Motorcycle specifications Kawasaki1400 GTR 2011 The flagship has a green thumb

imposing, powerful, rewarding, the 1400 GTR had propelled Kawasaki into the world of the big tourer with panache.... or rather, brought it back into the segment where the 1000 GTR once proudly carried the green flag. But this Tour de France icon didn't evolve at the same pace as the Germans in this segment, leaving the RTs and then some Japanesemodels (ST 1100 / 1300, FJR 1300) to conquer the market.
The new GTR comes out in 2007 with some hard-hitting arguments: aluminum frame and ZZR 1400 engine, Tetra-Lever swingarm made up of 2 double articulated arms, and various electronic features worthy of a Bavarian sedan. The tone is set, as the1400 GTR presents itself as a Superpsort Transcontinental.

kawa hasn't slept on it - the GTR is, along with the ZX-10R, its technological flagship. The manufacturer has given it a facelift, along with new equipment. The Grand Touring silhouette has been slightly refined, although this is no easy task on such a liner. The right-angled panels of the fairing have become more supple, offering more room for curves and a greater diffusion of heat escaping from the radiator. The hoof has become a near-perfect triangle, ending in an integrated deflector, offering additional protection for the feet. Just behind, the junction between the exhaust pipe and the muffler is covered by a new, more stylish cover. Criticized during our test ride, the windscreen has been increased in size and is now electronically adjustable. For hand comfort, heated grips are now standard, and we can't forget the 1400 GTR's extras: keyless start system, tire pressure control, variable valve timing, ABS, 12 V socket, cardan shaft, glove box on the tank, 14 mkg of torque underneath and... Ah?!? Kawasaki has added new equipment:

on its top-of-the-range tourer, Kawa inaugurates KTRC, its first traction control system. Providing better rear-wheel control, this system will not be outdone when the bike is navigating on greasy terrain during the cold seasons; enough to avoid a few cold sweats.
Also installed is K-ACT, 2nd-generation coactive assisted braking - the rider has 2 possible choices of braking management depending on riding style and/or conditions. And, as the environment is currently in vogue, the GTR is equipped with an eco class... In fact, an eco driving mode: an 'Eco' indicator on the dashboard keeps the driver informed of fuel consumption. But it can go even further: by engaging the 'green' driving assistance mode, the engine management system automatically modifies the fuel injection map, giving priority to fuel efficiency.

in the match between Germany and Japan, rivals such as the K 1600 GT and 1400 GTR have entered the technological arms race. Bavaria has years of experience, Akashi the means to match its ambitions. The evolution of Kawa's flagship should amaze long-distance riders, while demonstrating the company's know-how. Now, how will the new equipment affect pricing? Let's not forget that even in this category of motorcyclists, the wallet has been looked at differently for some time now.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos