Kawasaki GTR 1400 Concours 14 (2007–2009): A Sport Touring Powerhouse Revisited

Introduction

The Kawasaki GTR 1400 Concours 14, sold internationally as the Kawasaki 1400 GTR, arrived in 2007 as a bold reimagining of the sport-touring segment. Built on the DNA of Kawasaki’s ZX-14 hyperbike, this generation fused supersport aggression with cross-continental practicality. For riders who demanded adrenaline on winding roads and comfort on endless highways, the Concours 14 became an instant icon. Let’s revisit this legend from the saddle and explore why it still resonates with touring enthusiasts today.

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Design & Ergonomics: Form Meets Function

Kawasaki’s design philosophy for the Concours 14 was clear: prioritize aerodynamics without sacrificing comfort. The wind-tunnel-tested fairing directs airflow around the rider, minimizing buffeting even at triple-digit speeds (though taller riders may prefer the optional taller windshield). The electrically adjustable windscreen is a masterstroke—lower it for sporty canyon carving or raise it to create a serene pocket of air on highways.

The 32.1-inch (815 mm) seat strikes a balance between plush support and sporty firmness, while the rider triangle—upright bars, mid-set pegs, and a tank-mounted storage cubby—encourages all-day endurance. Passengers aren’t an afterthought either, with generous seating and integrated grab rails.

Aesthetically, the Concours 14’s Neutron Silver paint (later joined by black and red options) hides its bulk well. The monocoque aluminum frame gives it a lean profile, while the integrated hard saddlebags—20L each—maintain sleek lines without the “fridge on wheels” look of some competitors.

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Engine & Performance: A Torque Monster with Refinement

At its heart lies the 1,352cc inline-four, derived from the ZX-14 but retuned for touring. Variable Valve Timing (VVT) ensures a seamless powerband, delivering 155 hp (114 kW) at 8,800 rpm and a ground-shaking 136 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque at 6,200 rpm. Throttle response is butter-smooth, thanks to 40mm throttle bodies and a slipper clutch that forgives aggressive downshifts.

Key highlights:
- Ram Air Induction: Adds up to 6 hp at speed, giving a visceral rush as velocity climbs.
- Shaft Drive: Kawasaki’s Tetra-Lever system eliminates the dreaded “shaft jacking,” behaving more like a chain-driven bike.
- Fuel Efficiency: Expect 30-36 mpg (7.8–6.5 L/100 km) under mixed riding—reasonable for a 670 lb (304 kg) machine.

Twist the throttle, and the Concours surges forward with locomotive force. It’ll demolish a 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) sprint in under 3.5 seconds and reach a governed top speed of 157 mph (253 km/h). Yet, it’s docile enough to lug at 2,500 rpm in sixth gear, making it versatile for city crawls.

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Handling & Ride Experience: Surprisingly Nimble

Don’t let the weight fool you—the Concours 14 dances through corners with unexpected agility. The 43mm inverted fork and Tetra-Lever rear suspension (preload and rebound adjustable) provide a taut yet compliant ride. Steering is light for a tourer, aided by a 26.1° rake and 4.4-inch (112 mm) trail.

The Bridgestone Battlax BT021 tires offer grip for spirited riding, though modern rubber like Michelin Road 6s would elevate performance. Braking is stellar, with dual 310mm front discs gripped by radial-mount calipers. ABS (optional) intervenes smoothly, though purists might find the non-ABS model offers more lever feedback.

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Technology & Features: Ahead of Its Time

The Concours 14 was a tech showcase in 2007:
- KIPASS Keyless Ignition: A proximity fob enables keyless starts—a novelty at the time.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring: Sensors alert riders to pressure drops, a lifesaver on long trips.
- Digital Dash: Analog gauges flank an LCD with fuel range, gear position, and real-time MPG.

Heat management is a minor gripe. The engine emits noticeable warmth at low speeds, a trade-off for its compact design. Aftermarket heat shields or upgraded cooling fans (available at MOTOPARTS.store) can mitigate this.

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Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

The Concours 14 faced fierce rivals in the late 2000s:

1. Yamaha FJR1300
2. Lighter (582 lb / 264 kg) and more flickable.
3. Down on power (145 hp) but smoother throttle response.

4. Lacked the Concours’ tech (no keyless ignition or tire sensors).

5. BMW K1200GT

6. Premium build quality and adaptive suspension.
7. 152 hp but a complex ESA system prone to pricey repairs.

8. The Concours offered better value and raw power.

9. Honda ST1300

10. Ultra-reliable V4 but dated by 2007.
11. 125 hp felt underwhelming next to Kawasaki’s brute.

The Concours 14 carved a niche as the “muscle car” of sport tourers—less refined than the BMW, more thrilling than the Yamaha.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive

The Concours 14 is robust but demands attention to细节:
- Shaft Drive: Requires SAE 80/90 gear oil changes every 16,000 km (10,000 miles). No chain lube needed!
- Valve Adjustments: Every 42,000 km (26,000 miles)—a labor-intensive job given the inline-four layout.
- Cooling System: Flush coolant every 2 years; consider a high-performance fluid for hotter climates.
- Brakes: ABS models benefit from regular fluid flushes. Upgrade to sintered pads for heavier loads.

Common upgrades from MOTOPARTS.store:
- Aftermarket Exhaust: Reduce weight and unlock the engine’s growl.
- Ergonomic Grips: Reduce vibration fatigue on long hauls.
- LED Lighting: Boost visibility with modern auxiliary lights.

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Conclusion: A Timeless Mile-Eater

The 2007–2009 Kawasaki Concours 14 remains a benchmark for riders who refuse to compromise. It’s a bike that scoffs at distance, devours corners, and coddles its rider in tech-laden comfort. While newer models have eclipsed it in refinement, few match its raw charisma and mechanical honesty.

Whether you’re chasing horizons or perfecting your apexes, the Concours 4/5 14 proves that true sport-touring greatness is timeless. And when it’s time to personalize or maintain your beast, MOTOPARTS.store has the upgrades and OEM-quality parts to keep your Kawasaki dominating the road.

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Specifications sheet

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