The ZX14R is the perfect middle aged, seasoned sport bike rider's bike. Comfortable enough to tour/cruise on, but powerful enough to spank virtually anything else on the road on demand. KING OF THE ROAD.
I'm currently on my second 2016 ZX14R. I've travelled with mine, ridden it politely in traffic, pushed with the boys, tested the whole speedometer, occasionally took it to work, and even won several gymkhana skill challenges. You can happily cruise all day at +180km/h from one country to another with luggage on the back while carving twisties in comfort. The ZX14R is for the more experienced rider that doesn't care for all these new electronic gimmicks. It can be as gentle or as aggressive as you want it to be. If I had all the money in the world and there was only one bike I'm allowed to own for the rest of my life, this would be it. Definitely get one while you can. They don't make them like that anymore.
This is my second one too I had a 2015 and now I just bought a 2024 . I absolutely love this bike I’ve had it 6 maybe 8 weeks and already put 1500 miles on it lol
I'm in the Southeast USA, and I started riding on a ZX-14R 4 years ago. It's been ridden almost daily, and has proven to be one of the smoothest, most powerful, and most enjoyable motorcycle I have ridden, and I have ridden literally over a hundred different motorcycles in those 4 years. The learning curve was a voluntarily long one, as I wanted to acclimate to the bike's power, torque, and handling dynamics. I have been able to almost keep up with the 600's, 750's, and 1,000's on the curvy roads in my area. I get more adept with each ride, and I almost never am without a big smile when I put it up for the night. It's my first love, and it's already been decided that this bike will never leave my stable. I get decent enough gas mileage to commute it anywhere I may want to go, and comfortable enough to ride across multiple states. I've covered over 950 miles in a single day, though I will say that I may not want to do that again, unless I have a STRONG urge to do so, as it's quite physically taxing. Cheers, and I'm glad to have a fellow Big Monster rider across the pond.
From my observations most owners are generally around 40 ish or older. I think you have to be a bit of an automotive enthusiast to want one of these because its the pinnacle of brute force.
Mine scares the hell outta me every time I ride it. It's far, far too fast for the road. I always wanted a fast bike but this is too much of a good thing. I find myself doing 90 in a 30 and didn't even realise how it happened. It proper gets the magnets on, grabs the horizon, count to 3 and you're there. I wouldn't swap it for any other bike on the road. What shocked me yesterday is just winding on the torque, I never went above 5,000rpm and the butterflies don't open until 6k. Amazing machine. Hope it doesn't kill me lol.
I have a 2010 ZZR1400 arriving this Saturday ( can’t wait). I’m 54 years old and after having sports bikes all my life I have gone for a little more comfort and not purely track focused. I still have a GSXR for track days and quick blasts
a lot of us older dudes grew up riding the big top 1000's that used to weigh in the 500lb range, so the zx14's 500 and some lb's seem normal to us, lol
You touched on many great points that I always tell people when they ask about my ZZR. I always have said that it went against EVERYTHING that was said online about it. It doesn't want to race everything, it doesn't want to rip your arms off!! She's a gentle beast that deserves respect and care. I went through the same jump as you and went from an ER6 to a zzr1400. I found the jump very easy and I'm glad I did, long distance is a breeze with her and the power is there if you need to get out of a sticky situation. I was never intimidated by the size or the power, all I saw was a bike that felt like it was made for me. The main advice I'd give people is to leave your ego at home! YES, you can win in a race everytime. YES, you can go 190mph. Doesn't mean you have to prove it. It's a beautiful machine that will kill you if your not careful. It's a Magnet for boy racers and police. Be smart, and she'll treat you right. Careful my two Wheeled friends, she packs a hell of a bite if she's mistreated ;)
I went from XSR125 CBT July 23 to ZZR 2018 PS Feb 24 Absolutely awesome machine Love it and anyone can ride any bike as long as you control your right wrist and keep your wits about you
I’m on my second ZX14R, it’s a 2022. My 2019 was stolen. You’re absolutely correct in your assessment of this bike. It’s not for beginners, it’s comfortable and it’s stupid fast. Also, it’s a beautiful, reliable fun machine.
My new motorcycle, I could not think of something that fits me better. I absolutly LOVE it. Maybe a bit more leg room would be nice, but the handling, ergonomics, comfort, power, looks, all perfect. Certain things that you may not even ever think about, that make it better than other options. Something like the freaky headlights being nearly as good as car headlights (and how other drivers can judge your speed and distance better because its not a single light)
A drag bike you can tour on. Excellent balance of comfort and speed. I'm 75 years old and can't think of anything i like better. Good video. PS: I own a 2021 model 14r.
I passed CBT in November and got a Kawasaki ninja 125 the same as your wife and what a great bike. February I passed my full bike license and Iv purchased a 2017 ZZR 1400. Since having the bike Iv thoroughly enjoyed it and had no problems. I’m a HGV driver and my license is my bread and butter. If you’re sensible and not crazy anyone can enjoy this bike.
my 2008 rocks! lost the rear end a few times .... in the wet but ... that's why it's for the more experienced guys ... wife loves it too 😂 been hitting the mountain roads two up and she enjoys every single ride 😅😅
I've been lurking and binge watching your work. I enjoy your view on everything you talk about! Very logical and methodical approach to the subjects you tackle. Please continue 🙏🏽 , btw you have beautiful bikes 🤩 I never thought I'd consider a litre bike let alone a zzr1400 😆 I have been riding for 2 years on a 2005 Yamaha FZ6, its obvious to say its nowhere near the performance of the zzr1400, but it's the riders approach to a bike which determines their compatibility with it. Tbh I don't think I'd touch a litre+ bike until I have more experiences, but thankyou again for your content! Have a great day 😀
Akrapovic exhaust and Ohlins suspension? Dayemn, that previous owner Had "The" Bike!! I have had two of these, still have the 2023. The only drawback is trying to get slowed down and go into sharp corners, the liter bikes got a huge advantage in that area. Very comfortable bike and I installed the 1" risers for an even better ride.
I ride a 2013 Passion Red rocket, it's smooth, comfortable and very fast. It is a heavy bike but nimble after you get going. Though in town I use max traction control and braking. It's just that quick. That being said, it's a great bike, a real head turner.
Obviously seems like a great beginner bike All jokes aside tho, I am actually thinking of getting a Ninja 650 or 35kw limited Z900 for my first bike when I am old enough to ride in 3 three years.
I'm saving up for my first bike. I want a 600 or 650 for a longer commute to college, but if I see a zx14 going for cheap im genuinely going for it lol.
Beautiful Bike indeed 😊 I ride a 26yr old 1998 Honda CBR1100XX Blackbird streetfighter and its still worlds fastest Carb production motorcycle in the world' i own it because it was top of the range in its day' extremely reliable, fast as f... and a joy to ride. Your right about riders assuming they can race me, but i dont bother, im like Mmmm sure 😅. The Bird is Legendary accelerating power house and deserves respect and love' shes a gentlemans bike, Hyper tourer bikes were the best and its a shame manufacturers stop building them, Defo bike for the gentlemen and not the over eager or inexperienced rider 😮 anyone can blap the throttle in a straight line or short road but its a skill to move and mantain constant speed such a big bike at 60mph.
I'd went to checkout this ZZR1400 (known as the ZX-14R in the Malaysian market) prior to purchasing the 3rd Gen Busa. I can honestly say that the ZX-14 is relatively bigger in all dimensions with respect to the Busa. I'd felt really stretched out upon sitting in the cockpit. Basically, from my humble point of view, the rider's physical stature is a factor too in the selection of this sort of bike. I've always had a softspot for the ZX-14 hehe
As far as just share fun for you what's more fun to ride the zx1400 or The Supercharged Kawasaki you have because the 2025 Kawasaki ZX 1400 in the USA love the color scheme red was thinking about purchasing it as a hooligan bike. And what about Comfort how do they compare
I rather have my Honda Blackbird and save a lot of money I'm not keen on kawasaki bikes at all 2 people I know have had major problems with build quality on them.i been riding cbr600s since I was 19 years of age I only got my blackbird last year and it's a massive step up from my cbr 600. But I feel very much at home in her just feels like a bigger cbr 600. I don't have any electronic toys on the blackbird and I absolutely love that and it was awesome to ride the nc 500 in soctland last year.
I been riding for 16 years and have owned over 6 Kawasaki and I currently own a zh2. Had a ZX-14R but I was involved in a wreck. I have had zero issues with all of them.
XX Super Blackbird is a really sweet bike, wanted one for a long time, hard to find around here. Picked up a ‘02 FZ1, has an absolute gem of a engine, runs cool in our blazing Arizona heat too.
I am not sure if you have had a chance to ride a newer model that comes with the rear Uni-Trak suspension and not Ohlins. How does the 'Bottom-link Uni-Trak and gas-charged shock' compare against the Ohlins TTX39 Suspension.
I would love to have one - it’s near/at the top of my list. I’m an experienced daily rider. But I’m an “old guy”🤣 so the 14r is almost perfect for me. It’s big and comfy but really fast. I do a lot upper speed highway riding. If anyone wants to get me one let me know 😜
I rode a zzr1100 til i got hit bij a car. Now i have the zzr1400 and i think its less intimidating than the 1100. More because of the handeling. The zzr1100 is less foregiving in the corners.
I don't find it intimidating and I'm not what I would call a great rider. The bike is happy pottering around easy to ride. Common sense, you will be fine.
I'd say that if you are not a sensible person you should not be on a motorcycle.... If people love the Hayabusa so much, then this is the same can of worms.......a devastatingly fast bike that can kill you in less than 2.5 seconds :)).... But I had the chance to ride one, and I tried to ride slow, but when it was reasonably oks, it always went epicly fast..... You can't ride slow if you love to go fast, (but you should).....
The ZX14R is the perfect middle aged, seasoned sport bike rider's bike.
Comfortable enough to tour/cruise on, but powerful enough to spank virtually anything else on the road on demand.
KING OF THE ROAD.
I'm currently on my second 2016 ZX14R. I've travelled with mine, ridden it politely in traffic, pushed with the boys, tested the whole speedometer, occasionally took it to work, and even won several gymkhana skill challenges. You can happily cruise all day at +180km/h from one country to another with luggage on the back while carving twisties in comfort. The ZX14R is for the more experienced rider that doesn't care for all these new electronic gimmicks. It can be as gentle or as aggressive as you want it to be. If I had all the money in the world and there was only one bike I'm allowed to own for the rest of my life, this would be it. Definitely get one while you can. They don't make them like that anymore.
This is my second one too I had a 2015 and now I just bought a 2024 . I absolutely love this bike I’ve had it 6 maybe 8 weeks and already put 1500 miles on it lol
I'm in the Southeast USA, and I started riding on a ZX-14R 4 years ago. It's been ridden almost daily, and has proven to be one of the smoothest, most powerful, and most enjoyable motorcycle I have ridden, and I have ridden literally over a hundred different motorcycles in those 4 years. The learning curve was a voluntarily long one, as I wanted to acclimate to the bike's power, torque, and handling dynamics. I have been able to almost keep up with the 600's, 750's, and 1,000's on the curvy roads in my area. I get more adept with each ride, and I almost never am without a big smile when I put it up for the night. It's my first love, and it's already been decided that this bike will never leave my stable. I get decent enough gas mileage to commute it anywhere I may want to go, and comfortable enough to ride across multiple states. I've covered over 950 miles in a single day, though I will say that I may not want to do that again, unless I have a STRONG urge to do so, as it's quite physically taxing. Cheers, and I'm glad to have a fellow Big Monster rider across the pond.
After hearing it’s got like TWICE the amount of torque my FZ1 puts out…good Lord😬
Ride a poor man's ZX12R at 72 years young, both amazing bikes, keeps you young, that awesome acceleration is so addictive.
"this ST hasn't got anything on this bike" that feeling captured in the audiovisual format deserves subscription
From my observations most owners are generally around 40 ish or older. I think you have to be a bit of an automotive enthusiast to want one of these because its the pinnacle of brute force.
Mine scares the hell outta me every time I ride it. It's far, far too fast for the road. I always wanted a fast bike but this is too much of a good thing. I find myself doing 90 in a 30 and didn't even realise how it happened. It proper gets the magnets on, grabs the horizon, count to 3 and you're there. I wouldn't swap it for any other bike on the road. What shocked me yesterday is just winding on the torque, I never went above 5,000rpm and the butterflies don't open until 6k. Amazing machine. Hope it doesn't kill me lol.
I have a 2010 ZZR1400 arriving this Saturday ( can’t wait). I’m 54 years old and after having sports bikes all my life I have gone for a little more comfort and not purely track focused. I still have a GSXR for track days and quick blasts
looks good in grey....
Who Is The Kawasaki ZX-14R Really For?.....ME! retired Drag racer ...there you go!
a lot of us older dudes grew up riding the big top 1000's that used to weigh in the 500lb range, so the zx14's 500 and some lb's seem normal to us, lol
You touched on many great points that I always tell people when they ask about my ZZR. I always have said that it went against EVERYTHING that was said online about it. It doesn't want to race everything, it doesn't want to rip your arms off!! She's a gentle beast that deserves respect and care. I went through the same jump as you and went from an ER6 to a zzr1400. I found the jump very easy and I'm glad I did, long distance is a breeze with her and the power is there if you need to get out of a sticky situation. I was never intimidated by the size or the power, all I saw was a bike that felt like it was made for me. The main advice I'd give people is to leave your ego at home! YES, you can win in a race everytime. YES, you can go 190mph. Doesn't mean you have to prove it. It's a beautiful machine that will kill you if your not careful. It's a Magnet for boy racers and police. Be smart, and she'll treat you right. Careful my two Wheeled friends, she packs a hell of a bite if she's mistreated ;)
I know it’s been months but Dude. This exactly. Went from a ZX6R to chonko. ❤
ZX14R is gonna be my next bike!!!!
I bought a 2008 Special Edition that was modded. She’s a rocket couch.
I think the ZZR1400 will be my next bike once my ZZR1100 goes. Won't be for a while yet though.
I went from XSR125 CBT July 23 to ZZR 2018 PS Feb 24
Absolutely awesome machine
Love it and anyone can ride any bike as long as you control your right wrist and keep your wits about you
I’m on my second ZX14R, it’s a 2022. My 2019 was stolen. You’re absolutely correct in your assessment of this bike. It’s not for beginners, it’s comfortable and it’s stupid fast. Also, it’s a beautiful, reliable fun machine.
My new motorcycle, I could not think of something that fits me better. I absolutly LOVE it.
Maybe a bit more leg room would be nice, but the handling, ergonomics, comfort, power, looks, all perfect.
Certain things that you may not even ever think about, that make it better than other options. Something like the freaky headlights being nearly as good as car headlights (and how other drivers can judge your speed and distance better because its not a single light)
I own this bike and think it’s easier to ride than my old Harley. Super comfy, very maneuverable.
What ‘old Harley’?
Down the line I hope to own one of these. It has to be green like yours also. Beautiful looking bike.
A drag bike you can tour on. Excellent balance of comfort and speed. I'm 75 years old and can't think of anything i like better. Good video. PS: I own a 2021 model 14r.
I passed CBT in November and got a Kawasaki ninja 125 the same as your wife and what a great bike. February I passed my full bike license and Iv purchased a 2017 ZZR 1400. Since having the bike Iv thoroughly enjoyed it and had no problems. I’m a HGV driver and my license is my bread and butter.
If you’re sensible and not crazy anyone can enjoy this bike.
24+ years riding. Im 40 now and about ready to get the ZX14R.
my 2008 rocks!
lost the rear end a few times .... in the wet but ... that's why it's for the more experienced guys ...
wife loves it too 😂
been hitting the mountain roads two up and she enjoys every single ride 😅😅
Recommend for experienced riders! I'm on a cagiva navigator 1000 and that's more than enough for me😂
Beautiful bike
I love my 14. What mic are you using? Audio is great.
I've been lurking and binge watching your work. I enjoy your view on everything you talk about! Very logical and methodical approach to the subjects you tackle.
Please continue 🙏🏽 , btw you have beautiful bikes 🤩
I never thought I'd consider a litre bike let alone a zzr1400 😆
I have been riding for 2 years on a 2005 Yamaha FZ6, its obvious to say its nowhere near the performance of the zzr1400, but it's the riders approach to a bike which determines their compatibility with it.
Tbh I don't think I'd touch a litre+ bike until I have more experiences, but thankyou again for your content!
Have a great day 😀
Akrapovic exhaust and Ohlins suspension? Dayemn, that previous owner Had "The" Bike!! I have had two of these, still have the 2023. The only drawback is trying to get slowed down and go into sharp corners, the liter bikes got a huge advantage in that area.
Very comfortable bike and I installed the 1" risers for an even better ride.
I ride a 2013 Passion Red rocket, it's smooth, comfortable and very fast.
It is a heavy bike but nimble after you get going.
Though in town I use max traction control and braking. It's just that quick.
That being said, it's a great bike, a real head turner.
I'm currently doing my mod 2, I've gone from a Aprilia RS4 125 to a ZX6R, Once im done with the 6R i'll deffos be looking at these
Obviously seems like a great beginner bike
All jokes aside tho, I am actually thinking of getting a Ninja 650 or 35kw limited Z900 for my first bike when I am old enough to ride in 3 three years.
I'm saving up for my first bike. I want a 600 or 650 for a longer commute to college, but if I see a zx14 going for cheap im genuinely going for it lol.
Beautiful Bike indeed 😊 I ride a 26yr old 1998 Honda CBR1100XX Blackbird streetfighter and its still worlds fastest Carb production motorcycle in the world' i own it because it was top of the range in its day' extremely reliable, fast as f... and a joy to ride. Your right about riders assuming they can race me, but i dont bother, im like Mmmm sure 😅. The Bird is Legendary accelerating power house and deserves respect and love' shes a gentlemans bike, Hyper tourer bikes were the best and its a shame manufacturers stop building them, Defo bike for the gentlemen and not the over eager or inexperienced rider 😮 anyone can blap the throttle in a straight line or short road but its a skill to move and mantain constant speed such a big bike at 60mph.
Err didn't the hayabusa dethrone blackbird in 1999 that had carburetors 😊
I'd went to checkout this ZZR1400 (known as the ZX-14R in the Malaysian market) prior to purchasing the 3rd Gen Busa. I can honestly say that the ZX-14 is relatively bigger in all dimensions with respect to the Busa. I'd felt really stretched out upon sitting in the cockpit. Basically, from my humble point of view, the rider's physical stature is a factor too in the selection of this sort of bike. I've always had a softspot for the ZX-14 hehe
As far as just share fun for you what's more fun to ride the zx1400 or The Supercharged Kawasaki you have because the 2025 Kawasaki ZX 1400 in the USA love the color scheme red was thinking about purchasing it as a hooligan bike. And what about Comfort how do they compare
I rather have my Honda Blackbird and save a lot of money I'm not keen on kawasaki bikes at all 2 people I know have had major problems with build quality on them.i been riding cbr600s since I was 19 years of age I only got my blackbird last year and it's a massive step up from my cbr 600. But I feel very much at home in her just feels like a bigger cbr 600. I don't have any electronic toys on the blackbird and I absolutely love that and it was awesome to ride the nc 500 in soctland last year.
I been riding for 16 years and have owned over 6 Kawasaki and I currently own a zh2. Had a ZX-14R but I was involved in a wreck. I have had zero issues with all of them.
XX Super Blackbird is a really sweet bike, wanted one for a long time, hard to find around here. Picked up a ‘02 FZ1, has an absolute gem of a engine, runs cool in our blazing Arizona heat too.
I am not sure if you have had a chance to ride a newer model that comes with the rear Uni-Trak suspension and not Ohlins. How does the 'Bottom-link Uni-Trak and gas-charged shock' compare against the Ohlins TTX39 Suspension.
Less than 10... Exactly!!
I would love to have one - it’s near/at the top of my list. I’m an experienced daily rider. But I’m an “old guy”🤣 so the 14r is almost perfect for me. It’s big and comfy but really fast. I do a lot upper speed highway riding. If anyone wants to get me one let me know 😜
I just said a video that said they were twitchy on the throttle.
I'd probably be better off with a Blackbird CBR1100xx
I rode a zzr1100 til i got hit bij a car. Now i have the zzr1400 and i think its less intimidating than the 1100. More because of the handeling. The zzr1100 is less foregiving in the corners.
❤ Awesome 👍😎
10:56 Did you loose that screw? What was it?
Want to buy a Honda Valkyrie as my first mc, and add some new bikes later on
coool choice mate I was thinking about getting one they look so cool but, got a Harley instead. now I got me a 06 zx14.
They need to add cruise control
I don't find it intimidating and I'm not what I would call a great rider. The bike is happy pottering around easy to ride. Common sense, you will be fine.
You’re british in britain but calling it a zx14r?
Me
I'd say that if you are not a sensible person you should not be on a motorcycle....
If people love the Hayabusa so much, then this is the same can of worms.......a devastatingly fast bike that can kill you in less than 2.5 seconds :))....
But I had the chance to ride one, and I tried to ride slow, but when it was reasonably oks, it always went epicly fast..... You can't ride slow if you love to go fast, (but you should).....
People who don't know me??🤣😂😂