I joined the old- kawasaki ZX14ZX14rZX1441r forum that is now on FB. A person posted this...
"hello all.. I'm new to the group. I would like your opinions. I'm looking for a new bike. I currently have a 2016 ZX14R purchased new in 2018 with 0 miles. The bike now has 82,764 miles on her. would you buy
1) A new 25 ZX14R (16,000) which is the same bike and swap plastic
2) A new 25 H2 SX SE (23,000) has new tech, cruise control and removable bags and quick shifter.
3) A new Hayabusa (16,000) has new tech, cruise control, quick shifter, but worse ergonomics.
Current bike runs strong only replacing because of the miles and no warranty (I ride a lot and far so it's comforting to have the warranty)
I've only had to replace two chains, tires and brakes."

What do you think her valve clearances look like?

* Last updated by: doubleD on 10/19/2025 @ 9:55 AM *

I think the clearances are all tight as they're going to get on the exhaust valves. I wouldn't have let it go this long but after the initial adjustment on my Gen1, the valve clearance was unchanged at the next scheduled check. ...so I think the bikes are designed to not grenade if the owner fails to do the valve clearance adjustment. I neglected to change spark plugs for 44,000 miles and the bike was ok. Personally, I think it adds a lot of value to a used bike if all the scheduled maintenance was done in a timely fashion. Also, if something does go wrong, you don't want to wonder if it was because the bike wasn't maintained.

I'd ask where she lived and if she were single!! My kinda woman... I'd be happy to check her valve lash.

My older Brother bought a 1985 900 Ninja in 1987. He took the head off to check the valves. The intakes were razor sharp being pounded against the valve seats. The Bike was drag raced.

Maybe Mother Kawasaki uses "tougher" material for valves nowadays.
Pam must have never read the owner's manual.
I wonder if she ever replaced the oil and air filter?
It says she is married on her FB page. Her husband must be clueless, too.
Maybe she thinks it is a Harley with hydraulic lifters?

* Last updated by: doubleD on 10/20/2025 @ 10:12 AM *