the rider. The low and mid-range of this bike makes it a true performer. The lightning fast throttle reaction gives wings to this bike and it easily crosses everything on road. It feels best around 8000rpm when it’s performing at its best. It’s a very refined DOHC engine which makes pleasant sound at high rpms and prompts you to rev it hard. The gearbox works effortlessly and gives you smooth gear transitions.

Mileage

On our Indian roads, we expect this bike to return a fuel economy of around 8-10km/ltr.

Comfort While Driving

The bike has a full size spacious seat which provides you maximum comfort. The low seating posture on this bike gives you great control over ZX-14R. The adjustable foot-pegs give place to your feet while its curvy fuel tank allows your thighs to stick around it. The proper hold on this bike further improves with its clips on handle bar which offers you firm palm grip. The rider has to bend forward to reach this handle bar which gives you an aerodynamic position. The bike offers you great road visibility which is quite useful in city driving.

Storage Space and Safety Features

There is no storage space in this bike. Its multi headlights cut through the dark to give you the brightest view of roads at night which confirms your safety.

Suspension and Brakes

The bike has fully adjustable suspension system at its both ends. It features 43mm inverted telescopic forks at its front while it has Bottom-link and adjustable gas charged mono shock at the back. ZX-14R features dual petal disc brakes of 310mm at its front and single rear disc brake of 250mm. The bike uses radial mounted 4-piston brake callipers at its front and twin piston calliper at the back.

Ride and Handling

This long and heavy machine has a wheelbase of 1480mm which gives it stability around corners and at high speeds. The turning abilities improve with its ground clearance of 125mm which also helps it to accelerate fast on highways by improving its aerodynamics. The suspension system easily takes the heavy weight of this bike and allows it to move frequently at high speeds. The fatty tyres and adjustable traction control system gives it firm road grip and makes it stable in wet conditions. The electronic steering significantly improves the ride and handling of this bike. It can be turned easily around corners and follows the rider’s command properly. The advanced petal discs effectively stop this heavy machine as per your need and boost your confidence at high speeds.

Tyre Size, Shades and Variants

The bike is equipped with 17 inches alloy wheels. Kawasaki may launch single variant of this bike in three different colors.

Verdict

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R will directly compete with much popular Suzuki Hayabusa in India. The bike proves to be a tough competitor for Hayabusa as it looks quite attractive and offers equally strong performance. Yes, it will take some time to create awareness in our market but Kawasaki has made it instantly famous by pricing this bike at INR 17.90 lakhs in India, which makes it a complete value for money bike.

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