2012 Kawasaki ZZR1400: is an absolutely astonishing machine not least because it exists. We thought that hypertourers had had their day, but thanks to a bulging order book in the USA (they call it a ZX-14) That coat involved stroking the motor out to 1,441cc, giving the lump a whole host of internal revisions, treating 50 per cent of the frame to new components, sticking new springs in at each end and then giving this fire-breathing beast an electronics package to be proud of.
The results are spectacular. The engine is the first to impress. Thoroughly usable, but still capable of devastating speed figures, it works as well at 2,000rpm as it does at 11,500rpm - spitting out all of its 200bhp. The KTRC traction control system ensures that you get the best from the motor. It’s not a normal nanny-state TC system, as it allows for slippage and spin, so you really do feel like you’re making progress everywhere. But that’s still not the most impressive bit.
2012 Kawasaki ZZR1400
2012 Kawasaki ZZR1400
2012 Kawasaki ZZR1400
