2014 Kawasaki motorcycles bring thrills at both ends of the spectrum

The motorcycle industry is seeing a sales resurgence, with riders coming from different quarters looking for two-wheel escapism. Kawasaki is among the manufacturers freshening existing models and adding new ones to appeal to the shifting interests, luring new and returning riders, as well as discriminating wrist-twist veterans, into showrooms, as we were recently reminded.

At the international motorcycle show in New York City last month, we toured the displays, spoke with company reps, straddled some iron horses, and came away enthused for spring. For instance, at the Kawasaki booth, there was action in multiple categories for the 2014 model year.

The spotlight was clearly shining on the Z1000 ($11,999), a striking street fighter that is essentially a stripped Ninja, with katana-sharp styling. Updated for 2014, the Z1000 is powered by a 1,043-cc liquid-cooled inline four and attitude. Built around the Ninja ZX-10R superbike frame, the Z1000 is engineered for corner carving, with its adjustable suspension, shortened final-drive gearing, and revised powerplant. Updates abound, from the LED lighting, to the new brake pads and antilock pump.

At the other end of the sport bike spectrum, the Ninja 300 ($4,999) was on display. The Ninja 300 was released last year, updating a popular model with a slight bump in displacement, distinguishing it among the 250 class, and it benefited from a consequent boost in low-end power. The goal was to stand out from the competition. Kawasaki reps said their strategy is drawing in the ladies, citing 20-percent of Ninja 300 sales to women, compared to about 11-percent for the class.