2008 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 | PRICE: $11,699-$11,999
Dyno
More power everywhere this year thanks to upgraded fuel injection and revised ignition timing to restore some missing low-end and midrange power. Excessive richness causes horsepower to drop dramatically past 9500 rpm, though. | 
Ergos
Ergos are unchanged for '08, and fairly comfortable by sportbike standards. A relatively tall, 4.3-inch bar rise (twice that of a typical sportbike) relaxes the wrists, but more legroom would be welcome. | |
Hard Parts
Frame
The ZX-14's unique monocoque frame, essentially a hollow aluminum box that arches over the engine (doubling as the airbox), is narrower, lighter and more rigid than a contemporary twin-spar type. The steering head and swingarm pivot portions are now die-cast instead of gravity-cast, shaving a little weight for '08.
Suspension
Damping rates in the 43mm inverted fork have been increased to better resist front-end dive under braking-an issue on earlier versions of this somewhat heavy machine. The rear shock rocks on Kawasaki's proprietary uni-Trak, which locates the linkage under the shock to lower the center of gravity for improved handling.
Engine
Lots of little changes to increase low-end and midrange power, including improved intake porting and new fuel injectors with a wider spray pattern. The exhaust system receives a third honeycomb catalyzer (in the collector) to meet stricter Euro 3 emissions standards,plus larger secondary air ports, revised internal silencer construction and an enlarged connecting tube to offset power losses due to the catalyzer.
Brakes
The ZX-14 carries Kawi's signature "petal-cut" rotors front and rear, said to offer better cooling and increased resistance to warping. Front calipers are radially mounted, of course, and the front master cylinder uses a radial pump for improved power and lever feel, contributing to the 14's commanding braking performance.
Bodywork
The big Z's smooth, sleek skin remains unchanged. The wind-tunnel-tested upper fairing contains four individual projector-beam headlamps that are unrivaled for apexing after dark.