The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 came in 2006. The “R” in the model and later upgrades came in later years. The ZX-14R was Kawasaki’s top sportbike until the even faster H2 series came in. However, it is a perfect bike for those who want a powerful, smooth, comfortable ride.
Sport versatility and comfort rolled together! If this is what you want, ride on the Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS. Although this two-wheeled power hasn’t changed much since its debut in 2012, the latest version is nimble on city streets, freeways, and cornering. This multi-functional sporting machine is massive and well-planted, with solid chassis to deliver linear power.
This ultra-sport vehicle is smooth and equipped with a three-mode KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control) and a superb Anti-Lock Braking System.
Overview of 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS
- Engine: 1,441cc, 4-stroke, In-Line Four, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled
- Power: 208 HP
- Torque: 113 lbs-ft
- Seat Height: 31.5 inches (800 mm)
- Curb Weight(running order): 593.1 lbs (269 kg)
- Price(USA): $16,599 USD
- Price(Canada): $19,999 CAD
How much does the Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS total cost of owning?
- Prices start at: $16,599
- Destination Charge: $460
- Freight Surcharge: $400
Top speed of 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS
The top speed of the 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS-certified CI engine is 186 MPH (299.3 km/h). The bike has a 1441cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 16-valve inline-four engine with 208 HP peak power and 113 lbs-ft of max torque. The Ninja ZX 14R ABS is streamlined to reduce air resistance, which helps it to maintain high speed without much drag.
The KTRC(Kawasaki Traction Control) helps maintain road grip and prevents wheel spin. It ensures the power from the engine gets efficiently transferred to the road. Digital Fuel Injection (DFI) ensures optimal fuel delivery, increases the engine’s efficiency, and maximizes power output. The inverted 43mm cartridge-type fork and bottom-link Uni-Trak rear suspension provide total motorcycle control at high speeds and ride comfort.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS Miles Per Gallon
2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS miles per gallon is estimated at 36 mpg. 2 Ninja ZX 14R riders claimed its mpg to be close to 40 mpg after 1000 miles of ride. The bike has an Economical Riding Indicator, which indicates the riding condition when fuel consumption is optimal. Riders can adjust their riding style based on this indicator, thus increasing the bike’s fuel efficiency.
Pros & Cons of 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS
Pros of Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS
- 1,441cc, 4-stroke powerful engine
- Aggressive styling
- Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC)
- Adjustable power mode
- Stable handling at high speeds
- Aggressive yet sleek design
- Comfortable seating and large fuel tank(5.8 gal)
Cons of Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS
- Big and heavy(593.1 lbs)
- Sip gas a little more eagerly
- Not recommended for novice riders
- Not fit for shorter riders (31.5 inches seat height)
- Difficult to drive in city traffic or during slow maneuvers
2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS Review
What’s New for 2023?
Except for a slight update to the new color scheme, there are no changes to the ZX 14R ABS for 2023. It now comes with a Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Gray – Flat Ebony finish.
The Ninja ZX 14R, as usual, displays very high-quality fit, finish, and construction. This supersport Kawasaki line-up is also excellent on the road and the racetrack. It is an aggressive sensation that dwarfs other conventional sporting bikes when it comes to physical stature.
Design and Appearance
The ergonomics on the Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R are relatively comfortable and spacious despite its affection for high speed and abrupt acceleration. The reach to the bars is short, with plenty of legroom and decent ground clearance. Riders can therefore sit more upright on this sport bike. Even the passenger is comfortable on the one-piece seat. And then there is plenty of room for a second occupant as well. You can conveniently mount the bike with soft luggage and ride it for long distances.
The 7-foot-long and 3-foot-wide standing of the ZX 14R with a bulbous tail reminds the rider of the massive power plant lurking between the fairings. However, this sleepy giant is uneventful, thanks to the smooth engine and silent purrs firing up.
Technology and Features
The inline four-cylinder DOHC powerplant of the ZX 14R is big and burly. A cylinder head with milled combustion chambers is inbuilt to deliver 1,441cc displacement. The transmission is treated for durability and slick action. And a slipper clutch on this sporting bike keeps downshifts from irritating the chassis.
This bike’s hefty 584-pound wet weight is well-handled by a 58-inch wheelbase. With a bit of throttle, the ZX 14R can quickly go vertical on the front tire in the first two gears. And the third gear wheelies require little or no effort at all. However, this is just not all about brute power. The dual gear-driven counterbalancers of the bike effectively smoothen out the engine vibes.
Performance and Handling
Popping the gearbox into first and easing away from a stop is graceful and effortless on the ZX 14R. The first gear and increased motorcycle mass require a bit of extra slippage from the clutch. But then it eliminates the need for shifting when cruising around neighborhoods.
Moving onto the highway is where the excitement begins. The powerful engine of the ZX 14R wakes up at around 5,000 RPM and rockets further beyond 7,000. The whispering engine of the motorbike smoothens the power train into a highly stable ride at high speeds alongside minimizing front wheel hang-time.
Highway speeds are most comfortable in the 4th gear. And the two extra gears add more flexibility at 80 MPH. From the comfort of a comfy seat, dodging erratic drivers is easily achieved with a lax wrist twist. A small gear indicator further reduces the upshifting. You can eventually get lost in the sea of information provided on the instrument cluster.
Riding Experience
The considerable dog riding experience of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R is dominating. And how it delivers power to the ground is unparalleled. The synergy created by this sporting machine produces a multipurpose vehicle that is tactically capable of city commuting alongside comfortable freeway cruising.
This big brother can still stand out and hang around with the rest of the traffic. No matter where you choose to go!
2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS Competitors
| Model | Engine Capacity | Power | Torque | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki Hayabusa | 1340cc | 190 hp | 110.6 lb-ft | $18,799 |
| BMW S1000RR | 999cc | 205 hp | 83.4 lb-ft | $18,295 |
| Yamaha YZF-R1 | 998cc | 198 hp | 83 lb-ft | $17,500 |
| Ducati Panigale V4 | 1103cc | 210 hp | 90.6 lb-ft | $23,295 |
| Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory | 1078cc | 217 hp | 90 lb-ft | $25,999 |
2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS Pictures
Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS Videos
2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS Specifications
| TECHNOLOGY | |
| Engine Management Technology | Dual throttle valves, Economic riding indicator, KTRC (Kawasaki traction control), Power modes |
| Chassis Management Technology | ABS (anti-lock brake system), Monocoque frame |
| POWER | |
| Power | |
| Engine | 4-stroke, In-Line Four, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 1,441cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 84.0 x 65.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.3:1 |
| Fuel System | DFI® w/44mm Mikuni throttle bodies (4) |
| Ignition | TCBI, battery powered & electronic advance |
| Transmission | 6-speed return shift |
| Final Drive | Sealed chain |
| Electronic Rider Aids | Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), Power Mode, ABS |
| PERFORMANCE | |
| Performance | |
| Front Suspension / Wheel Travel | 43mm inverted cartridge fork with adjustable preload, 18-way compression, and 15-way rebound damping adjustment/4.6 in |
| Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel | Bottom-link Uni-Trak® and gas-charged shock with adjustable preload, stepless rebound, and compression damping adjustments, adjustable ride height/4.9 in |
| Front Tire | 120/70ZR17 |
| Rear Tire | 190/50ZR17 |
| Front Brakes | Dual semi-floating 310mm Brembo® discs with dual radial-mounted Brembo® 4-piston M50 monobloc calipers and ABS |
| Rear Brakes | Single 250mm disc with twin-piston caliper and ABS |
| DETAILS | |
| Dimensions | |
| Frame Type | Aluminum monocoque |
| Rake/Trail | 23.0°/3.7 in |
| Overall Length | 85.4 in |
| Overall Width | 30.3 in |
| Overall Height | 46.1 in |
| Ground Clearance | 4.9 in |
| Seat Height | 31.5 in |
| Curb Weight | 593.1 lb |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.8 gal |
| Wheelbase | 58.3 in |
| Color Choices | Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Flat Ebony |
| Warranty | 12 Month Limited Warranty |
| Kawasaki Protection Plus™ (optional) | 12, 24, 36 or 48 months |
Source: Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS Official Website
2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 14R ABS FAQ
What’s the difference between ZX-14 and ZX-14R?
The ZX-14R was introduced in 2012. It came with several improvements over the original ZX-14. Some improvements included engine enhancements, speed improvements, better electronics, and improved aerodynamics.
Is the ZX-14R suitable for touring?
ZX-14R is suitable for touring despite being a sportbike at heart. However, to make it fit for touring, some modifications like saddlebags and a taller windscreen might be required.
Is the ZX-14R good for beginners?
No, ZX-14R is not a good bike for beginners due to its high power and weight, which might be challenging to handle by a novice rider. It’s a machine best suited for experienced riders.
