THE SOUL OF A NINJA.

2018 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS Review on Total Motorcycle:

With Kawasaki Ninja® sportbike-inspired performance, the Concours® 14 ABS provides the ultimate sport-touring platform that is equally adept at carving canyons, devouring highways and negotiating city streets.

THE KAWASAKI SPORT-TOURING POWERHOUSE BLENDS  THE SOUL OF A NINJA® ZX™-14R WITH THE SOPHISTICATION OF ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND PREMIUM ACCESSORIES. BUILT AROUND THE THRILLING PERFORMANCE OF A POWERFUL 1,352cc SUPERSPORT ENGINE, THE CONCOURS®14 ABS IS LOADED WITH TOP-SHELF REFINEMENTS.

•1,352cc inline four-cylinder with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) for enhanced low- and mid-range power while maintaining high rpm performance
•Rigid monocoque frame that provides agile handling characteristics and a high degree of rider feedback
•Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology (K-ACT) ABS system links the front and rear brakes
•Electrically adjusted windshield with a 3-position vent for added comfort
•The standard hard saddlebags conveniently utilize the ignition key and can be installed, removed and locked quickly and easily thanks to the integrated mounting system
•Comes with a 36-month limited warranty

Delivering both awesome supersport performance and comfortable long distance touring potential, the Concours 14 ABS stands apart from its rivals. Including Kawasaki’s flagship and rider support technology, the Concours 14 ABS offers enhanced comfort and continent-crossing performance.

THE ULTIMATE COMBINATION OF PERFORMANCE AND COMFORT
For 2018, the Kawasaki Concours®14 ABS motorcycle continues to offer a level of power and poise familiar to riders of modern sport touring motorcycles, yet its upright riding position provides greater comfort than its purpose-built counterparts. Riders can enjoy its high-powered, versatile and dependable 1,352cc engine derived from the world class Kawasaki Ninja® ZX™-14R sportbike, and for extended sport touring, the motorcycle’s chassis is tuned for ultimate comfort and superior handling.

The Kawasaki Concours14 ABS motorcycle offers far more than just its punch of power. It also defines the sport-touring category by remaining at the top of its class with incredible performance and nimble handling. It’s incredibly capable of both carving canyon roads and cruising comfortably along interstate highways.

With Kawasaki’s supersport expertise, the Concours14 ABS motorcycle benefits from industry-leading technology, K-ACT ABS brakes, KTRC traction control, and a Fuel Economy Assistance Mode. The seat has been sculpted for comfort and to allow the rider to reach the ground more easily. Engineers developed a suspension package that is initially plush for small chatter, yet stiffens through the travel to help maintain its superb handling while carrying a passenger or luggage.

The 2018 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS motorcycle is available in a Metallic Carbon Gray/Metallic Flat Spark Black paint scheme. A variety of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories are available to fit the rider’s preferences and increase comfort on the journey.

 

 

2018 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

• NINJA® INSPIRED CHASSIS AND ENGINE
• KAWASAKI TRACTION CONTROL (KTRC)
• KAWASAKI ADVANCED CO-ACTIVE-BRAKING TECHNOLOGY (K-ACT)
• HEATED GRIPS

 

 

 

2018 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC)(KP)
• An example of the innovative Kawasaki technology that facilitates rider control, KTRC provides rider reassurance by facilitating smooth riding on slippery surfaces. Wheel speed is monitored using front and rear wheel speed sensors. When rear wheel spin (i.e. when rear wheel speed is faster than front wheel speed) is detected, engine output is controlled to allow the rear wheel to regain grip. The system uses 3-way control, governing ignition timing, fuel delivery and airflow (via the sub-throttles) to ensure smooth operation. KTRC assists riders in negotiating both short slippery patches (such as train tracks or manhole covers) and extended stretches of bad road (e.g. dirt, gravel, cobblestone, grass).
• 3-way control provides smoother operation over 2-way control systems found on competing models.
• A switch on the left switch housing gives the rider the option to turn the system off. KTRC is always on when the engine is started.

Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-Braking Technology (K-ACT)(KP)
• K-ACT (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) ABS is a linked brake system that ensures ideal brake force distribution for confident, highly effective braking.
• K-ACT ABS settings for the linked effect when the rear brake is applied helps eliminate the linked feel on the front brake for more natural feeling during low-speed maneuvers.
• Electronic system controls brake force distribution between the front and rear brakes to enhance overall braking performance, no matter how hard the front and/or rear brakes are applied.
• K-ACT has two selectable modes. Mode 1 reduces the linked braking effect at initial brake pedal stroke for more natural braking sensation when riding twisting roads. Mode 2 provides a more pronounced linked effect from the beginning of the pedal stroke which makes it more suitable for touring, two-up and highway use.
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is incorporated into K-ACT to help prevent the wheels from locking during hard, straight-up braking for enhanced control.
• For maximum controllability in tight corners or when making U-turns, K-ACT does not engage when braking is initiated at speeds below 12 mph. The ABS disengages at speeds below 4 mph.

Fuel Economy
Assistance Mode
• Fuel Economy Assistance Mode is a selectable mode that switches the ECU to a leaner fuel map, prioritizing fuel economy.
• The Economical Riding Indicator(KP) is a mark that appears on the LCD screen to indicate favorable fuel consumption.

Heat-Dissipating Bodywork
• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analyses used to design large openings in the fairing that allow hot air to escape quickly. Fairing sides help direct hot air out and away from the rider’s legs.
• Exhaust pipe guard near the right footpeg helps shield the rider from heat when stopped.

Grip Heaters
• Grip heaters make for a much more comfortable ride when the weather is cold.
• Stepless adjustment knob allows the heat level to be fine-tuned.

FEATURES

Locking Storage
• Electromagnetic lock prevents entry when the ignition is in the off position and locks automatically when vehicle speed reaches 24 mph.
• Integrated hooks at the front of the fuel tank facilitate securing a tank bag.

 

1,352cc Four-Cylinder, DOHC Engine With Variable Valve Timing (VVT) (KP)
• VVT helps boost low-end and mid-range torque for effortless acceleration from any engine speed while reducing emissions.
• Special cam profiles complement the VVT system.
• Carefully planned engine design keeps it compact and narrow.
• Chrome composite plated(KP)aluminum cylinder bores are lightweight, durable, and quickly carry heat away from the combustion chamber and piston for supreme durability at high power outputs.

Gear-Driven Dual Engine Balancers(KP)
• Already in perfect primary balance, dual secondary balancers virtually eliminate unwanted vibrations for extremely smooth engine operation and rider comfort.

Ram Air Induction(KP)
• This system takes cooler, high-pressure air from in front of the fairing and guides it through the air cleaner and into the engine for maximum power output.

Digital Fuel Injection (KP)
• 40mm throttle bodies used for more linear low and midrange throttle response and increased rideability. Since smaller diameter bodies increase intake velocity, throttle response is very good at all engine speeds.
• The throttle bodies are fitted with dual throttle valves(KP) that are controlled by the ECU to provide precise response and make DFI performance smoother.
• 32-bit electronic control unit works with dual throttle valve system to further enhance throttle response and control.
• A digital computer feeds the engine exactly the amount of fuel it needs for cleaner emissions and maximum fuel economy.

6-Speed Transmission
• Short first gear ratio takes advantage of the massive torque to make starting from a standstill easy, and aids control in first-gear, low speed situations.
• Sixth gear is an overdrive that reduces rpm at cruising speeds for a more comfortable ride and better fuel mileage.
• Mated to a back-torque limiting “slipper” clutch(KP) that helps minimize rear wheel hop when downshifting at high rpm for smoother corner entries.

Tetra-Lever Shaft Drive(KP)
• Designed to offset the lifting and squatting tendencies of shaft drives when the throttle is open and closed, a special four-shaft design significantly reduces driveline lash and ensures smooth acceleration from the powerful engine.
• Smooth, direct power delivery provides the same natural ride quality as a chain.

ENGINE

Inverted 43mm Cartridge Type Front Fork(KP)
• Damping rates offer stiff initial action to resist front-end dive when braking.
• Stepless rebound damping adjustment is easy to turn and improves suspension performance.

Bottom-Link Uni-Trak® Rear Suspension(KP)
• To ensure long-distance comfort and sporty handling performance, the suspension components were specially calibrated for the Concours 14 ABS and provide excellent bump absorption while being
minimally affected with a passenger and/or luggage aboard.
• Remote hydraulic preload adjuster is easily accessible and doesn’t require any tools so that preload can be quickly altered for various loading situations.
• Linkage rates provide progressive suspension action.
• The bottom-link design concentrates the weight lower in the chassis for a lower center of gravity, which makes the bike more flickable.

Single-Piece Swingarm
• One-piece cast aluminum swingarm is light and rigid.
• Dual-sided Tetra-Lever design has more torsional rigidity than single-sided swingarms, and placing the swingarm pivot inside the frame, as on a chain-drive machine, adds to the rigidity of the structure for more precise handling.

Monocoque Aluminum Frame(KP)
• A more advanced version of the Ninja® ZX™-14R frame delivers high stability and is highly responsive for sport-touring riding.
• The steering head, upper plate and swingarm bracket were made stiffer, increasing torsional rigidity by 20 percent to reduce the influence of increased weight on the machine’s handling
characteristics from added touring amenities.
• The frame is a hollow aluminum box that arches over the engine from the steering head to the swing arm pivot. It is narrow, strong, rigid, and very light.
• Engine is rigidly mounted to increase the monocoque’s torsional rigidity. Plus using the engine as a stressed frame member decreases the frame’s weight by approximately four pounds.
• The steering head and swing arm pivot areas are cast aluminum for superior strength and rigidity.
• Low-friction steering stem bearing seal contributes to light and smooth steering.

SUSPENSION
ALUMINUM FRAME

Radial Mounted Petal Front Disc Brakes
• Radial mounted 4-piston front brake calipers.
• The radial design utilizes integrated mounting points at both the top and bottom of the caliper, with the mounting bolts inserted through the rear of the caliper instead of the side/front. This makes the caliper more rigid, which improves brake feel.
• A separate brake pad is used for each piston. Individual pads provide increased cooling efficiency and can absorb more heat without deforming so that they maintain consistent brake feel.
• Petal design brake discs provide better cooling and warp resistance.
• Radial-pump front brake master cylinder improves brake performance and lever feel.
Electrically-Adjustable Windscreen
• Adjustable windscreen vent reduces the negative pressure effect in the rider
cockpit to smooth airflow and reduce helmet buffeting at higher speeds.
The vent has two open positions and can be fully closed to suit weather
conditions.
• Windshield works in conjunction with air passages under the screen so that air flows more smoothly around the rider and helmet for a more comfortable ride.
• Windshield automatically retracts when the ignition is turned off. A memory function returns the screen to one of four preset positions, selectable through the multi-function meter, when the ignition is turned on. Stepless adjustment is also still available so the rider can fine-tune windshield height.
• More than a windscreen that simply blocks the wind, the Concours 14 ABS windshield and front cowl aerodynamically curves the wind around the rider and passenger for reduced buffeting.
• Conveniently adjusted by an easy-to-reach switch on the left handlebar.

Standard Spacious Storage Hard Luggage
• Slim, integrated hard luggage design mounts the removable cases closer to the machine’s centerline for excellent centralization of mass.
• Lightweight rear carrier comes as standard equipment and is designed to be compatible with an accessory top case (maximum carrying capacity: 22 lbs).

KIPASS (KP)
Ignition System
• KIPASS (Kawasaki’s Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System) is a master key system that allows remote activation of the bike’s main switch and steering lock. (This system uses
the encryption algorithm “MISTY” developed by MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION.)
• Provides keyless ignition when the KI-PASS fob is within approximately six feet of the ignition switch. Simply push and turn the ignition switch without inserting a key.
• The first smart key system in its class.

ERGONOMICS
Accessory-Power Outlet
• Located in the front fairing for powering optional accessories.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) (KP)
• The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warns riders of tire pressure irregularities while underway.
• The sensors constantly monitor air pressure and those readings can be displayed on the multifunction LCD meter. If air pressure drops below a certain level, a low pressure warning is displayed
to alert the rider.
• Front and rear tire pressure sensors (TPS) come as standard equipment.

Comfortable Riding Position
• The seat is narrow at front with a flat seat area so that riders can more easily reach to the ground with their feet. The rear area is long and flat so the passenger can easily adjust position without the tendency to slide forward. Double stitched seams enhance the appearance and a slip-resistant cover is comfortable.
• Accessory Touring Seat ramps up the comfort level with 10mm low-rebound urethane layer for increased cushioning and improved long-distance comfort, an even longer and flatter passenger area,
and an exclusive cover material that resists heat gain in the sun.
• A more relaxed and upright riding position is achieved with handlebars that are nearly four inches higher and further back than the ZX-14R.
• The seat is more than one-half inch higher than the ZX-14R while the footpegs are lower and mounted further forward.
• The seat is also relatively firm with foam for excellent comfort on long-distance rides.
• Passenger footpegs are rubber padded for increased comfort.

Full Instrumentation
• Mode selection button on the front side of the left switch housing, eases display mode selection.
• Multi-function LCD digital display includes an odometer, two trip meters, gear position indicator, clock, and ambient temperature.
• A CAN (Controller Area Network) interface between the meter uses fewer wires while allowing a greater volume of information, such as estimated fuel mileage, to be exchanged.

 

 

2018 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $15,599 USD

Power
Engine
4-stroke, 4-cylinder, DOHC, 4-valve, liquid-cooled
Displacement
1,352cc
Bore x Stroke
84.0 x 61.0mm
Compression ratio
10.7:1
Fuel System
DFI® with 40mm throttle bodies (4)
Ignition
TCBI with digital advance
Transmission
6-speed
Final Drive
Tetra-Lever shaft drive
Performance
Rake / Trail
26.0°/4.4 in
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel
43mm inverted, telescopic fork with adjustable rebound damping and spring preload/4.4 in
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel
Tetra-Lever with stepless rebound damping adjustment and remote spring preload adjuster/5.4 in
Front Tire
120/70 ZR-17
Rear Tire
190/50 ZR-17
Front Brakes
Dual floating 310mm petal-style rotors with four-piston calipers, ABS
Rear Brakes
Single 270mm petal-style rotor, single-piston caliper, ABS
Details
Frame Type
Monocoque Aluminum
Overall Length
87.8 in
Overall Width
31.1/39.4 wo/w saddlebags
Overall Height
52.9 in/57.7 in (windshield down/up)
Ground Clearance
4.9 in
Seat Height
32.1 in
Curb Weight
690.2 lb (672.5 w/o saddlebags)
Fuel Capacity
5.8 gal
Wheelbase
59.8 in
Color Choices
Metallic Carbon Gray/Metallic Flat Spark Black
Warranty
36 Month Limited Warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus™ (optional)
12, 24, or 36 months

 

 

 

 

2018 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $18,599 CDN

 

Engine

Displacement  1,352cc  Type  4-stroke, In-Line Four  Bore and stroke  84.0 x 61.0 mm  Cooling  Liquid  Compression ratio  10.7:1  Valve system  DOHC, 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)  Fuel system  Digital Fuel Injection with four 40 mm Keihin with oval sub-throttles  Ignition  TCBI with digital advance  Lubrication  Forced lubrication (wet sump)
Brakes

Front: type  Dual semi-floating 310 mm petal discs  Front: calipers  4-piston calipers  Rear: type  Single 270 mm petal disc  Rear: calipers  Opposed 2-piston calipers
Dimensions

Overall length  2,230 mm (87.8 in.)  Overall width  790 mm (31.1 in.) – (Without saddlebags)  Overall height  1,345 mm (52.95 in.) / 1,465 mm (57.68 in.) – (Overall height calculated with windshield in high position)  Wheelbase  1,520 mm (59.8 in.)  Ground clearance  125 mm (4.92 in.)  Seat height  815 mm (32.1 in.)  Curb mass**  305 kg – (Without saddlebags)  Fuel capacity  22 litres (4.8 gal.)
Drivetrain

Transmission  6-speed, with positive neutral finder  Final drive  Tetra-Lever shaft drive  Primary reduction ratio  1.556 (84/54)  Gear ratio: 1st  3.538 (46/13)  Gear ratio: 2nd  2.412 (41/17)  Gear ratio: 3rd  1.900 (38/20)  Gear ratio: 4th  1.545 (34/22)  Gear ratio: 5th  1.292 (31/24)  Gear ratio: 6th  1.074 (29/27)  Final reduction ratio  2.036 (14/22 x 32/10)  Clutch  Wet multi-disc, manual
Frame

Type  Monocoque, aluminium  Wheel travel: front  113 mm (4.4 in.)  Tire: front  120/70ZR17M/C (58W)  Wheel travel: rear  136 mm (5.4 in.)  Tire: rear  190/50ZR17M/C (73W)  Caster (rake)  26º  Trail  112 mm (4.4 in.)  Steering angle (left/right)  31º / 31º
Performance

Maximum Power‡ 114 kW {155 PS} @ 8,800 rpm  Maximum Power with Ram Air‡ 117.6 kW {160 PS} @ 8,800 rpm  Maximum Torque‡ 136 N.m {13.9 kgf.m} @ 6,200 rpm
Suspension

Suspension, front  43 mm inverted fork with adjustable rebound damping and spring preload  Suspension, rear  Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, Tetra-Lever
Details

Warranty  36 months warranty

 

 

2018 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

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