Alright, buckle up folks, ’cause I’m about to spill the beans on my Kawasaki Ninja 14R top speed run. This wasn’t some half-assed, “let’s-see-what-happens” kind of deal. This was planned, prepared, and executed (mostly) flawlessly.
First things first, the bike. We’re talking a 2016 Kawasaki Ninja 14R, bone stock except for a slip-on exhaust – a Yoshimura R-77, to be exact. Sounds mean, but doesn’t really add much in the power department, just a bit of noise and a few less pounds. I made damn sure the tires were in good shape, chain was lubed, and fluids were topped off. No point in risking a high-speed blowout or engine failure, right?
Next up, the location. You can’t just go blasting down any old road. I needed something long, straight, and with minimal traffic. I ended up finding a stretch of highway out in the boonies – perfectly paved, miles of visibility, and almost nobody around on a weekday morning. I even scouted it out the day before, just to make sure there weren’t any unexpected surprises like potholes or construction.
Gear was crucial. Full leathers, Arai helmet, gloves, and boots. No compromises here. I’m not trying to become a meat crayon if things go south. I also brought along a GoPro to document the whole thing. Gotta have proof, right?
So, the day arrives. Weather’s perfect – clear skies, cool temperature, and minimal wind. I get out to my spot, double-check everything on the bike, and take a few deep breaths to calm the nerves. This is it.
I start off slow, just to get a feel for the road and the bike. Then, I gradually start opening it up. First gear, second gear, the acceleration is insane. By third gear, I’m already pushing triple digits. The wind is hitting me hard, but the bike feels stable. I tuck in as much as possible to reduce drag.
Fourth gear, fifth gear, the numbers on the speedometer are climbing faster and faster. I’m holding on tight, trying to keep the bike pointed straight. The engine is screaming, the wind is roaring, it’s an adrenaline rush like nothing else.
Sixth gear… and here’s where things get interesting. The bike is still pulling, but not as hard as before. The speedo creeps up, slowly but surely. I’m watching the numbers like a hawk. Finally, after what feels like an eternity, I see it: 186 mph. That’s what my GPS confirmed too. Not bad for a slightly overweight dude on a stock bike, eh?
I held it there for a few seconds, then slowly rolled off the throttle. The deceleration felt almost as intense as the acceleration. I took a few minutes to let the bike (and myself) cool down before heading back.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Was it worth it?” Honestly, I don’t know. It was exhilarating, terrifying, and stupid all at the same time. I wouldn’t recommend anyone try this unless they’re experienced riders and can accept the risks. But hey, I did it, and I lived to tell the tale. And I got some pretty cool GoPro footage to prove it!
So yeah, that’s my Ninja 14R top speed story. Don’t be a dummy, be safe, and wear your gear!
