HEAVYWEIGHT BOUT
When you think of modern iconic motorcycles, Suzuki’s Hayabusa and Kawasaki’s ZX-14R will feature in just about anybody’s list of dream bikes. Riders of all ages and skill levels dream of at least having a ride on one, perhaps even owning one. And they have been pitted against each other since their respective inceptions.
The ZX-14R is nearing the end of its lifecycle, but does that mean it has been left behind by the newly updated third-generation Hayabusa? There’s still some fighting left to do.
The ’Busa and the ZX-14R share a similar basic architecture. Large-displacement inline four-cylinder engines, alloy frames (although the ZX-14R has a monocoque rather than a twin spar), and a sportsbike-style riding position with a little extra comfort.
They go about things in slightly different ways, but are both stupidly fast and make you giggle like a school kid the first time you run them to redline. They are built for speed, and speed they do.
Round 1 – Presence
Both of these beasts have an intimidating presence, especially if you see one appear in your mirror. The ZX-14R appears wide and bulbous with the large ram-air intake front and centre. The tall and wide aerodynamic mirrors sit above the roomy front fairing. Down the sides, the warm radiator-air exit is shaped to be as sleek as possible and move the air around the rider and up the rear ducktail. It’s a shape that has evolved minimally since the first-generation ZX-14R. The Öhlins rear preload adjuster adds a little bling and functionality.
The Suzuki has taken the aero to the next level. The front fairing is lower, more streamlined from
