Bike Trader
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The 187mph Kawasaki ZZR1400
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19 May 2008 | |
If you are a sportsbike rider who likes comfort as well as speed then the ZZR1400 has got to be top of your list. It is the fastest, most powerful motorcycle that you can buy – so fast and powerful that Kawasaki have limited the performance to ‘just’ 300km/h or 187mph. But it isn’t only about all-out performance. This is a bike that you use to go touring on the weekend and ride to work on Monday morning. Introduced for the 2006 season, the new 197hp generation engine bears little resemblance to the old 1200cc ZZR motor. For 2008, changes were made to the ZZR1400’s engine and exhaust system in order to meet strict Euro-III emissions regulations. By reducing mechanical noise, power drops were not only minimised, overall engine character was improved and peak power was increased. This is a bike that pulls harder than a Hyabusa thanks to a massive 154Nm torque at just 7,500rpm. Updates include fine-atomising injectors with a smaller droplet size that disperse fuel over a wider area for more efficient combustion. Revised piston profiles contribute to reduced mechanical noise. A new exhaust system delivers better torque characteristics, especially in the low rpm range. With a dry weight of 224kg you can’t expect the ZZR1400 to be as nimble as a Ninja, but superb stability and responsive handling comes courtesy of the well-balanced aluminium monocoque frame. Forming the cast aluminium sections of the main frame by using a die casting process instead of gravity casting results in slightly lighter parts, contributing to weight savings. High controllability and feedback from the 43mm inverted fork and fully adjustable Uni-Trak rear suspension makes this bike handle just about any road conditions. For such a big bike the riding position is relatively compact thanks to the sculpted ergonomics and a relaxed footpeg and handlebar position. Triple petal disc brakes, radial-mount front brake calipers and radial-pump master cylinder deliver phenomenal stopping power and feel. The 2008 ZZR1400 delivers lower emissions and noise levels, higher peak power, the mid-range hit is smoother and low-end torque has been increased. And you can’t ask for more than that. Page 1 |
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