The new 2014 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 ABS is a glorified street bike that borrows many technologies from its track-focused ZX-R siblings. With a plethora of accessories from the Kawasaki catalogue, it will mainly appeal to sporty riders who like to cover a lot of ground.

Designed to perfectly match the sleek lines of the 2014 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 ABS, the new, ultra-compact saddlebags (optional) keep the bike's width under 95 cm, yet they can each fit a full-face helmet or 14 litres worth of gear. Take them off, and the integrated mounting system leaves behind no unsightly brackets, effectively preserving the race bike looks of the Ninja 1000.


2014 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 ABS specifications
The inline 4-cylinder engine has been modified to improve throttle response and precision, while providing a more generous power band. The upgraded air box achieves similar results and enhances the sound effects, as well.

The new 2014 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 ABS is yet another beneficiary of the race-proven Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) system pioneered by the 2011 Ninja ZX-10R superbike. It uses data from various sensors to manage rear-wheel slip at all times. Unlike the ZX, however, the Ninja 1000 offers two rider-selectable modes instead of three.

Changes were also made to the chassis. Steering characteristics were tweaked for greater agility, while the braking system received new Tokico/Kawasaki monoblock callipers and thicker, flower-shaped discs. Of course, ABS comes standard. Meanwhile, the rear shock features an offset knob to adjust spring preload -- a definite must when adding a passenger and some luggage.

Bottom line
Already one of the most coveted big-bore street bikes in Canada, the new 2014 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 ABS likely won't have much trouble holding its prestigious spot in one of the industry's most popular segments.