At the heart of the 1400GTR is a retuned version of the ZZR1400 open class-leading engine, now with variable valve timing to provide optimum torque across the rev-range. Combined with easy ergonomics to suit the touring rider and pillion, the 1400GTR is a compelling package that rewrites the long-distance rule-book.
The unique ergonomics of the monocoque chassis make comfort a given and plentiful luggage space means that riders can pack for any tours of any distance or duration. The 1400GTR ticks all the right boxes for sports riders looking for a versatile tourer. Upside-down forks are rigid yet compliant, while triple petal brake discs come with ABS. Rear suspension has remote adjustment for easy tweaks to accommodate luggage and pillion.
Distance riders will appreciate the low-maintenance shaft drive that efficiently exploits the power and torque of the 1352cc motor. The electrically adjustable screen has been designed in conjunction with the fairing to efficiently protect rider and pillion from wind blast and weather. Kawasaki engineers spent many hours in the wind tunnel perfecting the aerodynamics.
Another bonus for the trans-continental tourist is that tyre pressures are displayed on the dash, removing the need for manual checks. Plus there’s KIPASS*, Kawasaki’s Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System, a security feature that is a class first and helps with security wherever riders roam.
Power comes from a ZZR1400-based engine tuned for more low- and mid-range torque, to realize a comfortable tourer. This liquid-cooled, 16-valve, In-Line Four features variable valve timing for high torque output at low and medium rpm.
Key features
Variable Valve Timing :
With variable valve timing (a category first), camshaft timing varies in response to rpm and throttle position. The result is high torque output in the low and medium rpm ranges and high-rpm power on top end. Combustion efficiency is also improved, contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency. An ECU-controlled OCV (Oil Control Valve) changes the pressure of oil in the chambers of an actuator located at the end of the intake camshaft. As the pressure changes, oil is fed into or out of the chambers via holes in the crankshaft. The changing volume of oil causes the actuator to move, rotating the camshaft, thereby changing valve timing. The intake timing is retarded at low rpm, reducing the valve overlap for cleaner, more efficient combustion in the low-rpm range.
Tetra-Lever Rear Suspension :
To ensure that the GTR's torque is transmitted to the tarmac as efficiently as possible, a highly rigid, dual-sided, 4-link swingarm is used. Kawasaki calls this the Tetra-Lever. It is designed to offset the lifting or quatting tendency of shaft drives when the throttle is opened/closed. Two-point jointed shafts are used, ensuring a smooth power delivery to the road surface.
Chassis
Aluminium Monocoque Frame
For a combination of light weight, slim design and sporty handling characteristics, the 1400GTR runs a high-rigidity aluminium monocoque frame. This unique frame is a more advanced version of the frame first used by the Ninja ZX-12R and ZZR1400.  It delivers very stable yet highly responsive handling characteristics — just what is needed for a transcontinental super tourer. To reduce the influence of increased weight on the bike’s handling characteristics, the steering head, upper plate and swingarm bracket were made stiffer, giving the GTR’s frame 20% more torsional stiffness than the ZZR1400’s frame.
KIPASS :
KIPASS (Kawasaki’s Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System*) is a master key system that allows remote activation of the bike’s main switch.  This is the first application of an electronic authorisation system to a touring machine and greatly enhances rider convenience. (Photo 33-34) For added security, an immobiliser function is incorporated into the ignition system.
At last, kawasaki feature a whole range of accessories to travel, luggage, larger wind screen...
GTR 1400 SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE Type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line Four Displacement 1,352 cm³ Bore and Stroke 84.0 x 61.0 mm Compression ratio 10.7:1 Valve system DOHC, 16 valves with variable valve timing Fuel system Fuel injection: ø40 mm x 4 Ignition Digital Starting Electric Lubrication Forced lubrication, wet sump DRIVETRAIN Transmission 6-speed, return Final drive Shaft Primary reduction ratio 1,556 (84/54) Gear ratios: 1st 3,333 (50/15) 2nd 2,412 (41/17) 3rd 1,900 (38/20) 4th 1,545 (34/22) 5th 1,292 (31/24) 6th 1,074 (29/27) Final reduction ratio 2,036 (14/22 x 32/10) Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual FRAME Type Monocoque, pressed-aluminium Wheel travel: front 113 mm rear 136 mm Tyre: front 120/70ZR17M/C (58W) rear 190/50ZR17M/C (73W) Caster (rake) 26,1° Trail 112 mm Steering angle (left/right) 31° / 31° SUSPENSION Front: Type 43 mm inverted fork with adjustable rebound damping and spring preload Rear: Type Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, Tetra-Lever Rebound damping Stepless Spring preload Fully adjustable BRAKES Front: Type Dual semi-floating 310 mm petal discs Caliper Dual radial-mount, opposed 4-piston, 4-pad Rear: Type Single 270 mm petal disc Caliper Twin-piston DIMENSIONS Overall length 2,270 mm Overall width 1,000 mm Overall height / High Position 1,290 mm / 1,405 mm Wheelbase 1.520 mm Ground clearance 125 mm Seat height 815 mm Dry weight 279 kg Fuel capacity 22 Litres PERFORMANCE Maximum power 114 kW {155 PS} / 8,800 rpm Maximum torque 136 N·m {13.9 kgf·m} / 6,200 rpm
Press release from Kawasaki
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