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Bringing Out the Full Potential of the Mega Sports: Kawasaki ZX-14R Custom

 8 min read

K-Ⅱ FACTORY's ZX-14R

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The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R, introduced as Kawasaki's flagship model in 2012, was imported and sold domestically until 2019. Even to this day, it doesn't give the slightest impression of being outdated, despite more than 10 years having passed since its debut. The owner, being short, feels that the Ninja ZX-14R is quite large for him. Thus, the customization journey began with the intention of improving maneuverability by installing a lowering kit and adjusting the riding position to fit the owner's physique. It's remarkable that the bike had been lowered until hearing this story, as the overall impression of the motorcycle remains cohesive.

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In response to the desire to further reduce weight after achieving a significant easy handling, the bike has been undergoing a gradual transformation with parts modifications. The first step was to replace the heavy stock exhaust and upgrading the suspension to a more finely adjustable system that can accommodate changes in weight. Additionally, the master cylinders for the front brake and clutch were changed to models that provide a comfortable grip tailored to the owner's hand size, incorporating excellent control and responsiveness. After successfully addressing these problems, the owner felt an improvement in handling and wanted to install Brembo's radial mount calipers and Wheelie swingarm, which he has a long-standing interest. At first, the owner thought that customization was not necessary, but the owner gradually recognized the benefits of custom parts, stating that he now feel more confident and comfortable during his usual touring rides. Even small issues can be significant challenges for the owner, and solving them not only leads to improvements but also sparks curiosity for further enhancements and new requests. The K-2 Project is dedicated to customizing motorcycles to continually enhance owner satisfaction. This ZX-14R stands as an example that fulfills those objectives and is worth considering as a reference.

Handle

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This bike is based on the 2017 high-grade model among the post-2016 Asian specification models with widened and slightly raised handlebars. The left and right master cylinders have been adjusted according to the owner's preferences, enhancing control. For the left and right reservoir tanks, rizoma products with a combination of machined aluminum body and clear tank have been chosen.

Bodyworks

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The exterior components such as the front cowl, windshield, and seat are kept in stock from the ZX-14R. The footpegs have been changed to a knurling-type bar.

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The center stand is a standard product feature of the '16 Asian specification model. The rear shocks link has been replaced with the compatible EFFEX ride height adjustment kit, resulting in a natural lowering effect.

Engine

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The 1441cc straight-four engine and FI remain stock, and a Nojima Engineering radiator core guard and Over Racing sliders are added.

Intake & Exhaust

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The left and right exhausts are Nojima Heat Titanium Twin TYPE-SC, a collaboration with the K-2 Project, which has made a positive impression in terms of weight reduction and performance characteristics. The swingarm is a Wheelie triple-section aluminum, and the rear shocks are Ohlins. The wheels are Marchesini M7RS in the size of 3.50-17/6.00-17.

Chassis

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The stock up side down forks with Φ43mm diameter are equipped with modified axle clamp bolts. The front brakes feature Gale Speed radial mount calipers paired with Brembo front brake discs.

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The rear brakes are also replaced with Gale Speed radial mount calipers. Both front and rear brake lines are Allegri Shorto series.

Gallery

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Specifications

Part Details
Engine NOJIMA Radiator Core Guard
Exhaust NOJIMA ENGINEERING Heat Titanium Twin Type-sc K-Ⅱ Project Collaboration model
Frame OVER RACING Racing Slider
Wheelie Swingarm
EFFEX Lowering Kit
Brake GALE SPEED Elaborate VRE Brake Master Cylinder
RIZOMA Fluid Tank Wave for Mineral Oil
GALE SPEED Radial Front Caliper 4 Piston
BREMBO SERIE ORO Front Floating Brake Disc
GALE SPEED Elaborate Front 2P Caliper Φ34
ACTIVE Rear Caliper Support
Wheels MARCHESINI Forged Aluminum Wheels M7RS Genesi Front and Rear Set
Suspension OHLINS Rear Suspension
Drive System RK GV Series Gold Chain GV530X-XW
XAM Steel Rear Sprocket
Handle / Steering GALE SPEED Elaborate VRE Clutch Master Cylinder
RIZOMA Fluid Tank Wave for Mineral Oil
Bodyworks MRA Windshield Spoiler

Original Source of this Article

Heritage & Legends

Hakuyo
Hakuyo

editor

Hakuyo

A foreigner who rides in Japan, Japanese call this "Gaijin Rider". Third year in the Webike global team. He feels and shares the real bike life in Japan then presents you how interesting Japanese customs are.