With so many bikers, myself included, being in their 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, a classic bike review series is a great idea, especially as there were no YouTubube reviews when many of the bikes first came out.
Great review. These older bikes have so much more soul. I’ve actually got an 04 Busa. No need to spend 20k on new bikes when you can get spotless bikes for 4-5k. Keep them coming Andy
There’s no better way to get down to the Italian Lakes than on one of these. My mate had a couple of Blackbirds and regularly did the Med two-up! You could ride that thing all day! Sports tourers aren’t ‘trendy’ these days (you have to have a beak on your bike), but for anyone that can’t be arsed with trends they are still hugely entertaining and remarkably practical! Lovely to see a good review on this one! 👍
As a ZZR1400 owner I really enjoy this review, must say your comments are spot on Andy. It’s a grate bike for touring and playing. Keep the older bike reviews coming. Top stuff TMF 👍
The reason this is one of the best channels on RUclips is the variety, and even after being a fan for ages the algorithm brings this little gem up for me today..... great video as always, just wish I had one in the garage
Bought a dark grey 2015 ZZR for £8k 3 years ago after passing my test in my late 40s and riding a 600 ccBandit for a year. It’s never too intimidating unless I get cocky and the right wrist forgets what we’re on. Then it scares the wotsits out of me but also puts a huge grin on my face. Occasionally think about trading it for something smaller and lighter but then I wash it and it looks like the batbike and I’m back in love 😂 love the review - been hoping you’d ride one for years!
Great bike, arguably the best one I’ve owned, a 2009. The only reason I sold it - and switched to a VFR 1200 - was the fact it was not possible to ride it calmly. The way this bike covers distance is amazing. And it doesn’t feel like that until you ride with your mates, when you have to keep waiting for them all the time. If you go around alone you do not feel like you are riding particularly fast. BTW, I’m planning to get her back! Thanks, Andy and, yes, please, keep on with this new Classic Bike Review initiative: you touch our hearts.
Really liked the review of the ZZR1400, nice to see a bike from over 10yrs ago still holding its own and being fun to ride. Great to have these types of reviews on the channel as not all of us can afford new bikes and many from yesteryear look fab today as they did when new. Keep up the top work Mr Flyer.
Excellent! :) Many more of these older bike reviews please Mr Flyer. I'm certain that there are many like me, who when after a change of machine, focus only on the used bike market. I love the new bike reviews as well but this type of thing is of real world interest.
Great review Andy. It's good to not dismiss and forget some of these iconic/popular bikes from the mid 90's. Look forward to more of these classic reviews 👍😀
Brilliant bike, and loving the review, the "classic review is brilliant too, it's great to see a review on a bike that a number of riders could realistically afford to buy, own and enjoy. So many classic bikes still hold their own to day, and it's great to see a current day review of them hope to see more.
I was so excited when you announced a new sponsor for the channel. What a great bike to start this new chapter. For under five k, loads of value, hardly covers it. Ya knocked this one “out of the park” Andy. Well done Sir….🎩-Tip 👍🏼
Great new feature Andy as it nice to see some of the older stuff , we can’t all afford the latest £18k bikes I look forward to more old school reviews 👍🏻
I bought one new in 2011, a 'performance edition' (adds akropovic exhaust, bubble screen and a tank pad) in 2 tone green. Loved it, no problems 2 up touring in Europe and fantastic fun on the autobahn. Did about 50k before selling it as I remember. Good review, thanks.
I owned two ZZR1400's my first was new in 2007 and I replaced it with the new one in 2013 so roughly 9 years ownership. I loved them, I toured Scotland and Europe both as a solo rider and two up. My only complaint was carrying luggage, I had a 47 litre top box fitted and that's it, soft luggage was your only choice. Great bike, let's hope it returns .
@@TheMotoExplorer Hope you and the other readers are well.Kindly tell me how did you attach the panniers to your Bike.I would sincerely appreciate some info .I am new to the Bike scene.I am looking for a Bike that can do 600kms and more.What would one recommend the ZX14 or the Fjr 1300.I last rode 12 years ago on zzr400.Kindly reply Guys.Manys Thanks
@@kidronreddy1671 hi have just fitted a motech rear carrier and givi pannier frames to a zzr1400 09 model they fit with not to much trouble ,but you need to slightly trim the rear cowl plastics and file/grind about 5mm off the mounting holes on the motech carrier if you want the seat to sit perfectly flush,or live with a slight seat rise on the rear ,but with electrical components under the seat i didnt fancy any rain getting in there. hope this helps.i tried the fj but compared to a zzr it felt really heavy. a set of panniers and some bar risers made my zzr a great 2 up touring machine but with out the extra weight of a full on tourer
Pleased to see this video, I've just traded in my 2018 Thruxton r 1200 for a 2011 zzr1400 . My mate's think I've lost the plot. But you are dead right zzr 1400 is a fantastic bike. Looking forward to more of your older bike reviews 👍
I got my 2009 zzr1400 when it was three years old. It was only my third bike after passing my test the year it was made and it will be the last bike I will ever own. It does everything so well apart from slow control that I can't justify anything else. Good vid. Keep it up!
This will quickly become my favorite RUclips series having had a mild Ebay motors addiction in the early to mid 2000's, I suspect I bought, sold and traded 20 bikes from the era. Love it!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Oh my that is a tough question for which I have two answers. For the hobbyist on back country roads the Ducati 750ss half fairing was a gem. It was exceedingly uncomfortable after 50 miles, but nothing I rode made me smile and laugh so much. I had 3, we used to cut a hole in the top of the airbox, install a K&N, and de-baffle the stock exhaust. It sounded like an American V8. For the serious commuter or tourer Honda's Blackbird will always hold a special place in my heart as it's the first bike I rode from Florida to California in 2002. Incredible machine. Two side notes... The most boring was a 2005 Suzuki Bandit 1200S. The most bonkers was the 1999 Buell M2 Cyclone. Impossible to keep the front tire down and constantly trying to kill you with it's snatchy throttle and wooden brakes. Edit.. Here's a older terrible quality video of the 750ss with a modified airbox. ruclips.net/video/79reslbPOn4/видео.html
What a beast... I wasn’t consciously aware of this model, like you it was before my motorcycling time, but it’s an engineering masterpiece. Great review, and great idea for a series of reviews. Have a good weekend mate, Chris
I had a 2008 version of one of these and ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT. I only reluctantly test rode one after persuasion from a dealer after I test rode a Z1000SX and found it too undergeared for motorway use. My thoughts before was that it would be frustrating to ride at speeds unlikely to result in speeding points. I couldn’t have been more wrong. That turbine smooth, impeccably behaved engine makes trundling through 30s and 40s way more pleasant than the VFR VTEC I had at the time; it was a bit like driving a big block American car, laaaaaazy when you need it to be, but a raging bull when conditions allowed. Not only that, but contrary to what the spec sheet says, the trip computer regularly showed 47mpg. One tip, get an ABS version, the long, low, heavy stance means it’s prone to pushing the front. I only got rid of it because I didn’t find in comfortable enough for me on 250 mile days, so I traded it in for a GTR1400, which today remains my joint best bike ever.
I had the 2006 model. Genmar 3/4" bar risers & an MRA flip up screen made it so much better. Add Givi luggage for touring and crossing France in a day was effortless. Performance wise, removing the secondary butterfly valves & adding a Power Commander to sort the fuelling gave it a huge increase in the mid range which transformed the bike. I've got a GSA now, comfort wise, it's not a patch on the ZZR.
This is a brilliant idea. I happily watch all the new bike videos but have seen nothing that would get me off my Blackbird, a bike that literally does everything. Videos of bikes that aren't current is a great avenue to explore!!
Great review TMF. I'm pleased you're reviewing some older bikes. Not everyone has £10-15k for a bike so I reckon these videos will be popular. That ZZR is a lot of bike for the money. One of my bikes is a sub-3000 mile CBR600 from 1997 - a great handling bike with 100bhp. Easy to forget how capable some older bikes are!
I had a 2011 ZZR for 5 years until I chopped it in for a GS. I absolutely loved it. Did a fair number of long trips to Europe and Scotland and it was only my age that made it less comfortable than the GS option. Great new series. Looking forward to more great videos.
Great review of a wonderful bike from the time when things were made to last and not be rendered obsolete by a new model every year, supported by the PCP model of short-term ownership. So good to see sensible seat heights and design choices for real-world riding.
As an owner of a 16 plate, for a big old bus they do handle well and I am averaging close to 50 MPG and did I mention it's also bloody quick, great review TMF
I have admired the ZZR for a long time after some long ride outs with a friend. It covered ground so effortlessly and was ‘planted’ on the road. At that price, an absolute bargain ! Stayed for the fashion segment and realised that I have completed my latest barn find project for less than the price of your new jacket 😉. Many thanks for the review, proving once again that quality motorcycling can be affordable.
I got a K1300S when it came out and one of the cycle mags called it the Busa Killer. Extremely powerful and smooth but a bit heavy in the twisties. Went back to the twins- my favorite power to weight machines, full of personality. Analog dials, ABS, and heated grips., plus expandable panniers. 👍👍🏍🏍🏍🙋♂️
Hey Andy! Awesome review as always. I'm glad you liked the bike. Nowadays it seems like everyone likes TFTs, Brembos and superchargers, and most reviewers would just dismiss a bike like this, because it's old. I bought one of the last ones left for sale in 2020 in the UK and it's been one of the best bikes I've ever ridden. One thing I must correct you about is the weight. It isn't 215kg but something like 270kg. The rear brake caliper is one of the many parts on the bike that make it feel light and stable, because they stay as low as possible.
Got a 2010. Fantastic bike had it years and not been tempted to change for something more modern. Maintanance can be intensive. Changing the plugs is pain. But overall very happy with it
Always loved the big kwacker. Like you I was put off one by a mate. I loved the original version which I think ran until about 2002. Great new twist to the channel. I'm looking forward to more classic reviews.
I have owned 5 Hayabusa's, then towards the end of 2020 I bought myself one of the very last new ZZR1400's. WOW! What a difference. I genuinely loved all my Busa's, but the ZZR is a far more polished machine, to the degree it makes the Hayabusa seem agricultural by comparison....
Really interesting to read this. Was considering the Busa also. Met a Busa owner only a few days after buying my ZZR and just really started negatively remarking about the ZZR vs the Busa and yet never ridden one on the power etc. So enjoyed reading this! Many thanks for posting.
As a man of a certain age ie 48 this classic series is great to see. I understand what you mean about dreaming of larger bikes especially as In the last year I have become the owner of a 2008 hayabusa which I absolutely love. Looking forward to many more of these.
Excellent Andy, it's nice to see a bike with a well designed cockpit, faring and screen, rather than a piece of clear plastic and a tablet added as an afterthought. More of these please 🙏, excellent review.
Fantastic review of an absolutly amazing and iconic bike. I had the Gen2 which I was lucky enough to ride all over Europe. For such a large bike it's so manageable and easy to move about in the garage. It's the one bike I wish I still kept.
Great idea doing modern classic reviews as well as new, many cannot afford or simply prefer not to spend the coin on new but it is hard to get info on older models. keep it up!
Great vid always fancied one of these. I've a ZZR600 and a Gen 1 Triumph Sprint. Classic bikes are bags of fun and excellent value. Looking forward to the rest of this series.
Fantastic video... Really looking forward to this ongoing series. As a "mature" rider (just turned 50) the prospect of content featuring the bikes that inspired me to ride is just mouth watering. 👍😃👍
Once again, a superb review from a great motorcycle. Thanks a lot for providing these nice and entertaining videos. The zzr ist right now in sight of becoming one of the next bikes in the stable. Greetings from Germany
TMF! It's great to return to the channel after some time away. And what an episode to kick off this new series 👍 Too many bikes get overlooked by so many to have the latest technology. Although lacking in abundant electronics packages, these older bikes have some real charm about them! I currently own an early Blackbird and, while not in mint condition, it's possibly the best bike I've owned. I'm also tempted to get a ZZR14 and 2008-on gen1 gets my vote👌 Really looking forward to seeing the other bikes to come in this series!
Have been waiting for exactly this format for ages with sensible narration and no silly loud music or bad language. Well.... you will have LOTS of bikes to go through as the 90s into 2000s were a true golden era for some fantastic machines. Next up must surely be zx12r, Blackbird, Busa... and I would put a ZZR1100 in there too for good measure. If you get onto Pan Europeans contact me as I have a lovely 11 and 13 you can test back to back on the channel if desired. All of these "modern classics" are still great machines if kept well. Thanks
Nice to see someone else covering the older bikes on their channel, I've been buying and reviewing budget classics for the last few Years on my channel, so I'll be keeping an eye on your thoughts in this series Andy
@@TheMissendenFlyer ah cool I look forward to seeing you on one, I don’t know why bikes names aren’t cool anymore! My all time favourite bike name is the Vincent black shadow such a good name and a cool old bike.
Love the new classic motorcycle series. Can’t wait to see more great motorbike. The Kawasaki Motorbike have always been in my top ten motorbike I like. So a double thumbs up from on this video review. Thanks for fashion show jacket is amazing.
Hi Andy. I was lucky enough to buy one of the last performance sport versions that has the ‘Akro’ pipes and Ohlins and I have to say it is an awesome machine. Had 25mm bar risers and just fitted a kit that lowers the foot pegs (both make it a bit more comfortable for me, now 62) but what a machine. The smoothness and endless power of the engine is something else. Build quality , I think is second to none - make space, you know you want to!! 😀 Love this series by the way, look forward to the next classic. 👍
I have a 2020 standard edition ZZR. I won't be selling it any time soon. Incredible machine that makes the Hayabusa feel agricultural by comparison...and I should know, I have owned 5 'Busa's....
Great review. Spot on. I’ve had mine from new since 2006. The dealer wouldn’t allow a test ride (won’t make that mistake again) and after purchase I was so disappointed with the low down power due to the nannying restrictions Kawasaki had used. I removed the secondary butterfly plates, replaced the exhaust, fitted a power commander and haven’t stopped smiling since. Still an amazing and reliable machine after 40K miles.
Hi Andy, Bob Rayner here from Bucks. Just wanted to say a massive thanks for making this video on the ZZR. I’ve been Biking now for Many years and one’d many Bikes. Over the past few of those I’ve been hankering after the big Kawasaki but never got a chance to try it out. It was after watching this video that swayed it for me and I’ve finally bought a gen 1 with just 16k on the clock. Well what a revelation! Best thing I’ve ever ridden. So Thankyou my friend.🙏🏻 Since then I’ve subscribed to the channel and am now working my way through your back catalogue! I live in Bucks so hopefully bump into you at the super sausage ( my local cafe). Perhaps I could show you the Buckingham TT. 😎👍🏼. Cheers. Bob.
I own a Kawasaki 1400 Gtr year 2012, absolutely brilliant bike, everything you want in a big tourer, not as fast as the zzr but still has a top speed of 159 miles an hour. I enjoyed the review. 👍
Good, honest review. You can't lose out when buying bikes like that. You could enjoy riding it for 2 or 3 years, keep it looking good and you'd probably get back what you paid for it if you come to sell it
"Another motorway missile from Kawasaki" was how these were described in the mags at the time....superbly made and if looked after a good example would last forever... Great video....sad that such machines would no longer be allowed by modern regs!!
What a great opportunity you have with the tie up with the Superbike Factory. The ZZR has always been a bike I've converted but been dissuaded by my riding partner Carol ; she says it's ugly! I say not and certainly better looking than the Busa. The Superbike Factory at Donington had several of these in when I did my walkaround of the place. Great cafe there as well. I would like to see you test the Yamaha MT01, rare, huge V twin in a supernaked frame.
I had one new, non ABS model in 2008 - and rode it hard... with Friday nights at ther local dragstrip , I did about 40-45 passes on the 1/4 mile, using up 2 rear tires, and a set of clutch plates, all in pursuit of a 1/4 mile run in the 9's. Unfortunately, my best run was a 10:18 at 142 mph. I also rode it coast to coast and back - a week each way here in Canada - 10,800 kms in a fortnight. I had a gel pad on the seat and heated grips... that's it. That Ninja was a fabulous high speed cruiser too. At an airfield event, I hit 265 kph on it, and that was as fast as I have ever gone. Loved that bike.!
Andy so pleased you chose the ZZR 1400 as your first classic ride, I had a new one in 2006 when they first came out after trading my ZX9R in at Cradley Heath Kawasaki. I replaced it in 2010 with another new ZZR 1400 and only sold that bike about three years ago, and I can tell you when touring and not doing warp speed I could achieve 45 plus MPG. The only down side every sports bike wanted to race you, but with a bit of counter steering they are surprisingly good in the twisty' s for such a long wheel base. I can tell you a funny story whilst on my way to Scotland on the upper reaches of the M6 I had a gentleman in a Porsche 911 trying to flag me down furiously, wanting to know what his problem was I pulled into the services and he followed me. when we had both parked he said mate were did you get that carrier for your Givi top box, I had to disappoint him and tell him I had made it myself, Kawasaki would not manufacture one because if a pillion was being carried with side cases and top box they thought the rear subframe was not strong enough to carry the weight, needless to say he was so disappointed having a ZZR 1400 himself. but he proceeded to take loads of photos on his phone of how I had constructed the carrier. But what an amazing bike they still are. Thanks' so much for the memories with your road test of the ZZR 1400.
The ZZR range have always been up there as one of the best, maybe Honda's CBR is a close competitor but I've always preferred the ZZR and this one is great value a heck of a lot of bike for less than 5K. Would be great to see you do a review of the early BMW K series mainly because I've got one and I'd like to see hear your opinions on these classics.
My first bike was a 2008 ZZR 600. Great bike. Never gave me any trouble. Comfortable for a sport bike. My dad ended up getting one as well when he saw me having so much fun on mine. I've moved on to other bikes but he still has his.
Great idea Andy for series of videos looking at some older motorcycles . As a novice rider I don’t think I’ll be going near a bike such as this Kawasaki.. I can only imagine what it must feel like to open up the throttle. Great video as always Andy thanks.
I'm a novice and have a 2006 Hayabusa, these big power bikes are very easy to ride, as long as you are speed aware, have good discipline and self control you'll be fine, power delivery is very linear and controllable, the weight makes them very stable and planted, you cant really open the throttle right up like a smaller bike as they will do 150 in the blink of an eye but they are very easy to ride at lower speeds.
Good one, and wheelie control is for ninnies. It is the rider that controls the machine, that is what motorcycling is all about. Can already tell that I am going to enjoy this series immensely. It will also (I predict) make many people to realise that it is possible to get bargains when buying used bikes.
If you ever get the chance to swing your leg over a 1985 Yamaha Rz500 take the ride. What a sweetheart of a bike. Civilized for a 2 stroke and smooth as up past 6000rpm.
I had the earlier ZZR1100 way back in 1995. In those days they were restricted to 125bhp but seemed amazingly fast as I recall, especially when derestricted to 147bhp. Capable of 180 mph then. Hell of bike and no doubt the 1400 even more so. Great idea by the way reviewing some of these modern classics.
I have had all of the ZZR bikes starting with 1100 followed by the 1200 and finally, the 1400, all great bikes in their day and I agree with you the 1400 stacks up well with today's bikes. I added some bar risers and a double bubble screen which kept me completely out of the wind and all-day comfortable. Mike
I've owned 3 in total. Bought my first one in 2012 which was a Generation 1 bike like this one. Was in Kawasaki green metallic which is the best colour for these IMO. Swapped it for a Renault Espace with a rocket engine in the back! Bought another one in 2014 (also Gen 1) and sold that a months later as I needed a decent car for the winter. Went into a bike shop in Watford a couple of years ago to buy a skid lid and ended up walking out with a new 2018 plate that has sat in the showroom for a year with a deposit on it. The "owner" put £2k down and they never saw him again so I got it at a great price. Gen 2 has a bigger engine going up from 1352 to 1441cc. It made for smoother power delivery but still had the famous fuelling glitch around 3100rpm. A remap sorts this out and unlocks the top end limiter. Previously owned a gen 2 Busa which was a lovely thing to be honest but the ZZR just pips it. The build quality is excellent and it still returns 45mpg which is daft from something this size. You might think this is fast but I can guarantee you didn't fully open the taps as you simply cannot use all of its power at this time of year. It makes bags of torque that gives the sensation of power but until you are north of 8k you are yet to feel its true potential. The Gen2 bike has traction control which helps (KTRAC) but I always prefer to have it off so you know where the limits of the bike are. I have this alongside a K1600GT, a Goldwing F6C and a MV Agusta F4 thou. All the bikes are grunty but if I want to properly scare myself then the ZZR is the tool for job. Doubt I will ever sell it as they "don't make bikes like this anymore." Great review Andy.
You're right it has what a bike really needs, two big easy to read clocks and a LCD display and no over the top ride modes. Like the looks of this missile and a smooth 4 cylinder turbine to boot.
With so many bikers, myself included, being in their 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, a classic bike review series is a great idea, especially as there were no YouTubube reviews when many of the bikes first came out.
That was my thinking! I'm glad others feel the same as me!
It also caters for us (slightly) younger riders. It's nice to see reviews on bikes we can realistically afford now they're getting on a bit.
Great review. These older bikes have so much more soul. I’ve actually got an 04 Busa. No need to spend 20k on new bikes when you can get spotless bikes for 4-5k.
Keep them coming Andy
Couldn’t agree more Jon!
There’s no better way to get down to the Italian Lakes than on one of these. My mate had a couple of Blackbirds and regularly did the Med two-up! You could ride that thing all day! Sports tourers aren’t ‘trendy’ these days (you have to have a beak on your bike), but for anyone that can’t be arsed with trends they are still hugely entertaining and remarkably practical! Lovely to see a good review on this one! 👍
Cheers Steve - always good to hear from you!
Right on man!
+1 well said.
100% agree same with everyone driving all them fake jeeps that have never even seen a country lane
@@powereire 😂😂😂
As a ZZR1400 owner I really enjoy this review, must say your comments are spot on Andy. It’s a grate bike for touring and playing. Keep the older bike reviews coming.
Top stuff TMF 👍
Glad we concur Keith!
The reason this is one of the best channels on RUclips is the variety, and even after being a fan for ages the algorithm brings this little gem up for me today..... great video as always, just wish I had one in the garage
Thank you Nick - appreciate the kind words!
Bought a dark grey 2015 ZZR for £8k 3 years ago after passing my test in my late 40s and riding a 600 ccBandit for a year. It’s never too intimidating unless I get cocky and the right wrist forgets what we’re on. Then it scares the wotsits out of me but also puts a huge grin on my face. Occasionally think about trading it for something smaller and lighter but then I wash it and it looks like the batbike and I’m back in love 😂 love the review - been hoping you’d ride one for years!
Great bike, arguably the best one I’ve owned, a 2009. The only reason I sold it - and switched to a VFR 1200 - was the fact it was not possible to ride it calmly. The way this bike covers distance is amazing. And it doesn’t feel like that until you ride with your mates, when you have to keep waiting for them all the time. If you go around alone you do not feel like you are riding particularly fast. BTW, I’m planning to get her back! Thanks, Andy and, yes, please, keep on with this new Classic Bike Review initiative: you touch our hearts.
Thanks Jose - glad you like the idea!
Man Andy, what a great contribution, thanks! loved this bike... still miss it, great memories of this beast and its capabilities!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Really liked the review of the ZZR1400, nice to see a bike from over 10yrs ago still holding its own and being fun to ride. Great to have these types of reviews on the channel as not all of us can afford new bikes and many from yesteryear look fab today as they did when new. Keep up the top work Mr Flyer.
Thank you Andy - will do!
Fantastic idea, the classic bike reviews and what a beast to start with. Very enjoyable...more please.
More to come Dave don't worry about that! really enjoyed riding this!
Excellent! :)
Many more of these older bike reviews please Mr Flyer.
I'm certain that there are many like me, who when after a change of machine, focus only on the used bike market.
I love the new bike reviews as well but this type of thing is of real world interest.
Couldn't agree more - lots more to come, stay tuned!
Great review Andy. It's good to not dismiss and forget some of these iconic/popular bikes from the mid 90's. Look forward to more of these classic reviews 👍😀
Brilliant bike, and loving the review, the "classic review is brilliant too, it's great to see a review on a bike that a number of riders could realistically afford to buy, own and enjoy. So many classic bikes still hold their own to day, and it's great to see a current day review of them hope to see more.
Good idea to do a series on these great iconic bikes the zzr1400 is still an awesome bit of kit!
I was so excited when you announced a new sponsor for the channel. What a great bike to start this new chapter. For under five k, loads of value, hardly covers it. Ya knocked this one “out of the park” Andy. Well done Sir….🎩-Tip 👍🏼
Thank you Bradley! Always good to know you're out there.....appreciate your kind words!
Can I just say how immaculate the owner keeps the bike. Lovely bit of kit Andy. An absolute continental crusher!
Great to see reviews of older bikes , looking forward to see whats next!!
It's the yamaha VMax next!
Love the concept of the new segment, some of these older bikes really deserve the reviews, great bikes that are still very relevant
I agree!
Great new feature Andy as it nice to see some of the older stuff , we can’t all afford the latest £18k bikes I look forward to more old school reviews 👍🏻
You and me both!
I bought one new in 2011, a 'performance edition' (adds akropovic exhaust, bubble screen and a tank pad) in 2 tone green. Loved it, no problems 2 up touring in Europe and fantastic fun on the autobahn. Did about 50k before selling it as I remember. Good review, thanks.
Nice one Andy - what did you replace it with?
@@TheMissendenFlyer I chopped it in for a new BMW k1600gt in 2016, bit more comfortable for my long legs 😀
I have a 1986 Kawasaki 750 turbo,
1986 registered and 18,000 miles. Last registered 02/1990, absolutely mint. Fancy doing a review on it?
I owned two ZZR1400's my first was new in 2007 and I replaced it with the new one in 2013 so roughly 9 years ownership. I loved them, I toured Scotland and Europe both as a solo rider and two up. My only complaint was carrying luggage, I had a 47 litre top box fitted and that's it, soft luggage was your only choice. Great bike, let's hope it returns .
Givi Top box and panniers fitted to mine make touring a blast 👍
@@TheMotoExplorer Hope you and the other readers are well.Kindly tell me how did you attach the panniers to your Bike.I would sincerely appreciate some info .I am new to the Bike scene.I am looking for a Bike that can do 600kms and more.What would one recommend the ZX14 or the Fjr 1300.I last rode 12 years ago on zzr400.Kindly reply Guys.Manys Thanks
@@kidronreddy1671 hi have just fitted a motech rear carrier and givi pannier frames to a zzr1400 09 model they fit with not to much trouble ,but you need to slightly trim the rear cowl plastics and file/grind about 5mm off the mounting holes on the motech carrier if you want the seat to sit perfectly flush,or live with a slight seat rise on the rear ,but with electrical components under the seat i didnt fancy any rain getting in there. hope this helps.i tried the fj but compared to a zzr it felt really heavy. a set of panniers and some bar risers made my zzr a great 2 up touring machine but with out the extra weight of a full on tourer
Pleased to see this video, I've just traded in my 2018 Thruxton r 1200 for a 2011 zzr1400 . My mate's think I've lost the plot. But you are dead right zzr 1400 is a fantastic bike. Looking forward to more of your older bike reviews 👍
I think that’s a good move Robert!
You will definitely not regret it best bikes ever made
@@omega3litre no bike can match the quality, comfort and power. Proper mile muncher 👍
Just sold a gen2 210bhp with traction control 3rider modes,if you ride bikes you need to ride one at least once EPIC 👍
Another excellent video. Always interesting and very professional. Keep the vids coming.
Thanks Brian, will do!
I got my 2009 zzr1400 when it was three years old. It was only my third bike after passing my test the year it was made and it will be the last bike I will ever own. It does everything so well apart from slow control that I can't justify anything else. Good vid. Keep it up!
I remember this bike being the fastest vehicle on midnight club la, great to see a real ride on it and not on a game
Brilliant!
Excellent start to this series! Looking forward to more reviews of classic bikes!
You and me both!
This will quickly become my favorite RUclips series having had a mild Ebay motors addiction in the early to mid 2000's, I suspect I bought, sold and traded 20 bikes from the era. Love it!
Which was your favourite Jason?
@@TheMissendenFlyer Oh my that is a tough question for which I have two answers.
For the hobbyist on back country roads the Ducati 750ss half fairing was a gem. It was exceedingly uncomfortable after 50 miles, but nothing I rode made me smile and laugh so much. I had 3, we used to cut a hole in the top of the airbox, install a K&N, and de-baffle the stock exhaust. It sounded like an American V8.
For the serious commuter or tourer Honda's Blackbird will always hold a special place in my heart as it's the first bike I rode from Florida to California in 2002. Incredible machine.
Two side notes... The most boring was a 2005 Suzuki Bandit 1200S.
The most bonkers was the 1999 Buell M2 Cyclone. Impossible to keep the front tire down and constantly trying to kill you with it's snatchy throttle and wooden brakes.
Edit.. Here's a older terrible quality video of the 750ss with a modified airbox.
ruclips.net/video/79reslbPOn4/видео.html
What a beast... I wasn’t consciously aware of this model, like you it was before my motorcycling time, but it’s an engineering masterpiece. Great review, and great idea for a series of reviews. Have a good weekend mate, Chris
Cheers Chris, you too!
I had a 2008 version of one of these and ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT. I only reluctantly test rode one after persuasion from a dealer after I test rode a Z1000SX and found it too undergeared for motorway use. My thoughts before was that it would be frustrating to ride at speeds unlikely to result in speeding points. I couldn’t have been more wrong. That turbine smooth, impeccably behaved engine makes trundling through 30s and 40s way more pleasant than the VFR VTEC I had at the time; it was a bit like driving a big block American car, laaaaaazy when you need it to be, but a raging bull when conditions allowed. Not only that, but contrary to what the spec sheet says, the trip computer regularly showed 47mpg. One tip, get an ABS version, the long, low, heavy stance means it’s prone to pushing the front. I only got rid of it because I didn’t find in comfortable enough for me on 250 mile days, so I traded it in for a GTR1400, which today remains my joint best bike ever.
14 years on and she's still a great looking bike!
Hi Rukka kit is fantastic being wearing it for about 10 years never been disappointed good call on choosing it.
Thanks fir the review. I went for the Kawasaki GTR1400 practically the same engine but even more comfortable ( up right ) & shaft drive.
I had the 2006 model. Genmar 3/4" bar risers & an MRA flip up screen made it so much better. Add Givi luggage for touring and crossing France in a day was effortless. Performance wise, removing the secondary butterfly valves & adding a Power Commander to sort the fuelling gave it a huge increase in the mid range which transformed the bike. I've got a GSA now, comfort wise, it's not a patch on the ZZR.
Refreshing idea Andy a nice change from the countless new bike reviews out there every week :)
Glad you think so Stuart, I’m looking forward to riding lots more of my “classics”….
This is a brilliant idea. I happily watch all the new bike videos but have seen nothing that would get me off my Blackbird, a bike that literally does everything. Videos of bikes that aren't current is a great avenue to explore!!
I thought so too Dominic!
Great review TMF. I'm pleased you're reviewing some older bikes. Not everyone has £10-15k for a bike so I reckon these videos will be popular. That ZZR is a lot of bike for the money. One of my bikes is a sub-3000 mile CBR600 from 1997 - a great handling bike with 100bhp. Easy to forget how capable some older bikes are!
Beautiful piece of kit, still one of my top 3 bikes!! Love it.
Long live the "classic bike" series Andy and what a machine this is. Want!!
Me too!
I had a 2011 ZZR for 5 years until I chopped it in for a GS. I absolutely loved it. Did a fair number of long trips to Europe and Scotland and it was only my age that made it less comfortable than the GS option. Great new series. Looking forward to more great videos.
Thanks Dave - appreciated!
Great review of a wonderful bike from the time when things were made to last and not be rendered obsolete by a new model every year, supported by the PCP model of short-term ownership. So good to see sensible seat heights and design choices for real-world riding.
Yes there were some good things about the ast for sure....
Love this classic series!
Glad to hear it!
As an owner of a 16 plate, for a big old bus they do handle well and I am averaging close to 50 MPG and did I mention it's also bloody quick, great review TMF
Cheers J!
I have a 2020 ZZR1400 and I get people telling me I'm wrong when I say I get 50mpg.....and I don't dawdle....
Fantastic series TMF,great that these type of reviews are available,these older bikes are still great and well worth purchasing,top man Andy.👍🏻
Glad you think that Barry - thanks for watching!
I have admired the ZZR for a long time after some long ride outs with a friend. It covered ground so effortlessly and was ‘planted’ on the road.
At that price, an absolute bargain !
Stayed for the fashion segment and realised that I have completed my latest barn find project for less than the price of your new jacket 😉.
Many thanks for the review, proving once again that quality motorcycling can be affordable.
My pleasure Andrew - thanks for watching and for stopping by!
I got a K1300S when it came out and one of the cycle mags called it the Busa Killer. Extremely powerful and smooth but a bit heavy in the twisties. Went back to the twins- my favorite power to weight machines, full of personality. Analog dials, ABS, and heated grips., plus expandable panniers. 👍👍🏍🏍🏍🙋♂️
Hey Andy! Awesome review as always. I'm glad you liked the bike. Nowadays it seems like everyone likes TFTs, Brembos and superchargers, and most reviewers would just dismiss a bike like this, because it's old. I bought one of the last ones left for sale in 2020 in the UK and it's been one of the best bikes I've ever ridden. One thing I must correct you about is the weight. It isn't 215kg but something like 270kg. The rear brake caliper is one of the many parts on the bike that make it feel light and stable, because they stay as low as possible.
Wow that was a slip of the tongue!!! what was I thinking!!!! Sorry about that - glad you love the bike!
I too have a 2020 standard ZZR1400. Love it......
The weight is correct. Its just the dry weight...
Got a 2010. Fantastic bike had it years and not been tempted to change for something more modern. Maintanance can be intensive. Changing the plugs is pain. But overall very happy with it
Congrats on the jacket!
& that Moto is definitely worth that price …looked extremely smooth and powerful
have a good weekend sir :)
Good idea! This bike looks like something Flash Gordon would ride!
Look forward to the next one.
Sure does!
Always loved the big kwacker. Like you I was put off one by a mate. I loved the original version which I think ran until about 2002. Great new twist to the channel. I'm looking forward to more classic reviews.
Good to hear that Keith!
Yeeesss, good honest bike, very very, fast good comfort, no pretention about adventure or retro just power and presence. Great review 😁👍
Thanks Graham
I have owned 5 Hayabusa's, then towards the end of 2020 I bought myself one of the very last new ZZR1400's. WOW! What a difference. I genuinely loved all my Busa's, but the ZZR is a far more polished machine, to the degree it makes the Hayabusa seem agricultural by comparison....
Really interesting to read this. Was considering the Busa also. Met a Busa owner only a few days after buying my ZZR and just really started negatively remarking about the ZZR vs the Busa and yet never ridden one on the power etc. So enjoyed reading this! Many thanks for posting.
@@motorbikeireland You're welcome. I never intended buying a ZZR as I loved the 'Busa and the shape...but for me the ZZR is a better machine.
As a man of a certain age ie 48 this classic series is great to see. I understand what you mean about dreaming of larger bikes especially as In the last year I have become the owner of a 2008 hayabusa which I absolutely love. Looking forward to many more of these.
Nice one Dave and glad to hear ou like the idea of this classic series....
Excellent Andy, it's nice to see a bike with a well designed cockpit, faring and screen, rather than a piece of clear plastic and a tablet added as an afterthought.
More of these please 🙏, excellent review.
Cheers Jonathan - stay tuned!
Fantastic review of an absolutly amazing and iconic bike. I had the Gen2 which I was lucky enough to ride all over Europe. For such a large bike it's so manageable and easy to move about in the garage. It's the one bike I wish I still kept.
Great idea doing modern classic reviews as well as new, many cannot afford or simply prefer not to spend the coin on new but it is hard to get info on older models. keep it up!
More to come!
Great vid always fancied one of these. I've a ZZR600 and a Gen 1 Triumph Sprint. Classic bikes are bags of fun and excellent value. Looking forward to the rest of this series.
I agree Olly (and so am I!)
Fantastic video... Really looking forward to this ongoing series. As a "mature" rider (just turned 50) the prospect of content featuring the bikes that inspired me to ride is just mouth watering. 👍😃👍
Great to hear Rob - stay tuned - more to come!
Good to see your reviewing 2nd hand bargains 👌
Once again, a superb review from a great motorcycle. Thanks a lot for providing these nice and entertaining videos. The zzr ist right now in sight of becoming one of the next bikes in the stable. Greetings from Germany
TMF! It's great to return to the channel after some time away. And what an episode to kick off this new series 👍
Too many bikes get overlooked by so many to have the latest technology. Although lacking in abundant electronics packages, these older bikes have some real charm about them! I currently own an early Blackbird and, while not in mint condition, it's possibly the best bike I've owned. I'm also tempted to get a ZZR14 and 2008-on gen1 gets my vote👌
Really looking forward to seeing the other bikes to come in this series!
Welcome back Damien!
Have been waiting for exactly this format for ages with sensible narration and no silly loud music or bad language. Well.... you will have LOTS of bikes to go through as the 90s into 2000s were a true golden era for some fantastic machines. Next up must surely be zx12r, Blackbird, Busa... and I would put a ZZR1100 in there too for good measure. If you get onto Pan Europeans contact me as I have a lovely 11 and 13 you can test back to back on the channel if desired. All of these "modern classics" are still great machines if kept well. Thanks
Cheers Gareth - lots of great bikes to choose from!
There sure are !! 😃👍
Looking forward to more of these classic reviews. I use to have the Honda VFR800vtec. Loved it with its V4 engine.
Yes I have ridden one of those - great looking and sounding bike….
Great review !👍 I have a 2011 , I adore it , it's simply the best bike I've ever ridden ♥️
Nice to see someone else covering the older bikes on their channel, I've been buying and reviewing budget classics for the last few Years on my channel, so I'll be keeping an eye on your thoughts in this series Andy
I don't know for how long I was wanting for that, great and amazing all together, big thanks!!!
Great review, I’m a big fan of older bikes.
I’ve got a 1996 MK1 Suzuki bandit and I love it.
Cool - I have the Bandit on my list of bikes to cover, why don't manufacturers give bikes cool names like that now...?
@@TheMissendenFlyer ah cool I look forward to seeing you on one, I don’t know why bikes names aren’t cool anymore! My all time favourite bike name is the Vincent black shadow such a good name and a cool old bike.
Love the new classic motorcycle series. Can’t wait to see more great motorbike. The Kawasaki Motorbike have always been in my top ten motorbike I like. So a double thumbs up from on this video review. Thanks for fashion show jacket is amazing.
Thank you very much Dennis
Hi Andy. I was lucky enough to buy one of the last performance sport versions that has the ‘Akro’ pipes and Ohlins and I have to say it is an awesome machine. Had 25mm bar risers and just fitted a kit that lowers the foot pegs (both make it a bit more comfortable for me, now 62) but what a machine. The smoothness and endless power of the engine is something else. Build quality , I think is second to none - make space, you know you want to!! 😀 Love this series by the way, look forward to the next classic. 👍
I have a 2020 standard edition ZZR. I won't be selling it any time soon. Incredible machine that makes the Hayabusa feel agricultural by comparison...and I should know, I have owned 5 'Busa's....
Classic reviews, great bike the Kawasaki ZZR1400 love the looks and size. Great price, going on eBay to have a look now.
Great review. Spot on. I’ve had mine from new since 2006. The dealer wouldn’t allow a test ride (won’t make that mistake again) and after purchase I was so disappointed with the low down power due to the nannying restrictions Kawasaki had used. I removed the secondary butterfly plates, replaced the exhaust, fitted a power commander and haven’t stopped smiling since. Still an amazing and reliable machine after 40K miles.
Brilliant!
Great to have you reviewing and comparing classics Andy. I look forward to the next one.
You and me both!
Hi Andy, Bob Rayner here from Bucks.
Just wanted to say a massive thanks for making this video on the ZZR. I’ve been Biking now for Many years and one’d many Bikes. Over the past few of those I’ve been hankering after the big Kawasaki but never got a chance to try it out. It was after watching this video that swayed it for me and I’ve finally bought a gen 1 with just 16k on the clock.
Well what a revelation! Best thing I’ve ever ridden. So Thankyou my friend.🙏🏻
Since then I’ve subscribed to the channel and am now working my way through your back catalogue!
I live in Bucks so hopefully bump into you at the super sausage ( my local cafe). Perhaps I could show you the Buckingham TT. 😎👍🏼. Cheers. Bob.
Nice one Bob - give me a wave if you see me out and about!
@@TheMissendenFlyer will do mate. Do you still use that Rukka jacket? Flipping expensive but it looks like it’ll last forever🤔. Cheers. Bob.
I do indeed and I think it will - expensive as you say but an excellent bit of kit if you ride in all weathers and temperatures...
I own a Kawasaki 1400 Gtr year 2012, absolutely brilliant bike, everything you want in a big tourer, not as fast as the zzr but still has a top speed of 159 miles an hour.
I enjoyed the review. 👍
Thanks for watching Derek!
Great idea visiting... Some of the classic bikes.... Love the big sport tourers... Owned a Blackbird and an FJR 1300....keep up the good work...👍😎
Both on my target list Steven! Thanks for watching and for stopping by....
Good, honest review. You can't lose out when buying bikes like that. You could enjoy riding it for 2 or 3 years, keep it looking good and you'd probably get back what you paid for it if you come to sell it
Exactly!
"Another motorway missile from Kawasaki" was how these were described in the mags at the time....superbly made and if looked after a good example would last forever... Great video....sad that such machines would no longer be allowed by modern regs!!
Isn’t it just….
On the bright side, if you have one its price should only go up....
I had a 2007, I put 70k miles on that bike, she never left me stranded anywhere, For 6 years she’s all I had. I can’t recommend these bikes enough.
Nice to see some older bike reviews like this. Keep these coming Andy 👍😀
Willco....
Great idea of older bikes tmf, be looking out for next video. I have owned 3 zzr 1400. Your right, its fantastic machine. Keep the vids coming thx.
What a great opportunity you have with the tie up with the Superbike Factory. The ZZR has always been a bike I've converted but been dissuaded by my riding partner Carol ; she says it's ugly! I say not and certainly better looking than the Busa.
The Superbike Factory at Donington had several of these in when I did my walkaround of the place. Great cafe there as well.
I would like to see you test the Yamaha MT01, rare, huge V twin in a supernaked frame.
Will see what I can do Richard!
Absolutely awesome idea for a series! Really loved this video, I'd say keep up the good work but I'm already pretty certain you will anyway ;).
Cheers Rutger - abs good to hear from you again!
@@TheMissendenFlyer I'm always watching, just not always commenting haha!
Top man!
I had one new, non ABS model in 2008 - and rode it hard... with Friday nights at ther local dragstrip , I did about 40-45 passes on the 1/4 mile, using up 2 rear tires, and a set of clutch plates, all in pursuit of a 1/4 mile run in the 9's. Unfortunately, my best run was a 10:18 at 142 mph. I also rode it coast to coast and back - a week each way here in Canada - 10,800 kms in a fortnight. I had a gel pad on the seat and heated grips... that's it. That Ninja was a fabulous high speed cruiser too. At an airfield event, I hit 265 kph on it, and that was as fast as I have ever gone. Loved that bike.!
Wow!
Andy so pleased you chose the ZZR 1400 as your first classic ride, I had a new one in 2006 when they first came out after trading my ZX9R in at Cradley Heath Kawasaki. I replaced it in 2010 with another new ZZR 1400 and only sold that bike about three years ago, and I can tell you when touring and not doing warp speed I could achieve 45 plus MPG. The only down side every sports bike wanted to race you, but with a bit of counter steering they are surprisingly good in the twisty' s for such a long wheel base. I can tell you a funny story whilst on my way to Scotland on the upper reaches of the M6 I had a gentleman in a Porsche 911 trying to flag me down furiously, wanting to know what his problem was I pulled into the services and he followed me. when we had both parked he said mate were did you get that carrier for your Givi top box, I had to disappoint him and tell him I had made it myself, Kawasaki would not manufacture one because if a pillion was being carried with side cases and top box they thought the rear subframe was not strong enough to carry the weight, needless to say he was so disappointed having a ZZR 1400 himself. but he proceeded to take loads of photos on his phone of how I had constructed the carrier. But what an amazing bike they still are. Thanks' so much for the memories with your road test of the ZZR 1400.
My pleasure Stephen - thanks for the story!
Keep up the new series! I promise I will watch each one at least twice.
That's very kind of you! Deal!
The ZZR range have always been up there as one of the best, maybe Honda's CBR is a close competitor but I've always preferred the ZZR and this one is great value a heck of a lot of bike for less than 5K. Would be great to see you do a review of the early BMW K series mainly because I've got one and I'd like to see hear your opinions on these classics.
Added to my list Steff!
My first bike was a 2008 ZZR 600. Great bike. Never gave me any trouble. Comfortable for a sport bike. My dad ended up getting one as well when he saw me having so much fun on mine. I've moved on to other bikes but he still has his.
Would love to see you do a review of the k1300gt
@@TheMissendenFlyer You can always borrow mine to do a review
Great idea Andy for series of videos looking at some older motorcycles . As a novice rider I don’t think I’ll be going near a bike such as this Kawasaki.. I can only imagine what it must feel like to open up the throttle. Great video as always Andy thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it Gary - quite a ride this one as you cn imagine!
I'm a novice and have a 2006 Hayabusa, these big power bikes are very easy to ride, as long as you are speed aware, have good discipline and self control you'll be fine, power delivery is very linear and controllable, the weight makes them very stable and planted, you cant really open the throttle right up like a smaller bike as they will do 150 in the blink of an eye but they are very easy to ride at lower speeds.
A great review of an awesome bike. I look forward to seeing more classic bike reviews.
Stay tuned John!
I was waiting for you to get the front wheel off the ground ;) Fairing bikes look so much better in my view, think it's an 80's thing!! Great review.
Good one, and wheelie control is for ninnies. It is the rider that controls the machine, that is what motorcycling is all about. Can already tell that I am going to enjoy this series immensely. It will also (I predict) make many people to realise that it is possible to get bargains when buying used bikes.
Yes it's certainly woken me up to the joys of the used market.....
If you ever get the chance to swing your leg over a 1985 Yamaha Rz500 take the ride. What a sweetheart of a bike. Civilized for a 2 stroke and smooth as up past 6000rpm.
I had the earlier ZZR1100 way back in 1995. In those days they were restricted to 125bhp but seemed amazingly fast as I recall, especially when derestricted to 147bhp. Capable of 180 mph then. Hell of bike and no doubt the 1400 even more so. Great idea by the way reviewing some of these modern classics.
Glad you think so mark - lots more to come!
I have had all of the ZZR bikes starting with 1100 followed by the 1200 and finally, the 1400, all great bikes in their day and I agree with you the 1400 stacks up well with today's bikes. I added some bar risers and a double bubble screen which kept me completely out of the wind and all-day comfortable. Mike
Great idea for a series! Would be awesome to see another great Kawasaki in the line up... the ZRX 1200R
I've owned 3 in total. Bought my first one in 2012 which was a Generation 1 bike like this one. Was in Kawasaki green metallic which is the best colour for these IMO. Swapped it for a Renault Espace with a rocket engine in the back! Bought another one in 2014 (also Gen 1) and sold that a months later as I needed a decent car for the winter. Went into a bike shop in Watford a couple of years ago to buy a skid lid and ended up walking out with a new 2018 plate that has sat in the showroom for a year with a deposit on it. The "owner" put £2k down and they never saw him again so I got it at a great price. Gen 2 has a bigger engine going up from 1352 to 1441cc. It made for smoother power delivery but still had the famous fuelling glitch around 3100rpm. A remap sorts this out and unlocks the top end limiter. Previously owned a gen 2 Busa which was a lovely thing to be honest but the ZZR just pips it. The build quality is excellent and it still returns 45mpg which is daft from something this size.
You might think this is fast but I can guarantee you didn't fully open the taps as you simply cannot use all of its power at this time of year. It makes bags of torque that gives the sensation of power but until you are north of 8k you are yet to feel its true potential. The Gen2 bike has traction control which helps (KTRAC) but I always prefer to have it off so you know where the limits of the bike are. I have this alongside a K1600GT, a Goldwing F6C and a MV Agusta F4 thou. All the bikes are grunty but if I want to properly scare myself then the ZZR is the tool for job. Doubt I will ever sell it as they "don't make bikes like this anymore." Great review Andy.
You're right it has what a bike really needs, two big easy to read clocks and a LCD display and no over the top ride modes. Like the looks of this missile and a smooth 4 cylinder turbine to boot.
This Beast has a special place in my heart- been lookin' at a few low milage used ones of late
Great video and I like this genre of videos. I still enjoy riding my Divi 900 from 1996. Excellent bike and can be had for a song.
Glad you enjoyed it - thanks for stopping by!