I'd have to suggest that you adjust your suspension then. My 2009's ride was very plush when I purchased it. Maybe too much so. I have since bumped up my preload considerably and it is a firm ride now, but far from unpleasant.
The Concours is not a bike for short riders, out of the box. However, it can be lowered relatively easily without sacrificing much road clearance. I have owned upwards of 30 motorcycles over the years. Some I liked enough to have had three of the same bike. (early 80's GS1100 and 95 GPZ1100) I have always gotten tired of each bike I've owned after riding it for a couple of years and ended up trading for something else. The Concours is the first bike that I really believe I can hold on to indefinitely. Fits me great! With some minor adjustments, it's totally comfortable for me. Has great power and handling.
I was originally planning on buying the FJR1300 and test rode a couple of them. The FJR just felt too small for me (6'3"). The lack of a 6th gear was a real deal breaker for me as well. It also seemed that used FJR's were a little pricey when I was shopping. I ended up getting my 09 Concours with 1500 miles on the clock in the summer of 2010 for $8500 and haven't looked back!
In my opinion, it is inseam that counts. If you are over 6ft, but your inseam is less than 30, you may not be able to flat foot the bike with regular boots. My inseam is 30 and I had to get a pair of red wing boots that have 3 inch heals to flatfoot. On the plus side, it eats bumps for breakfast. It is a behemoth - may not be like a Goldwing, but a behemoth nonetheless. It makes my HD Fatboy look like a pygmy (well exaggerated - but you get the point:D).
Most folks install the ZX14 or muzzy's lowering links to lower the bike a bit.
Thank you for the nice replies. But I have just decided not to buy a new Concours. This forum really helped me make my decision. Thank you for your time.
Quote6ft or over get the 14, Under 6ft get the FJR. FJR is just a more refined bike. Yes, I have owned both.Interesting. I'm glad you said this. I will also look closer now at the FJR since I am a bit under 6ft. And the FJR is more refined? I will have to look at my friends a little closer now. Thanks for the honesty and definitely the rider size info.
I will say that a 3year warranty is a major plus in buying a Concours14.
In my opinion, it is inseam that counts. If you are over 6ft, but your inseam is less than 30, you may not be able to flat foot the bike with regular boots. My inseam is 30 and I had to get a pair of red wing boots that have 3 inch heals to flatfoot.
Interesting. I'm glad you said this. I will also look closer now at the FJR since I am a bit under 6ft. And the FJR is more refined? I will have to look at my friends a little closer now. Thanks for the honesty and definitely the rider size info.
I am 5'7" with short legs. ANY bike would need changes. With the proper adjustments, the C-14 can be fine if you are not tall. Not ideal, but certainly very workable.
Something I held onto while I was researching my purchase.
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/12/539/Motorcycle-Article/2008-Super-Sport-Touring-Comparo.aspx
Enjoy!
Eats bumps for breakfast? My Concours rides like a dump truck on concrete roads with uneven expansion joints.
Eats bumps for breakfast? My Concours rides like a dump truck on concrete roads with uneven expansion joints.
Then learn how to adjust the clickers on the suspension. READ the manual.
Something I held onto while I was researching my purchase.
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/12/539/Motorcycle-Article/2008-Super-Sport-Touring-Comparo.aspx
Enjoy!