2015 ZX-14R Review

Thank you for visiting Riding With Dad, KZbin's only father-son MotoVlogging channel. We hope you enjoy the content, but be forewarned, some is adult in nature.
In this episode: Dad does a solo vlog to review the mighty ZX-14R.
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[@lmanier42]

Thanks for the great video. I ride a 2004 ZX 12R. However, after reviewing yours and several other videos, I think I'm ready to move up to a more advance and modern ZX14R Ninja. Btw -- I'm 79, and doing fine.

[@theelviscerator]

I also bought a ZX14R after watching this video. Not just this one, but all of them were similar. It is what is. Worlds fastest couch. No question there. Also 58 years old here . My bike progression went 750, 1100, 1150, 80 CI, then this monster. Mine is now flashed ECU fuel tables and a full Brocks AH2 system.

[@catcall569]

Awesome video review and thank you. The ZX14 is my favorite street beast.

[@kyokushinkuma]

My '07 ZX-14 Transmission did the same thing, but it was reassuring to me hearing that giant "Clunk" into 1st gear, I put 72k miles on that bike, I miss it, be safe out there man.

[@kugangles9860]

God, what is up with the gear police in the comment section. It's his body his life. Let him wear what he freakin wants. On another note I just picked up a 2019 zx14r and this bike makes me laugh like a crazy man in my helmet everytime i ride it.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

Totally agree. If he wants to be an organ donor then so be it...

[@gregregor9689]

It’s about his family and loved ones more than anything, but every guy thinks they’re tough until that skin gets ripped off their body. I used to be a moron like this guy until I found out. That icu visit wasn’t cheap, and the physical therapy was painful to say the least. These bikes collect if you don’t show respect. It’s all fun until it’s not.

[@bigdaddy1400]

I have a ZX14R and cringe at the thought of riding in a tee-shirt with no gloves. I know its a choice, but a 200 Bhp bike deserves respect! Great review though - fucking awesome bike!

[@rockyp3917]

My thoughts exactly

[@robhughes8516]

So he’d be paying the bike respect by wearing leathers and gloves? Lol, ok, not sure what equation you used to arrive at that brilliant remark but it’s your story, you can tell it any way you want.

[@turboboy0]

I’ve been riding streetbikes since 1991 wearing sneakers, sweatpants, short sleeve t-shirt and a full faced helmet. At 52 I still ride this way on my 2019 zx14r. 198hp/118tq dyno’d. Only time I wear gloves is in the winter.

[@71rcode72]

Dad, I just purchased this same '15 green monster from the original owner. Super low miles. Loving it!

[@davidbowers3996]

Great review. Had my zzr 14 for 2 months . Had zx9 ninja many other bikes . This bike is by far the most amazing bike I have owned . Thanks dad . Cool 👌

[@ChrisTian-lf2oh]

Best bike I´ve ever had. Perfect for touring, great looking and tons of hp. Since Im not a fan of tracks and prefer a goodlooking bike that is both sporty and has comfort, the ZX/ZZR is the ultimate choice. Great video and review.

[@nickbarry548]

Awesome, you sold me on buying ZX14R. Thank you and keep on making videos.

[@GhostHunterWV]

Its a nice bike!

[@twistedthrottle5766]

I agree very nice and comfortable love mine also

[@mfree2go]

About to get one for Christmas. Been eyeing the bike for more than three to four years. Took me that much time to save up and finally pull the trigger. My last bike was a Suzuki GSX-R. Thank you for the review. (California)

[@scottthurman3624]

I'm 66 yrs old and have had about a dozen bikes and my 2012 ZX14R is the most fun I've had. Don't need to spin the motor up. It's all about torque. Roll the throttle on in top gear from 45mph up to 80 or so for fun, fun, fun. Super smooth and super comfortable with the LSL handlebar conversion. Other than that all stock. I do think people screw them up when they start with aftermarket exhaust etc. "Walk softly and carry a very big stick".

[@richardgower5396]

Great video, I recently bought a 2016 ZX-14 after months of researching what would be the best bike based on my needs...There are some great buys right now on older stock 2015's and also 2016's with the 2017's coming soon dealers are eager to sell what zx-14's they have left.....shop around,I had to drive 4 hours one way to buy mine but I paid 10,799.00 for a 2016!!!...What an awesome bike, I'm so happy with mine....just trying to find other older guys like me (53) to compare notes with on possible things to upgrade in the future...thanks for the video:)

[@melvinsanders560]

just bought my zx14r 2 weeks ago and love it. I am 55 yrs old and must admit this is a great bike. I had a Zx10r for less than 2 months, but lost in a major flood. I upgraded to the zx14r and can't stay off Ms Fiona

[@bwarren8790]

I just bought a 2015 zx 14 abs and I love it!

[@blackbird1137cc]

Thanks mate, nice review I enjoyed it. I tend to keep my bikes a long time. So I try to pick very carefully. I have had a Honda Blackbird and at the moment I ride a Suzuki Hayabusa, The next one just has to be the mighty ZZR1400 (ZX14), I have got to do it before age sets in lol. 55 years old. Anyway great review and thanks again.

[@hoomannili]

Answering your question "Why you haven't yet bought this motorcycle?". One word: Price. I have a CB1300 and it's great, but ZZR1400 is something I'd love to get one day.

[@GhostHunterWV]

Great video!

[@spikey2740]

Nice review. But get some gloves. You aren't on a pedal bike.

[@Hellouws]

neither a proper jacket

[@timothy9596]

That was the first thing I noticed right away. Then I saw in the mirror that he didn't have a jacket on. Immediately turned off the video.

[@bluetoast8584]

I won't even get on a bicycle without gloves

[@wrkings]

Hi mate, Ur video inspired me to take a test ride, so today I bought one, I'm so happy with the bike, it's everything u said and more, Thx for Ur time, luvvv this bike

[@iQwimby]

Great review! More KZbinrs need to take a page from your book. Well done!

[@glennschild3913]

Good review buddy. Cheers from Aus.

[@senecamcmillian]

Great review!

[@michaelpedace2741]

Excellent Review!

[@SameerAli-tl1fc]

Thanks for a wonderful review.. I'm thinking of buying one. I was confused with busa and zx14r

[@EMTinVA]

Had a 2013 K1600GT and I absolutely agree with all your observations about them. I loved the bike, but I too should have just got the ZX-14 to start with. That pearl stardust white still calls to me, though I don't ride anymore.

[@rickschleter7603]

great review

[@kevinoles2789]

Watched this cause i am getting one on tuesday, and a minute into I'm like holy shit thats diplomat. Like you i'm 40 almost 41 and fell in love with this thing. Cool to see a local guy on here

[@mkaa05]

Thanks for the great review!! Beautiful bike!! I’m 6’ 2” and big framed...though I haven’t yet seen or sat on one yet...I’m hoping she’d be a comfortable ride without raising the bars or having to lower the pegs. I had a 2003 Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird and absolutely loved the bike though I needed put Heli bars and dropped the pegs and then she was a perfect fit!!! Thanks Again!!!

[@harryflashman4542]

sweet review

[@koyb272]

I have a 15 zzr14 in the uk running std Akropovic and took the baffles out so she pops back on the over run. Excellent awesome motorcycle. I cannot recommend this highly enough, it really is awesome. I love it and can't wait to get on the road after this cold wet shitty weather we have in the UK I can recommend tyres Metzeler m7rr front and rear at the std 42psi, good quick warm up with loads of grip, keep on premium fuel and haven't changed anything else so just get one and enjoy. There is a significant power, crazy top end, the front can get light when you are pinning it through the gears. Awesome motorcycle.

[@robweaver1923]

Nice job!

[@highspeeddrag5551]

I liked your critique of the Zx14r I have a 2013 ZX14r black with green. Love it. Im going on 61 yrs old. Also have road king. They but different parts of my body asleep the HD as tali bone the Zx the throttle hand some and the back of my knees. But I try to do 120 mph everytime I ride. Its just a 3rd gear flick away. I put some slip-on Brooks pipes. Good review

[@GhostHunterWV]

I agree!

[@stephenhayston4314]

HIGHSPEED DRAG55 lol I've put 1 inch risers on mine and its reduced that for me

[@jeromeclemons9312]

You never lied about 3rd gear! I bought a left over 2016 brand new ,put 3194 miles on it ! My first bike in 32 years I’m 56 and love it. The only thing that hurts when I ride about 3-4 hours are my hands . I guess I hold on too tight😂😂😂

[@salahkaki1]

awesome bike

[@stephenhayston4314]

That first gear clunk was the first thing i noticed on my ZX14R you get used to it. They are the Bentleys of motorcycles

[@twistedthrottle5766]

Good video I subscribed I just bought my 14 Zx14r can’t wait to ride it bad weather where I’m at so yeah lol

[@DA2THFA1RY]

My Yamaha MT 07 does a little jump from N to 1st aswell, just gotta make sure you have your hand on that front brake so you don't lose balance and drop it.

[@joeridestrijcker445]

nice riding gear! A t-shirt and no gloves?!? Not in shorts and flipflops, I hope!

[@zxhoya]

+Joeri De Strijcker: Hey dad, at least wear some riding gloves so your wedding ring doesn't rip off your finger when you go down.

[@GhostHunterWV]

lol

[@JethroRose]

its ok his chicken strips are huge

[@sneakinggodzilla6328]

@ Joeri De Strijcker Nice crying, girly! Not enough pads for you? ... He is wearing an inflatable hug... will that do?

[@bepsiguy]

love your review for the zx14. actually you are making me considering buying it :) which you think will be better and more maneuverable zx14 or the bmw s1000rr?

[@Spartan4515]

I have the same year bike but the matte gray and green. This bike really is smooth. Been on a 5hr ride on the monster with no problem. I do agree that 15k is a bit much for the bike. Good review.

[@glenrobins2543]

im 46 and own a zx14r,,30th aniveraery ,,,and love it,,,i also own a hyabusa,,,and believe tbere is a very clear distinction ,,,tberes no comparison,,,i enjoyed the video,,,you rock , ..keep it shiny side up,,,

[@thephoenix134]

Man I would love a 30th anniversary. I asked my dealer about one and they are all gone.

[@nguyenlee7644]

I love my 30th Anniv

[@llerradish]

I avoid the clunck by starting the bike in fist gear, easy peasy no more clunck.

[@mansolo1756]

Good vid

[@steveduncan7637]

I got the European model ( ZZR1400) back in July. Great bike , can’t fault it .

[@rh611640]

what a great bike and nice revieuw! i think i buy one in a couple months.greetings from biker rene the netherlands

[@steveduncan7637]

R. Holthaus Did you buy one then ?

[@dalefrahm9060]

I just bought of these this summer and have to agree with everything you said. I'm almost 59 and have a hard time reading the speedometer and the transmission isn't Honda smooth or as good as my Buell 1125r. Other than that a really great bike.

[@XxxProdigalxxX]

HOT BIKE!! Then again, I might be a bit bias! :)

[@jfro5867]

I have this bike too but prefer the traditional clocks actually, and I like the fact the big Z doesn't have all the latest gizmos (such as clutch less gear shift) because that's why I ride, it's part of the enjoyment surely to ride the bike?!

[@GhostHunterWV]

True!

[@turbo311]

Damn that green paint sparkles! I want to try one of these bikes. You hardly ever see the ZX-14R or GSX-1300R anymore, their time seems to have passed. But I saw a review that the Kawi is one of the best sport touring bikes you can buy, even though that's not its intended use.

[@GhostHunterWV]

Awesome bike!

[@flyingsumo3846]

$15000 200Bhp 200mph and rides in a T-Shirt # Knob

[@Mybwain]

Everyone should wear gear no matter the machine.

[@pencilcoil]

Good review, great bike. After all, I have one! My only complaint so far is the fuel gauge accuracy. It stays on full for ages probably 80 miles or so before it starts to drop quickly. Not sure it you have noticed this.

[@GhostHunterWV]

I agree!

[@richierichardson885]

Well done man, next video crank it up' with your leather protection on, and let us see hole potential of this of this fabulous beast!" My respects in Ireland 🇮🇪

[@fearnobeer9077]

im in the market for a new bike either the zx14 or the busa , i have to say your review helped me decice ( the zx was a front runner) now the hunt for the right colour begins im also 40 and have had many bikes so really looking forward to the zx14 . good reveiw thx

[@thenutbucket5971]

ZX-14R is faster than the Hayabusa

[@chrismagnum06]

I'll be 40 in may and just got my license 6 months ago . I'm sure this is not a starter bike but my research always brings me to the zx14.as a big guy i really dont want to look like a circus bear on a unicycle. (lol).but I'm not a speedster but man is it gorgeous! gonna go sit on some tomorrow.great review, dad.

[@chrismagnum06]

I'll be 40 in may and just got my license 6 months ago . I'm sure this is not a starter bike but my research always brings me to the zx14.as a big guy i really dont want to look like a circus bear on a unicycle. (lol).but I'm not a speedster but man is it gorgeous! gonna go sit on some tomorrow.great review, dad.

[@GhostHunterWV]

Zx14R all the way!

[@nguyenlee7644]

@Chris- get one man. I had only rode a motorcycle once in my life and it was a 250 and that was in 1998 and literally rode it around the block. Bought me a ZX14r in 2016 and it was intimidating at first but I got over that in one day. And like you, I am definitely not a speed demon. Your biggest concern will be other drivers. Be afraid of them, very afraid. Take no situation for granted because they will pull out in front of you. You have to be a very defensive driver and ride with your headlights on. Good luck.

[@scottieray]

"I don't know how to even turn low power mode on anymore...." Oh, Lort.

[@crowttubebot3075]

Low power mode is not something I understand. This bike is so very docile with a bit of throttle control When I commute on it, it is just a cooler version of the VFR I used to own. The beast is only unleashed when I want it to be. No need for low power mode, just have some self restraint.

[@buddhastaxi666]

i 64, age disgracefully. 41? is a teenager. ride my zx14r as it keeps me young. They are easy to ride but dont take it fir granted. My zx14 i had before i had for 12 years was smoother.

[@Bass.Player]

Green is my favorite color, i have a concours 14.

[@ads2955]

What is the name of the track playing from <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="40">0:40</a> to <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="101">1:41</a>?

[@thisisatest2933]

Review was good mate. Nice ride. Mic adjustment required though. Seems a little too close as it was distorting 90% of the time. Believe me - when I was setting up - its a pain in that royal azz! Keepem coming.

[@GhostHunterWV]

I agree! Very good!

[@kelvinray2580]

nice video review I'm thinking of getting one instead of a zx10r, by the way was the title of the song that plays at the end?

[@GhostHunterWV]

I agree

[@losteden]

the only 3 issues for me in this bike are 1- hight heat from engine in summer is bad 2- battery location 3- low bar, for tall drivers need to change the bar or rise it for big trips

[@markurbancowboy]

Great review! I currently have a 2019 model and agree with all of your points. I've had 2 Hayabusa's and the 14 is more comfortable. Ride safe man!

[@trent3872]

Which one do you think is faster/quicker?

[@markurbancowboy]

@@trent3872 The 14R is quicker/faster. Bigger engine with more power. The acceleration is almost freakish.

[@trent3872]

@@markurbancowboy Cant wait to buy one.

[@markurbancowboy]

@@trent3872 You will love it man!

[@mrafayrafay9595]

gretast bike

[@joejoe1738]

Could you imagine if they put a super charger on ZX-14 like the H-2

[@trueformoblivion4530]

That would be scary AF lol

[@wowerman]

I have had 4 of zzr/zx14 and bike is creamy.Clunk on first gear is very common on many bikes with big engine.Instrument cluster is very good giving you many parameters.There is no need for colour display for me.Seat is comfy on 2nd gen but I liked a little bit more softer seat on 1st gen. Overall bike is great.Despite its weight it handles well.Also quality of the build is very good and faults do not occur often. Onl one thing I do not like on new model are hideous exhaust pipes. Two Brothers or Leo Vince will make it more sexy.Trust me.

[@buddhastaxi666]

had zx14 and had zx14r and both smash into first. always a jacket or at least a jumper

[@johnnykawakid]

GREAT REVIEW on my 3rd Zzr 14 over here in Scotland. fantastic bike that's great for everything. but man you need some leather gloves. lol.

[@carstenhansen5757]

And a jacket. :p @John Bruce: Did you consider making a review of it/them? For some strange reason, there are so few reviews of the kawasaki ZZR 1400.

[@llerradish]

I don't use low-power anymore I did for a while. I noticed that pings when it's cold and low power mode. Only when it's cold I run the Hyatt highest octane fuel I can find and put a little bit of octane booster in it. I don't like the way it clunks going from neutral to First either. But I solved it by starting it in first gear and using the clutch never have that problem again. People say it doesn't hurt it but I don't like it.

[@theelviscerator]

Considered normal by Kaw techs. When it doesn't clunk be worried.

[@bornhunter100]

Dad put on some gloves

[@blackspades0000]

I started to buy one but passed it up because it seemed to be a little cramped with the foot position.

[@robbyterrill5707]

Im 55..ride a 2018 Gsxr 750. Had a busa and 2 gsxr 1k in the past. 4 harleys sold all of them. My next bike will be the zx 14 or 10...

[@curtisjones6940]

My 2012 hyabusa also clunks from neutral to first dealer cant find any problems guess its just a thing

[@huzar777kosy3]

hahahaha same here am 47 and couple months ago got 2017 zx14r take to blue ridge park from chicago 6 days we make over 2500 milage for touring recommend sergent touring seat perfect funny part is i own gt 1600 gt to and sell after one season enjoy the bike

[@bmack1000]

It’s 584 lbs. with a full tank. It’s a 5.6 gallon tank. With Brock’s Alien Head 2 exhaust you lose around 32 lbs.

[@wb7942]

Still got it? I'm considering one. I had two ZX-11s in the early 1990s.

[@wowerman]

Just get it.Bike is great.

[@harp440]

It's the kawasaki klunk....into 1st gear....all mine have done it

[@zspence77]

Ya, its kinda of a Kawasaki thing. I have a GTR1400 and a ZX12R and they both do it. My klr650 a KX500 do not....

[@williamsterben]

KERRRLUNK! You get used to it.

[@ravenwood1135]

Hey Dad,this is Grandpow.My ZX-10 will kick your ZX14R,so butt.HaHa Good video Dad.

[@leodcaribbean6224]

how did you do the engine break in?

[@brianmathew09]

after first oil change ..wail on it like you stole it.

[@markcooper7287]

Hey sir. nice bike. i rice a 2014 kaw cocourse.

[@megabandit1200s]

Need carbon fiber Yoshi pipes!!

[@johnchurch5101]

Wicked

[@zxhoya]

I hate to be that guy @Riding With Dad but I agree with Joeri De Strijcker, wear riding gear. It's your life and your body but your family needs you to take every precaution to protect yourself, bikes can be replaced........

[@GhostHunterWV]

I agree!

[@troysimons4580]

I got a 2017 zx14r how do you program the shift light ?!

[@crowttubebot3075]

The little black button on the left bar? Hold it down, and it gives you another range of options to set. Including the shift light.

[@troysimons4580]

Crow T Tubebot ahhh ill have to try it out when i get it back from getting it flashed

[@buddhastaxi666]

access the menu. i just change gear according to how much tunnel vision am i seeing.

[@thecooltable9481]

this bike is awesome. I'm thinking about buying one new very soon, but I have to disagree about the Hayabusa being the only competition related to acceleration. The ZX-10R has almost the same power but weighs significantly less. But that's more of a racing bike and is way less comfy.

[@GhostHunterWV]

I agree!

[@thecooltable9481]

Oh yeah...and I put a 100 shot of nitrous on it, lol. It runs mid 8's in the 1/4 mile now. It's absolutely terrifying...

[@trent3872]

I currently own a concours, I love this bike so much, have put 20k miles on it in one year. I have been trying to decide what bike I want next. Newer connie? H2 se sx? ZX14r? After much research and a million youtube videos ive made up my mind. My dream bike is a KAWIGREEN ZX14r. Cannot wait to scrape up some extra change to buy one. Cant really afford a brand new one. Would you suggest a pick of between say 20012-2016? Are they all the same or is one year better than the other.

[@brianflowers4751]

Have a 2017 1300 miles just picked it up from 62 year old for $9000 love it

[@trent3872]

@@brianflowers4751 Wow thats a good deal and low miles. What color.

[@brianflowers4751]

It's the green zx14 abs se thinking of selling it beutifull not a scratch in iit never been riden over 6000 rpm i will take 10500 or best 248-819-9000

[@trent3872]

@@brianflowers4751 Sounds enticing.

[@brianflowers4751]

See a 2016 black zx14r se 2200 miles on Craigslist Detroit $8500

[@mazda64life]

That's called the Kawasaki clunk. My 2018 ZX-14r does it as well. I looked on the forums to see if it was my bike and nope. Its all the ZX-14 bikes. So don't worry too much about it.

[@richardmolloy6064]

Thats been a thing for 20 years at least my 1998 and 1999 zx9rs both had the same thing too. Bought them 12 years apart, the 1999 version I got this year ( revisiting my youth) is in mint condition compared to the 1998 model I had 12 years ago. Still has that massive clunk and occasionally awkward neutral too. Think the zxr1400 will be my next :-)

[@JimBiddle.]

He says "It's a 200mph couch", rides in a T shirt and no gloves.

[@ADR343]

Wow 15k Dealership by my house has it for 11k here in Texas

[@kelvinray2580]

never mind I found the track, thanks

[@GhostHunterWV]

lol

[@NZsarge1]

590lbs fully fuelled not dry.

[@llerradish]

This is a great bike IMO but it is not much faster than a Busa and it's not much faster than a strong liter bike, but it does feel faster when you ride it because it has such a strong mid range. If you drag race someone on a 1000 that knows their shit, you better do everything right or you will lose, having said that the ZX14R does seem to pull a little harder than most 1000's between 150 and 180 mph. the ZX has more torque, but it also has more weight.

[@UncleBensChannel]

You kinda have to get this bike is kawa green

[@chrisinminneapolis2367]

now its time for a leather jacket instead of a tshirt eh?

[@webstar90]

My question is what the insurance is like on this beast?

[@K-carbon]

600 euro for a year here in Ireland for a 40 year old insurance in Ireland is a RIP off😡😡😡😡😡😡

[@nope-hesspartacus4321]

Dad; I never loved you. Why did you abandon me?

[@hitracing3862]

The ZX14R is comfortable yes, but if you plan on having a max effort street racing bike, just buy a gen 5 zx10r. The ZX14R can’t keep up with the new liter bikes until after 180mph. They are just too heavy.

[@williamstinson9941]

Could have a decent review had you not felt the need for FBombs !

[@ravenwood1135]

PS.Dad I'm getting a ZX-14R Nana can't ride on the ZX 10 very comfortable,

[@rockyp3917]

Guy is riding the zx14r with no gear and no gloves as if riding a 50cc scooter in Bali

[@tobiasmyllynen5999]

200 mile an hour couch 😁

[@JustsayinAgain]

nice review, I have a 2014 model, with Brocks CT. Like others have said put some fuckin gear on - madness riding the 14 or any other motorcycle without protection. And if you're in the market for this bike, check out cycletrader.com, pick up a leftover for thousands less than 15k.

[@GhostHunterWV]

I agree!