Estimates vary from 175bhp to 190bhp, which would - in theory - see the ZZR1400 capable of around 200mph. Having done 195mph on a Suzuki Hayabusa some years ago, I can say that anywhere near 200mph is a scary place to be.
Certainly, I wouldn't want to try it on a public road, where your average school run mum, driving an MPV bidet on wheels, is not expecting a cruise missile to approach her at that speed. But, even if it's truly a "double ton" machine, there's no doubt that the beautifully-styled ZZR1400 will win bikers hearts for more practical reasons.
The ZZR will have huge amounts of midrange torque, ample seating for two adults, low-ish footrests and superb lighting, from its quadruple projector beams.
Proper illumination for riding on unlit roads is something which is missing from many touring motorcycles, so all praise to Kawasaki if their lights actually work as well as the marketing hype. With ABS braking as standard, outstanding Tokico brake callipers on fashionably wavy discs, the Kawasaki looks capable of stopping as well as it will go.
The ZZR1400 will be launched in the UK at the NEC show and is expected to retail for around £9200 on the road.
Talking of The Motorcycle & Scooter Show at the NEC in Birmingham, insidebikes.com has three pairs of tickets up for grabs.
If you want to win a pair by answering a simple question, then go to Insidebikes.com; by October 10 and enter your name in the prize draw.
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