Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/128398
Bv BLAKE CONNER ot that the Kawasaki ZX-12R was a slouch or anything, but Kawasaki decided that the fastest production bike that we here at Cycle News have ever tested needed an update. The last time we did a full test on the 12R in 2002, it won our shootout while posting a 9.811second quarter-mile time with Larry Laye at the controls. It ran 184.9 mph at our desert topspeed location, which sits at around 2500 feet above sea level, and pumped out 164.7 horsepower and 92. I footpounds of torque on the dyno. Those are still impressive numbers today, but change and improvement is inevitable; 2006 is the year, and the ZX-14 is the bike. The new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 is a I352cc motorcycle that is Kawasaki's most powerful ever, and should set the performance standards for others to follow in the class. Kawasaki engineers and designers have created a motorcycle that turns its Ram-air and fuel-injected engine into a powerful horsepower- and torque-producing monster. To top it off, it has the aerodynamics and chassis to make it an all-around performer. This all-new inline-four motor has evolved from the Ninja ZX-12R and features a bore and stroke of 84 x 61mm packed into a purposefully designed compact package that N minimizes engine width, leaving it at virtually the same width as the 12R's. Kawasaki claims the motor has a seamless spread of torque 48 OCTOBER 5,2005 • CYCLE NEWS that is so linear, the "powerband," per se, ceases to exist. They also claim that above 6000 rpm, it only gets better. The engine uses a secondary balancer to tame unwanted vibrations, and a direct-actuation shift lever is lighter than conventional Iinkagetype setups, offering a more direct feel for the rider. The ZX14's chassis design is every and new Uni-Trak linkage rear suspension to complement the frame, thus offering both controllability at high speeds and road holding for the twisty bits. The engineers and designers sought to combine the utmost elements of today's motorcycle technologies, yet still provide a package that is both approachable and usable. According to Kawasaki, the ZX-14 delivers seamless power, a smooth ride, and friendly ergonomics. Together, these characteristics are manifested in a ride that isn't intimidating, yet still maintains the heart of the rebel so much a part of Kawasaki's brand heritage. Offering a very relaxed sportriding 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. Quadruple projector beam headlights adorn the ZX14's front cowl, with the outer lights containing position lamps and high beams. Low beams are located in the two center lamps. The front and rear turn signals are integrated into the fairing and rear cowl, and the all-new LED tail lamp features a unique "V" design. Wrapped in a choice of Passion Red, Ebony, or Candy Thunder Blue, the new ZX-14 makes blending into the scenery nearly impossible. eN ZX-14 Key Feature§: ~ Instrument cluster with easy-to-read, white-faced dual analogue speedometer and tachometer. bit the equal of its power plant. It is an advanced version of Kawasaki's unique aluminum monocoque frame like the one found on the 12R, lightweight and very strong. This sophisticated approach gives the ZX- 14 responsive handling qualities 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 further increased. With the engine positioned forward in the frame, engineers were able to carefully select the wheelbase and front/rear wheel weight balance to achieve both high-speed stability and responsive handling. The ZX-14 uses an inverted 43mm cartridge fork .~ Shift-indicator light and clutch-engagement light. • ~ Multifunction LCD digital display includes fuel gauge, gear indicator, dual trip meters, odometer, and clock. H Large diameter petal brake discs, radial mount front calipers and a radial pump brake master cylinder for impressive braking performance and superb feel. Hydraulically operated clutch features a radial mount clutch master cylinder for worry-free, silky-smooth clutch operation. Fuel tank features a flush-surface tank cap. Idling speed control system contributes to easy starting capability. Lightweight Dense radiator with high-density cores provides efficient cooling. Massive head pipe casting contributes to frame rigidity. Airbox located In the frame, contributing to a very compact layout. Engine and chassis components designed to maximize mass centralization. Newly designed wheels feature center ribs, which are slightly offset SO that tire balance weights can be located at the wheel centerline.