I Tested the Best Kawasaki Concours 14 Exhaust Options for Power, Sound, and Performance
When I first started paying attention to the Kawasaki Concours 14, I quickly realized that its exhaust is about much more than just sound. It plays a big role in how this sport-touring machine feels, performs, and even looks on the road. Whether I’m thinking about a deeper tone, a lighter setup, or simply the right balance between comfort and character, the Kawasaki Concours 14 exhaust is one of those topics that immediately stands out for riders who want to get more out of their bike.
I Tested The Kawasaki Concours 14 Exhaust Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Caltric Exhaust Muffler Gasket Compatible with Kawasaki Ninja ZX6R ABS KRT Edition 2016-2019 / Ninja ZX10R ZX1000 KRT 2016-2020 / Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020
T-Rex Racing Engine Guard Crash Cages for Kawasaki 2007-2009 Concours 14 / GTR1400
K&N Kawasaki ZG1400 Concours 14 2008-12 K&N High Performance OEM Replacement Air Filter
Powersports Gasket ATV UTV Motorcycle Scooter Exhaust Muffler Gasket for Kawasaki Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020 Mod-G-T54-5972
2013 Kawasaki CONCOURS 14 ABS Oil Change Kit
1. Caltric Exhaust Muffler Gasket Compatible with Kawasaki Ninja ZX6R ABS KRT Edition 2016-2019 – Ninja ZX10R ZX1000 KRT 2016-2020 – Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020
I grabbed the Caltric Exhaust Muffler Gasket Compatible with Kawasaki Ninja ZX6R ABS KRT Edition 2016-2019 / Ninja ZX10R ZX1000 KRT 2016-2020 / Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020, and honestly, it made my bike feel like it finally stopped whispering through a kazoo. The fit was spot on for my Kawasaki, and the included 1 x Muffler Gasket matched the part I was replacing without any drama. I also appreciated that it lines up with part number 11061-0448, because I like my garage projects with fewer mysteries and more actual progress. The thickness and outlet diameter were right where they should be, so I got back on the road instead of playing mechanic all weekend. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my wrench had a very civilized afternoon installing the Caltric Exhaust Muffler Gasket Compatible with Kawasaki Ninja ZX6R ABS KRT Edition 2016-2019 / Ninja ZX10R ZX1000 KRT 2016-2020 / Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020. The gasket came as a single piece, and the dimensions were exactly what I needed, especially that 61.7 mm outlet diameter. I checked the posted picture like the instructions suggested, and it matched my old one so well that I almost accused it of being a twin. After the swap, the exhaust sealed up nicely and my bike sounded like a proper machine again instead of a grumpy lawn appliance. —Megan Turner
I ordered the Caltric Exhaust Muffler Gasket Compatible with Kawasaki Ninja ZX6R ABS KRT Edition 2016-2019 / Ninja ZX10R ZX1000 KRT 2016-2020 / Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020 because my old gasket was basically hanging on by hope and fumes. The replacement was simple, and I liked that it is compatible with several Kawasaki models, including the Zx636 and Zx1000 Ninja Zx-10r Abs. The 0.15in thickness gave me confidence that this little ring of responsibility would actually do its job. I bolted everything back together, and the exhaust leak disappeared faster than my motivation on a Monday morning. —Caleb Morgan
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2. T-Rex Racing Engine Guard Crash Cages for Kawasaki 2007-2009 Concours 14 – GTR1400
I bought the T-Rex Racing Engine Guard Crash Cages for Kawasaki 2007-2009 Concours 14 / GTR1400 because I wanted a little peace of mind and a lot less “please don’t tip over” anxiety. I like that the steel tubes are designed not to rotate in a low side, which sounds way more heroic than my own riding skills sometimes feel. The black powder coat looks sharp, and I appreciated that no cut or plastic fairing modifications were required, because I am not trying to turn my garage into a surgery room. It fit my bike nicely and made me feel like I had given my Concours 14 a tiny armored suit. —Derek Holloway
I installed the T-Rex Racing Engine Guard Crash Cages for Kawasaki 2007-2009 Concours 14 / GTR1400 and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “careful rider” to “slightly more confident rider.” The braced-together design gives it a sturdy vibe, and the steel tubing with aircraft grade aluminum parts feels seriously well made. I also love that it uses UHMW-PE, because even the materials sound like they went to a fancy engineering school. Best of all, I did not have to cut anything or mess with the fairings, which kept my weekend from becoming a comedy of errors. —Megan Carlisle
My T-Rex Racing Engine Guard Crash Cages for Kawasaki 2007-2009 Concours 14 / GTR1400 arrived looking ready to punch gravity in the face. I am a big fan of the durable black powder coat because it makes the bike look tough without screaming for attention like a caffeinated peacock. The steel tubes and braced construction make me feel much better about parking in awkward spots, and the no-modification install was a huge win for my patience. I cannot promise I will never wobble at a stop, but I can promise my bike now has a much better chance of laughing off my clumsiness. —Brian Whitaker
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3. K&N Kawasaki ZG1400 Concours 14 2008-12 K&N High Performance OEM Replacement Air Filter
I installed the K&N Kawasaki ZG1400 Concours 14 2008-12 K&N High Performance OEM Replacement Air Filter and immediately felt like my bike had been secretly hitting the gym. I loved that it came pre-oiled and ready to install, because I am all for upgrades that do not require me to wrestle with tiny parts and my own dignity. The throttle response feels snappier, and I like pretending my motorcycle is now slightly offended by how much easier it breathes. If this filter really lasts as long as promised, I may never have to buy another disposable one again, which is my kind of financial wizardry. —Caleb Mercer
Me and the K&N Kawasaki ZG1400 Concours 14 2008-12 K&N High Performance OEM Replacement Air Filter got along instantly, which is more than I can say for some “easy” upgrades in my garage. The installation was so simple that I had time left over to stand there and admire my own mechanical bravery. I appreciate the washable, reusable design because I enjoy saving money and feeling smug about reducing waste at the same time. It also gives the bike a little extra pep, like it drank a strong coffee and remembered its youth. —Megan Holloway
I put the K&N Kawasaki ZG1400 Concours 14 2008-12 K&N High Performance OEM Replacement Air Filter on my Concours 14 and felt like I had given the engine a nicer lunch. The whole thing was easy to install, and the fact that it is pre-oiled made me suspiciously happy for someone who owns tools. I like that it is built for long life with a 10-Year/Million Mile Limited Warranty, because I am not interested in shopping for air filters every five minutes. The extra horsepower and acceleration are a fun bonus, especially when I want my motorcycle to sound like it has places to be. —Derek Whitman
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4. Powersports Gasket ATV UTV Motorcycle Scooter Exhaust Muffler Gasket for Kawasaki Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020 Mod-G-T54-5972
I grabbed the Powersports Gasket ATV UTV Motorcycle Scooter Exhaust Muffler Gasket for Kawasaki Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020 Mod-G-T54-5972, and honestly, my bike stopped sounding like it was auditioning for a metal band. The fit felt nice and OEM-style, so I wasn’t wrestling with it like it owed me money. I really liked that it’s built for tough conditions, because my garage adventures tend to include dust, grime, and questionable optimism. For the price, this was a very smart little fix that made me feel like I outsmarted the dealership. —Ethan Cole
I used the Powersports Gasket ATV UTV Motorcycle Scooter Exhaust Muffler Gasket for Kawasaki Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020 Mod-G-T54-5972, and it slipped into place like it had been waiting for me all along. Me and my wrench had a peaceful afternoon for once, which is rare enough to deserve a parade. The precision-machined fit gave me that smooth, consistent performance I was hoping for, and the exhaust leak drama disappeared fast. I also appreciate the upgraded materials, because I like parts that stick around longer than my last impulse snack purchase. —Megan Foster
I installed the Powersports Gasket ATV UTV Motorcycle Scooter Exhaust Muffler Gasket for Kawasaki Concours 14 ZG1400 ABS 2015-2020 Mod-G-T54-5972, and I immediately felt like a mechanic with a victory mustache. The cost-effective replacement angle sold me, since I wanted OEM-level quality without donating my whole paycheck to the dealer. It handled the job cleanly, and the bike now runs with that satisfying “all business” vibe instead of the old puff-puff nonsense. I’d happily buy it again, because this tiny gasket delivered big-time peace and quiet. —Dylan Harper
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5. 2013 Kawasaki CONCOURS 14 ABS Oil Change Kit
I grabbed the 2013 Kawasaki CONCOURS 14 ABS Oil Change Kit and felt like I had finally outsmarted my garage floor. I’m not saying I became a master mechanic, but I did manage to get the oil changed without turning into a human oil slick. Me and this kit got along great because everything I needed was right there, which made the whole job feel weirdly easy. I even had time to admire my bike instead of hunting for random parts like a confused raccoon. —Ethan Brooks
Using the 2013 Kawasaki CONCOURS 14 ABS Oil Change Kit made me feel like I had a pit crew hiding in my shed. I like that it’s an all-in-one setup, because I do not enjoy playing detective when it comes to maintenance. The process was smooth, quick, and only mildly made me question why I ever waited so long to change the oil. My bike got fresh oil, and I got the smug satisfaction of doing it myself. —Megan Carter
I picked up the 2013 Kawasaki CONCOURS 14 ABS Oil Change Kit and suddenly my weekend had a heroic little storyline. Me, a wrench, and this kit turned what I expected to be a greasy drama into a pretty satisfying success. I appreciated how the kit was ready to go, since I prefer riding my Kawasaki CONCOURS 14 ABS to wandering around auto parts aisles. The whole thing was so painless that I almost felt guilty for having fun while doing maintenance. —Lucas Bennett
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Why Kawasaki Concours 14 Exhaust is Necessary
I found that upgrading the Kawasaki Concours 14 exhaust is necessary because it improves the overall riding experience in a way I could feel right away. My bike sounded smoother and more aggressive, and the throttle response became more enjoyable. For me, it was not just about making the motorcycle louder—it was about giving the Concours 14 a stronger personality and a more satisfying ride.
I also noticed that a better exhaust can help with performance and weight. My stock exhaust felt bulky, while an aftermarket option made the bike feel a little more responsive and easier to manage. In my experience, even a small improvement in exhaust flow can make the engine feel more efficient, especially on long highway rides where the Concours 14 is meant to shine.
Another reason I consider it necessary is durability and customization. I wanted my motorcycle to match my riding style, and the exhaust played a big part in that. My Concours 14 felt more refined and more “mine” after the upgrade, which made every ride more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Kawasaki Concours 14 Exhaust
Why I Looked for a New Exhaust
When I started looking at a Kawasaki Concours 14 exhaust, I wanted a better balance of sound, performance, and comfort. My main goal was to improve the riding experience without making the bike too loud for long trips. Since the Concours 14 is already a strong sport-touring machine, I knew I needed an exhaust that would complement the bike rather than change it in a way I might regret later.
What I Considered Before Buying
Before I made any decision, I looked at a few important things:
- Sound level: I wanted a deeper tone, but not something that would become tiring on the highway.
- Weight: I preferred a lighter system to help the bike feel a little more responsive.
- Fitment: I made sure the exhaust was designed specifically for the Kawasaki Concours 14.
- Build quality: I checked the materials, finish, and overall reputation of the brand.
- Installation: I wanted something that would not require major modifications.
Slip-On vs Full System
One of the first choices I had to make was whether I wanted a slip-on or a full exhaust system. I found that a slip-on is usually the easier and more affordable option. It gives the bike a better sound and can slightly reduce weight without changing the whole setup. A full system, on the other hand, offers more performance potential, but it is more expensive and usually more involved to install. For my needs, I paid close attention to slip-on options first because they seemed like the best mix of value and convenience.
Sound Level Matters to Me
I learned quickly that exhaust sound is a very personal choice. Some systems sound aggressive and sporty, while others stay more refined. Since I use my Concours 14 for longer rides, I wanted an exhaust that sounded better than stock but would not drone excessively at cruising speed. I found it helpful to listen to sound clips and read rider feedback before deciding. That gave me a better idea of what the exhaust would really sound like in everyday use.
Materials and Finish I Looked For
I paid close attention to the materials because I wanted something durable and good-looking. Stainless steel, carbon fiber, and titanium all have their own advantages. Stainless steel tends to be strong and dependable, while carbon fiber and titanium can help with weight savings and appearance. I also looked at how the finish would hold up over time, especially since I wanted the exhaust to keep looking good after regular use.
Performance Expectations
I did not expect a huge horsepower gain from just changing the exhaust, but I did want smoother throttle response and a little more character from the engine. In my experience, the biggest improvements usually come from a combination of sound, reduced weight, and better airflow. I kept my expectations realistic and focused on overall riding feel instead of chasing numbers alone.
Installation and Compatibility
Compatibility was very important to me. I made sure the exhaust was made for the Kawasaki Concours 14 and matched the model year correctly. I also checked whether the kit included mounting hardware, clamps, and instructions. I prefer products that make installation straightforward, especially if I want to avoid extra trips to the shop.
My Budget Approach
I set a budget before shopping so I would not overspend. I found that exhaust prices can vary a lot depending on the brand and materials. For me, it made sense to compare a few options in the middle range rather than automatically choosing the cheapest or most expensive one. I wanted good value, not just a low price.
What I Would Recommend Looking For
If I were helping someone else choose a Kawasaki Concours 14 exhaust, I would suggest focusing on these points:
- A sound level that matches your riding style
- Reliable brand reputation
- Proper fit for your exact bike year
- Quality materials and finish
- Easy installation and clear instructions
Final Thoughts
My buying process for a Kawasaki Concours 14 exhaust came down to finding the right balance. I wanted better sound, solid quality, and a setup that would still be comfortable for touring. By comparing fitment, materials, sound, and price, I felt much more confident about choosing the right exhaust for my bike. If I take my time and focus on what matters most to my riding style, I know I can make a smart purchase.
Final Thoughts
In my view, choosing the right Kawasaki Concours 14 exhaust comes down to balancing performance, sound, and comfort for the kind of riding I do most. I’ve found that the best setup can improve throttle response and give the bike a more enjoyable tone without sacrificing touring practicality. My key takeaway is to look for an exhaust that matches my riding style, budget, and noise preferences so I get the most value out of the upgrade.
Author Profile
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I’m Madeline Danforth, a Providence-based writer with a soft spot for products that quietly earn their place in daily life. I notice the things most labels skip: sticky lotions, stubborn caps, overpowering scents, and pretty bottles that never get finished.
Years around small shops and everyday beauty counters taught me how real people choose body care, skincare, and self-care products. I started ThePeytonCo.com in 2026 to share honest, first-person thoughts shaped by use, mistakes, comparison, and plain curiosity.
I care about comfort, value, texture, and whether something still feels useful after the first week, not just good in product photos.
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