2016 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABSEnjoying some light updates last year that improved the rideability of the Concours 14 ABS, Kawasaki stands pat in 2016 with the Supersport Tourer.Based on the Ninja ZX-14R hyperbike, the Concours 14 is capable of riding at high speeds for long distances without stressing the 1352cc powerplant in the least (an optional touring seat enhances comfort).
Not a one-trick-pony, the big C14 also has impressive handling credentials in the twisties, allowing you to keep up with most riders in any situation. The large saddlebags are useful and a 47-liter top box is optional, and the only thing a hard-core tourer will miss is the lack of cruise control.Read our Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS Review.
2016 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS Specs:
Engine: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, inline-4
Displacement: 1352cc
Bore x stroke: 84 x 61mm
Compression ratio: 10.7:1
Fuel system: DFI w/ four 40mm throttle bodies
Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
Transmission: 6-speed
Final drive: Tetra-Lever shaft drive
Suspension
Front: 43mm inverted, telescopic forks w/ adjustable rebound damping and spring preload; 4.4 inches of travel
Rear: Tetra-Lever w/ stepless rebound damping adjustment and remote spring preload adjuster; 5.4 inches of travel
Our first segment introduces you to the new Arch 1s. This latest, slightly more sporting American V-twin, adds to the original KRGT1 coming from the boutique manufacturer based in Hawthorne, Southern California. Senior Editor Nic de Sena rode through Malibu with Gard Hollinger, who co-founded Arch Motorcycle with his friend, Keanu Reeves. The 1s is a unique ride for sure, and Nic explains what makes the bike really stand out.
For the entertaining story behind Arch Motorcycle from Gard Hollinger himself, you must listen to his podcast episode on Motos & Friends HERE
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The guest segment of Motos and Friends is brought to you by the faster and most technologically advanced, 2023 Suzuki Hayabusa—visit your local dealer or suzukicycles.com to learn more.
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In our second segment, Associate Editor Teejay Adams chats with multiple Emmy award-winning writer, Producer, Director, and actor, Thom Beers. the former Chairman & CEO of Fremantle Media North America, responsible for American Idol and America’s Got Talent.
Thom’s fertile imagination led to most of the really big reality TV shows such as ‘Deadliest Catch’ (now in its 17th season!), and many others. Of course for us in the motorcycle world, you’ll be interested to hear the genesis and story of how he started the first real fabrication reality show ‘Monster Garage’, that showcased Jesse James, and then how that led to ‘Biker Build Off’ and the ‘Zombie Choppers’ movie.
You’d imagine that most of Thom’s time is spent sitting behind a desk and on his phone. Not so. His intense stories of capturing much of the content for these shows make for some hair-raising listening.