2012 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS

You can never have enough of a good thing, and in the case of the Kawasaki Concours 14, that’s exactly what you’re going to get.

Expertly mixing high performance and long-distance functionality, the Concours 14 is the kind of touring bike that inspires riders to pull out their big maps and set out for the open road. It’s no wonder the Concours has been around for this long; it offers plenty of style, power, and functionality.

The Concours 14 comes with several features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety, solidifying its position atop the sport touring heap. The bike’s dynamic bodywork increases comfort by routing heat away from the rider and passenger while a tall, electrically adjustable windscreen creates a calm cockpit experience with help from ducts above the instrument panel, balancing pressure areas inside and outside the screen. The bike also has handgrip heaters that come as standard, providing comfort even when outside temperatures become unbearable.

Complimenting the dynamic design of the Concours 14 is an engine that packs a wallop. The amazing and thoroughly modern 1,352cc DOHC inline-four engine sourced from the legendary ZX-14 sports bike generates excellent low- and mid-range power, all followed by a top-end rush that would turn most open-class sportbikes green with envy. An advanced fuel injection, ram-air induction, and variable valve timing all add up to an exhilarating ride.

On top of all that, the Concours also comes with technological features that enhance the riding experience. The bike’s K-ACT (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) braking system offers two modes of linked, anti-lock braking and great overall performance. Likewise, a high-tech traction control system not only reduces wheelspin on slick surfaces, offering riders more confidence-inspiring feedback, but it can be easily switched off at the rider’s discretion.

Overall, the Concours 14 ABS is as action-packed as any touring bike on the market. Just goes to show what 26 years of experience does in honing a perfectly well-tuned machine.