First time I've seen a ZX14

[shokdimn]

Folks, I just gotta tell ya about something I saw today. Went to Sloan’s to get in on the Demo day rides. Rode a Stratoliner and a Z750S Kawi. But that’s not what got me fired up. As I was getting ready to leave, walking past the front entrance, something in a gorgeous high-gloss black caught my eye. :shades: It was the big Kawi ZX14. WOW. A guy had just finished test riding it. Man that thing was sleek. I sat on it and fired her up. I could just sense the performance and she felt smooth as I brought the R’s up a little. No, I didn’t rider her, but she felt real----gooood! Oh, and by the way, her throttle return tension was jest right. :thumbsupsmiley: Now I’m not trying to go overboard bragging on her. Cause she did have her flaws. In particular her posture was somewhat discomforting and she “ain’t no” FJR. But overall I gotta believe I’d enjoy putting a few miles on her. Just an opinion!

Anybody been on one yet? :questionmark:

 

[twowheelnut]

I will say that this machine is way comfy just sitting on it, but I've not ridden one - yet. I will also say that the thing is one ugly mofo; they swiped the cladding of a 90's something Pontiac and slapped the shit on the sides! Quite the ugly stick treatment, if you ask me.

I eagerly await the arrival of the new Connie that will be based, in part, on this machine. Rumored to be Stateside in '08 - just about the time my Feej will be put out to stud.

 

[shokdimn]

Know what ya mean about that cladding. It really doesn’t add “c l a s s” to the bike. However, as soon as they assign one of those babies to the demo group I’ll have my turn at her! :bike:

Always willing to overlook a little something for a ride that’s possibly “so sweet”.

 

[OrangevaleFJR]

I wonder if Yamaha will have an answer to an 08 Connie that has that 1400 in it.

 

[shokdimn]

Seems like a no brainier doesn’t it Oval? :specool: After all how much would ya have to coax that big 4 to give up another 100 cubic centimeters between the bore and stroke? :read:

 

[OrangevaleFJR]

You would think so, but they used to have an answer to a Goldwing, and they don't have that anymore.

 

[shokdimn]

Copy that, instead of hanging tuff or jumping into deeper the fray they tucked tail and ran (dropped out). But then again so did others. Big K was in that segment too. Seems the wing leap-froged em all in 01.

Maybe they saw the writing on the wall and have chosen not to exit other market segments. For instance cruisers, looks like they’re playing hardball by coming out with nice bikes like the liners. And, it sounds like the V Max is going to be upgraded. Finally, they did improve the 06. :thumbsupsmiley:

I’ll give em the benefit of the doubt and hope they hang in there. Wouldn’t an electronic cruise control complement a 1400 cc engine so sweetly? :thumbsupsmiley:

By the way, I noticed in another post that you did time in the USAF. Did ya ever serve at Malmstrom?

 

[OrangevaleFJR]

Copy that, instead of hanging tuff or jumping into deeper the fray they tucked tail and ran (dropped out). But then again so did others. Big K was in that segment too. Seems the wing leap-froged em all in 01.
Maybe they saw the writing on the wall and have chosen not to exit other market segments. For instance cruisers, looks like they’re playing hardball by coming out with nice bikes like the liners. And, it sounds like the V Max is going to be upgraded. Finally, they did improve the 06. :thumbsupsmiley:

I’ll give em the benefit of the doubt and hope they hang in there. Wouldn’t an electronic cruise control complement a 1400 cc engine so sweetly? :thumbsupsmiley:

By the way, I noticed in another post that you did time in the USAF. Did ya ever serve at Malmstrom?

I hope they hang in there too. I think it is clear they have the best line on a sport touring bike and they need to keep it up.

I joined in Feb 87. Did a pop tart tech school at Keesler. Got assigned at Det 2, Elkhorn Ne (SAC Giant Talk) from 6/87 - 11/89, then did two years at Lajes field (incredible) and then went to McClellan where I got out in 8/95.

 

[NovaFlyer]

Anybody been on one yet?

Yup ... and I have to say that it's freakin' amazing. Butter smooth shifts and beautiful throttle response which is surprising for a Kawi. I didn't get a chance to stretch her legs because I was in a Demo riding train, but I can tell you that the motor is to die for :dribble: . They put that thing into a Sport touring package and I'll be thinking twice...that's for sure. I couldn't take it out just by myself unfortunately because some bugger bought it that day :glare: "Harrumph" The nerve of the guy

Anyways ... While the styling is not 100% there in my mind, the motor definitely is.

 

[shokdimn]

Nova,

I’ve read a couple of magazine articles about em’. You know the typical hype. But maybe not so in this case. As you say, “freakin' amazing. Butter smooth shifts and beautiful throttle response.” I was impressed even though I didn’t get to ride it. Maybe they’ve really done their homework.

Just curious though, any kind of a perceived heat issue for you?

 

[FJRMGM]

that cladding is there for stability at higher speeds - according to Motorcyclist mag article.

I like the looks of the ZX-14 better than that butt-ugly Busa..

 

[FJRZON]

I think the 14 is purdee! It just needs the lowers and the flat black side grills done in glossy black (which Kawi should have done). See picture below. This really enhances the looks of the mighty 14. What a sexy beast! The 14 is #1 on my list and the only bike I see as an FJR replacement in the *current market*. Throw on SW-Motech quick-release plumbing outfitted w/Hepco & Beckers hard bags, a Pro-Oiler and she is an instant sport-tourer. And guys…the ergos are a non-issue. You can attach some Buell foot-pegs with a little filing if you need more leg room…also there are aftermarket bar risers and touring windscreens if need be. Cheers. :drinks:

 

[FJRottie]

I wonder if Yamaha will have an answer to an 08 Connie that has that 1400 in it.

I hope Yamaha leaves the size of the engine the way it is. Seems just right for its purpose.