Kawasaki GTR 1400 / Concours 14 (2015–2022): The Sport-Touring Powerhouse Reimagined

Introduction

The Kawasaki GTR 1400, known as the Concours 14 in North America, isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. Built to dominate both twisting mountain roads and endless highways, this sport-touring legend blends the heart of a superbike with the soul of a grand tourer. From 2015 to 2022, Kawasaki refined this machine into a near-perfect balance of adrenaline and practicality. After spending days in the saddle, slicing through curves and cruising across states, one thing becomes clear: this bike doesn’t just handle the road—it commands it.

First Impressions

Slip the keyless KIPASS fob into your pocket, thumb the starter, and the 1,352cc inline-four awakens with a subdued growl. The Concours 14’s design is purposeful but not flashy, with sharp lines, integrated hard saddlebags, and a windscreen that towers like a cathedral window. Colors like Metallic Spark Black and Candy Lime Green (depending on the model year) give it a stealthy yet premium presence. The moment you swing a leg over the 815 mm (32.1-inch) seat, the bike feels surprisingly manageable for its 313 kg (690 lbs) curb weight.

Performance: Supersport DNA Meets Touring Muscle

Engine & Power Delivery

At the core of the Concours 14 lies a 1,352cc DOHC inline-four derived from the Ninja ZX-14R. With 155 HP (114 kW) at 8,800 RPM (160 HP with RAM Air) and 136 Nm (100.3 lb-ft) of torque peaking at 6,200 RPM, this engine is a masterpiece of flexibility. Crack the throttle at 3,000 RPM in sixth gear, and the bike surges forward without hesitation—no downshifts required. The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system ensures creamy low-end grunt and a ferocious top-end rush, making overtaking semis or carving canyons equally effortless.

Key features:
- Shaft Drive (Tetra-Lever): Unlike chain-driven rivals, maintenance is minimal, and power delivery remains butter-smooth.
- Slipper Clutch: Downshift aggressively mid-corner, and the clutch mitigates rear-wheel chatter.
- Fuel Economy Mode: Prioritizes efficiency, stretching the 22L (5.8-gallon) tank to 320–350 km (200–220 miles) per fill.

Transmission

The 6-speed gearbox is precise, though the shift lever requires a firm toe. First gear’s short ratio (3.538:1) aids low-speed maneuvering, while sixth gear’s overdrive keeps RPMs at a relaxed 4,000 at 120 km/h (75 mph).

Handling: Precision Meets Stability

Chassis & Suspension

The monocoque aluminum frame borrows from Kawasaki’s supersport lineage, offering razor-sharp feedback without sacrificing stability. Paired with a 43mm inverted fork (112 mm travel) and a Tetra-Lever rear suspension (137 mm travel), the Concours 14 feels planted yet agile. Dial in preload via the remote adjuster for two-up touring, and the rear shock soaks up bumps without wallowing.

Brakes & Tires

Dual 310mm petal discs with radial-mount 4-piston calipers up front and a 270mm rear disc deliver authoritative stopping power. Kawasaki’s K-ACT ABS system links front and rear brakes, offering two modes:
- Mode 1: Reduced linking for sport riding.
- Mode 2: Stronger linking for touring/heavy loads.

The 120/70-ZR17 front and 190/50-ZR17 rear tires (Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 on later models) provide tenacious grip, even when leaned over at highway speeds.

Comfort & Touring Credentials

Ergonomics

The upright riding position strikes a perfect balance: the bars are 10 cm (4 inches) higher and closer than the ZX-14R, and the pegs are low and forward. The seat is firm but supportive, though taller riders might crave an extra inch of legroom.

Wind Protection & Storage

The electrically adjustable windscreen is a game-changer. Raise it to its 1465 mm (55.3-inch) max height, and turbulence vanishes—even at 140 km/h (87 mph). The integrated vent reduces helmet buffeting, while the 28L hard saddlebags swallow a full-face helmet each. Add Kawasaki’s optional 47L top case, and you’ve got enough storage for a cross-continent trek.

Tech & Convenience

• KTRC Traction Control: Intervenes subtly on wet roads or gravel.
• Heated Grips: Stepless adjustment for frosty mornings.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS): Alerts you before a flat ruins your day.

Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

1. Yamaha FJR1300

• Pros: Lighter (289 kg), slightly sharper handling.
• Cons: Less power (145 HP), dated tech.
• Verdict: The FJR is a worthy rival but lacks the Concours’ tech suite and torque.

2. BMW K 1600 GT

• Pros: Luxurious, 160 HP inline-six, adaptive headlights.
• Cons: $10k pricier, complex maintenance.
• Verdict: The BMW excels in luxury, but the Kawasaki offers better value.

3. Honda Gold Wing

• Pros: Ultimate comfort, DCT transmission.
• Cons: Heavy (383 kg), less sporty.
• Verdict: Choose the Gold Wing for cruising; the Concours for sport-touring.

Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Happy

Key Service Points

1. Oil Changes: Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) with 4.4L of 10W-40 (use MOTOPARTS.store’s synthetic kits for smoother shifts).
2. Shaft Drive: Inspect every 12,000 km (7,500 miles); our store stocks OEM-spec 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil.
3. Valve Adjustments: Check every 42,000 km (26,000 miles). Intake: 0.12–0.17 mm, exhaust: 0.19–0.24 mm (cold).
4. Brake Fluid: Flush with DOT 4 every two years.

Common Upgrades

• Aftermarket Windscreens: Add 5 cm height for taller riders.
• Suspension Upgrades: Öhlins cartridges transform cornering precision.
• Exhaust Systems: Akrapovič slip-ons shed 4 kg and amplify the inline-four’s snarl.

Final Thoughts

The Kawasaki GTR 1400 / Concours 14 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a passport to every road you’ve ever dreamed of. It’s the rare machine that’s as happy threading through alpine passes as it is devouring interstate miles. While newer models flirt with hybrid tech and TFT screens, the Concours 14 remains a raw, analog masterpiece in a digital age. Whether you’re chasing horizons or hardware-store runs, this bike delivers—with enough character to make every ride an event.

Ready to make it yours? MOTOPARTS.store has everything you need to keep your Concours 14 running like new—or better than factory.

Specifications sheet