I'm not fond of the OEM gas capon my 2017 ZX-14R, because:
- it is a bit of a hassle to open and close with the key setup every time I fill up
- It periodically needs lubrication in the key slot
- I wonder what happens if it ever refuses to open with the key
- It is pretty heavy - about 14 ounces or 0.88 lb, and so is a fat target for my ZX-14R weight reduction efforts.
I would ideally like:
- No key or 100% easy & reliable key operation
- No need for lubrication
- No worries about ever not being able to get it open, no matter how wet or cold
- A little subtlety about how to open it, to discourage random acts of opportunistic vandalism
- As lightweight as practical
or, at least as many of the above as I can realistically get within any one affordable product
Rook has described a couple of alternatives: the Lightech Quarter Turn at 0.45 lb, and the EvoTech flat double wing quarter turn at 0.40 lb. Apparently both are reliable, waterproof when it rains, and also vent well, and have reliable overflow systems. But they are very expensive as far as gas caps go (apparently inspired by genuine OEM pricing!)
There are other aftermarket gas caps for the ZX-14R,many of them Asian, that are also about 0.40 lb, look easy to operate and seem to have very little opportunity for acting unopenable. Many are also very inexpensive, some as low as $20.
But, I have read product reviews on Amazon and elsewhere that, at east with some models, mention:
- Rain or washwater leaking into the tank
- Too-easy to cross-thread
- Hard to open or close due to too-shallow "handles"
- Improper or no venting
Unfortunately, I suspect you don't discover which flaws are present until you actually BUY one!
Can any of you who have tried aftermarket gas caps suggest any brands/models that tick at least the majority of the features I listed? Or can you list the ones to avoid?
Jim G