KAWASAKI ZZR1400 (2006 - 2012) Review

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Annual servicing cost: £220
Power: 197 bhp
Seat height: Medium (31.5 in / 800 mm)
Weight: Medium (474 lbs / 215 kg)

Prices

New N/A
Used £4,000 - £6,500

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
5 out of 5 (5/5)

The Kawasaki ZZR1400 is not only the fastest, most powerful motorcycle you can buy, but happens to be an extremely capable all-round machine too. Limited to 186mph (300kmh) – but the Kawasaki ZZR1400 will do it with a gear to spare.

Capable of commuting, two up sporty touring, track days, drag racing, posing – almost anything is possible on the big Kawasaki ZZR1400 - just don’t try taking it dirt riding.

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Ultra sports-tourers can’t be track bikes but the Kawasaki ZZR1400 copes superbly on the road. With 215kg to carry it’ll never flick as fast as the latest dedicated sports bikes but it’s smooth, predictable and sporty in a road orientated way.

The Kawasaki ZZR1400's brakes are awesome and it’s plush enough for those European blasts.

Engine

Next up: Reliability
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Bordering on insanely powerful for a motorbike. Its builder says the Kawasaki ZZR1400's the first of a new generation of engines that owe nothing to the outdated ZZRs of he past. 197bhp with ram air is an astounding figure.

Torque on the Kawasaki ZZR1400 is plentiful too but at low revs Suzuki’s Hayabusa out-grunts it.

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Since 2003 the new improved wave of Kawasaki models have been better than previous ones in every way including build quality. The Kawasaki ZZR1400 seems to follow that trend and no real weaknesses have been identified yet.

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Kawasaki ZZR1400 is not that cheap but it’s the hot kiddie of the class until something more powerful is released, so a good buy. The Kawasaki ZZR1400 was late arriving in dealers showrooms in 2006 which led to stock being left unsold late into the year and some discounting, which affected new and used value.

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Kawasaki ZZR1400's riding position’s compact for a substantial bike and comfy for one or two. The screen’s surprisingly effective considering it looks low and allows the insane top speeds the Kawasaki ZZR1400 is renowned for. Instruments are very comprehensive and a genuine Kawasaki tank pad is available for the Kawasaki ZZR1400.

Specs

Engine size 1352cc
Engine type 16v in-line four, 6 gears
Frame type Aluminium monocoque
Fuel capacity 22 litres
Seat height 800mm
Bike weight 215kg
Front suspension Preload, rebound, compression
Rear suspension Preload, rebound, compression
Front brake Twin 310mm discs
Rear brake 250mm disc
Front tyre size 120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size 190/50 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 39 mpg
Annual road tax £117
Annual service cost £220
New price -
Used price £4,000 - £6,500
Insurance group 17 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance

Max power 197 bhp
Max torque 113 ft-lb
Top speed 187 mph
1/4 mile acceleration 10.2 secs
Tank range 185 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

2006: Kawasaki ZZ-R1400 launched.
2011: Available as Kawasaki ZZR1400 ABS [£10,613] and ZZR1400 ABS Performance (Inc. Akrapovic silencer, tank pads, seat cover, higher screen) [£11,634]

Other versions

None.

Owners' reviews for the KAWASAKI ZZR1400 (2006 - 2012)

50 owners have reviewed their KAWASAKI ZZR1400 (2006 - 2012) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your KAWASAKI ZZR1400 (2006 - 2012)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Engine: 4.8 out of 5 (4.8/5)
Reliability & build quality: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Value vs rivals: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Equipment: 4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5)
Annual servicing cost: £220
5 out of 5 Amazing machine. Felt at home on it straight away.
02 January 2024 by Reaper

Year: 2006

Amazing bike. So useable and manageable for such a performance machine, as long as you can practice self restraint that is. I've previously owned a ZZR1100 and a ZZR600. I felt at home straight away on the ZZR14, even though I'd had a break from biking. The power there is evident but only if you choose to use it, if not its quote happy at road legal speeds or in wet conditions.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

I done a 200 mile ride on it having not ridden a bike in 10 years and the bike was manageable and comfy in damp and fairly cold conditions.

Engine 5 out of 5

Even when short shifting into 5th or 6th, all it takes is a twist of the throttle for a surge of acceleration

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

All good so far.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

First bike I've had with hazard lights....Great for filtering

Buying experience: Private. Ebay. Easy transaction.

5 out of 5 One of the best all rounders out there.
07 January 2022 by PTP

Version: ABS

Year: 2008

I’ve had Busa’s, Blackbird’s and a K1300. The ZZR1400 is the most sporty and fun out of the lot.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Strong and stable, accelerating as fast as all the sports bikes, but in a more comfortable way!

Engine 5 out of 5

Gen 1’s need a remap to get the low down grunt that was sorted with the Gen 2’s.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Build quality is up there with all the rest. Reliable and trustworthy

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Fairly easy to work on at home, worst job is valve checks, especially as it’s a fiddly job and hardly ever out of spec.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Got all that’s needed, if you want a sexy big TFT the go buy a GS

4 out of 5 The bike that does it all
15 March 2021 by Dennis Elliott

Year: 2006

Bike very capable short runs or long hauls might be a little heavy moving slow in traffic you soon get the feel of the bike even though it's a bit on the large size it's very versatile can be used on track days surprises some sport bikes when coming out of corners they have you going in ,your turn coming out good tank range ,wind protection good to finish when you wind that throttle right back get ready for the experience of speed.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5

What more do you need.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Very sound built motor bike

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Service myself.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Tyre choice is necessary.

Buying experience: Private.

5 out of 5
05 February 2021 by Rob wallace

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £120

Very reliable.blisteringly fast great for two up riding and comfortable to.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Good all rounder.an hour before a break but only for my misses

Engine 5 out of 5

Very fast and smooth good all-rounder.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Had it two years now never let me down wheels have got some break dust in them very hard to get out tried most things but to no avail.previous owner couldn't have cleaned them much.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

Riding position very good for me.added bar risers.

Buying experience: Dealer 5.000 two years ago.

5 out of 5 Kawasaki ZZR1400
17 October 2018 by Brett Australia

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £300

Great bike can’t wait to tour some more!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Added oxford heated grips, centre stand and bar risers.

Engine 5 out of 5

Quick off the mark.....😱

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Only had one service to change all fluids, check over etc. when first bought. Will do engine oil myself when due.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Like the Pirelli Angel GT tyres. Love the colour, deep red.

Buying experience: Bought privately good transaction only 15,000kms on it 👍

5 out of 5 Mr
02 April 2018 by Neil hodgkinson

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £100

Nice, easy-to-ride rocketship. Love it!

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 2008 ZZR1400 Owners review.
09 January 2018 by Simon Foz Foster

Version: ABS

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £120

Best feature is the turbine like engine. Pulls like a train in any gear, supervise killing performance but all day comfort. Worst feature, uses rear tyres and sprockets pretty quick id ridden hard down to the amount of grunt the thing has.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Ride quality is good but i believe the rear shock is better off being replaced as they get older. Brakes are excellent you can upgrade to braided hoses but they are expensive , quality pads improve them even more.

Engine 5 out of 5

Awesome and the bikes best feature you can pull away in 5th if need be,

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No corrosion on my machine and very good overall finish. Like any bike best to use ACF 50 during the winter to keep it tip top.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Service costs are very reasonable and if you prefer easily done in your own garage, mine is coming up to its 15000 mile service, valve clearance etc i beleive its about £450. Usually does about 38mpg the way i ride , but you can get up to 40mpg driving Miss Daisy !

Equipment 4 out of 5

No fancy electrical gizmos in 2008 just ABS and Kawasaki Traction control, Good old school dials but you do get a computer showing average mpg and fuel range etc. You can fit loads if extras , mine has top box panniers heated grips and bar risers, the perfect continent crosser!

Buying experience: These bikes are very good value i bought mine from a trader for £5500 with only 10500 miles on it and the panniers. Not bad for a bike that will do nearly 200mph.

4 out of 5 Scream like a girl
15 June 2017 by Chris Long

Version: DAF

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £200

Fast, capable, mile muncher with a naughty side

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Smooth missile with a headlight set that telepathically moves motorists out of the way. The fairing is large and bike long so you are well protected from the elements (though at a height of 6ft 4 a truck would struggle to keep me out of the wind). The breaks are strong which can cause problems with the soft front suspension bottoming out (mine is overdue a suspension rebuild). The seat is well padded and comfortable. The only issue i have is with the height of the rearsets, which with an inside seam of 36 inches, folds my legs as if i'm riding a sportsbike - fine for an hour but after that my knees are screaming enough...old age perhaps.

Engine 5 out of 5

In a word 'monster'. It is turbine smooth and gets up to speed quickly, some times a little too quickly officer...which is very addictive. The enginee is also good at slow speed, with good fuelling making filtering in town a doddle (size of the bike aside, which you quickly come accustomed to).

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Up to recently, mine had been used to commute in all weathers and the fit and finish has stood up well to the daily abuse.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Annual servicing prices have been reasonable given the power of the bike, with the large service, including valve check (24,000) and steering head bearing check costing close to £700

Equipment 4 out of 5

As standard, the bike is well equiped with the info you need. Mine sports the tail hump (i don't take pillions) and factory scorpion end cans, which sound nice and fruity without upsetting the neighbours (until you remove the baffles that is). Best two modifications i've made are rearsets and tyres; rearsets are Gilles Tooling from Calsport and tyres are Metzler Roadtec 01. The rearsets provide some good adjustment and are slick in operation. The tyres which replaced my Michellin Pilot Road 4s (a top tyre also) provide great feedback, grip and quick warm up come rain or shine.

Buying experience: My work meant i was up and down the M25 so my 2013 Z1000 (a great bike) was chopped in for the ZZR1400. I bought the bike from Three Cross in Wimborne, Dorset who's staff treated me well and gave me a great price on my trade-in. The bike was £6700 with 26,500 (approximately) miles showing.

5 out of 5 2006 zx14 a great ride
19 April 2017 by Greg Pickering 1352

Year: 2006

Best features , power above 6000 rpm, ride position, brakes, handling,reiability. Worst features stock low end power delivery,but is easily fixed, heat from engine can roast legs at times.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great bike two up. Plenty of power to pass anything if required.

Engine 4 out of 5

Only delivers the promised horsepower when secondary throttle plates are removed and the ecu reprogrammed with a good exhaust system as well. Standard twin mufflers are very restrictive. Kawasaki shouldnt be softening the low end power delivery.Inexperience riders shouldnt be on this bike in the first place.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Cannot fault the bike mechanically

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Likes a drink.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Buying experience: Standard tyres are excellent but wear fast.

5 out of 5
10 June 2016 by Steve

Year: 2007

Fantastic bike. A true hyperbike and a good looking one too.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Better than most out of the factory on the suspension but a modest rework front and rear works wonders. No need to spend mega bucks getting Ohlins fitted.

Engine 5 out of 5

Rocket ship engine but the early ZZR's are choked a bit by the secondary butterfly valves which takes away grunt from this big engine at low revs. This is remedied using one of two methods. The original old school method is to remove the secondary butterflies and do some remapping but the more recent method is a full ECU remap that does not require the secondary butterflies to be removed as the ECU is coded to open them much earlier. i went with the full ECU remap on my 2007 ZZR and the difference is night and day. Forget about the horsepower what you want at the lower rev range is tourque which is what the remap gives you.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 ZZR1400 You don't need any other bike
03 June 2016 by Monk

Version: A7F

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £500

Yes, excellent performance and presence.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

2 hours between breaks

Engine 4 out of 5

the 1352cc version lacks a little bottom end grunt. But to honest the rest of the rev range more than makes up for it. Driveability is not compromised.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Never broken down, however some exposed components could do with better protection, oil cooler, headers etc

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Not bad for such a powerful bike. Just tyres, brakes, plugs, oil and filter

Equipment 3 out of 5

This model lacks sensible bungee hooks (like those fitted to the zzr1100 c/d models), tyre choice is endless

Buying experience: Dealer, paid £5k, the advertised price (but they did fit new tyres and brake pads)

5 out of 5 Kawasaki zzr 100 let the good times roll
13 May 2016 by Bikerman

Version: A7f

Year: 2007

Where to start 10 years away from motorcycling for genuine reasons hadn't stopped me continually looking to see what I would like if the day came when I could afford another bike that day came and there was only one bike I wanted zzr 1400 never rode one, never saw one up close but allways admired from a distance. I love the front end, it's the stuff of legends, I travelled to Taunton from Cumbria to pick up the bike of my dreams and jesus the 350 mile journey home was a mixture of euphoria and trepidation in equal messure had I made a big mistake the first 100 mile I thought Yeh after a break the rest of the journey put a massive smile on my face which I've had ever since this is without doubt the best bike I've ever had the pleasure of owning by a mile big thanks to kawasaki purs like a big cat mile after mile

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Fantastic all rounder comfortable fast quiet economical

Engine 5 out of 5

Engine is sweet as a nut happy pottering in traffic or cruising at high speed

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Quality finish not allways the case in the past with kawis but the 1400 is spot on in every way

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

No more expensive than any other bike I've had

Equipment 5 out of 5

My bike is standard apart from rear hugger fender extender Bridgestone BT023s tyres I prefer new battery discs and pads in a year considering its 10 years old it looks and rides like new

Buying experience: Bought the bike private for £4450

5 out of 5
19 March 2016 by Stuart Carter

Version: A7F

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £300

AS stated by others the bike is a little heavy to move around the garage but once moving gives a solid planted feeling on the road. It'll never match a sportsbike for handling but is far more comfortable and good for a couple of hours continuous riding between fill ups.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Cannot fault the ride quality in any way. Sometimes travel with a couple of sportsbike riders and it's always them who want to stop long before I find the need.

Engine 5 out of 5

Low speed requires the right gear and the right speed. Personally have no problems with this but once out on the open road it really comes to life. The engine seems bombproof. Stopping such a lump at high speed is done effortlessly as the Nissins do their work.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No issues whatsoever with paint or any other finishes. As long as its cleaned regularly and maintained properly I don't envisage any problems. Always starts 1st time but does clunk into 1st gear no matter how gently you try to engage it.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Tyres another £250 on Bridgestones. Servicing is done religiously whenever the time or mileage dictates.

Equipment 3 out of 5

The on-board computer is more than adequate. Storage is next to nothing. Otherwise I just love everything about it, always leaves me feeling positive after every ride.

Buying experience: Bought privately with very few miles on the clock. Showroom condition with a FSH. Advertised for £5500 but got it for £5100 cash.

5 out of 5 Best overall bike out there
27 January 2016 by Tony

Year: 2011

Best bike I've ever owned by a mile!! It does it all from pulling your head off it's shoulders (0-60 in 2.5secs) to cruising all day at motoway speeds in comfort. My wife loves going on the back, we can be in traffic at 50 and just effortlessly twist the throttle in top to nip back up to 70ish. handling around corners is as good as most people would want to try, any faster and you should really be on a track!

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Brakes and build quality on the whole are excellent, watch out for warped front discs (warp due to very high temps cooling quickly) and the only other criticism is the seat, gives me bum ache after about 1.5hrs, better padding needed.

Engine 5 out of 5

Just awesome!!!

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Never hic-cuped

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I do my own servicing, so pretty cheap really, The price new is a tad high, but when you take into account how well they hold their price, it's not too expensive to swap.

Equipment 4 out of 5

By today's standards (2016) it's basic. I find Angle GT tyres are best, I've also fitted heated grips, bar risers, full Givi luggage and exhausts.

Buying experience: Bought from a dealer

5 out of 5 Awesome machine
20 August 2015 by Daz Atkinson

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £100

I cannot fault this bike's performance or reliability, think millenium falcon and Kessel run in less than 12 parsecs, and you will be close, only build quality lets it down a little

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Great for cruising but not the comfiest, break every 100 miles or so, but i am over 50, bar risers and peg lowering kit a must for older riders

Engine 5 out of 5

smooth and bulletproof

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Rust around small components is the only let down, lever screws, brake line brackets, luggage hooks etc

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Never done main dealer service but easy enough to do small annual service at home

Equipment 5 out of 5

Beware putting sport tyres on unless ya can afford a new set every 2k miles or so, square off quickly, Pilot roads are good dual compound and give higher mileages

Buying experience: Bought privately for £5.2k when 4 years old

4 out of 5 Rapid
17 July 2014 by plumbgod

The zzr 1400 is the sought of bike that leaves you trembling, a little frightened yet you want to go again. The bike has endless power and you quickly run out of road or bottle one or the other. As some have already said, the engine is a little rough low down, like it really resents going slow, and the clutch is a little too light for me, with little difference in lever movement between grab and go The suspension set up is soft as standard, especially on the front end, where the slightest pot hole will make the forks bottom out, i plan to have mine set up soon in the hope it will solve this issue. The brakes are awesome, as you would expect and otherwise things are properly sorted Crazy fast lots of fun mostly in straight lines tho

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 1 yr on update
11 March 2012 by

After a year and 2,500 miles the bike has had highs and lows for me. Nice in poor wintery conditions even on sports tyres but clumsy and not that sporty in the dry...until I dialled in the suspension and got rid of the stock cans. Comfort isn't as good as the seat makes you think and even with a higher screen the windblast can hurt the neck much more than the Busa ever did. Wife loves the pillion side of things but having tried the gen 2 Busa out she finds its broader seat better on long runs. Its stupidly fast but flighty as well near the red line in 3rd and 4th so could do with a steering damper just to add confidence and with the suspension working as it should its much easier to go constantly quick than on any sports bike as gear changes are rare so you can focus on where your going rather than what gear you need next. Now it runs true and smooth from low revs and is filling in the job of my old busa quite nicely so no regrets just yet and a nice 48+mpg.. Build quality is so so..plastics are like tracing paper and are beginning to show cracks around the dash infill screws and the fur on the radiator core just makes it look cheaply made. I tried the new 2012 model and apart from having a better from the shop suspension I see no real benefits for road use as i've never had any traction issues with my riding style. I would consider getting a slipper clutch fitted as the downshift can get the back end moving about when on it coming downhill. Doing a back-back test against a Gen 2 Busa in a few weeks so that will be a fun day.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 3 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
5 out of 5 gentleman's express
05 September 2011 by piwake

Had bike for just under 3years, 48,000kms. Minor weeping at valve cover gasket and tip over sensor that won't stop vibrating. Recently did valve adjustment, throttle sync and plugs -much smoother in all conditions. Been using PR2's and can't see a reason to try anything else. Have Yosh R-77 slips and blocked off kleen air recirc, and mra dbl bubble racing screen. Otherwise stock. Huge difference getting suspension sorted. For me, settings are very sensitive and took forever getting close to perfect. But once do, very controlled, predictable and just can't ask for better. Well, ohlins might make so but fine tuning gets to where I no longer feel it can get much better. With suspension working just so, everthing just seems to fall into place. Braking, shifting, turn in, exit. All good. Only major complaint is there always seems too much traffic and never enough pavement to ride. It goes without saying that it's fast but that's not what makes this bike such a great street/sport tourer. It's it's effortlessness, no fuss, any condition/road, do it all ability.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 Early views
21 May 2011 by tman39a

just got an 09' model after 4 yrs on a Gen 1 Busa.......so far it is lighter to control, faster and better in the wet.....but engine low down aint that smooth and theres no onboard storage of any kind....engine is less vibey and a bit more economical...its early days but so far happy with the change.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
5 out of 5 Just brilliant!!
01 April 2011 by

2 years and 11,000 miles later...it's time to give my silver ZZR1400 a review. Let me start with the negatives first... The part of the fuel tank under the seat is prone to corrosion. Keep it covered in ACF50 and then everything's fine. Erm... I guess that's it! It has been 100% reliable. Great build quality. Rides and handles brilliantly after the suspension has been set-up for your weight. The engine is just stunning. I've never been on a drag strip, so I'm still to reach it's limits. Absolutely shed loads of torque torque and more torque. 80mph is just 4k rpm, and returns a 180+ mile tank range, comfy, confidence inspiring, (relatively) forgiving, fantastic brakes, oh and did I say it was fast as ****? If you're reading this review and wondering whether to buy one...look no further, just go put your money down.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 What a bike
17 March 2011 by blue200tdi

I've just bought an 07 ZZR1400. What a bike, my god I thought my ZX10r was fast but this thing is just in another league. The engine is so smooth, just roll on the throttle in 6th gear at any speed and it just keeps pulling like a train. 150MPH on the way home no problem (71mph honestly officer)It's friendly round town and the weight keeps it smooth and planted in bends. Very comfy, with loads of room, I'm 6' and have no trouble. This bike is immense, if you want a bike that is fast and comfortable, this is the bike for you. Ok, ZX10's and the like will out corner you, but you'll catch up on the straight bits with out any trouble. If you're thinking of buying one, buy it, you won't regret it.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 lived up to expectations!
04 March 2011 by

I took a bit of a gamble on buying this bike, I saw one of the last black models with gold wheels at the old price and prior to the vat increase. My Blackbird had served me well but was 10 yrs old now, snow and ice meant a much shorter test ride than I would have liked. First impressions were this was a bike designed to fulfill a number of roles. A sporty riding position, but not extreme as my mates blade.The engine was a revelation, I thought my Blackbird was smooth and had power but the ZZR is in a different league. Initial acceleration is rapid but get into the mid range and it really takes off, you either run out of road or bottle it. Overtakes are a dream and the combination of smooth engine and a slick gearbox ensure progress is rapid but controlled. Plenty of room for pillions and luggage, but my Autocom used the last of underseat storage space. Another nice suprise was the buld quality, huge improvements in all areas and definitley up there with Honda now,the clocks are fabulous with a mix of digital info on consumtion and fuel range etc which I find useful! this is my 5th Kawasaki and I have no regrets buying the ZZR. Handling, power, stability, looks, brakes, this bike ticks all the boxes and a trip to France in summer beckons, I can't wait to give this bike a good workout. This is not a bike for novices or those with poor anger management skills though, I have had to recalibrate my riding as everthing happens so much quicker now, when compared to my Honda. I am glad I bought my ZZR and my gamble has paid off, I have no hesitation in giving this bike full marks in all departments, one hell of a bike.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 zzr1400
17 May 2010 by KJNASH2001JESS

i bought a 08 zzr 1400 and i have just got back from a 3000 mile european tour through france , switzerland, and spain , the bike was immense and extremely comfortable and practacle, and for a big powerful bike fantastic on fuel, it carried me and my luggage all over without any hassle and with great ease , this has to be the best bike i have ever owned, i have had a blackbird, hiyabusa and a sprint st , this is the best bike ever, a real credit to kawasaki , they have produced a real class leading sports tourer...:-)

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
3 out of 5 The Good, The Bad and the Ugly
11 April 2010 by

To date (2010) there are really two flavours, pre-2008 and 2008 onwards with one big difference. Early (06/07) models have gutless low down caused by Kawasaki restricting them to make them easier for new riders, somehow having CG125 power up to 6,000 rpm, then immediately exploding into a ZX10R on steroids made them safer? From 2008 Onwards this was fixed, but early bikes can be easily sorted if you remove secondary butterflies and fit a Power Commander, this costs a few hundred quid so be aware if looking at used bikes. Every owner I know who has done this rates it as the best mod they have ever done to any bike. Some early ones were re-called due to frames cracking where the engine mounts had been overtightened in the factory, should all be sorted now but wirth checking if you have 06 / 07 or are planning to buy one. Generally they are quite good out of the crate: Later models or flyless early ones are mega grunty from 3,000rpm upwards, even two-up with luggage you rarely need to go above 6k or drop more than a gear or two for overtakes. Early ones with flies in are very flat and often need 3-4 downchanges when overtaking - very tiresome. Handling is OK for a big bike, but can be made much better, they are better than ZZR1100's and such like but the front end is a bit harsh and the rear struggles with two people especially if you tour with luggage. I had my forks and shock re-sprung and revalved and it became a different bike, cost about £500 but improved handling, feedback and comfort immensely. Felt about 20kg lighter afterwards, much closer to sportsbike handling. Everything else is OK, clocks etc work well, comfort is pretty good, some serious mile munchers add bar risers, taller screens and Gel Seats but compared to any sportsbike it is a sofa. Reliability is generally OK but there are some common issues, early bikes could leak oil from head or balancer shaft area, discs warp repeatedly, the Kawasaki ones are awful and can go in as little as 3,000 miles, I am on third set in under 10k - once warranty is up replace with aftermarket items. Top fairings can crack around screws where lowers meet up as screws are so close the edge, look out if buying and be very careful when removing / refitting panels. Tanks can rust under the seat, keep clean / dry and apply something to protect them. I have been abroad quite a bit two-up with luggage, with the lowdown power sorted it was very good but suspension struggled first time on the roads of the Pyrenees, especially when loaded. Second Euro-trip involved reworked suspension and the handling was excellent, bends could be enjoyed even with two people and full (hard Luggage) Stable wallow free handling with stacks of feedback - perfect. Generally a very good bike let down a bit by a few niggles, but they are very easy to sort and can be massively improved quite cheaply making early ones a bargain. Running costs are HUGE, Service every 3750 miles, minors are about £200 and Majors (every other) over £300 at stealerships. OE tyres are poor, fronts feel vague and many owners get well under 2,000 miles from rear, I shredded two in under 3,000 steady (ish) mainly touring miles. Better rubber will see 3-6k depending on "Style", Roadsmarts and BT-021's are popular as all round tyres. loads more info on www.zx14r.co.uk

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 2 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
5 out of 5 Try a test ride
02 October 2009 by nailitdotcom

A great bike- smooth and with heaps of torque, great stability, easy to read at a glance uncluttered instruments and good views from mirrors (although everything in them soon becomes a micro dot!). ps Keep an eye out for what's up in the sky in North Wales- it's not the clouds I'm talking about!!!!!!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 zzr14 08
24 June 2009 by Nickzrx

i bought mine in march and have done 3700 miles of biking heaven,a truly awesome bike nice and docile round town if you want it to be but just crack the throttle open and mayhem breaks loose without a doubt the best bike i have ever owned

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Overheating and recall?
03 June 2009 by nicolitov

Hei, guys, I like the bike, I did not ride it until now and I ride only in the summer mostly at around 30'C, I heard about overheating problems for the ZX14 and also that it is a recall about a very dangerous situation with the frame. Are your bikes overheating and has someone had problems with the recall? Thanks

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 I have reached the mountain top
16 February 2009 by bustedwheel

Had my zx14 for 6 months now and clocked up 18700km so far and my only real gripe is the paint work, i brought the limited edition with "the special paint job" and let me tell you it's not so special , marks very easly and almost impossible to keep clean, im going to get it repainted. Other than the paintwork the bike is fantastic, grunt like no other bike i've had including my 1999 busa and so much smoother. My running in method is somewhat controversial... i just ride it like i stole it .... redlined it right from the word go and considered it runin after 30mins. So far its not missed a beat and runs so strong its really easy to get into strife even in first gear... anymore tickets and my licence is toast so i have to pull my horns in. Tis the perfect tourer and i just completed a 4000km tour 2 days before xmas 2008 and it performed flawlessly . In fact i love it for its comfort, handling and power. If you get one of these beasts be prepared to shell out lotsa bux for tyres and gas as neither last long if you use this beast to its potential... it loves to be hammered, and for those of you that have never tryed it the rev limiter kicks in about 12k revs. Yes I love this beast and have a feeling we will be firm friends for many years, would i recommend this bike .... well yes if you have at least 10 yrs of big bike experience under your belt, if your straight off a 250cc and feel you have the measure of this beast you had better think again, put ur pecker back in ur pants and live to play with it another day. Cheers from NZ

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 As far from a ZZR1200 as you can get
02 October 2008 by sepulchre

I recently purchased the big Zed 14 after having a very pleasant time with an older ZZR1200 which covered a good many miles and a trip to the Nurburgring, I was expecting much the same kind of machine but found I was in for a bit of a surprise. Firstly I noticed the size of the ZZR1400 was actually smaller than the 12, it had a much sportier attitude and felt considerably lighter - This is good. Once I had become familiar to the new 14 the improvements began to become very noticeable. In true big boys toys fashion I fitted a power commander, removed the secondary flies and fitted a set of Yoshimura Cans, My ZZR14 was now personalised the way I like it. Braking is nothing short of astonishing, my old 12 use to anchor up quick enough but the new ZZR14's vented petal discs up front and rear rip speed off so easily and with alarming agreesion if you squeeze that brake really hard, This a very major plus - as this bike travels quickly with the minimum of effort. The suspension is leaps and bounds ahead of the old ZZR12, it never feels vague in cornering and behaves far better than it should, getting the pegs on the floor can be done without any drama. Comfort is another big plus, My old 12 use have me zinging and tingling after a few hours in the saddle, but the 14 is way more comfortable and although the bike feels smaller there feels like you have more room to move around. The futuristic lighting on the front works fantastically, in fact I would go as far as saying that NO other bike lights up the road at night as well as the ZZR14. Then comes the power, which is why you probably thinking of buying one, it is just staggering, open the throttle in an gear and the bike surges forward effortlessly, red line it and your in for a serious white knuckle ride, it accelerates so fast and hard that the first few times you let rip you mentaly cant take all of the data in, you have to re-develop you gear changing technique as releasing the grip on your clutch hand makes it very difficult to hold on to the bike under warp acceleration. Dont get me wrong the bikes not perfect and has it's niggles, like a digital speedo would have been better, paint work on the front mud guard seems not to be very durable, one thing you need to take into serious consideration if your thinking of buying one of these bikes is the tyres - The worst mileage i ever managed to get from a brand new rear tyre was 700 miles before it was totaly goosed

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 great bike
22 July 2008 by abbots

i have done 12600 miles on my 14 in all weathers,uk and europe it does it all with ease,solo or two up, servicing is not to bad and i have been putting avon storms on it which are very good and last a lot longer than the bt014. and its quick

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 Review with a diference.
07 May 2008 by

Before I start let's get one thing clear before people start crusifying me. I really do like this bike its just I'm going to start with the negatives first and finish with the positives as everyone goes on about how great this bike is (and it is mind), but I think you should know about some negatives. (even though it is only a few). That engine is awesome, above 6000rpm its off like a banshee on Hyperdive, however what happened to all that low down grunt, this is a 1400cc bike afterall. Below 5000rpm its like a 600cc bike, no go at all. God forbid get it in the wrong gear around 4000rpm and crack that throttle hoping it will take off and your in for a shock, you will have to bang this bike down a gear to get round that arctic wagon. Luckily the man I bought mine from fitted it with a centre stand but why don't they come as standard? After all this is a bike worth £9500 new. I also do like a bike with a bit of underseat storage but this bike has none (and I mean none), unless you remove the tool kit and it has space for, well a small tool kit. I also have to say 40mpg? hmm, maybe on a run, but more like 30mpg in town and giving it a handful when you get chance, must be my riding, but isn't that why you bought this bike? Lastly though, if you cant watch your speed, this is not the bike for you, think your just cruising at 70mph? guess again I bet it's 85-90mph more like. Overtake that car thats only chugging along and if your not careful you will be 15-20mph over the limit in a split second. This bike is seriously fast but so smooth with it. I have heard people say to me I'll lose my licence and I have replied "yeah right, a bike is only as fast as you twist the throttle", but this one makes me think "check your speed" many times over. Right thats all the negatives out of the way here comes the positives. Super smooth engine and as everyone including me has said WOW this is seriously fast and a buzz with it, ever done the "WHOH-HOO" under your lid and grinned like a Cheshire cat, if not have a go on one of these. Secondly the brakes are just superb but not dangerous, for such a big bike you may just kick that back wheel off the ground without thinking or even trying, there that good. Handling and ride for such a big bike is also good, yes its heavy pushing it round in the back yard but just get it above 2mph and its like a 600. Yes maybe a quick left to right bend takes a bit more work and it will never flick like your last 600RR but its pretty good for a big bike and as its a big bike it handles those pot holes, man hole covers, rubbish tarmac far better than your flighty sports bikes. That is a good thing in my book with Britains ever increasinglly bad roads, but thats another subject. It has plenty of usefull stuff on the digital panel, comfy riding position. Its one of those postions that you think I bet after 200 miles I'll be uncomfy but then for some reason your not, (Im 6ft 1" tall by the way). Overall I really like this bike, but I wouldn't say love it, its just bikes these days are just so good I think they lose a bit of character, anyone remember the original 1200 bandit? great engine but spongy suspension, but didn't that give it character? (might just be me on that one). This bike does deliver some of that back though. Anyway enough Jackanory, go have a ride yourself and see what you think. Ride Safe.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Superb Bike
22 April 2008 by NICK ROSSIT

After months of thinking about it, finally went for the '08 ZZR14. Absolutely no regrets, this is one awesome machine! As a real world, road bike it's just about perfect. The riding position is spot on, with no aching wrists or sore shoulders. Power delivery is smooth as you like and the brakes are phenomenal. Apart from the motor the thing that impresses most is the quality of the ride, this thing has top drawer suspension components that give a superb magic carpet ride that feels sorted whether attacking bends or doing mundane stuff. Handling is both flickable and planted in the bends. Love the trick digital read out. Everywhere it goes it gets attention. Will replace the exhaust with a Yoshi 4-2-1 system when I've got a spare £1k knocking about ;-). Off to Europe this summer to take on France, Italy and Spain with friends on BMW K1200Ss, I just know the ZZR is the bike of choice for a trip like that. Top marks!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 ZZR14 Nirvana
02 February 2008 by Zango

Been charging around on the 14 for 4 weeks now since trading my zzr12. Can't believe the difference...sharper, lighter, flickable, focused and much much quicker. Thank you Mr Kawasaki, I'm in Heaven!!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 oh lordy that engine :oD
18 October 2007 by otternotbeaver

Everything said before is right (except the stone-chip sufferer - sounds like a warranty job cos I've had none after 4000 miles). Replaced the screen on mine with a Puig double bubble and the pipes with an imported Tsukigi full system - lurvely! Also, and this is crucial, you MUST do the 'flies out' mod (removal of secondary butterflies). It's dead easy and it puts back all the power and torque below 6000rpm that mama kawasaki dialled out because she didn't think you'd be safe with it. Woohoo! You need a power commander with this mod but you'll need it for the new zorst anyway. Flies out, Tsukigi and pc have together added just short of 20bhp. The front goes airborne in 4th now as well as 1, 2 and 3. Handling was a bit soft to begin with (factory set-up optimised for lightweight riders) but firming up the preload and compression at both ends has sharpened things up nicely.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 WOW
29 September 2007 by dazzlerdaz

This is it !!!!!!! Far more sexy than the jelly mould Busa and when you twist the throttle you better have arms of steel cos this baby will rip them clean off ! WHAT A BIKE !

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 A different world
09 September 2007 by

Blinding acceleration at moderate revs, utterly ballistic if you use all the revs. It's the unabated acceleration at very high speed that makes the ZZR special. Crack open the throttle at 150mph in 5th and it still threatens to rip your arms from their sockets. Keep going and it remains totally stable and confidence-inspiring all the way. The bonuses are low speed docility, long-distance comfort / ride quality, beautiful build, crowd-pulling looks, comprehensive instrumentation and superb lights. It's also excellent through the twisties, though not quite as flickable as, say, a ZX10R. The standard screen is for tucking behind - if you want high speed wind protection while upright, especially if you're 6ft+ like me, get a proper tourer instead. The only downsides I can think of are running costs - fuel consumption (if you use it to the full), tyres and insurance. But if you want a missile that uses a completely different scale of speed from anything else on the road, the ZZR is king.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 zzr1400
12 July 2007 by ninja12

Paintwork poor, millions of stone chips only 2500 miles! rubbing off tank sides Makes loud clunk when put in 1st (clutch drag??) but what an engine!! Handles well for a big bike too

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 The best
05 July 2007 by ib12

It's magic

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Amazing
24 May 2007 by skycat

After a painful and long wait we got our first at the end of May last year. Fantastic handling and styling. After its first service it was decided to fit Yoshi cans and a power commander to smooth out the power delivery, losing that no grunt below 5000revs. Also fitted a double screen reducing that uncomfortable wind blast. Overall fantastic and great for touring, comfortable for rider and pillion. Though only side panniers are available from Givi. Managed to fit Meta alarm, intercom and scottoiler. Now bought a second ZZR14, only because bloke prefer it in the dark blue (not the candy blue)madness. Lol.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
3 out of 5 Bronze Badge test
10 April 2007 by afua1

This is a test

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 3 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
5 out of 5 One word, awesome
26 March 2007 by JB99

This bike replaced my GSX-R750 K4, and the only concern I had was that it would feel big and heavy. There was no need to worry. You can feel the weight when wheeling it around, but it doesn't feel heavy when riding, and the weight gives it a planted feel. The bike is amazingly agile, it handles well, is rock steady, and is easy to ride fast. It is unbelievably fast, to the extent my brother's ZX-9R actually feels slow! Get it over 6000rpm though, and the acceleration is mind blowing. It’s comfortable too. I’ve done 5 hours in the saddle, without a single ache or pain. Here we have a real continent crossing blend of performance and comfort, which will also be happy doing a few laps of your favorite race tracks along the way. If I had to find something negative to say, it would be that there's a relative lack of grunt below 4500-5000 revs. Even this though can be a positive thing, since it means this 200hp motorbike can be extremely docile and easy to cope with for less experienced riders. The only other minor gripe is the lack of under seat storage, but this is not a major problem for me. I’ve managed to fit my Autocom under there without having to lose the tool kit, and I can carry my two way radio for bike-to-bike communication. Anyone who has any doubts whether to buy one of these bikes has no need to worry, just go for it. In case you hadn’t noticed, I love this bike, and it’s definitely the best I’ve owned in 11 years of biking. Has to be the best real-world all rounder you can buy.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 One word, awesome
26 March 2007 by JB99

This bike replaced my GSX-R750 K4, and the only concern I had was that it would feel big and heavy. There was no need to worry. You can feel the weight when wheeling it around, but it doesn't feel heavy when riding, and the weight gives it a planted feel. The bike is amazingly agile, it handles well, is rock steady, and is easy to ride fast. It is unbelievably fast, to the extent my brother's ZX-9R actually feels slow! Get it over 6000rpm though, and the acceleration is mind blowing. It’s comfortable too. I’ve done 5 hours in the saddle, without a single ache or pain. Here we have a real continent crossing blend of performance and comfort, which will also be happy doing a few laps of your favorite race tracks along the way. If I had to find something negative to say, it would be that there's a relative lack of grunt below 4500-5000 revs. Even this though can be a positive thing, since it means this 200hp motorbike can be extremely docile and easy to cope with for less experienced riders. The only other minor gripe is the lack of under seat storage, but this is not a major problem for me. I’ve managed to fit my Autocom under there without having to lose the tool kit, and I can carry my two way radio for bike-to-bike communication. Anyone who has any doubts whether to buy one of these bikes has no need to worry, just go for it. In case you hadn’t noticed, I love this bike, and it’s definitely the best I’ve owned in 11 years of biking. Has to be the best real-world all rounder you can buy

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 What a wopper
20 March 2007 by lachmand

This thing is slipperier than an eel along the bendiest A roads. I picked one up on Wednesday and it was ready to be serviced by next Monday with the sweetest 600+ miles I've ever done on a bike. It's now beginning to purr like a cat and move at the speed of thought. I always carry a change of pants now..

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Difficult to obtain new or used, eventually managed to find a pre-registered Kawasaki dealer bike.
28 October 2006 by g18wal

Absolutely sublime, had almost 70 motorcycles in my 22 year biking history and never ridden anything this good. Lovely to look at in pearl meteor grey, double bubble fitted, rear hugger, OE 3 piece tank pad and Datatool system 4 alarm/immobiliser. Superb speed, smoothness, comfort and brakes, a truly incredible motorcycle that must be tried to be appreciated. Strengths: Looks, speed, brakes, comfort, build quality - everything you could want in a modern motorcycle and astonishing value for money. Weaknesses: Except for tool kit holder - no underseat storage at all really.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Had a hard time finding one, But Claycross in Chesterfield, came up with the goods Many Thanks
29 August 2006 by blaster1

A stunner to look at, very comfy seat for me and wifey, seems a little tame at first during running in , but the brief time I had after that WOW its a Gem, Just had 3 Gixer 1000's so aint been riding slow, but this bike wakes up and moves, well worth being the proud owner of a spanker. Strengths:  Solid build, light even though the intial look you think Heavy, Well built fast enough for a pilot, wind noise takes some getting used too at the front grill anyone else get that? Weaknesses: Only the underseat space, as everyone else has mentioned for a touring sports, poor!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Only a week old but I love it.
11 August 2006 by scoster

When I first saw it I was amazed how long and low it was and I must say I thought it wouldnt handle. To my surprise it is so light and nimble easily a match for my old R1. Who says you cant do a track day on this bike! Rock steady in corners for those who dont like the flighty bikes. Currently 150 miles on the clock so I dont know what lies about 5k RPM. Yes there isnt much below that but it makes the top end all the more of a rush. Cruise or Warp drive. I like the choice as I am not always up for it. Minor niggle is my alarm has upset the clock so it resets every time the ignition is off/on. Dealer to sort hopefully. Comfort is very good for me (6ft 2) and screen doesnt obscure the clocks like on most bikes. Titanic fairing gives good weather cover and a hot engine keeps legs warm. Hopefully this will be great for winter use. A great site for owners www.zx14.net. Strengths: Looks, Comfort, Handling, Speed. Weaknesses: No underseat storage. Can't fault it otherwise.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Just bought the bike, fantastic so far. Guaranteed to get looked at as not many around.
20 July 2006 by blacklthrbiker

I bought the bike just under a week ago, after spending about 6 weeks trying to find one, being let down by a dealer who was telling customers he could get one, when in fact they knew they couldn't. Ended up by chance going to Rossendale Kawasaki, Tim was fantastic and made the purchase a dream. I've done 300 miles on it within the past week and it is amazing. From starting it up watching both rev and speedo dials flick round and the Kawasaki logo appearing on the information screen to setting off, this bike is excellent. My old bike was a blackbird, the zzr is far, far better in terms of quality, performance and comfort. I'm in the 'running in' period, so no chance as yet to find the bikes true performance but as I pass 3100revs the bike suddenly unleashes some performance, similiar to a VTEC engine in a honda. Lighter than the honda and no fairing around the knee area is a bit strange but means no scuffs to paintwork. Strengths: Looks are fantastic, seat is excellent find this much better than the honda, quality of the bike is excellent, performance so far excellent, wind resistance excellent, engine noise above 3000revs has a nice deep throaty sound.  Weaknesses:  Lower arms and wrists ache after a few miles, bars seem lower than the Honda. Underseat storage, if you have a few single matches or a single cig to carry then its ideal otherwise don't bother.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Arrived last week...AWESOME
19 July 2006 by StevieHerd

Bike arrived last Thursday, I clocked up 500 miles in two days, so back to the dealer to beg he does its first service. That done, I can now give it some.... Brilliant bike, its more like a 600... so light, Its stable as hell at any speed, gear changes are smooth as silk, Its rocket thrust appears at around 6000RPM. I'm gonna have an incredibe summer on this thing, and to think I nearly bought one of those moped hyabusa things. Definatly no regrets. Strengths: Stability at very high speed, acelleration is awsome, handles like a much smaller bike, very comfortable over long distanc, even for the pillion. Weaknesses: Underseat storage is limited to one ciggarette and a match.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Everything I have read seems about right so far! The first bike I have bought without riding it!
26 May 2006 by AndyBacon

Thankfully Im still running it in...only 100 miles so far! After the Blackbird it feels like a 600 - its lighter and far more nimble, but shares all the same smoothness. Power does feel a bit too tamed at the bottom end but I doubt if it will bother me after a while...you just feel a bit cheated! Minor gripes would be that the fancy digital display gives the useless info - since when did we need average/inst fuel consumption??? This is obviously for the Yanks. Id prefer actual speed, average speed, ambient temp etc. The fuel range is handy though. Strengths: I used to think Honda built the best quality bikes - this is proving me wrong. Weaknesses: There is absolutely zero underseat space - so where is the autocom going to go Mr Kwak? This is because half the tank is under the rider for better centre of gravity I guess... Its hardly a weakness though.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Hang on
22 May 2006 by flyingdutchman

I am now at 800km and the second stage of breaking in. So far this is an incredible machine, Hayabusa will only see your tail lights, its that fast. I have driven both. Smooth and solid even at 50km gusts of wind, it realy stays on line. It is unbelievable how the zx14(canada) can be so nimble taking corners, not quite as easy as the zx10R, but still supprizing. Strengths: Great sport bike and for a long distance trek. Solid ride in all types of weather, bridgestones are great. Torque there's no lack of that, after 5,000RPM hang on. Riding position is just right, plenty of leg room and almost no pressure on the wrist. Its friggen fast, and will make you giggle like a school girl passing others at.... whatever speed. Weaknesses: The only weakness I see is the wind blast, I think that maybe a double bubble wind screen may solve this problem.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
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