was lookin at a new 14...running the specs at the kawasaki site....notice massive headpipe for frame rigity...does this mean we cant put a custom pipes on the bike? ...dont want to compromise the frame...if so i think i will stick with what i have...input please....tia

I have been noticing a lot of enquiries about what is the best slipon but I think that's because most people don't want or need the performance improvement of a full system. HOwever, I doubt the OEM exhaust was designed to add strength to the frame of the 14r. Far as I know, the 14r frame is very similar to the Gen1 14 where the frame joins up to the airbox to arch OVER the motor. There is no frame necessary underneath.

Looking at your avatar, I see the 14r header is very different from the Gen 1 but still, it's just a clamp that holds the midpipes in the collector and those have gaskets that would leak if there was a lot of stress being put on them by supporting the weight of the bike and rider. So I'm going to guess, NO, the exhaust has zip to do with holding the bike together. There are full systems out there on the market and as I'm sure you know, they are a lot lighter than the stock exhaust. I'd say go ahead and install your full system or bend your pipes and bold 'em on if that's what you had in mind.

notice massive headpipe for frame rigity

Rook is 100% correct. The exhaust is in no way a part of the frame.

What they said!

they say it on the site under details and features...sub...monocoque aluminum frame...sub

• Lightweight monocoque frame is a hollow aluminum box that arches over the engine from the steering head to the swingarm pivot. It is narrow, strong, rigid and very light
• Many of the frame’s cast aluminum sections – steering head and swingarm pivot areas – are produced via a die-casting process for weight savings
• Rigidly mounted engine is a stressed frame member, which increases the frame’s torsional rigidity and saves weight vs. traditional designs
• Engine is positioned forward in the frame, with the long wheelbase and front/rear weight balance carefully designed to achieve high-speed stability and responsive handling
• Long swingarm design helps maximize forward drive and is gusseted to better cope with the engine’s healthy torque output
• Massive head pipe casting contributes to frame rigidity
• Frame houses the air box and air filter in a space-saving design that simplifies air cleaner maintenance
• Battery is also housed within the frame and is easily accessible through an aluminum frame cover

* Last updated by: wndsrfr on 5/21/2014 @ 10:08 PM *

The head pipe of the framework is the area that steering shaft goes through. Besides that, the exhaust header is not a casting at all, but rather a series of 4 stainless tubes merging into 1.

a case of mistaken nomenclature. I woulda thought the same thing.

Thanx omg..light bulb moment...lol

now that thats cleared up----buy 14 zx14--

go for it, man!