Kawasaki Concours Forum
The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => The Bike - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: 1jeep on August 15, 2014, 07:44:15 AM
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How much faster is the zx14 vs the concours? I know it is faster, no need for that talk, but does it really have that much more snap during something like a 50mph rollon? i heard how much better the BMW k1600gt is yet this morning i walked one on the highway, maybe he wasnt that good of a rider but he got the jump on me at 60, at about double was when he was looking at my taillight. I am still stock, but have plans to change that this winter.
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How much faster is the zx14 vs the concours? I know it is faster, no need for that talk, but does it really have that much more snap during something like a 50mph rollon? i heard how much better the BMW k1600gt is yet this morning i walked one on the highway, maybe he wasnt that good of a rider but he got the jump on me at 60, at about double was when he was looking at my taillight. I am still stock, but have plans to change that this winter.
My Zx14 would crush my C14. Not onl;y made way more power, but had a chain instead of a driveshaft. Let's not stop there, it weighed way way less too. No comparison ;D
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wow..thanks for the comparison.. i think you missed where i was going. I do know the differnce between the c and the zx, but things like 50 mph rollons is it a second quicker or is it like comparing my previous harley to the c14? I hear guys on the k1600 forums talk about how much faster their bike is than a c14 some have even tried to claim they are as quick as the zx14. Im just trying to really get an idea of real world experiences vs posted track times. I would never expect the concours to be as fast as the zx14.
Do you still have both?
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wow..thanks for the comparison.. i think you missed where i was going.
Nope, he didn't miss where you were going at all. He said the ZX14 would crush the C14, and he meant it. The k1600 isn't as fast as those guys are saying it is. In a 50mph roll on, the ZX14 would walk away from a C14 and a k1600 like they were parked on the side of the road.
It's not even comparing apples to apples here.
Now, if somebody was comparing 1/8 mile times or something...I dunno. These big heavy and powerful touring bikes can be launched awfully hard without any fears of lifting the front wheel. Initial pull times might be similar? However, when the big ZX14 or now the ZX14R get into their stride, they'd make a Concours-14 and a k1600 look silly in a hurry with regards to roll-ons and/or acceleration.
I've not ridden the newer ZX14R yet, but I've ridden a couple different ZX14's, and several...gack...Hayabusas. The C14 pulls very nicely, but nothing like those open class machines do.
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I have a 2006 ZX14 and 2009 Concours. Both are flys-out, BMC filter, PC V, slip on exhaust (Muzzy and Area P). There is just no comparison in the performance - stupid fast versus quick - and very different riding experience. The ZX14 is constantly trying to run away with you - throttle response is unbelievable in any gear. Concours is well mannered and provides usable power. Like comparing a jet car and a Porsche.
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Unfortunatly i was able to once demo a zx14, but it was a ride that was guided by a kawasaki factory rider, so we never really got the chance to wind it out.
I know the gen 1 hyabusa, a freind had one and it was fast no doubt.
I think after today i will stop spying on the k1600 forums as it appears to be filled with guys that think they are faster than they are in reality. After spending the last 8 years on harleys i have the speed bug again and was tossing the idea of trading the connie n for a zx14. i suspect it might be a regretful thing once the colder weather arrives as i do commutte through the fall, i doubt the zx will give the same weather protection as the connie.
Dont get the wrong idea, i wasnt plannign any races against a zx14, unless he had 2 flat tires.
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I think after today i will stop spying on the k1600 forums as it appears to be filled with guys that think they are faster than they are in reality.
Dont get the wrong idea, i wasnt plannign any races against a zx14, unless he had 2 flat tires.
You have to understand that they paid quite a bit more than what we pay for our bikes. It has to be faster... ::)
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Well jim i can say after today i am starting to get the impression you might be onto some of the truth. Afterall i think the BMW mystique is a lot like the Harley and i had 8 years of that.
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You have to understand that they paid quite a bit more than what we pay for our bikes. It has to be faster... ::)
That's the truth. They think they're $9K faster then we are on our Connies; but I don't think money leaving your pocket faster counts.
I also equate buying a Harley to purchasing membership in a club. It's not about the ride, it's about the membership, and all that comes with it. I undersatnd that, but I wanna ride, not hang out at the coffee counter in a Harley dealership in my Harley jacket, boots, and chaps - over my Harley underware.
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A couple of years ago Kawasaki had a factory truck with all their models going around the country for demo rides. I've been waiting for them to do it again so I and test ride a ZX14R.
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I agree with Steve 100% my ZX14 (before I sold it) would walk either one of my C-14's rather easily..
If those cats think that BMW will run with ZX14 or a ZX14R they are dreaming..
unless the dude on the ZX is a complete tool, there are exceptions I guess.. ::)
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Bourne...yes it is a club...i was a member and have a closet full of tshirts, admitdly i was a sheople and woudl follow along as we rode to harley dealers to hang out. Dont get me wrong i loved the harley, people woudl look at and talk to me about things and i would fa;lsely feel good about myself.
Rhino...Americade in lake george NY typically all the motorcycle manufacturers will send their fleets there for demo rides. Kawasaki is there every year, they do a good ride but being led you dont get a real chance to hammer down on the bike. its funny because harley does self guided demo...no need to worry those can barley go over 90mph!
Big mike...thanks, to me being walked by a zx would not be a surprise but for him to hand me my @$$ like i was on a ninja 250 is something different. Yes, i know some of the bmw guys are dreamers..but hey so arent some of the harley guys, when you spend that much you have to think it is better.
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Big mike...thanks, to me being walked by a zx would not be a surprise but for him to hand me my @$$ like i was on a ninja 250 is something different. Yes, i know some of the bmw guys are dreamers..but hey so arent some of the harley guys, when you spend that much you have to think it is better.
Ever notice on any forum the home team always wins ?!? LOL
As long as you are happy thats all that matters, I don't put a lot of stock in forum bravado although we do get a good laugh from time to time..
enjoy the wekend and ride safe. 8)
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So will the Connie walk a K1600GT? We shall find out the next time I meet up with one ;D
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I hear guys on the k1600 forums talk about how much faster their bike is than a c14
They are delusional
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I also equate buying a Harley to purchasing membership in a club. It's not about the ride, it's about the membership, and all that comes with it.
It's about dressing up like a pirate and revvin' your engine baby!!...lol.
A couple of years ago Kawasaki had a factory truck with all their models going around the country for demo rides. I've been waiting for them to do it again so I and test ride a ZX14R.
They were just here two weeks ago. They had an all day event and a truck load of brand spanky new Kawasaki's that you could try out on the local roadrace track. The new ZX14R was one of the many options. I didn't attend, but a couple of y friends did, and they've been gushing about it ever since, going as far as writing letters of thanks to Kawasaki and the local dealer.
Rem 8)
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So will the Connie walk a K1600GT? We shall find out the next time I meet up with one ;D
I suspect they would be comparable.
As for the ZX14- that will smoke just about anything out there.
The C14 is tuned for sporty touring, not racing. It has a very generous amount of power and it is placed for comfort, not for speed. It is a compromise of comfort, features, and reliability vs. pretty much just power.
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I suspect they would be comparable.
They were compared in the magazines, and if I recall correctly, the big 1600 has a bit more oomph...I forget exactly what, but it had enough 'extra' power and/or acceleration it was worth mentioning. It wasn't like it walked away from the C14 by any means, but I think side by side, the 1600 would walk on the C14, even if it was just a little bit.
I'm only going by fuzzy memory here, and I can't even look it up as I tossed about 40 pounds of magazines last week as part of my 5S blitz in the garage....lol. You'll have to talk to Gary about that one...lol.
To say that it would beat a C14?....It might...by a little.
To say that it would walk away from a C14 without any trouble? Don't think so.
To say that a k1600 is as fast as a ZX14 or ZX14R is really kinda silly, even from the pinky finger in the air and wine-sippin' BMW crowd;)
JMTCW,
Rem :o
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Rem, if I can get book rate I'll ship you that 40#s and raise you another 20#s. Haven't use them in years. :)
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The 1600 makes more torque but the C14 makes more horsepower, which means the BMW would have more initial oomph but when the Connie gets a few revs it is going by it.
In quarter mile testing the C14 is quicker and pulling away at the end of the quarter.
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I have both an '08 C14 and an '08 ZX-14 and there is no comparison. The ZX-14 is SO much more powerful it's downright scary! (But in a very good way!) Indeed the C14 is no slouch, as the folks here know, but the ZX-14 is a sport bike not a sport touring bike. It's lighter and the engine is tuned differently.
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The 1600 would need to be serviced before the end of the race..at a BMW dealer, of course. I did see a wicked red ZX-14 at a Sheetz today. I did not ask if he wanted to race.
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OK, I'll bite.
Yes, I own a '10 Connie, and a ZX14R.
The ZX14R is insane. Period. I can't believe they really sell those things to the general public.
It does an 8 second quarter mile times with a strapped fork.
No way are they in the same discussion. Yeah, the Connie is based off that bike, but with the added 30 HP from the original, the 12 and up R model is in a whole new league. It's sick.
Get some. 8)
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+1... the ZX14R is a freakin rocket ship, my local shop let me take one for the day, wow, what a blast I had on it! :thumbs: :thumbs:
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/IMG_4160_zps7f5e8ac5.jpg) (http://s1200.photobucket.com/user/jaywilcox/media/IMG_4160_zps7f5e8ac5.jpg.html)
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That is such a fun question!! I have a 2008 ZX14 and a 2009 Concours. When I test rode the Concours I thought " this really has sort of nice acceleration. It is nice and smooth, kinda like a big ole comfy bear. This would be fun to tour Eastern Oregon." I have actually never considered the Concours really very fast, just smooth and comfortable and sweet. I have heard it said that you can't have a girl friend that is too pretty. I don't know about that at all. My wife is the best thing that has ever happened to me. The same guy said that you can't have a car (motorcycle) that's too fast. Yes you can too!!ZX14's aren't too fast, they are too GOD DAM fast!! MY ZX14 is almost stone stock and the only time that I have ever cocked the throttle wide open is when it was in the garage, shut off on the kick stand. If you advance the throttle on a ZX14 too much you dam near caint get off of the thing. That is how hard it accelerates. A ZX14 dosen't even NEED a transmission. A 40 mph roll on in sixth gear will get you in trouble before you can say "oh schitt!" Now I want you all to know that I am 66 years old - I ain't 22 anymore but I have been riding since 1964, I was in a war and I have jumped out of a LOT of airplanes. I have been in three air crashes. I raised three kids who all went into the Army and to Jump School. I ain't 22 but it takes a bit to really scare the pants off of me. The ZX14 is scary. Nice scary. Erection causing scary. Oh sweet Jesus scary. But scary never the less. And remember mine is the SLOW ZX14!! They got one now that is even more insane (insaner ?) If you want to know what I am talking about - ride one. If you show up at my house on a Concours you can ride mine. But, yeah, it's faster.
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I have actually never considered the Concours really very fast, just smooth and comfortable and sweet.
this..
My thoughts exactly after making the switch from a ZX14.. 8)
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I took my bride to the dealership yesterday with the intent of researching my future bike. I love my 2012 C14, but like with all bikes it’s a compromise. It has a high value/performance ratio and I place more value on the sport than the touring. The 5% of the time (when my Wife is on board) I yearn for a better touring bike. We took the K1600GTL Exclusive and the K1600GT Sports addition for unsupervised test rides on their 7 mile route which included a couple ½ - ¾ mile straights and the rest mild twisties. For my Wife’s benefit, both bikes were tamed down to comfort/rain mode, but I took the K1600GT Sport on a solo ride in sport/dynamic mode.
I’ve concluded the K1600GT Sport (Sport: orange paint & clipped windshield) would have a slight edge over the C14 on the short straights, but it handles much lighter than the C14 in the corners which would give it a significant advantage. I didn’t have enough room to really stretch her legs out, but it’s hard to believe it’d pull away from the C14 as “they” say.
When I retire and have the time to take my Wife on some serious X-country rides. The GTL may be an option. For now I’ll be sticking with the C14 because you don’t get $10K more ride out the GT IMHO.
Steve has a nice review on the GT:
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=2946.msg34000#msg34000 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=2946.msg34000#msg34000)
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http://motorcycles.findthebest.com/compare/408-412/2012-Kawasaki-Ninja-ZX-14R-vs-2012-Kawasaki-Concours-14-ABS (http://motorcycles.findthebest.com/compare/408-412/2012-Kawasaki-Ninja-ZX-14R-vs-2012-Kawasaki-Concours-14-ABS)
Here's some basic spec comparisons of the 14R and C14. They are both made and sold by Kawasaki, other than that, not a whole lot of similarities. I have never ridden a ZX 14 or 14R, but would like to, but not own one. Too much forward body tilt for my old bones.
Maybe it's just me and memories, but to me, the ZZR1200, I used to own, was a quicker, maybe even a faster bike, than my C14. Could be the cam differences and how carbs react, vs FI, but the 1200 was much more exciting in triple digits, especially in the twisties. Just my thoughts. A friend has a 1600GTL, and I got to ride it Friday, all the way up a ramp onto his trailer. They sure do sound sweet, though.
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'but the 1200 was much more exciting in triple digits, especially in the twisties.'
:yikes:
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...it takes a bit to really scare the pants off of me. The ZX14 is scary. Nice scary. Erection causing scary. Oh sweet Jesus scary. But scary never the less...
:goodpost: :rotflmao:
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'but the 1200 was much more exciting in triple digits, especially in the twisties.'
:yikes:
Yep, more sport oriented seating, like the 14R, and handled much quicker. Less weight, too. Under 100+MPH, it was boring to ride. Above, it came into its real purpose. Was designed to be an Autobahn open lane machine, or so I read once from a Kawi factory source.
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http://motorcycles.findthebest.com/compare/408-412/2012-Kawasaki-Ninja-ZX-14R-vs-2012-Kawasaki-Concours-14-ABS (http://motorcycles.findthebest.com/compare/408-412/2012-Kawasaki-Ninja-ZX-14R-vs-2012-Kawasaki-Concours-14-ABS)
Here's some basic spec comparisons of the 14R and C14. They are both made and sold by Kawasaki, other than that, not a whole lot of similarities. I have never ridden a ZX 14 or 14R, but would like to, but not own one. Too much forward body tilt for my old bones.
Maybe it's just me and memories, but to me, the ZZR1200, I used to own, was a quicker, maybe even a faster bike, than my C14. Could be the cam differences and how carbs react, vs FI, but the 1200 was much more exciting in triple digits, especially in the twisties. Just my thoughts. A friend has a 1600GTL, and I got to ride it Friday, all the way up a ramp onto his trailer. They sure do sound sweet, though.
The Connie and ZZR have about the same power, but the Connie weighs about a hundred pounds more.
The Connie still out handles the ZZR, but the ZZR has a better hit up top. I miss my ZZR. Thank goodness I don't have to miss my Connie. I rode it last week. It was awesome.
(http://i415.photobucket.com/albums/pp236/Jimmymac25/newnail001_zps6938e991.jpg) (http://s415.photobucket.com/user/Jimmymac25/media/newnail001_zps6938e991.jpg.html)
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The Connie and ZZR have about the same power, but the Connie weighs about a hundred pounds more.
The Connie still out handles the ZZR, but the ZZR has a better hit up top. I miss my ZZR. Thank goodness I don't have to miss my Connie. I rode it last week. It was awesome.
(http://i415.photobucket.com/albums/pp236/Jimmymac25/newnail001_zps6938e991.jpg) (http://s415.photobucket.com/user/Jimmymac25/media/newnail001_zps6938e991.jpg.html)
Yep, the ZZR was three bikes in one. 1-3+K, nice town bike, 4-6+K, a nice sport bike. From 6 up, a real super sport, that required you to really hang on for the next gear. One and two, were fun, three was just toooo dam much fun, where the C14, accelerates like an electric motor, just rheostatically, moves forward at a faster pace. Like mentioned, smooth. tp
Found this pic once, and decided with that bike I could get one of these. Didn't happen, though. tp
(http://i.imgur.com/C8tR4Sd.jpg)] (http://Yep, the ZZR was three bikes in one. 1-3+K, nice town bike, 4-6+K, a nice sport bike. From 6 up, a real super sport, that required you to really hang on for the next gear. One and two, were fun, three was just toooo dam much fun, where the C14, accelerates like an electric motor, just rheostatically, moves forward at a faster pace. Like mentioned, smooth. tp
Found this pic once, and decided with that bike I could get one of these. Didn't happen, though. tp
[ftp=ftp://imgur.com/C8tR4Sd)
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Yep, more sport oriented seating, like the 14R, and handled much quicker. Less weight, too. Under 100+MPH, it was boring to ride. Above, it came into its real purpose. Was designed to be an Autobahn open lane machine, or so I read once from a Kawi factory source.
Where do you find triple digit twisties besides the track? I wanna go.
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Go hit Hwy 55 in the Texas Hill Country.
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Go hit Hwy 55 in the Texas Hill Country.
Just did that this summer on my way from Austin to Ruidoso.
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Go hit Hwy 55 in the Texas Hill Country.
Parts of the Three Sisters and some of the other FM/RR's in the Leaky Medina, Camp Wood area allow for such speeds. Some parts are too tight for speeds over 20. Highway 159 between Bellville and Fayettville, as well as the FM roads off shooting to Old Dime Box area, too. Not the Dragon, but we do have fun in the Lone Star State... tp
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Parts of the Three Sisters and some of the other FM/RR's in the Leaky Medina, Camp Wood area allow for such speeds. Some parts are too tight for speeds over 20. Highway 159 between Bellville and Fayettville, as well as the FM roads off shooting to Old Dime Box area, too. Not the Dragon, but we do have fun in the Lone Star State... tp
+1 :thumbs:
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Connie Vs ZX14R?? the longer the Connie stays in it, the worst its going
to get. . .
I purchased the Connie to chill and slow down, here is a pic of my ZX14R
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c371/Gigantor17/2013jwgzx14r.jpg)
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You know, if you pitted the c14 against the finest liter plus bikes of the late 80's, the C14 trounces. Got a GSX1100R? It'll lose.
My '91 Kat is no match, what with it's "slow" 10.7 1/4 mile. I think stock c14 will do it in 10.4, I'm "Guhled" so it'll be better.
At sea level, the bike will easily lift the front end up entering freeways, feels fast enough to me.
I wonder what times these bikes are putting with 4-1 exhaust, larger throttle bodies and a tune. While i don't think they are in the 8's, they could be in the 9's, pretty insane for a tourer.
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You have to understand that they paid quite a bit more than what we pay for our bikes. It has to be faster... ::)
Does that mean mine is slower because it was bought as a left over at a good price? Had I know I would have paid sticker price.
;D
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I have never ridden a ZX14, but I owned a gen I Hayabusa before I got my C14. Nowadays, at my age, my C14 is plenty fast for me...shoot, most days, my KLR is plenty fast for me. I rarely venture above 70 anymore. Don't have the reflexes or fine motor skills any more.
You younger guys be careful out there!
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I have never ridden a ZX14, but I owned a gen I Hayabusa before I got my C14. Nowadays, at my age, my C14 is plenty fast for me...shoot, most days, my KLR is plenty fast for me. I rarely venture above 70 anymore. Don't have the reflexes or fine motor skills any more.
You younger guys be careful out there!
I resemble those remarks, kinda, too. I traded my KLR for the C14, though. I don't ride fast either. What makes the 14 so nice is its stability at 40 mph, or 80. That and I know I can pass on the highway so quickly, it keeps me in the passing zone for a much shorter time. I also have a Dyna and an RT, but those don't seem to get ridden much any more. Owning a 14R would be inviting me to hurt myself. I'm in my mid 60's and want to continue to ride for years to come.
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Does that mean mine is slower because it was bought as a left over at a good price? Had I know I would have paid sticker price.
;D
The short answer is yes.
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Does that mean mine is slower because it was bought as a left over at a good price? Had I know I would have paid sticker price.
;D
Only if the sticker price is more than the competitive bikes sticker price. ;)
"how fast is my bike" formula:
((owners ability in his own mind) * (sticker price) * (color)) + ($ spent on farkles)
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Well, if the C is the rare (and fastest) Silverdammit against a slow ZX (black, red, green, or blue) the difference in speed will be much less. FWIW, the Silverdammit still loses, just not as badly ;) Want some more badass? Take a 1290 Superduke for a spin ;D Rumors are there will be a 1290 Superduke ADV model soon 8) Cake, icing, ice cream, and spakling fruit punch right there ;)
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Well, if the C is the rare (and fastest) Silverdammit against a slow ZX (black, red, green, or blue) the difference in speed will be much less. FWIW, the Silverdammit still loses, just not as badly ;) Want some more badass? Take a 1290 Superduke for a spin ;D Rumors are there will be a 1290 Superduke ADV model soon 8) Cake, icing, ice cream, and spakling fruit punch right there ;)
I thought the 1190 Adv R uses the Superduke engine. Seems like a blurring of lines (sounds like a song) between a 1190 ADV R and a Superduke ADV.
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Had an opportunity to get an 08 SDR, but dealer wouldn't deal. Thought about the 1290, but realized that being a nekked bike, any thing over legal highway speeds wouldn't be much fun, except during those few blurred seconds of Mach I. I still would like to own one, but $17K for bragging rights is kinda steep. The C14 gives me everything I need to enjoy riding and with better wind/element protection.
FWIW, read a couple of comparisons between the 1290 and the S1000R. The Beemer won both times. Go figure. tp
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OK, thanks for the comments everyone....i guess i have the slowest bike out there....well aside from the guy that bought my old harley..lol
Anyway i guess at my age i should stop worrying about who is faster than me, as it is still fast enough to get me a big ticket or killed.
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OK, thanks for the comments everyone....i guess i have the slowest bike out there....well aside from the guy that bought my old harley..lol
Far from it. In no way is the Concours 14 "slow". It has a lot of displacement in a modern, fuel injected, 16 valve, 4 cyl engine with variable cams. It is just not a speed demon, nor is it supposed to be. When de-flied it will beat most anything under a liter. And it will keep up with the larger displacement sport bikes until they start to roll onto a lot of throttle.
Let's face it- you are trading top acceleration for reliability, comfort, control, capacity, and features. It is a reasonable and logical trade if you plan on *enjoying* all aspects of riding OTHER than just raw acceleration. I have been riding the C14 for over 3.5 years now and I still have not pushed it to its maximum... and even if I did, there is so rarely the need. But I enjoy all the other aspects every time I ride it.
Anyway i guess at my age i should stop worrying about who is faster than me
All people could benefit from THAT advice, regardless of age.
as it is still fast enough to get me a big ticket or killed.
And you can do that on ANY bike.
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Just got back from a ride, and even though the heat index was almost 110, I had a ball. Back roads at 55MPH (2.5K rpm) is so smooth and sedate. The ability to pass slower vehicles in a few seconds, and just knowing that the bike is happy at 35, 55, 85, 125+ all day long, in comfort, makes this a great bike for me.
People look at me with my white mustache and beard and wonder, " Why is that old dude on that cool motorcycle?". I just smile and wave, and realize I am possibly having the fun time that they may never have. I could never fully appreciate a 10R or 14R, for what they would bring to the table, but would still enjoy riding them.
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Let's face it- you are trading top acceleration for reliability, comfort, control, capacity, and features. It is a reasonable and logical trade if you plan on *enjoying* all aspects of riding OTHER than just raw acceleration. I have been riding the C14 for over 3.5 years now and I still have not pushed it to its maximum... and even if I did, there is so rarely the need. But I enjoy all the other aspects every time I ride it.
I don't feel like trading too much. Having made more miles on S1000RR and K1600 than some owners of those bikes, the only place I can say those machines make a slight difference is in the Autobahn, where you can open the S1000RR (meaning above 150 mph), or enjoy the (not much) extra comfort on the K1600. Other than that, in the real world (or my world, perhaps) the C14 beats them, and it costs less. It can take me and my luggage everywhere and hit the curves. The other two are only good at one of those things.
Reliability wise, perfect record so far after 60 000 miles and truly beating the hell out of it.
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Ok...now that the temps are cooling down a bit in new england i have been reminded why i have a c14 and not a zx. it was nice this monring to push that button and make the shield go up, also turn on the grip heaters, temp was 47 @630am.
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I don't feel like trading too much. Having made more miles on S1000RR and K1600 than some owners of those bikes, the only place I can say those machines make a slight difference is in the Autobahn, where you can open the S1000RR (meaning above 150 mph), or enjoy the (not much) extra comfort on the K1600. Other than that, in the real world (or my world, perhaps) the C14 beats them, and it costs less. It can take me and my luggage everywhere and hit the curves. The other two are only good at one of those things.
Reliability wise, perfect record so far after 60 000 miles and truly beating the hell out of it.
I agree completely. That's the bottom line on a C14, not the fastest and not the most comfortable but an outstanding trade off of the 2.
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Sorry, I'm a little late to this thread but I own both a 2011 C14 and a 2012 ZX14R and to try to compare the two doesn't make sense as they were built for two different riding in mind. But if people on the Beemer forums think any of their bikes can take a 14R is laughable I have trounced several S1000s from any speed you would like and they are out of steam in the 180mph range and I have had mine to 205 MPH with only a pipe and a de-resrticted ECU. I have raced Busas and had to ask when it was over if they were really racing and if they were shifting at redline because I beat them so bad it was embarrassing. As far as motor skills and speed I'm almost seventy and enjoy the speed as much as I did when I was 20. I only hope the Kawi makes the bike that they applied for patents on (supercharged 14R) now that would be a bike to reckon with!
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;D Rumors are there will be a 1290 Superduke ADV model soon 8) Cake, icing, ice cream, and spakling fruit punch right there ;)
Not just rumors now. Pretty close to perfect...Built off the 1190 platform, just mucho faster.
(http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/Gallery/KTM%201290%20Super%20Adventure%2015.jpg)
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They might be your DREAM ...
But GOD are they U G L Y :chugbeer:
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+1 and I'd add an F to ugly.
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They might be your DREAM ...
But GOD are they U G L Y :chugbeer:
KTM's, like single malt scotch, are an acquired taste. Extremely angular in design, but when you are riding one, all that goes away. Until I owned one, I thought "fugly", too, but man those Austrians do know how to make a great motorcycle. Now if they were a little cheaper to buy.
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eye of the beholder....this is :censored: ugly....
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eye of the beholder....this is :censored: ugly....
Honda must like the look, since they have since built the F6B, CTX700, and CTX1300, that all resemble that DN-01. I always liked the NT700V/Deauville, but they were just too expensive for a 700cc touring bike...You could by a Concours for what Honda wanted for the NT.
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Not just rumors now. Pretty close to perfect...Built off the 1190 platform, just mucho faster.
(http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/Gallery/KTM%201290%20Super%20Adventure%2015.jpg)
I like it... 8)
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Ok, let's get back on track with ZX-14s and not other bikes...please.
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Ok, let's get back on track with ZX-14s and not other bikes...please.
OK, here ya go. A Weekly Ride with Reuben, on the 2014 ZX14R. Not a pro rider, just a guy who posts weekly reports on different bikes. It is an enjoyable viewing, and the excitement he derives on this bike is addictive.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyfIfLCYUaQ&index=24&list=PL6XiKFXsFxro-q41br7Fq0W1XoO1yDWlo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyfIfLCYUaQ&index=24&list=PL6XiKFXsFxro-q41br7Fq0W1XoO1yDWlo)
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Now i ask myself why did i watch that ...now i want one...do they have a "get of jail free card" option?
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Now i ask myself why did i watch that ...now i want one...do they have a "get of jail free card" option?
I value my life more than the adrenaline rush :)
As for the video- I would respect him more if he weren't blinding oncoming traffic in that one. Otherwise, good video. He is certainly giddy about riding it :) Here is his video on the Concours: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pi1bPhU6kSM&list=PL6XiKFXsFxro-q41br7Fq0W1XoO1yDWlo&index=28 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pi1bPhU6kSM&list=PL6XiKFXsFxro-q41br7Fq0W1XoO1yDWlo&index=28) he mispronounces the name (there is no "s" sound in "Concours") and misses a few features, but is also a good video (and he doesn't blind people either). The sound and video quality in both are excellent, he is pretty informed about both bikes, adds good detail, and speaks well.
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My dealer west of Munich had a demo day last year and I got to drive it in the Autobahn. There's a straight stretch with 3 lanes each way and about 3-4 miles long. Visibility was impeccable, and traffic was close to nil, so in 4th gear at 60 mph (I figured that should be safe) I whacked the throttle. By the time my brain reacted I was well over 160 mph and running out of road. I had to coast for a couple of minutes to have time to put myself together (shacking knees, testicles on the throat, dislocated shoulders... you know that wonderful feeling).
After that experience I got to drive the S1000RR for a few times and got used to those speeds, but the serenity with which that Kawasaki does it is the surreal part, while on the BMW you're always with white knuckles. At 55 mph the BMW is revving at 4000 rpm in 6th gear, while the Kawasaki is only at 3000 rpm. For reference, the C14 would be doing a bit over 2600 rpm.
Bottom line: I'd love to own one.
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I wouldn't mind owning one, but it definitely wouldn't replace the C14. My C14 is fast enough, has plenty of power and is MUCH cheaper to insure. If I wanted a sport bike, I would add something to the garage that's lite and dedicated for track riding, not a 600lbs 1/4 mile bike. :)
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I've been doing my best to slow down , that bike would not help.
I'm happy with the performance of my bike :finger_fing11:
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Don't set yourself up for a big letdown. The c14 is not and cannot be a zx. The only way you'll make that power is with a turbo.
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New to sport tourers, eh?
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So I just bought a GTR is that what you guys call them? I want the GTR to be as powerful as my ZX [...]I REEEALLY HOPE I DIDN'T MAKE A MISTAKE...
Congrats. The Concours is better than the ZX-14 in just about every way.... except acceleration/power. If that is your primary objective, you have made a huge mistake and will never be happy. Just read this entire thread. The Concours engine was designed for more low end power, less vibration and noise, and more reliability. You cannot get the same power out of the Concours engine by replacing the exhaust, flashing the ECU, replacing the headers, etc. It would require practically rebuilding the entire thing, probably costing more than both bikes combined.
The Concours is plenty powerful for most people. And with some relatively simple and reasonable cost mods, you can take it to the next level. But that level is not ZX level.
Like are the throttle bodies the same... I don't know.
Perhaps you should have found out before buying one. No, they are not the same. Neither are the pistons, the head, the cams, the intake, the exhaust, etc.
What or how, or why did they de-tune the motor?
Read this thread first.
And what do I need to do the bring it back...
It is not "detuned" and it is not "bringing it back". It is designed for specific goals for sports touring... and it is the best in its class.
I need to lower the rear end at least 3 inches
Not possible, there is not enough clearance. 1" is the maximum safe lowering.
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and could care less about the center stand... excess weight to carry for no reason. Who even uses those?
Damn handy for maintenance and doit yourself tire changers like myself.
I hear what your saying, you want it all. Fast AND comfy for long distance. The whole point of the Sport Tour segment. But if you really want ZX14R performance I wonder it if might be easier to modify the ZX for comfort. Taller bars, windshield, after market seat and bags. Seems easier and cheaper then, throttle bodies, exhaust, stroked crank, forged pistons etc.
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As others have said the Concours will never be a ZX! I have both and the 14R is the fastest bike on the planet at least until the NINJA H2 comes out on the 30th. Part of the problem with the C14 would be the shaft drive not being able to handle the power for long term use and the massive weight of the bike and poor aeros. So my suggestion would be to go back to a ZX14R put Spiegler bars on it and buy some soft cases for touring. I can ride my ZX all day long with that set up. The only reason I bought the Concours was for two up riding comfort for my passenger.
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I
I need to lower the rear end at least 3 inches, and could care less about the center stand... excess weight to carry for no reason. Who even uses those?
I use my center stand every time I fill up- it helps me fill up the tank to the very, very top.
These bikes don't have the best fuel range, making the most of it helps on long rides.
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I use my center stand every time I fill up- it helps me fill up the tank to the very, very top.
These bikes don't have the best fuel range, making the most of it helps on long rides.
Really... I lost my center stand two years ago and I don't miss it at all , I have no problem putting gas to the top , I never get off the bike ?
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I use my center stand every time I fill up- it helps me fill up the tank to the very, very top.
These bikes don't have the best fuel range, making the most of it helps on long rides.
The center stand is very useful for maintenance. But I don't need to use that to fill to the safe "top" of the tank. If you fill THAT far up the neck, you risk it going out the vent the moment there is any lean. Gas is too expensive for that :)
People are surprised when they ask and I tell them I get, on average, about 42MPG (mix of highway/city, but usually no really hard acceleration). Big engine. Big bike.
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Wow, that's pretty bad. I get better than that...about 47 last trip.
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Really... I lost my center stand two years ago and I don't miss it at all , I have no problem putting gas to the top , I never get off the bike ?
Ha! I sometimes don't get off the bike either...especially during any IBA rides...lol.
Fill to the brim, pay at the pump, and grab the car squeegee and give my helmet shield a quick scrub without taking my helmet off...lol. That usually gets a laugh out of anybody that's watching;).
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If you take the spare key out of a fob, put it in the fuel cap and leave it there, you can do all that you mention without turning the bike off. Saves time 'cause you can go as soon as the pump handle is mostly in the well.... :-)
I got more than 30 hours out of my C-14 doing that one time. It did not end well but the start and middle part were OK. ;D
Brian
Ha! I sometimes don't get off the bike either...especially during any IBA rides...lol.
Fill to the brim, pay at the pump, and grab the car squeegee and give my helmet shield a quick scrub without taking my helmet off...lol. That usually gets a laugh out of anybody that's watching;).
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If you take the spare key out of a fob, put it in the fuel cap and leave it there, you can do all that you mention without turning the bike off. Saves time 'cause you can go as soon as the pump handle is mostly in the well.... :-)
Brian,
I don't do those "hot" pit stops as much as I used to...lol, but they always made for good entertainment, especially for the other riders that needed a break...lol.
There's a local guy here with a burgundy '09 C14 that earned his TransCanada "Gold" IBA certification a few years ago. I don't know him well, but bumped into him in Bangor Maine a couple years ago and had a great chat with him about his journey. A good friend of mine built dual aluminum aux fuel tanks for him that mounted on the passenger pegs in front of both side cases. I believe the "standard" cross Canada IBA is completing it in 80 hours or less. In order to earn the "Gold" status, you must do it in under 72 hours. This guy did it in just under 72 hours...I forget the total miles, but it's upwards of 4000...maybe 3800 miles or so.
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Don't leave us hanging ??? What happened? :)
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Yeah, sometimes in a [non long distance group] ride I forget, tank up and wait at the exit for everyone else only to realize they got of their bikes, hit the head, etc. Kinda' funny- I am in the wrong mode.
4K miles in 72 hrs. is not that bad- I think it would allow for two sleep periods of reasonable time. Then again, not sure what your speed limits are. Ours are generally 65 in the east, 70 in the near- midwest and 75 from the middle to the west coast.
Ours is CC50, one ocean to the other in 50 hrs. Not bad the southern route, Jacksonville, FL to San Diego, CA (or vice- versa) at 2,350 miles or so. A CC50 Gold, "The hard way" is any northern route, all of which are over 3K miles.
But I bet it would be harder yet on a ZX :-)
Brian
Brian,
I don't do those "hot" pit stops as much as I used to...lol, but they always made for good entertainment, especially for the other riders that needed a break...lol.
There's a local guy here with a burgundy '09 C14 that earned his TransCanada "Gold" IBA certification a few years ago. I don't know him well, but bumped into him in Bangor Maine a couple years ago and had a great chat with him about his journey. A good friend of mine built dual aluminum aux fuel tanks for him that mounted on the passenger pegs in front of both side cases. I believe the "standard" cross Canada IBA is completing it in 80 hours or less. In order to earn the "Gold" status, you must do it in under 72 hours. This guy did it in just under 72 hours...I forget the total miles, but it's upwards of 4000...maybe 3800 miles or so.
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Not to wander too far OFFTOPIC:
The first time went well- coast to coast (RI to Rye, NY (start) then to Ocean Shores, WA: 3132 miles, 47:52 time).
The second time I aborted the trip in South Dakota due to a hailstorm, almost perfectly at the 1/2 way point.
The third time: http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=9444.msg114721#msg114721 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=9444.msg114721#msg114721) did not go well at all. Well, actually it was great for about the first three thousand miles or so but had a lousy finish.
Brian
[quote author=B.D.F.
I got more than 30 hours out of my C-14 doing that one time. It did not end well but the start and middle part were OK. ;D
Brian
Don't leave us hanging ??? What happened? :)
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But I bet it would be harder yet on a ZX :-)
Brian
YEP. Just checked on cycle-ergo site and for me at 5'10" and 31" inseam on a ZX14. I would have a forward lean of 39 degrees and hip angle of 59 degrees. My wrists and neck would last possibly an hour at that tilt.
Some of the supersport bikes have a forward lean closer to 45 degrees, which to me is insane, unless you are on a track...
I like my 14 with 2" risers, just a little forward lean to allow my knees fit securely on the tank at hiway speeds. You IBA guys and gals blow me away. I can't imagine me in the saddle for thousands of continual miles.
My congrats to all who do it. tp
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And what a nightmare it was getting the side fairings off... and I thought the ZX was difficult... OMG who designed that???? lol
Yeah, they are not exactly easy. Then throw Canyon Cages on and it gets even more difficult. But the fairings look good and perform well.
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238, don't forget the ZX14 TBs!!
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ZX 14 TB's are larger than the C14's. Common upgrade to larger ones...At least that's what I read from the statement.
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Yes, the throttle bodies. The shaft can be knife edged easier that removed. The C14 TBs are 40mm each, the ZXs are 44. I wouldn't say it is common, but a few of us have done it. My old bike dynoed 161.5 at sea level, real life RWHP. I think with vel stacks there will be more there in the mid to upper range.
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I'm not sure about the following, but I believe there's some sort of sensor at the other end of the rod for the ECU to know where the flies are. That'd make the removal of the rod trigger some nasty error.
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There is and it would. A closed- loop system, meaning the sensor is reporting the realtime position of the secondary 'flies (actually the rod's rotation) as it is a stepper motor driving it. The whole thing can be outwitted but it is just not worth it in anyone's opinion that I have heard of so far.
Brian
I'm not sure about the following, but I believe there's some sort of sensor at the other end of the rod for the ECU to know where the flies are. That'd make the removal of the rod trigger some nasty error.