HiMile14
Expert Class
Posts: 424
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posted August 27, 2012 07:00 PM
I may soon be back
Hi All,
As the owner of a 06 ZX-14, I must admit that as one who travels I believe there is no smoother motorcycle on the road today. From the reports I've read so far it seems the 12 model only takes that smoothness to a new and improved level.
Well as many of you know I love my VFR and I have been very happy with my interceptor's but a dose of reality is beginning to set in, my VFR is aging and there will be no replacing the 09 VFR with a newer version. I mean if the choice is between the VFR1200 and the ZX-14 well Honda your out of luck I'm going with the ZX-14 and an extra 2000 dollars thank you.
I bring this up because I'm about to take my annual Labor Day road trip and my VFR is hitting middle age and even though I think I'll be good for another 2 years that is about all that is left dependability wise. I suspect in a year or so I will begin to look for a slightly used 10-13 ZX-14 to replace my trustworthy VFR. I really hope Kawasaki brings the dark blue to America in 13 but I will allow the deals to play out at the time. A couple of quick questions for the 12 owners.
1. Does the new model require the valves to be adjusted every 15K as my 06 model or has that been extended?
2. Has the MPG improved over the 06 model. Not that I really care I was used to 38-44 MPG but Kawasaki claims they have improved MPG?
3. Heat = the same as the older model or has that improved? Riding in Daytona the temp gauge actually read a cooler reading over the VFR's 176F cooler temp reading right up to the 221F fan on reading.
4. I really miss the way that bike lights up the road, makes my 4 lamp system look silly on very dark high way.
Thanks Rob
09 VFR 35,517 miles
02 VFR gone after 121,377 miles
  
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Seno
Pro
BANNED FOR LIFE!
Posts: 1230
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posted August 28, 2012 04:29 AM
 Edited By: Seno on 28 Aug 2012 12:30
quote:
1. Does the new model require the valves to be adjusted every 15K as my 06 model or has that been extended?
2. Has the MPG improved over the 06 model. Not that I really care I was used to 38-44 MPG but Kawasaki claims they have improved MPG?
3. Heat = the same as the older model or has that improved? Riding in Daytona the temp gauge actually read a cooler reading over the VFR's 176F cooler temp reading right up to the 221F fan on reading.
4. I really miss the way that bike lights up the road, makes my 4 lamp system look silly on very dark high way.
1. recommended is 15k still, after the first you can then go 25-30k
2. About the same, I avarage 35-42.... Depends on how you ride
3 improved heat dissipation, and the 2nd fan helps keep it cool.... I wired a switch onto to mine for those really hot days or when I get stuck in traffic.
4.Yes works well once you adjust them
____________
2012 Black 14R -> Completely done!
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LeoVinceZX14
Expert Class
Thankfully...its paid for...
Posts: 386
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posted August 28, 2012 10:18 AM
Edited By: LeoVinceZX14 on 28 Aug 2012 18:24
Rob:
I picked up my '12 SE from KMS in Kissimmee about 3 weeks ago. The improvements are across the board with the 14R so imagine more of everything you liked and less of the flaws from the original. As Seno pointed out, the cooling is much improved. Mine generally runs in the 190's around town and as cool as 160's on the highway.
You could get very good mileage on the road pretty easily riding the highway miles you do since the bike has a economy mode in the fuel mapping for light load throttle on the road. Not something most owners care about, but it is there and I got 47 MPG cruising 80-85 mph to Tampa last week (note that I do have a 41 tooth rear sprocket) for a local perspective. Additionally you might find the traction control beneficial for all those afternoon showers we get down here.
Get one,
Leo
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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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HiMile14
Expert Class
Posts: 424
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posted August 28, 2012 03:40 PM
Leo and Seno, thanks for the information.
I'm so jealous that green is absolutely gorgeous although if that dark blue actually comes out I may do something crazy. Thanks for the information.
Rob
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