It hasn't been hot out since I bought mine, so I can't really say anything about the heat.
When he says "it is definitely a physical bike to ride", I would have to disagree. It is the most "flickable" bike I own.
Now, the cruise control comments he made, I couldn't agree with him more!
They could have easily added cruise control at any point without changing anything else on the bike.
It would have been HUGE!!! I know of several people I've spoke to that said they almost bought a concours, but no cruise control was a deal breaker for them.
For me, it was just like he said. The lack of electronics means less that can go wrong.
Mind you these days there's no reason why the dash couldn't effectively be an embedded tablet which would allow the rider/driver to customise their display to their own personal preferences.
I agree, except in parking lots Then it is pretty physical.
Not really. It is not drive-by-wire, so it wouldn't be THAT easy. Still, it is not like it would have been that difficult either.
They could have bought the C14, had a cruise control added, AND doubled the warranty, and still paid a lot less.... I don't think THAT should be a deciding factor, since there are options available.
Well, in fairness, the C14 is now 10 years old. When it was released, it had more "electronics" than most things out there. But time marches on. And, I love features and electronics, but simply discarding an analog speedometer (and sometimes odometer too) for some stupid digital number one is NOT an improvement... and that certainly has been the trend.
Exactly. Give me the choice.... I don't mind a "simulated" analog dial/widget, as long as it is fast (responds and updates very quickly). Would love a programmable/customizable display. Endless hours of tweaking
I agree, except in parking lots Then it is pretty physical
You would probably be shocked to learn that the bike is actually great at parking lot speed stuff, full lock turns, etc... it's the lousy tuning that ruins it. I'm really serious when I say it's a world class bike with third world tuning. Steve
The abrupt on throttle makes it a little tough. I’m going on a Vegas/Tombstone trip next week. Steve, when I get back, you and I need to have a little talk....
It hasn't been hot out since I bought mine, so I can't really say anything about the heat. Some of the reasons I bought it were for the "brutish power", the "simplicity", and because it is more "old school." I really don't like a lot of unnecessary electronics. Ones that truly benefit by adding power, making it run better, etc are ok. I don't understand why you need throttle by wire when cables work just fine. Rider modes are also a waste. If you need the bike detuned, get a different bike. A smaller, less powerful one that you can handle. Electronic suspensions... I can twist a dial thank you!
When he says "it is definitely a physical bike to ride", I would have to disagree. It is the most "flickable" bike I own. I find the handling to be excellent! I do agree with what he says about it "holding a line" tho. I think the stock shield works just fine. I keep the vent open to the middle setting. When I want more air, I lower the shield all the way down. In cold weather, I raise it up until the wind noise dissipates. I have never had any buffeting at any speed. I also find the seat to be comfortable. I have done some 200+ mile days with no issue. I wouldn't go so far as to say I'm picky about seats, but the stock seat was one of the first things that had to go on my M109. I prefer the stock seat over the Mustang I got for my Magnum (bought the Mustang so my wife would be more comfortable when we ride 2up).
Now, the cruise control comments he made, I couldn't agree with him more! They could have easily added cruise control at any point without changing anything else on the bike. It would have been HUGE!!! I know of several people I've spoke to that said they almost bought a concours, but no cruise control was a deal breaker for them.
For me, it was just like he said. The lack of electronics means less that can go wrong. The price was definitely right. $13.1k OTD including 3 year additional warranty for a total of 6 years.
I seriously hope he is wrong about this being the last of the great Japanese dinosaurs! If they are still making them, I would definitely buy another Concours in the future when I wear this one out!
The stock 021 BStones will not hold a line in a fast corner, and will constantly "stand up" and wobble making them very dangerous to new riders exploring the limits. If you are happy with the Crapstone 021, you won't believe the difference of a decent tire with a "55" series rear profile instead of the stock 50. series.
I agree the Bridgestone tires that come stock on the C14 are not great. About 4 years ago I switched to the Michelin Pilot Road 3, although I kept with the stock 50-series sidewall. Night and day difference! The Michelins ride much nicer, and I have more confidence leaning in corners.
Next time I get tires (probably next year) I'll be sticking with the latest Michelin Pilot Road model, but I'll probably step up to the 55-series.