Kawasaki Concours Forum
The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => The Bike - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: wroman on September 17, 2012, 10:54:10 PM
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Very new here and very close to buying a 2012. After having ridden a Victory Vision for the last 3 1/2 years I may be ready for something easier to handle. I think the Vision is a great handing bike for a 900 lb v-twin tourer but the wife and I were on a long trip covering upstate NY into New England and the GPS took us over Smugglers Notch going to Stowe and both I and the vision met our comfort match. Especially 2 up LOADED. I have some questions about the Connie. First off the saddlebags are much larger so it should be easier to pack heavy stuff down low. The bike has a very good weight capacity so I think I could stay real close to not going over. When est riding the bike one up I was surprised at how stable and little affected by wind the bike is. I love the fact the bike had a slow feel to handling, I hate a bike that changes lane every time you turn your head to look at something.
IS the bike still as stable (not twitchy) two up? Would you still look forward to riding demanding roads and not dread them?
Does it that top heavy feel with added weight and want to tip over while stopping at lights? (I am thinking Gold Wing)
Anyone have an opinion on the 48 liter Kawasaki trunk, looks like a GIVI?
Anyone using a large tankbag to carry some heavy items while traveling, Thinking leather jackets?
Walt
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hello Walt,
you came to the right place to hear about the great capabilities of the C14. I haven't driven a Vision or any big twin tourer, so take my comments for what they are: from somebody really happy with his C14, and despite having access to many other great bikes (for work reasons) I stick with the Kawi, and my gf really likes it too.
I live in Munich, Germany, and the place, specially to the south, is full with curves and alpine passes, and taking them on with girlfriend and fully loaded bags is a pleasure. Of course I preffer to get to the hotel, ditch all the luggage, live the gf by the pool and go have fun, but getting there is definitely not an issue. It demands a bit more respect and longer braking distances, just like with any other vehicle. At low speeds it requires being used to it, since this bike fully loaded is about 1100 pounds, not exactly something you want to wrestle with. Once it's moving at anything above walking speed, the weight evaporates. Hairpins are still a challenge, but practice and it will reward you.
Regarding the tankbag, I avoid it if possible because I rarely travel in a straight line for longer than a couple hundred miles, and I need the space to move my arms. But if I do take it, it's also ok. I don't use it for a jacket though, but for my camera (a bulky DSLR) and other quickly accessible items, like a bottle of water, snacks and my documents.
I can't help you with the Kawasaki trunk which is indeed a rebranded Givi. I have a 46 lt Givi topcase which I paid peanuts for, and I'd love to have a bigger one (thinking Maxia here) but I just don't wan't to spend the $$ for it.
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Especially 2 up LOADED
- imho , those requirements spell Goldwing or something with a Glide/King in its name.
- a C14 , two up and loaded requires alot of respect because she has a fair bit of weight up top (worse when your partner is on and with luggage). There was a chap (can't remember whether it was this site or the other one) who bought one and then gave up on it in quick order when trying to muscle it around with his partner on the back. He went with touring HD and loved it.
- good luck with your search.
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2-up and fully loaded stopped and at slow speeds requires a lot of attention and focus.
But moving above 5-10 mph, the connie handles like a dream.
I have the Givi 55litre and use a large tank bag. Yea move weight up top doesn't help....but the same can be said for any 2-wheel machine.
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My wife and I went over Smuggler's Notch of few years ago while staying in Vermont. We took the Goldwing and I can see how it could get a bit freaky in the very tight and narrow top turn. By the time you add the top trunk and a few other farkles to the the Connie it will weigh about 250 lbs. less than your Victory. I love the way the Connie handles, but carries it's additional weight higher than your Vision does. I prefer my Goldwing for long distance touring as does the wife, but have taken the Concours on long trips. I don't think you will be disappointed if you get the C-14 though. It's a great bike.
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My wife and I have racked up about 25,000 miles two up on our 08 C14. We go on at least one, two week trip every year and always to the mountains looking for twisty roads. That is exactly what I bought this bike for and it does it extremely well. Tight switchbacks are not my favorite thing on it but but I prefer them to touring on a less comfortable bike.
We tour fully loaded including tankbag and a Givi Maxia with a soft bag strapped to the top and I am used to the extra weight after the first 5 miles. My wife is 115 lbs and an excellent passenger and I hardly ever notice she there.
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Let me qualify a few points and make clear my problem with the Vision. The Vision has pretty small saddlebags, packing light is a learned habit we have not mastered. We end up packing around 30 pounds on the trunk rack in a secure bag and that rack is high. I have owned a Harley Ultra and a GL1800, and a BMW K1200LT and of the three the Harley handled the load on the luggage rack and trunk the best, its problem was moving the trunk back to give more passenger room did affect the handling. I never liked the GL1800 going slow but that engine was nice and smooth. The LT had the worst disconnected feeling going slow with or without a passenger and what I thought to be the worst on gravel or ruts.
When I thought of bikes to meet my needs the bike that comes to mind first is a BMW R1200RT-lighter in weight low big Saddlebags The C14 probably compares with the K1200GT more closely but on thing attracts me is the big usable rack the C14 has would give me the ability to use a big MotoFizz camping bag in case we want to tent camp. The Vision would not work for tent camping, rack too small in size.
Sooooo is the C14 a reasonable alternative to the BMW R1200RT. I cant afford a new RT now and reliability issues are present.
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Sooooo is the C14 a reasonable alternative to the BMW R1200RT. I cant afford a new RT now and reliability issues are present.
My answer to this question is NO. The reason is that looking at a C14 as an alternative to an RT is like looking at traveling to Europe in 1st class on Lufthansa instead of swimming.
I know this because I had an RT for a year when I bought the C14. I had both bikes for another year and finally sold the RT. In that time with both in the garage, I put 500 miles on the RT and 10 000 miles on the Kawasaki.
The difference in power, feeling and sheer driving pleasure is humongous. My gf liked the RT, as she likes the new K1600. But she loves the Concours. So do I.
[EDIT] My gf likes the C14 better because she seats on my "wind shadow". The K16 (at least on the GTL, which has a lower driver's seat) and the RT are clearly worse for her at high speed. When traveling solo, I find the RT quite nice up to 100 mph, and the K16 impressive up to 120 mph or even more. But when my girl is with me, it's a torture for her anything above 90. With the C14, 110 is very acceptable and she is only afraid, not uncomfortable :)
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My answer to this question is NO. The reason is that looking at a C14 as an alternative to an RT is like looking at traveling to Europe in 1st class on Lufthansa instead of swimming.
I know this because I had an RT for a year when I bought the C14. I had both bikes for another year and finally sold the RT. In that time with both in the garage, I put 500 miles on the RT and 10 000 miles on the Kawasaki.
The difference in power, feeling and sheer driving pleasure is humongous. My gf liked the RT, as she likes the new K1600. But she loves the Concours. So do I.
I generally agree with you, although I've ridden two up on my RT a fair amount and I've had no issues with the added weight for low speed handling. The thing weighs 100 pounds less to begin with and it has a lower CG. The C14.... not so fun when you have to stop. Doable but it's a chore.
I consider an RT to be a better long distance touring machine - slightly better wind protection, factory cruise and a 300+ mile range. That would be my choice for a coast to coast run. For pure riding fun and better high speed handling, the C14 wins hands down.
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To sum it up. The 14 is quite capable of touring 2 up. Each bike has it's own set of challenges, we are on 2 wheels afterall. Speaking for me, I have no issues 2 up, loaded to the hilt. I had an 1150 RT, it was plusher ride wise and offered slightly more wind protection, but no where near the fun factor the 14 offers. If the only riding I did was 2 up from a pure comfort factor the RT wins. That is the ONLY plus the RT offers. I'm staying with the 14. FWIW, my F800GS is a great off road touring bike as well ;D
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Sooooo is the C14 a reasonable alternative to the BMW R1200RT. I cant afford a new RT now and reliability issues are present.
If you can't afford an RT, then yes the C14 is a reasonable alternative. But if you can swing the RT, I say you won't regret it. See this thread for more info from a site with no brand bias. In other words, if you go to a BMW site, you'll be told the BMW is better. Go to a Kawasaki site, you'll be told the C14 is better. Go to an unbiased site, and you'll likely end up closer to the truth.
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=566455 (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=566455)
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If you can't afford an RT, then yes the C14 is a reasonable alternative. But if you can swing the RT, I say you won't regret it. See this thread for more info from a site with no brand bias. In other words, if you go to a BMW site, you'll be told the BMW is better. Go to a Kawasaki site, you'll be told the C14 is better. Go to an unbiased site, and you'll likely end up closer to the truth.
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=566455 (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=566455)
The BMW 1200RT is a lot more pricey yes, but I don't think it's a better bike. Honestly the quality is about the same between the both of them. They are just different bikes, that's all. Get the bike that meets your mission requirements.
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I agree the worst thing I read in that thread was mostly the dealer
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The BMW 1200RT is a lot more pricey yes, but I don't think it's a better bike. Honestly the quality is about the same between the both of them. They are just different bikes, that's all. Get the bike that meets your mission requirements.
I agree with what you've said above, and couldn't have said it better myself. The bikes are different. For those that do a lot of two up, the RT seems to be preferred normally. For more sporty, less touring, and single rider trips, the opinions are certainly more split. I love my RT, but I also really like the C14. If the C14 had cruise control, and a stereo, I would have had a much more difficult decision to make. Riding 30,000+ miles per year, with some interstate at times, the factory cruise control was important to me.
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Have the 48 liter Givi top case that you asked about. No doubt the C14 would be a better tourer than your Victory. But if I were going to do a lot of touring with a rider behind me I would go back to a Gold Wing.
Don't get me wrong, I love my C14 but I ride mainly with just me on the bike.
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In spite a disgusting problem with the sensor, I love the C-14. It is confortable for travel and I have to mention the quality of the roads in my country. I drove over 12. km since january, my butt says its soft, and it is pretty economic and the piloting is safe. The price difference for the BMW is huge and don't work. I use a Maxxia 52 litres but only for less weight then 10 kg. My bike is this and I will have it for years.
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That's the spirit!
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I think whether or not you think a C-14 is huge and top heavy with a passenger and luggage depends on your size and that of your passenger. I'm 6' 220. My wife is 5'4" 120. I think the C-14 is great and still handles well with her on the back and my 55 liter Givi and bags stuffed to the gills and my extra large tank bag in front.
Having owned everything from a CB750 Honda to a Harley ultra I am more satisfied with my C-14 than anything I've owned for an all around bike.
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One other question and observation is stability in dirty air. During my C14 test ride I rode a few miles on the highway and chose to spend some time in the wake of three large trucks around me and I was really surprised at little affected the bike was and how little buffeting came through to me. In that regard the only other bike in memory that achieved this was my 1984 BMW RS. Does adding a passenger and a top case disrupt this attribute or does everyone just take this for granted. My big luxo tourers all are or have been far worse.
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Add a Cee Baileys screen and you will have even smoother airflow than the stock screen, even behind a truck. The C-14 capabilities two up and loaded to the gills with luggage is still beyond what most will be able to make the bike do. I have followed Jamminjere several times when he was two up and fully loaded with luggage on technical roads with tight corners at a pace many would not achieve if they were solo with no luggage. The bike can move. It may be more work due to weight, but if you have the riding skill, the C-14 can cover even highly technical roads with amazing speed. It is not a sport bike, but it is a great sport tourer.
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Thanks all for the many reply's. Hey Spanky I live near Gettysburg. If I get the C14 I will drop you a PM. Where did you buy your bike?
Are they good guys?
Walt
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Not an "ideal" 2 up bike IMHO, and a Goldwing is the most stable touring bike available while sitting still or moving.
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After having ridden a Victory Vision for the last 3 1/2 years I may be ready for something easier to handle.
My first reaction is that when fully equipped with top case and bags the Connie is NOT easier to handle at very low speed or, even worse, when pushing it for parking.
I come from a HD Dyna Street Bob, same weight but much more friendly because of a lower center of gravity.
But that's the ONLY thing that could be argued with the C14. ;)
All other features are dramatically better for touring.
No worries about scratching the pegs when curving.
Ouststanding stability when curving at high speed.
Great protection fro air (better for the driver than for the passenger, though...)
Great comfort on long distance trips for both.
The loading capability is impressive: I suggest to buy the internal soft bags so you can very easily carry your luggage around.
I also suggest to change the top case plate if you plan to really "load" your top case because...metal is better than plastic!
I don't speak about performances because there's no comparison on the market! 8)
What's still missing at the Connie?
Perhaps a cruise control, but it's more like a gadget IMO.
Go for it, you won't regret it! :D
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Thanks all for the many reply's. Hey Spanky I live near Gettysburg. If I get the C14 I will drop you a PM. Where did you buy your bike?
Are they good guys?
Walt
I live in York, so not far from you at all. I bought mine at Hermy's BMW. It was used and they gave me a great deal at the time.
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Not an "ideal" 2 up bike IMHO, and a Goldwing is the most stable touring bike available while sitting still or moving.
I agree. That is why I still have my Wing. It is the best 2 up bike you will find. It is also very easy to handle at low speeds with a little practice. I love it's low center of gravity which makes the bike feel much lighter than it really is.
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C14 will handle two up with no problem. It really depends on your riding style, and what your wife likes. It sounds like you have had several bikes, and understand the differences. My '08 has 24K on it, and I use the Givi Maxia 52. On the positive side, I love the smooth power, electric windscreen, and stability. On the negative side, I have had to spend a lot of money on better tires, better brakes, risers, peg lowering, seats, and windscreens to make it a more than 100 mile bike. I also don't like the limited choices on highway pegs. At this point it is pretty workable for me, and in our most recent 3700 mile tour I did several 600 mile days with no problem. I'm 6'3", and about 230, so you might not have the challenges I did. Overall, the bike in its current form is pretty much a keeper.
I hope this helps.
Ride safe ... 8)
Dave
'08 C14
'09 KLR 650
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I own a Vision 08 and a 12 Concours.. re saddlebags: they are approx same capacity BUT the Concours has more useable space.
You can't fit a full face helmet in a Vision Saddlebag. I find the Concours more stable at low speeds(under 5 mph) than the Vision
and comparable at highway speeds.Vision always wanted to fall over (they do have built in tipovers) at low speeds and backing up your legs tend to hit rear tipovers. I have ridden the Vision 2 up loaded to the max and with extra psi in rear airshock never had a problem. Vision has overall more comfortable seating postions(more upright) long floor boards etc. but Connie can be adjusted to your needs.... I have already placed handlebar risers on bike and will be redoing seat or buying new one not sure yet.
Windshield is about 2 inches low for me (5'11- 33 in inseam) but if seat is reshaped and moved back might be fine..
I am happy so far with my first week on connie but still own Vision awaiting what to do with it...
Good luck either way
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I am a 2012 C14 OWNER.
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I am a 2012 C14 OWNER.
Congrats. One thing I didn't see answered from your original question was about the kawasaki top trunk. It is a monolock and is rated for 3Kg. The GIVI monokey is rated for 10Kg
Phil's rack is larger than the plastic rack and works well with a monokey trunk.
I saw a guy demonstrate tight police style maneuvers on a Victory Vision and it was quite impressive.
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I am a 2012 C14 OWNER.
Congrats Hope you enjoy Concours. Make it your own!
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Nice - congratulations! For anyone else that reads this later, I just got back from my first overnighter on the C14. My wife and I went to north Georgia, deals gap, etc. last weekend. I am 265, my wife is 140. The bike had fully loaded side bags and Givi 55, and a stuffed tank bag. I wouldn't want to ride the dragon with all that, but getting to our resort (Fontana) was on some challenging roads in the rain. I didn't have any problem at all with this load.
After that trip though, I'll be looking for a different seat and maybe some highway pegs for comfort. The drive there and back was painful enough to not want to do it again.
Here is our dragon picture:
Dragon Picture (http://killboy.photoreflect.com/store/Orderpage.aspx?pi=04RK01RU0H0347&po=9&pc=583&sf=1)
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Nice - congratulations! For anyone else that reads this later, I just got back from my first overnighter on the C14. My wife and I went to north Georgia, deals gap, etc. last weekend. I am 265, my wife is 140. The bike had fully loaded side bags and Givi 55, and a stuffed tank bag. I wouldn't want to ride the dragon with all that, but getting to our resort (Fontana) was on some challenging roads in the rain. I didn't have any problem at all with this load.
After that trip though, I'll be looking for a different seat and maybe some highway pegs for comfort. The drive there and back was painful enough to not want to do it again.
Here is our dragon picture:
Dragon Picture (http://killboy.photoreflect.com/store/Orderpage.aspx?pi=04RK01RU0H0347&po=9&pc=583&sf=1)
Clicked on the link and saw a yellow goldwing. Freudian slip? :o
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Clicked on the link and saw a yellow goldwing. Freudian slip? :o
+1... I saw the same. ???
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+2, me too.
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Clicked on the link and saw a yellow goldwing. Freudian slip? :o
Well, he said he wouldn't want to ride the Dragon the way he was loaded... but he said that was a picture at the Dragon (even tho it says it was the Gap)... so I assume it was from the last time he rode it, on his Wing? I'm confused now, too. But hey, it's a rider enjoying a ride, so not all bad.
Someday I need to get down to that part of the country to ride these roads you all talk about.
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Try pics 105-113.
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Put a bead-rider on that yellow wing's seat, and it might just pass as a taxi.
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Put a bead-rider on that yellow wing's seat, and it might just pass as a taxi.
LOL! Now I want to get one and put a black and white checkerboard stripe on it. :)
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I think as far as touring capabilities go, much depends on how long your days are going to be, where you live, etc. Out of the box, there are better bikes than the C14 for touring. The new Trophy, BMW RT/K16GT, are a few that come to mind before even mentioning the Goldwing. Even the ST13 might arguable be the better touring bike.
Where the Connie may come up short on some touring expectations is the smaller range on a tank of fuel, and perhaps more importantly the lesser amounts of wind protection. How much an aftermarket shield/wings help remains to be seen for me, but a search on the subject reveals that most are happier with the added protection from wind and weather. Also, when I think of long days on the bike, I like to have cruise control. Kawasaki should offer this as an option, however, there are aftermarket kits that I will eventually look into.
If I lived in a colder climate, I think I would lean more toward a bike that had more fairing, etc.
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Well let me give a one week report. First off I was planning on do some miles today but on the verge of rain all day so only have a little over 300 miles.
* Bike seems stiff. Told it takes awhile for suspension to 'work loose'.
* I am starting to break in to riding position. Other than year and half riding a '84 R100RS BMW I have been on full blown upright toung bikes...H-D, Victory, BMW K1300LT, Gl1800. I have been riding since 1976 and my first H-D Tour Glide was 1980.
* My go to bike of my youth was a BMW S model with that lovely cafe' fairing, riding tonight I left the grocery store in light rain and I did not put the windshield up. I was running two lane back roads on the way home and left the shield down and something happened. With the shield down and the bike loosening up a little I thought that something felt a little familar, this feels good, wind hitting my chest and helmet much like that 1978 Beemer. I never realized how much I missed that wind.
*I have been of the notion that to be comfortable and enjoy riding, someone of 'my age' should be on a two wheel car. I think this bike may just blow that assumption out of the water.
* This bike handles better than any bike I have ridden. It's steering is stable and deliberate. I understand the press says this bike requires a little more effort to ride fast than some others in it's class, but to me that is a very big plus, I hate a bike that falls into corners with little or no effort. Those bikes feel twitchy to me.
*Did some hwy miles yesterday and seems I can chew up some road, ECO and at 80 mph and below mpg readings are encouraging.
That's all for now.
Walt
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Clicked on the link and saw a yellow goldwing. Freudian slip? :o
Ok - that's funny. Maybe it was predicting the future! I have had the bike since March and already have about 9,000 miles on it, 2,000 of which was my trip up to the dragon and back. That says something. I like it, but over 2 hours on the saddle is not fun.
I bought a few of the pics...this will eliminate evidence of my subliminal thinking :P
(http://photos.schulzfamily.org/Motorcycles/Dragon/i-75Z6wGW/0/L/227705-L.jpg)
(http://photos.schulzfamily.org/Motorcycles/Dragon/i-k7qjhHk/0/L/227700-L.jpg)
(http://photos.schulzfamily.org/Motorcycles/Dragon/i-sJjmx7H/0/L/227680-L.jpg)
P.S. As far as "touring" farkles, I have installed:
- Corbin Seat
- Airhawk R & Pillon cushons
- Cee Bailey Windsheild
- Phill's rack & Givi 55
- Advanced ST Pullback risers
- Pr3's
- Beemer buddies grips
- Rostra cruise control
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Good looking lines on the Dragon, and what in the heck is that Hog rider doing with his left foot? ???
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That's what I wondered Pokey.
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They always duck walk the slow turns. Can you tell if his brake light is on?
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They always duck walk the slow turns. Can you tell if his brake light is on?
LOL! I was going to say- "When they go over 5MPH in a turn, they are afraid they will either fall over or scrape the hell out of their chrome exhausts"
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Good looking lines on the Dragon, and what in the heck is that Hog rider doing with his left foot? ???
Common motorcycle etiquette is to put out your foot to alert the rider behind you that there is debris in the roadway. I suppose you don't use turn signals either because they are just a courtesy? ;)
For cruiser riders it is easier to put the foot out since they don't have any weight on their legs like a sportrider. Sportriders typically use hand signals or just let the other guy ride his own ride. If they are riding so close to you that they don't see the hazard then maybe they will learn a lesson. ???
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Taking your hands of the bars or feet off the pegs on the dragon is just plain stupid and dangerous for all. Seriously doubt anything was on the road, things like that get taken care of ASAP. ;)
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Foot signals? Never heard that one before.
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I think as far as touring capabilities go, much depends on how long your days are going to be, where you live, etc. Out of the box, there are better bikes than the C14 for touring. The new Trophy, BMW RT/K16GT, are a few that come to mind before even mentioning the Goldwing. Even the ST13 might arguable be the better touring bike.
Where the Connie may come up short on some touring expectations is the smaller range on a tank of fuel, and perhaps more importantly the lesser amounts of wind protection. How much an aftermarket shield/wings help remains to be seen for me, but a search on the subject reveals that most are happier with the added protection from wind and weather. Also, when I think of long days on the bike, I like to have cruise control. Kawasaki should offer this as an option, however, there are aftermarket kits that I will eventually look into.
If I lived in a colder climate, I think I would lean more toward a bike that had more fairing, etc.
RE: the Trophy, wouldn't you expect a $19000 base price bike to be better out of the box than a Concours? I would.
I'd still take the Connie. Even with adding on aftermarket parts to make it better at touring, it's still less than the Trophy, BMW, ST1300.
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Never heard of pointing with your foot? How unusual, don't ride with groups often?
Now....the HD guy did it wrong. You point with your left hand to the left and your RIGHT foot to the right, so you don't have to take your hand off the throttle.
http://www.mountainshadowriders.com/HandSignals.htm (http://www.mountainshadowriders.com/HandSignals.htm)
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Never heard of pointing with your foot? How unusual, don't ride with groups often?
Now....the HD guy did it wrong. You point with your left hand to the left and your RIGHT foot to the right, so you don't have to take your hand off the throttle.
http://www.mountainshadowriders.com/HandSignals.htm (http://www.mountainshadowriders.com/HandSignals.htm)
I avoid group riding like the plague.
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RE: the Trophy, wouldn't you expect a $19000 base price bike to be better out of the box than a Concours? I would.
I'd still take the Connie. Even with adding on aftermarket parts to make it better at touring, it's still less than the Trophy, BMW, ST1300.
There are plenty of bikes that cost more than the C14. Should they all be better at touring because they cost more? Your rebuttal makes no sense.
By my definition "better" was more indicative of upright position, more fairing, more range. Certainly factory cruise, elec suspension etc may have some value to certain buyers as well.
Not every choice is defined by dollars and cents. Yes....we all know the C14 is a great value. I don't understand why cost gets dragged into every discussion here where other bikes are mentioned. If we were all so concerned with money, none of us would be parting with hard earned cash to dump into this hobby. It's all very subjective.
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We're talking about a specific class of bikes here- Sport Tourers. Not Goldwings and Geezer Glides or chromed out garage queens that don't see as many miles in a year as most people put on a ST in a month.
If I pay 19k for a ST class bike, I expect it to have better features and be a better bike overall than a lesser priced bike. But when you get down to it, you can pay less for a C14, add on the things that are missing from the 19k bike, and come out ahead with a better overall bike. The C14 out performs all of them aside from the K1600, and that is really in a class of it's own since it costs almost double what a C14 costs and is more in the Goldwing category when you look at the LT version.
All I'm saying is you can have upright riding position, wind protection, cruise control, comfortable seating, all the features a good touring bike has for less than the price of any of those you said were better. What are you missing, a gallon of fuel? That isn't even a factor for me because I like to get off the bike every 200 miles or so anyway.
I don't only look at the bike. My money is hard earned and I want the best value for the dollar. So in that case, yes, price does matter when you are looking at a hobby such as riding.
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What are you missing, a gallon of fuel? That isn't even a factor for me because I like to get off the bike every 200 miles or so anyway.
You can still get off a bike that has 300 miles range every 200 miles or so. The issue with a fairly short range motorcycle like the Connie is that if you're riding on some of the more desolate roads in America, you become dependent on the gas station 150 miles up the road being open and operating, because you don't have the range to make it to the gas station 100 miles beyond that one.
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We're talking about a specific class of bikes here- Sport Tourers. Not Goldwings and Geezer Glides or chromed out garage queens that don't see as many miles in a year as most people put on a ST in a month.
If I pay 19k for a ST class bike, I expect it to have better features and be a better bike overall than a lesser priced bike. But when you get down to it, you can pay less for a C14, add on the things that are missing from the 19k bike, and come out ahead with a better overall bike. The C14 out performs all of them aside from the K1600, and that is really in a class of it's own since it costs almost double what a C14 costs and is more in the Goldwing category when you look at the LT version.
All I'm saying is you can have upright riding position, wind protection, cruise control, comfortable seating, all the features a good touring bike has for less than the price of any of those you said were better. What are you missing, a gallon of fuel? That isn't even a factor for me because I like to get off the bike every 200 miles or so anyway.
I don't only look at the bike. My money is hard earned and I want the best value for the dollar. So in that case, yes, price does matter when you are looking at a hobby such as riding.
I don't know that I would agree that you can simply add things to the C14 to make it as good or better as let's say a Trophy. You can certainly iimprove the C14's touring capability through the aftermarket.
The bigger point here that gets missed is that "value for the dollar" is only relative to the person writing the check.
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Foot signals? Never heard that one before.
Me neither. Maybe it is taught in a cruiser school or something?
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I avoid group riding like the plague.
No more than 4 "that includes me" if I can help it, any more and it sucks IMHO.
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My computer says I average over 50 mpg on long trips. Don't know how accurate that is, but I have no complaints about the range.
I have a Shad 50 trunk, I use that for everything. I am getting ready for a 2000 mile road trip that will start this saturday and culminate in Denver at the Great American Beer Festival. I plan on those saddlebags to be able to hold all of my clothes and junk, the trunk will be filled with Colorado-sourced bottles of microbrew.
Handling, the bike is tall and feels sort of clumsy in the city. I won't lane split in CA like did with my soft bag equipped Katana 1100 as the C14 is pretty wide. But, on the open road, I have no complaints.
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Never heard of pointing with your foot? How unusual, don't ride with groups often?
Now....the HD guy did it wrong. You point with your left hand to the left and your RIGHT foot to the right, so you don't have to take your hand off the throttle.
http://www.mountainshadowriders.com/HandSignals.htm (http://www.mountainshadowriders.com/HandSignals.htm)
The problem with that is the rider behind you doesn't know if you are pointing out an obstacle or waving to an oncoming rider.
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Me neither. Maybe it is taught in a cruiser school or something?
Cruiser schools teach "the wave" and how to properly park under an overpass when it is raining. They also teach how to avoid scraping the pegs or floorboards, and not to exceed 50 mph in most instances. And lets not forget the LETS DRESS LIKE THE VILLAGE PEOPLE classes "that is the most popular".
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My computer says I average over 50 mpg on long trips. Don't know how accurate that is, but I have no complaints about the range.
I have a Shad 50 trunk, I use that for everything. I am getting ready for a 2000 mile road trip that will start this saturday and culminate in Denver at the Great American Beer Festival. I plan on those saddlebags to be able to hold all of my clothes and junk, the trunk will be filled with Colorado-sourced bottles of microbrew.Handling, the bike is tall and feels sort of clumsy in the city. I won't lane split in CA like did with my soft bag equipped Katana 1100 as the C14 is pretty wide. But, on the open road, I have no complaints.
Talk about top heavy with a couple of cases of longnecks. ::)
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Never heard of pointing with your foot? How unusual, don't ride with groups often?
Now....the HD guy did it wrong. You point with your left hand to the left and your RIGHT foot to the right, so you don't have to take your hand off the throttle.
I know what he was doing, he was stretching out his leg and hip. I should have guessed cus' I did the same riding cruiser-tourers.
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Never heard of pointing with your foot? How unusual, don't ride with groups often?
I have NEVER ridden with a "group". Now it is always alone. Used to ride mostly with my best friend, and we used radios. But he went crazy by getting married and let his RF900 just rot away in storage for years and years.
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I have NEVER ridden with a "group". Now it is always alone. Used to ride mostly with my best friend, and we used radios. But he went crazy by getting married and let his RF900 just rot away in storage for years and years.
I'm not sure which is more sad in this post Max... :-\
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My first riding experiences was with a group in MD. They were an eclectic bunch with all sorts of different bikes, Jap and German for the most part with the occasional HD every once in awhile. They weren't lolly gaggers. They rode fast but safe (for the most part) and formed my views and techniques that I have and use today in riding. I also rode with one other guy I met over the Internet. He had a somewhat similar bike to mine at the time. I rode a Silver Wing (not that abomination scooter with the same name, the real bike) and he rode a CX500T. I either rode by myself, with him, or the group. My circle of MC friends was very small. Occasionally the group could have as much as 12 but for the most part it was less than 6 I think. Hard to remember as I haven't rode with them in quite awhile. I can truly say I miss all of them greatly. We used the foot method to point out obstructions in the road when the group got larger. Riding in groups can be dangerous if you don't understand the dynamic and the rules (unspoken and spoken). They would be the only group I would ride with larger than 4. I've been to two funerals related to that group (not mc related accidents). In fact I tear up now thinking about it. I also tear up about the riding partner I haven't ridden with in a few years. He's got another hobby, photography and he's moved back to MD so we don't ride as much anymore. It's really ironic with him as he made fun of me when I had my Voyager (old man's bike) and he had 4 cylinder whatsit BMW ST and now I have a performance sport tourer and he has a K1200LT. I miss him. Damn German. We made an odd pair, German and English. My mother couldn't figure it out and never was totally good with it. She still remembered WWII and being bombed by them.
So I totally understand how you feel, Max, totally. :'(
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Jim, the Voyager XII was my first Kawasaki. Loved that bike. I put race tech suspension up front and progressives out back. Raised the bike two inches. It was a very sporty touring bike.
Thanks for backing me up on the foot signal thing. 8)
I have one close riding bud that have shared a lot of riding adventures with. I got him into dual sport riding and he got me into sport bike riding.
Also a nice couple that still own a Voyager XII and a Connie. My wife and I have had some great travels with them.
Different riding for different times, but any ride is a great ride IMO.
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Never heard of pointing with your foot? How unusual, don't ride with groups often?
Now....the HD guy did it wrong. You point with your left hand to the left and your RIGHT foot to the right, so you don't have to take your hand off the throttle.
I know what he was doing, he was stretching out his leg and hip. I should have guessed cus' I did the same riding cruiser-tourers.
As do I, but not in twisty situations...
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Never heard of pointing with your foot? How unusual, don't ride with groups often?
When I first started riding my GF always did that (and still does) when she is leading. It is nice to have that input as you are rounding a curve in South East Ohio and not always able to see through her bbike at something in the road. I should get better at it but don't always thik of the others following me as well as I should as I so infrequently ride in a group.
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- taking your foot off a peg in corner is dangerous.
- better to just maintain better distances between bikes if you're keen on riding in groups.
.
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I do it when I need to break some serious wind and don't want to shart... ;)
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So is this guy pointing to debris on the track? :)
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When I first started riding my GF always did that (and still does) when she is leading. It is nice to have that input as you are rounding a curve in South East Ohio and not always able to see through her bbike at something in the road. I should get better at it but don't always thik of the others following me as well as I should as I so infrequently ride in a group.
Where you at in Ohio, I am in Westerville....and yes the roads here "although fun" can sure make you pucker.
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I am in Muncie Indiana but my son has been in Athens OH for 5 years and my SO is in Lancaster so I am back and forth to Delaware OH, Lancater and Athens every or every other weekend. Usually across US36, OH571,US 40 and OH56 but occasionally 36 to Delaware then OH 37 down to Lancaster.
Most weekends we ride out through Nelsonville and 78 out to McConellsville and south from there. Great roads clear down to Ashland KY on OH 93. and back.
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Talk about top heavy with a couple of cases of longnecks. ::)
I honestly have no idea how top heavy it'll be. I return home after that beer fest. Now, my bike is pretty meticulously packed for this 14 day trip that I'll start in 30 minutes. Socks are neatly rolled, different items are in ziplock bags, one saddle bag is dedicated to clothes, the other for toiletries, camera, etc.
However, the GABF is on day 13 of my trip and when I pack up the bike the next day, the day after drinking unlimited 2oz samples of beer for five hours, I have a feeling the packing will look like a big cluster F&&k! The only thing I'll remember is to not pack any beer in the right side bag (above the exhaust!).
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Cruiser schools teach "the wave" and how to properly park under an overpass when it is raining. They also teach how to avoid scraping the pegs or floorboards, and not to exceed 50 mph in most instances. And lets not forget the LETS DRESS LIKE THE VILLAGE PEOPLE classes "that is the most popular".
How do you know all this?
I think the school you are referring to has students riding a short bus..Not a cruiser
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:popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn:
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Quote from: Pokey on September 27, 2012, 03:37:29 pm
Cruiser schools teach "the wave" and how to properly park under an overpass when it is raining. They also teach how to avoid scraping the pegs or floorboards, and not to exceed 50 mph in most instances. And lets not forget the LETS DRESS LIKE THE VILLAGE PEOPLE classes "that is the most popular".
Quote from: Rasmith
How do you know all this?
I think the school you are referring to has students riding a short bus..Not a cruiser
Some people are just narrow minded and don't realize there are many different ways to have fun on two wheels. Some people get it and some people don't.
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And some have fun poking fun at brands. Take me as an example. I have never and will never ride a Harley, is it truly a brand thing? Yes, and no. Many years ago I jokingly told my friend I would never be caught riding a Harley. He rides a Harley, absolutely loves that Harley. If it starts raining? He wants to find a place to park it, be it an overpass or anywhere out of the rain. If it gets into the mid 40's? Stays parked. Is he afraid of the cold or rain? Come join us elk hunting and you be the judge. FWIW, I'd give up body parts if it would keep him alive. The joke became more of a promise, it has become a thing of honor to never break that "Promise".
To take brand jabbing seriously is like getting upset it started raining. Aint nothing you can do about it, short of moving to some dry, arid, void of normal life place. Ride your ride, I'll ride mine, if your ride happens to be a cruiser I assure you I will poke some good natured fun. If that's too much, I reckon we'd need to find new riding partners.
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And some have fun poking fun at brands. Take me as an example. I have never and will never ride a Harley, is it truly a brand thing? Yes, and no. Many years ago I jokingly told my friend I would never be caught riding a Harley. He rides a Harley, absolutely loves that Harley. If it starts raining? He wants to find a place to park it, be it an overpass or anywhere out of the rain. If it gets into the mid 40's? Stays parked. Is he afraid of the cold or rain? Come join us elk hunting and you be the judge. FWIW, I'd give up body parts if it would keep him alive. The joke became more of a promise, it has become a thing of honor to never break that "Promise".
To take brand jabbing seriously is like getting upset it started raining. Aint nothing you can do about it, short of moving to some dry, arid, void of normal life place. Ride your ride, I'll ride mine, if your ride happens to be a cruiser I assure you I will poke some good natured fun. If that's too much, I reckon we'd need to find new riding partners.
This summer on my west trip 98 percent of the bikes out there touring were Harley Davidsons. Everyone we talked with had ridden their bikes from home, not trailered. I have seen many Harleys riding in the rain. They might stop under an overpass to put on their rain gear. I find that to be too dangerous so I put on my gear before the rain starts.
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I put on rain gear before it rains as well. In fact, others in the group would make fun of me for doing that but then it was me laughing at them getting soaked. All in good fun, though. And SOP is right in that we do make fun, at times, of other's rides to some degree. It's part of this forum and I don't see that changing anytime soon. In fact, I'm making a point of it not changing as long as I'm around. I like humor and see it in most anything. I don't play well with serious people.
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I put on rain gear before it rains as well. In fact, others in the group would make fun of me for doing that but then it was me laughing at them getting soaked. All in good fun, though. And SOP is right in that we do make fun, at times, of other's rides to some degree. It's part of this forum and I don't see that changing anytime soon. In fact, I'm making a point of it not changing as long as I'm around. I like humor and see it in most anything. I don't play well with serious people.
As long as the making fun of other's rides includes making fun of what you ride then it IS all in good fun. I do see a lot of Cruiser bashing on non cruiser forums even though I see more cruisers on the roads every day than all other style bikes combined. I ride everything from dual sport to touring and dirt to interstate and I wonder where all the non-cruisers are.
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And some have fun poking fun at brands. Take me as an example. I have never and will never ride a Harley, is it truly a brand thing? Yes, and no. Many years ago I jokingly told my friend I would never be caught riding a Harley. He rides a Harley, absolutely loves that Harley. If it starts raining? He wants to find a place to park it, be it an overpass or anywhere out of the rain. If it gets into the mid 40's? Stays parked. Is he afraid of the cold or rain? Come join us elk hunting and you be the judge. FWIW, I'd give up body parts if it would keep him alive. The joke became more of a promise, it has become a thing of honor to never break that "Promise".
To take brand jabbing seriously is like getting upset it started raining. Aint nothing you can do about it, short of moving to some dry, arid, void of normal life place. Ride your ride, I'll ride mine, if your ride happens to be a cruiser I assure you I will poke some good natured fun. If that's too much, I reckon we'd need to find new riding partners.
So I don't have to worry about you mooching a ride on my Deuce, sweet!
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So I don't have to worry about you mooching a ride on my Deuce, sweet!
Nope, but the XT is fair game ;D
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I put on rain gear before it rains as well. In fact, others in the group would make fun of me for doing that but then it was me laughing at them getting soaked. All in good fun, though. And SOP is right in that we do make fun, at times, of other's rides to some degree. It's part of this forum and I don't see that changing anytime soon. In fact, I'm making a point of it not changing as long as I'm around. I like humor and see it in most anything. I don't play well with serious people.
I wouldn't ride any of my cruisers if there were a threat of rain, and yes, I don't ride them far from home.
On the C14, I find I won't stop to put on rain gear, if I can go fast enough to duck behind the windshield and stay dry that way. I've found that above 80MPH, I can stay pretty dry. ;)
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Nope, but the XT is fair game ;D
Hmm, I'd go for that if I get to ride the F800GS. ;D
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Deal! I sure hope a deal with OR works out, I'll be spending a fair amount of time down that way.
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I've seen all types under overpasses when there was an exit just before and they couldve exited and geared up under the awning at a gas station a minute away. Bewildering..
All in good fun picking on the poor cruiser folk..LOL
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We think they look like pirates, they think we look like radioactive armadillos. Each to his own.
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- pirates vs power rangers !!
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Very new here and very close to buying a 2012. After having ridden a Victory Vision for the last 3 1/2 years I may be ready for something easier to handle. I think the Vision is a great handing bike for a 900 lb v-twin tourer but the wife and I were on a long trip covering upstate NY into New England and the GPS took us over Smugglers Notch going to Stowe and both I and the vision met our comfort match. Especially 2 up LOADED. I have some questions about the Connie. First off the saddlebags are much larger so it should be easier to pack heavy stuff down low. The bike has a very good weight capacity so I think I could stay real close to not going over. When est riding the bike one up I was surprised at how stable and little affected by wind the bike is. I love the fact the bike had a slow feel to handling, I hate a bike that changes lane every time you turn your head to look at something.
IS the bike still as stable (not twitchy) two up? Would you still look forward to riding demanding roads and not dread them?
Does it that top heavy feel with added weight and want to tip over while stopping at lights? (I am thinking Gold Wing)
Anyone have an opinion on the 48 liter Kawasaki trunk, looks like a GIVI?
Anyone using a large tankbag to carry some heavy items while traveling, Thinking leather jackets?
Walt
It's that time again, guys. Please veer it back on topic. See above in case ya'll forgot. My memory isn't so good either.
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The C-14 is OK for long distance touring but only for two days in my experience, and sometimes the second day can be brutal. Sometimes there is even a little veering at the end, although the hospital staff was nice.
;D
Brian
It's that time again, guys. Please veer it back on topic. See above in case ya'll forgot. My memory isn't so good either.
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Are you trying to replace Poke as the forum Twit, Brian? If so, that hasn't been authorized by the management committee.
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Guys, I'm 61 years old and I use my C14 a lot, most at the road. Recently, 1.080 km at day one and 1100 at the second. I fell fine all time long but, I exercise myself about three to four times a week. If you don't work out, no matter the age, biking is brutal. Bandit 1250, Boulevard 1500, Boulevard 800 and Hayabusa, bikes that I had, nothing was so confortable and safe as this C 14. In fact, customs give me such a backage...
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Guys, I'm 61 years old and I use my C14 a lot, most at the road. Recently, 1.080 km at day one and 1100 at the second. I fell fine all time long but, I exercise myself about three to four times a week. If you don't work out, no matter the age, biking is brutal. Bandit 1250, Boulevard 1500, Boulevard 800 and Hayabusa, bikes that I had, nothing was so confortable and safe as this C 14. In fact, customs give me such a backage...
There is a great deal of validity to this. Age, physical condition, physical injuries, etc are all a factor when choosing a bike that is comfortable for the long haul. In my twenties, I rode a VFR accross country. There's no way I could do that again now in my mid 40's with a fused spine.
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Are you trying to replace Poke as the forum Twit, Brian? If so, that hasn't been authorized by the management committee.
There can be only 1........
(http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQwtZ2A4YqOTaQh--2EkftqpAopOESCGYm83FaBNOTsseQqW3nZUg)
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True enough...
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Hey, I thought I was helpin' ya' get back on topic....
;)
Brian
Are you trying to replace Poke as the forum Twit, Brian? If so, that hasn't been authorized by the management committee.
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;D
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I was wondering if anyone has any pics of thir Connie loaded for a long trip of tent camping. Maybe a generic list of what you bring? I think that falls under Threads OP
I tent camp on extended bike rides and have a minimalist setup of a Kelty 2-Person (not man) tent, self inflating mattress, Sleeping bag, Evo Rain Fly, Jet Boil Sumo cooking system and assorted gear.
I did a search for "Camping" and "tents" and this thread was the only one that came up in the results oddly enough.
Attached is what I've been using prior to this summer..Mine's the one on the left
Thanks in advance
Rick
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I was wondering if anyone has any pics of thir Connie loaded for a long trip of tent camping. Maybe a generic list of what you bring? I think that falls under Threads OP
I tent camp on extended bike rides and have a minimalist setup of a Kelty 2-Person (not man) tent, self inflating mattress, Sleeping bag, Evo Rain Fly, Jet Boil Sumo cooking system and assorted gear.
I did a search for "Camping" and "tents" and this thread was the only one that came up in the results oddly enough.
Attached is what I've been using prior to this summer..Mine's the one on the left
Thanks in advance
Rick
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=9217.msg111857#msg111857 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=9217.msg111857#msg111857)
Lots of packing ideas above. Hope this helps.
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Nice looking Meanies there. Mine used to look like that. THe Connie has so much more room and options for packing. YOu can throw almost everything you have there on the bike and still have 2 cases to open up and filll. Rear deck is nice too when it comes to adding light weight stuff up high. ( the for sale sign is pretty lightweight but I guarantee you wont see many of those on a Connie).
Speaking of rear racks what did you do on that meanie and how did you do it? Have long tried to find a rear rack that will fit on my Meanie.