Hi all,
1st post, so go easy...
I'm looking to upgrade my bike (a VFR800, which I love) to a ZX14, because I've liked these things since the days of the 12R (which was a little too "sporty" for two-up touring IMHO). Just haven't quite committed to buiying because I still love the old VFR (which is bullet-proof, and sounds great when "touring" ;), and also because I wanted to do a bit of research about the '14s to make sure there are no gotchas before looking to sell (both the VFR and a 'Blade track bike) to fund the purchase of a 14.

To my mind, the main potential "issue" with the 14s is the "monocoque" chassis-style arrangement they use. As I understand it, this forms a "backbone" which incorporates airbox and fuel tank in the cast/welded "frame"...? On the surface of it, I'd worry about access to the engine for 'plug R&R, checking clearances etc, but hopefully I'm worrying over the nothing, and it's no more crowded in there than a current litre-bike (which aren't that easy to work on, despite the twin-spar frame arrangements).

So, do any of you people have any advice on day-to-day living with the 14 that might aid me a bit in my decision making? No need to talk about performance etc, as I'm well aware of what the 14s are capable of (isn't everyone?)

I'd be using it in much the same way I use the VFR, which is day-to-day commuting, and occasional two-up touring and solo scratching.

Thanks in advance.

Plugs are a bugger. But really it ain't much different than the next over crowded machine.

I use my bike as a do all; tour, sport, commute, moped like putting around, and doing stupid things, heck I've even taken her on roads and places only adventure bikes belong(was a bit sketchy handling in the that scenario). And she does all those things exceptionally well!

* Last updated by: nasty on 11/9/2013 @ 6:48 PM *

The fuel tank is not part of the frame..........and a special tool is provided in the stock kit for plug removal....so be sure it is there.

It's the best all-around bike I've ever been on. A few mods and it can be a lil more powerful....or a lil more comfy - or both. If you want more of a tourer try the Connie instead.

The 14 is really just a HUGE sportsbike....I love it.

No special tool with my 2013 model.

Really?

Like this:

2012's/13's...no plug removal tool.

Uncommitted... .The plugs on these are fairly easy to remove actually(well,IMO).The first shot is the hardest I think....cause the coils are on there quite snug...but after reinstalling and using a bit of grease on the inside...they go on and off much easier.The 2012's and 2013's are somewhat harder to get your hands in there to get...but once done...they're really not so bad.The most frustrating part for me was removing that connector plug bracket on the Air valve assembly.They could have fastened it somewhere else I think....I did not reconnect that bracket to the assembly.Just positioned the plug/connector(s)on the top of the motor there...didn't want to have to go through that again next plug change.But otherwise...they removed and installed nicely.You have to get a socket and an extension however to make the plug change easier..and a knuckle.I actually think they went in easier than on my 07.I also had to remove the left side subframe there that the harness is connected to on my 07.The 2012/13...I didn't have to do that.I also pulled the airbox tube out(on the left side) and moved it aside....there was plenty of room then.

As far as reliability...not ONE reliability issue on ANY of my 14's from 2007 on till now...3 bikes.All..never had one problem.Owner maintenance is very easy.Very straightforward.Just need to be careful with the tabs and such on the bodywork...and learn how to remove panels correctly and in what order.I think you'd really like this bike for your needs.EASILY will haul two people...easily..and in excellent comfort.

I would STRONGLY suggest you get a new model...2013 or 2014 and get the ABS.The bike from the factory is extremely well built and most excellent for everyday use for sure...and the 'modding' you may eventually want really does make a difference with this bike...but it really doesn't need any changes....leaving it stock will definitely not be a bad move....it doesn't need anything else really.Kawasaki nailed it this time out the gate....

* Last updated by: Grn14 on 11/9/2013 @ 9:10 PM *

I always thought it was strange but good that Mother Kaw included a plug socket in the toolkit. No way you're going to pull plugs (or need to) during roadside maintenance, so it's more like a factory service tool. Sounds like they figured that out and quit including them in the stock kit.

The only maintenance items that are out-of-bounds for the normal owner are valve clearance adjustments, throttle body synch and anything to do with the electronic systems. Other than that, it's GTO- gas tires and oil and the occasional brake pad exchange.

* Last updated by: Danno on 11/11/2013 @ 6:31 AM *

"The only maintenance items that are out-of-bounds for the normal owner are valve clearance adjustments, throttle body synch and anything to do with the electronic systems"

Thanks for telling us we are not normal

Now how did I know that?

I used the stock spark plug tool to diagnose a dead coil at the MotoGP last year. Pulled #1 and #4 and swapped them to verify that it was a bad coil and not a bad plug. The tool works great.

Mad

All that work pulling the plastics etc. and you still couldn't fix it with duct tape and paperclips. Did you ride it home running on two or get a tow?

I traded in an '08 VFR for an '09 ZX 14 and was extremely pleased. The ZX is only about 20 lbs heavier and about 50 HP more powerful.

I had 19K miles on my '09 and never changed the plugs because of the tight space reputation, but it ran like new when I traded it in for a '14 ZX-14R recently. Cars now go 100K miles between plug changes, I don't understand the frequency for this on modern bikes.

The only advantage for the VFR was removal of the rear wheel.

I strongly recommend he ZX-14 over the VFR.

Back!....enjoy yer new spaceship...she's all that;)Beefier motor and greater spark....want to keep your plugs working right.It's not too bad once ya get the hang of it....You won't be dreading plug changes....worth the time and all to do it by the book;)

* Last updated by: Grn14 on 11/13/2013 @ 9:18 PM *