2012 ZX14 wishlist

[Big D]

Thanks!



Edit: I think my only real "complaint" is heat management. I think it's mostly that damn CAT in header cooking the oil in the pan. If/when I do the pipes, it'll probably a full system just for that reason.

[Silverbird]

My only wish is that they keep making it.  I will be ready to but next fall.  Are there any heat fixes out there that don't involve a louder exhaust?

[Big D]

Yeah, several. Off the top of my head.... Lose the CAT, either by fitting a '06/'07 headder, or cut and remove. Then you can heat wrap or ceramic coat it. Fit a second radiator fan, fairly cheap and simple mod, most people report a noticeable improvement. Also there is a better replacement fan blade for the stock one, moves more air. Schnitz Racing I think. Change out the coolant to "Engine Ice". I believe some people have changed the thermostat out for a better type/cooler range.

It seems a bit better now that I have a few miles on it, or maybe I'm just used to it.

[Krellian]

Yeah, several. Off the top of my head.... Lose the CAT, either by fitting a '06/'07 headder, or cut and remove. Then you can heat wrap or ceramic coat it. Fit a second radiator fan, fairly cheap and simple mod, most people report a noticeable improvement. Also there is a better replacement fan blade for the stock one, moves more air. Schnitz Racing I think. Change out the coolant to "Engine Ice". I believe some people have changed the thermostat out for a better type/cooler range.

It seems a bit better now that I have a few miles on it, or maybe I'm just used to it.

I put the two brothers 4 into 1 pipes on, gave it a low throated rumble and not that much increase in noise level.
I've never had a problem with heat.

[Jules]

I'm quite new to ZX14 ownership, having mine since April and it's mostly been winter weather here since.

Just curious, I've only seen 2010 built models here Down Under, is it the same in the US and other markets?

I'd like ABS, but in these difficult financial times I buy pretty much on price alone. I got a smokin' deal on a new 2010 model and it's a hell of a bike as is for the money!

I've added slip on mufflers,  radiator guard, soft luggage rack & a hugger.


Here's a couple of pics.

[motordog1]

I had owned several sport touring bikes prior to my ZX14 including an FJR and Futura and  rode RTs at work. I wanted lighter weight and more power and still long haul comfort. I decided the ZX14 was the only thing that fit my needs I became a regular customer of Twisted Throttle and quickly transformed my bike. For about 4000 you can cover all the bases. Windshield, seat, fly removal and dyno tune, luggage, centerstand, slip ons, power commnder an LSL bars.  Thats a lot of coin but the bikes are fairly inexpensie to begin with and with these mods there is nothing even close in the spot touring class. In my opinion the 06 and 07 are the best choice. You can get rid of the cats with addition of slip on pipes because you don't have the third cat and with the flys removed the power is better than the stock 08 and newer and just as good as them with their flys removed. The end result for me was 537 pounds wet and 176 hp / 111 ft lbs tq. Torque is the key, the new liter bikes might be faster in the quarter and have equal or greater top speed but the real world immediate power at normal everyday rpms is what makes a great ST motor.

[sinc]

Motordog1 - That is one nice ZX, probably the nicest I've seen. I agree with your comments.

I owned a BMW K1200R for the last 5 years, now have an older VFR which I enjoy, but miss the torque of the KR. Thinking of moving to a ZX14or Blackbird - need something that provides decent wind protection (and doesn't have a ton of wind noise), will carry a bit of luggage, and that I can tour on 300-500 miles per day. The comments I've seen re heat on the ZX are a concern to me but all in all I think the ZX might fit the bill. Cheers.

Mark