Your 10-speed comparison reminds me of a couple of years back when I went to one of the Kawasaki test drive events.
I tried out the Ninja 1000 and the C-14. Yeah, the Ninja 1000 did feel like riding a 10-speed to me in comparison, while the C-14 was like an old friend. Actually was surprised how similar the C-10 and the C-14 seemed to be, although of course the 14 has improved everything except gas mileage and non-digital analog stuff for those of us that prefer the stone ages. The C-10 has a digital clock, no other computer chips to be found anywhere... I kind of like that level of simplicity!
Also, LOOOOVE the valve adjusters. It's nice to not have to mess with shims!