Well, to be honest, there is not much that I wouldn't like about ZX14R. If I would have to describe this bike with only one word, that would be
effortless. Everything it does, what ever that might be: power, acceleration or just cruising along, it does so easily.
ZX14R is replacing a BMW S1000RR in my garage. Everyone who loves fast & powerful bikes knows just how hard it would be to roll in and take that position. Saying: "BMW was good" is an understatement to it's fullest. S1000RR is
spectacular, definitely the best bike I ever had before the ZX. Ironically, it's strength is also it's greatest weakness. S1000RR is made for track and to be so good as it is (in track day use), they really didn't make too many compromises for a street rider. The riding position is tight for an older guy, like me. What works on a race track, becomes pain during some endured street riding. That is why I sold it. I needed something that would have the speed, dynamics and handling of a supersport bike, but what would be nice and enjoyable to take for a long distance riding as well.
And this is where the ZX14R really excels. It feels just as fast, furious and exciting as the Beemer, but it delivers it's goodies with more relaxed way. The riding position with ZX is sporty, but it's far more forgiving on longer trips. I have a set of Vortex rear sets on their way to Thailand, to ease up things even little bit more (the original sets are bit too much forward).
On the road ZX behaves nicely: the longer wheelbase makes the bike very stable, without sacrificing too much of the cornering capabilities, the suspension is nicely set with the nature of this bike and with little additional fine tuning it balances the bike perfectly (definitely a light year ahead of my other bike here). The brakes are effective and they give good feedback as well (the US specs bikes come with no ABS).
If I compare ZX14R to the other bike in my garage, a Ducati Diavel, I must say that these bikes could not be further apart of each other. Diavel is an ultimate café racer; it's all about looks, sound & styling. Just like with those Italian shoes, you are willing to accept little amount of discomfort, as long as you look so damn good on it
The suspension is very hard, even in it's softest settings. Sometimes it kicks my ass so hard! Ducati is like an Italian supermodel; demanding, edgy and moody, but there is still something that makes you want her. At least when it's sunny Sunday afternoon, and time to ride the beach boulevard with some friends...
The final thought. I know that many of you are thinking the same: ZX14R is too powerful, there is no need for a bike that produces over 200hp and torque massive enough to tow a camper wagon. And you are right. There is really no need for it. But it is just like driving a proper sports car: even there is no way you could fully enjoy a M5 or Corvette on a normal street traffic, it's comforting to
know that the power will be there just in case you would need it.
