Xenotaj
Parking Attendant
Posts: 5
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posted March 05, 2008 05:47 PM
When is the zx14 right for me?
Hey everyone, I'm looking for some advice about the zx14.
I've been riding for about 2 years now, I started on an old kawasaki 450 and now have a Virago 535 (I'm 6'1", so it's a very small bike for me, but something I thought would be good to continue learning on). I'm currently looking to upgrade to a bigger bike. In my small amount of riding, I've learned that I need wind protection, I'd like a sporty seating position, but not so much that I feel like I'm laying upside-down. I typically go on long rides with friends, when possible.
From what I've read, the zx14 seems to be a great bike for touring, but doesn't have all the extra crap that comes with most sport-tourers. I've sat on several bikes, and I really like the feel of the zx. Sorry to drag it out, but my question is this - When should I consider upgrading to this bike? What should I consider as a transitionary bike? Any advice is appreciated!
  
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NinjaNick
Needs a job
'08 ZX14 (Blue)
Posts: 4558
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posted March 05, 2008 06:03 PM
 Edited By: NinjaNick on 5 Mar 2008 18:03
The bike has insane power. I would suggest a good sportbike before upgrading to a 14 to anyone. I would get a 600 or a GSXR750 if I was you. After that, get a 14. Just my opinion. You can do whatever you want, that's just my advice. Ride safe bro! 
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NinjaNick
Needs a job
'08 ZX14 (Blue)
Posts: 4558
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posted March 05, 2008 06:04 PM
Oh, I'm 6'2 275lbs and I've ridden a 636 for almost 5 years. I know what you mean about comfort. But in your case, I think you should experience a true sportsbike for awhile before the 14.
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pazx14rider
Zone Head
Posts: 953
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posted March 05, 2008 06:15 PM
I am going to have to agree with nick on this one. My 14 is my second bike i started 3yrs ago on a 02 zx750 very close on weight but down considerably to my 14 but compared to your bikes the 750 had alot more, Im 6ft and the 750 was actually a comfortable bike for me to ride...you can pick up a 750 pretty cheap on ebay. but not to be an ass but get used to more power before you buy the most powerful
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road rage
Expert Class
Posts: 129
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posted March 05, 2008 06:23 PM
I'd say that with two (2) yrs experience riding motorcycles in general, you'll be able to handle the ZX-14 IMHO. If you've been riding and have mastered that by itself, it says alot to me, so get the ZX-14 and enjoy. If you were a new rider, and was looking to get into motorcycles for the very first time, then indeed....pass on the ZX-14 til you've learned to ride; but in your case you already know how so......buy it, ride it, and enjoy it....
Phil
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zzkenoman
Parking Attendant
Posts: 20
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posted March 05, 2008 06:36 PM
I have to agree that moving up to a ZX-14 would be way too much for you. There are alot of threads about making smart moves to upgrade, but you have to have your ducks in order as far as being competent experience and making sure all safety classes have been taken. I would move towards a 600 or 750 first, then move into a BMW F 800ST then up the cc to a ST1300 or FJR1300. Wind protection varies and carries its pro and cons in extreme weather. My last bike was a FJR1300, I had a large windshield, adjustable, but in hot weather it was horrible sitting behind the still air in 100deg weather, or on very windy days it pushed the bike around dangerously. I would seriously try to find a place to rent a sports tourer, and at some motorcycle shows, they have manufacturer demo days where you can try there latest and greatest bikes. good luck and ride safe.
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FasterThanStink
Pro
Posts: 1218
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posted March 05, 2008 07:34 PM
Just leave the secondary butterfly valves in and you will be fine with a 14.
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Speed has never killed anyone,
suddenly becoming stationary...
That's what gets you.
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stevewfl
Moderator
Posts: 27920
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posted March 05, 2008 07:38 PM
quote:
Just leave the secondary butterfly valves in and you will be fine with a 14.
+1 the ZX14 bike is mild with the secondaries in (unless you twist the throttle real good). And twisting any 600-1000CC bike can get you killed just as fast as a 14 twisted.
Enjoy a 14, no need to buy less then just sell and get the 14 you originally wanted. Avoid the buyer's remorse.
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2010 Concours14
'08 R1 YAMAHA
ZX14 gone!
CBR600RR track bike
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NinjaNick
Needs a job
'08 ZX14 (Blue)
Posts: 4558
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posted March 05, 2008 07:55 PM
2008 I hear doesn't have much need for fly removal, although I'm doing it anyways when I get my brock alien head.
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qwick
Expert Class
Posts: 413
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posted March 05, 2008 08:01 PM
Edited By: qwick on 5 Mar 2008 20:24
I agree... it's all in the wrist!!!!!!!! Any bike can kill you... if YOU let it. Just use your head and never lose respect for the power that sits beneath you!!! Don't make any power mods to the 14 other than a slip-on system for the first year atleast. If you have been riding safely for two years and are a responsible rider then I don't see why I should tell you not to buy one, but I would recommend finding an 06 or 07 with the flies still in!!! Just remember, you don't have to take the ZX14 out to prove that it'll go fast. It does & it will, I promise. So NEVER let anyone else be the cause of you killing yourself because they don't believe the bikes potential or cause they want to see it first hand... that's what Youtube is for!
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qwick
Expert Class
Posts: 413
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posted March 05, 2008 08:28 PM
Nick, I was thinking that you were going to buy one of the new Short Megs from Brock too.
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xenotaj
Parking Attendant
Posts: 5
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posted March 05, 2008 08:29 PM
Hey guys, I really appreciate the suggestions. I've always been responsible when it comes to riding a motorcycle, I wouldn't be out to prove a point buying this type of bike, but it seems to be a good fit.. I've also had a good bit of experience with a zrx1200 that my friend owns, if that counts for anything.
I may have to see if I can take one out for a ride, and try some other bikes. I'm also in the early stages of looking, I'm not ready to go out and buy something right this moment.
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qwick
Expert Class
Posts: 413
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posted March 05, 2008 08:55 PM
X, Let me know when you make up your mind. A friend here has a white 07 Special Edition that is bone stock with less than 3,500 miles on it. He's thinking of letting it go this spring. And after reading more about you, I feel confident that the 14 would fit you just fine. The bike is a joy to ride! Worse part about riding a ZX14 is when you have to call it a day and park it. It really is like the Kawasaki commercial depicts... You lose track of time and just want to make the ride all over again. Good luck on your decision.
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stevewfl
Moderator
Posts: 27920
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posted March 05, 2008 09:07 PM
quote:
Hey guys, I really appreciate the suggestions. I've always been responsible when it comes to riding a motorcycle, I wouldn't be out to prove a point buying this type of bike, but it seems to be a good fit.. I've also had a good bit of experience with a zrx1200 that my friend owns, if that counts for anything.
I may have to see if I can take one out for a ride, and try some other bikes. I'm also in the early stages of looking, I'm not ready to go out and buy something right this moment.
post up some pics of whatever you buy :P
____________
2010 Concours14
'08 R1 YAMAHA
ZX14 gone!
CBR600RR track bike
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jeff martin
Pro (closed)
jamming
Posts: 1168
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posted March 05, 2008 09:24 PM
Also think about the new concourse, Good transition form a monster to sport touring..But if you buy the 14 just remove your hand before you hit 150mph...Whats you desire is the question. if you want lots of hp and dont want the improper lost feeling of a long ride look into the concourse with simular foward ballastic power but hard bags and taller clamp-ons its a great choice..Good luck !
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i play with boats my wife plays with my dingy.
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NinjaNick
Needs a job
'08 ZX14 (Blue)
Posts: 4558
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posted March 06, 2008 07:35 AM
quote:
Nick, I was thinking that you were going to buy one of the new Short Megs from Brock too.
No, I'm purchasing the alien head because I want the sound of it too. 
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dubious
Needs a life
Needs more time to ride!
Posts: 8442
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posted March 06, 2008 07:44 AM
Boy oh Boy!
Is he ever in for a surprise and a good scare the first time accidentally opening the throttle wide open.... even purposely! LOL
especiallly when it hits 6g and the flies open and the tire lift off the grd...
personally i think the flies out power is more progressive, smoother, predictable and safer even for new guys
I would never advocate the 14 as a second bike.
A virago of any size is a learning tool, and moped in comparison.
get yourself a bandit, 1200 or the zxrx1200 as next bike, big bike comfy for your size and won't scare the shit out of you when you whisky throttle it!
The bandit 1200 would be a perfect next bike for you.
Get a used 2-3 yr old one so you don't lose any money on it, when you buy the 14 in a year or so.
IMO.... anyway
____________
natural selection.....
destiny will overcome intervention.
Some are not worthy of the effort.
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jeff martin
Pro (closed)
jamming
Posts: 1168
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posted March 06, 2008 07:50 AM
How about the 14 with two spark plug wires off..HE HE..
____________
i play with boats my wife plays with my dingy.
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davej
Expert Class
Posts: 451
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posted March 06, 2008 08:26 AM
It isn't about your years of experience, or how many bikes you have owned. It is your natural common sense and talent that only you can determine.
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Triumph guy
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LeoVinceZX14
Expert Class
Thankfully...its paid for...
Posts: 386
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posted March 06, 2008 08:40 AM
My 2 cents..
Xenotaj:
The 14 can be a great sport touring bike if you chose. The real question you have to answer is an honest self assessment of your skills. The 14 is very smooth and can gain stupid amounts of speed effortlessly. I came off a FJR1300 to my 14 and was mildly shocked at how much more performance the 14 has. In that case it was 40-45 additional rear wheel HP (a bunch) and more importantly 100 lbs lighter. Not a bike to learn on IMO. If you think you are ready, take an MSF experienced rider course and then see what you think.
Ride safe.....
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'12 14R SE
PC V
Custom map
BMC filter
Leo Vince 4-2-1 w/ carbon can
Sato frame sliders
Supersprox 42T
Cox radiator guard
DID 530 X-ring chain.
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NinjaNick
Needs a job
'08 ZX14 (Blue)
Posts: 4558
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posted March 06, 2008 08:46 AM
Edited By: NinjaNick on 6 Mar 2008 08:47
I have lots of common sense and maturity on a bike and I will tell you that if I had the 14 as my first SPORTBIKE and I gave it too much gas, it would've scared me away from bikes probably because it would've scared the shit out of me. I believe it isn't about maturity or anything else, it's about how well developed your brain or senses have became to speed. Just like mathematics, you have to work your way up to further mastery of it. You can't come out of elementary algebra and jump right into calculus III or Differential equations. The minds perception of speed is developed overtime. That is why many people will have a slow bike and have a blast with it and think it's fast, but then overtime, they're brain is trained to perceive that speed, such as being able to operate and perceive what is happening, and they decide they want more speed because they became accustomed to it. Then they need more power. I believe it's not maturity, but it is giving your mind time to adjust to such dramatic change in perceiving the world around you as you're splitting the atmosphere on these 2 wheels we love to ride.
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NinjaNick
Needs a job
'08 ZX14 (Blue)
Posts: 4558
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posted March 06, 2008 08:49 AM
MSF experienced course is a joke. It's a bunch of goobers on wangers riding around; not a good sportbike learning experience. Do a roadcourse track day beginner level; it would be a better learning experience
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stevewfl
Moderator
Posts: 27920
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posted March 06, 2008 09:32 AM
MSF advanced I'm very glad I attended. Unlike the race schools I've attended, MSF advanced teaches defensive riding skills in the world I ride my street bike in.
____________
2010 Concours14
'08 R1 YAMAHA
ZX14 gone!
CBR600RR track bike
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KikonZX14
Pro
Novice
Posts: 1813
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posted March 06, 2008 10:24 AM
Hi Xenotaj and welcome,
I recently (about a week ago) transitioned from a Steed VLX 600 (same as Shadow VLX 600) to a ZX-14. It was a "violent" transition....honouring the truth I should say that there was almost no transition at all. They are definitively different types of bikes. ZX-14 is a monster and the best bike ever. For me that I never rode a sportbike before, even with flies in it has a scarying power that should be treated as carefully as possible until you can manage and administrate it correctly. Learn how to throttle/gear it, learn how to brake it, and carefully read all postings here. I've found lots of useful advises plus the people here is very helpful whenever we newbies have doubts. Not to mention the fun I have everyday when I read some of the "bashing" threads or the joy of watching pics of other's bikes.
Best advise, take MSF (not available here in Chile, but I would love to learn from the experts) and ALWAYS ride safe even while speeding.
Best Regards,
David
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Feel the need for SPEED2007 ZX-14 Black with Red Flames (Helibars, Sliders, Yoshimura TRC Ti 4-2 Slip Ons, Fender Eliminator, Zero Gravity SR Windscreen, Custom Heel Guards , Speedohealer V4, Pazzo Levers -soon to come: Flies out / PCV w/A/T kit and later 16T sprocket)1990 Honda Steed (Japan model same as Shadow)1993 Kawasaki Vulcan EN 500 (gone as I trade it in for the ZX-14)Santiago, Chile, South America
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NinjaNick
Needs a job
'08 ZX14 (Blue)
Posts: 4558
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posted March 06, 2008 11:48 AM
Edited By: NinjaNick on 6 Mar 2008 11:49
quote:
MSF advanced I'm very glad I attended. Unlike the race schools I've attended, MSF advanced teaches defensive riding skills in the world I ride my street bike in.
Defensive skills can be learned on any bike, as I did on a Rebel 250 back in the MSF course awhile ago. In terms of the ZX14 and what we're talking about, it takes offensive skills brotherman. 
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