My 08 called for the air filter to be replaced at 12K and my 2012 calls for the replacement at 11250. I have been waiting for the after market folks to make one for my 2012, has not happened yet. My 08 has a K&N and I clean it every 3.5K. Went to Chaparral and picked up the OEM filter for $41.43. Put it in the day it arrived. Bike had 11,996 on it and the original filter didn't look too dirty. Took a soft brush to it and a whole bunch of bug crap came out of it and I banged it down on a flat surface and was really surprised to see the amount of stuff that was in there. My first trip with the new filter was a real eye opener. It wasn't a situation where I thought it was a bit better. It was a situation where I thought, HOLLY CRAP, WHAT A DIFFERENCE! IT WAS THAT PRONOUNCED. I just ride on hard roads, no dirt. I am going to be pulling OEM filters at 6K miles.

OEM filters are VERY good at stopping fine particle dust. K&N and others are not so good but flow a lot more. I always go for the extra protection.

Kawasaki stated that the air filter used in the 2012 model ZX-14R has 10% more surface area than the previous generation's air filter and they decreased the flow resistance by 60%.

I intend to stick with the OEM filter and change it every three years (approx 12,000 miles). There are several good places on the internet to order from so it's not going to break the bank.

Foway, with that kinda flow improvement, there less of a need for aftermarket air filter companies to get in on the 2012 model, then.

If there's a chance to make money then you can certainly expect the aftermarket to step up to the plate. My philosophy is that a filter is in place to do just that... FILTER. For street use I want my intake air charge to be as clean a possible for as long as possible. These engines are very expensive and I'm a firm believer that a ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

I'm interested that you said that, Fowvay.

I'm requesting you pick up the "Oil Explained" thread, where we left off. No hard feeling if you decide not to, tho. I'll drop it now, and let it go if no reply. Really, no hard feeling either way. Good conversing with you...

Thanks...

* Last updated by: mebgardner on 9/6/2012 @ 4:13 PM *

I called Brock and inquired about when to expect and K&N or BMC air filter for the 2012 and was told that the stock filter is the best you can get for the new 14. Chances are they may not make and after market filter for that bike. The bike has been in production now for over a year and still no filter.

Stock rocks. It all just..... works.

BMC race & street filters are now available for the 2012. I will be sticking with a stock filter this time around.

Yes, I have since been told the OEM filter is the best for the bike. No need for to waste $$$ on an aftermarket when there is nothing gained by it.