Kawasaki Concours Forum
The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => The Bike - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: stratochile on August 18, 2014, 05:51:43 AM
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Hello....does anyone know if Kawasaki is planning any changes to the connie for 2015.....ie...cruise control etc ???
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Right, like they tell us all their plans. At any rate, we'll know more this Fall I would think if anything is going to change other than color. They really need to do something with it, but we've been saying that for the last several years.
:offtopic: where does the 'stratochile' moniker come from? For instance, I could be a 'chileosac' myself. I'm thinking strato has something to do with flying?
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Since the Gen 2 C14's have been out BMW came out with the K1600 and Yamaha with the Gen 3 FJR. Both offer ESA and cruise control. Kawi should be thinking of adding those if not for 2015 then at least 2016.
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Since the Gen 2 C14's have been out BMW came out with the K1600 and Yamaha with the Gen 3 FJR. Both offer ESA and cruise control.
Yeah, but look at Honda....... nada!
Kawi should be thinking of adding those if not for 2015 then at least 2016.
My bet is on 2016, which gives the C14 an 8 year run.
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Yeah, but look at Honda....... nada!
At the moment they seem to be concentrating on the cruiser market, F6B, new Valkyrie, CTX. I think they also thought the latest VFR was going to be the ST1300 replacement but they completely missed the mark with not enough features for way too much money.
My bet is on 2016, which gives the C14 an 8 year run.
I think your right.
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. Both offer ESA and cruise control. Kawi should be thinking of adding those if not for 2015 then at least 2016.
What's "ESA"?
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What's "ESA"?
Electronic Suspension Adjustment (preload and damper).
Meh. I think improved projector headlights and cruise control (and some other things) are far, far more important/useful.
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Cup holders, we need more cup holders.
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What is a Honda?
Has anybody else seen all the Honda guys writing crying letters to all the motorcycle magazines asking them why the ST1300 isn't included in any of the sport-touring bike shoot-outs and comparisons?...lol.
The editors reply..."Uh...since Honda hasn't done anything with the ST1300 since 2005, we don't believe they have anything new to offer".
As far as a substantial change in the C14 platform is concerned...I like the comment somebody else left on here a while back...lol.
Based on the production run of the C10 before there were any significant changes, the C14 should be due for a revamp in 2028.
Rem. 8)
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Based on the production run of the C10 before there were any significant changes, the C14 should be due for a revamp in 2028.
Rem. 8)
Lol...I really hope it isn't so!! ;) :D
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What is a Honda?
Has anybody else seen all the Honda guys writing crying letters to all the motorcycle magazines asking them why the ST1300 isn't included in any of the sport-touring bike shoot-outs and comparisons?...lol.
The editors reply..."Uh...since Honda hasn't done anything with the ST1300 since 2005, we don't believe they have anything new to offer".
As far as a substantial change in the C14 platform is concerned...I like the comment somebody else left on here a while back...lol.
Based on the production run of the C10 before there were any significant changes, the C14 should be due for a revamp in 2028.
Rem. 8)
Yeah technically Honda doesn't even have a '14 ST1300
I'm guessing Kaw isn't gonna make us wait till 2028 for a new concours. The days of 20yr model runs seem to be over. I mean Kaw updated the concours in just 2yrs after the launch in '08. Now that BMW, yamaha, triumph have all come out with updated/new ST's, I'm guessing we'll see a new concours this fall
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We've been guessing that they would do some improvements over the last several years but nothing has ever come of it....however, I am hopefully pessimistic.
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We've been guessing that they would do some improvements over the last several years but nothing has ever come of it....however, I am hopefully pessimistic.
:rotflmao:
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2020 would work for me. My 2008 should be about worn out by then. Hmmm, I've only got 58000 miles on it now so maybe not. :-\
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Will Gen I owners be allowed to go right to Gen III, or will we have to own a Gen II for a while? Baby steps, ya know...
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Will Gen I owners be allowed to go right to Gen III, or will we have to own a Gen II for a while? Baby steps, ya know...
Sure hope not cuz I went directly to a Gen II. Wouldn't want to get arrested.
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Sure hope not cuz I went directly to a Gen II. Wouldn't want to get arrested.
Well then, you owe yourself a Gen I experience. We can trade bikes, and then both of us can legally move on to the III's when available. Sure don't want to be arrested either. tp
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I mean Kaw updated the concours in just 2yrs after the launch in '08.
Update, but not terribly much. Gen 1 to Gen 2 were more refinements/tweaks. Nice tweaks and adds, for sure, but still the same bike.
Now that BMW, yamaha, triumph have all come out with updated/new ST's, I'm guessing we'll see a new concours this fall
We shall see, but I doubt it :)
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I honestly hope they don't add ESA, or that atomic power plant they put on the new ZX14R with those extra 89 cc. I do not see anything stopping me from making the leap. And that would/will be expensive... :banghead:
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2020 would work for me. My 2008 should be about worn out by then. Hmmm, I've only got 58000 miles on it now so maybe not. :-\
:thumbs:
My twice extended GTPP will be up by then.
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I honestly hope they don't add ESA, or that atomic power plant they put on the new ZX14R with those extra 89 cc. I do not see anything stopping me from making the leap. And that would/will be expensive... :banghead:
But you live in the only place that has speed limits that could make use of it. ;)
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My twice extended GTPP will be up by then.
Good point. I did the samething. Not sure if I'll extend it again or not.
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I feel we need more cow bell. ;D
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I feel we need more cow bell. ;D
Speaking of cow bell...lol.
A friend of mine has this on the back of his Kawi race bike;)
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Do we know yet if they can be renewed three times for certain?
Brian
Good point. I did the samething. Not sure if I'll extend it again or not.
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Good point. I did the samething. Not sure if I'll extend it again or not.
If you can get that spectacular price ($335 from Richmond) and it CAN be extended, one absolutely should. I hate extended warranties because they are almost always WAY overpriced. But protecting a $14,000 investment for what amounts to $112 a year is an outstanding value. Throw in that it is FACTORY and TRANSFERABLE which increases the resale value too and to me it is a no brainer. Just one repair and it has probably paid for one or even two extensions.
I know some people have extended twice, but can it be extended three times (3 yrs original + 3 + 3 +3)?
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C'mon Maxi, work with me here- I asked that question in the last post.... ;D
When I bought my second extension, I asked if a third (or more) could be purchased. The answer I got from the dealer in VA (that I think we all use, courtesy of Rich R.) said that if I waited a week or so and tried to buy another one, we could find out if Mama Kaw would process it. Needless to say, I did not choose to spend the money to find out. But I am curious and also would extend again if possible. C'mon Kawasaki, show us all how much you think of this bike; extend the warrant into 12 years. :rotflmao:
Brian
If you can get that spectacular price ($335 from Richmond) and it CAN be extended, one absolutely should. I hate extended warranties because they are almost always WAY overpriced. But protecting a $14,000 investment for what amounts to $112 a year is an outstanding value. Throw in that it is FACTORY and TRANSFERABLE which increases the resale value too and to me it is a no brainer. Just one repair and it has probably paid for one or even two extensions.
I know some people have extended twice, but can it be extended three times (3 yrs original + 3 + 3 +3)?
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call Pete and ask... I renewed twice, and will do another, as soon as I am employed again...
he told me flat out, you can buy one, and a week afterwards, buy another, with no restrictions on how many you want to pay for...
Beuhler...
beuhler.......
Beuhler...?
oh make me do it... I'l charge you $50 for the answers..... 8)
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I'm not gonna renew mine. It expires sometime in the future. Who knows what I'll be doing then. I'm not sure what renewal I'm on at the moment. I've drank too much and I can't focus my eyes.
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.... And that was back in 1981. :-)
Pete told me he did not know if Kawasaki would renew a third time or not. My current warranty is good for another couple of years so I have no interest in buying now just to find out if I can. But it will be interesting if a warranty is available on a nine- year old bike with lots 'o mileage.
Brian
I'm not gonna renew mine. It expires sometime in the future. Who knows what I'll be doing then. I'm not sure what renewal I'm on at the moment. I've drank too much and I can't focus my eyes.
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While i have only owned my 2013 since May, i would love to see a bit more power, i know it is possible and definetly cruise control! Put that on the plate and bet a lot of people wouldnt bother looking at BMW's k1600gt...unless they had moeny to throw away.
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I feel we need more cow bell. ;D
:goodpost:
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McCruise cost lees than the TAX you would pay for a new bike, I've added ZX headers and Guhl flash and I'm set for life , the front wheel comes up more than I like ;) now .
The good thing about the Flash is the low end GRUNT , I don't rev the motor as much now , short shift because of the torque increase. I've lost 20 some lb. since Christmas that made the bike faster also :chugbeer:
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McCruise cost lees than the TAX you would pay for a new bike, I've added ZX headers and Guhl flash and I'm set for life , the front wheel comes up more than I like ;) now .
The good thing about the Flash is the low end GRUNT , I don't rev the motor as much now , short shift because of the torque increase. I've lost 20 some lb. since Christmas that made the bike faster also :chugbeer:
+1 Lately I've been turning the ECO mode on to save gas. I'll forget and roll on at low RPM and wonder "where's the torque?" When I first got the bike I could hardly feel the difference with ECO on or off. But with the the Guhl flash it is night and day.
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I've lost 20 some lb. since Christmas that made the bike faster also :chugbeer:
:) That is one of the cheapest and yet most expensive performance mods :)
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:) That is one of the cheapest and yet most expensive performance mods :)
:goodpost:
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:) That is one of the cheapest and yet most expensive performance mods :)
I feel the same way. When you go from Guhl to Eco mode, it feels like the bike has a blown head gasket. I only use eco when in 6.
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I feel the same way. When you go from Guhl to Eco mode, it feels like the bike has a blown head gasket. I only use eco when in 6.
I don't think I have ever used ECO mode (actually called "Fuel Economy Assistance Mode" before. But I think I will try it tonight to try and remember what it was like before the Guhl refash.... if I can figure out how to do it :) (Update: just read the manual, press the handlebar button for 1 to 3 seconds).
I believe I read somewhere on the Forums that Eco will disengage automatically (and perhaps temporarily) if you roll on the throttle or raise up the RPM, but I can't remember if that means it would then be on the Ghul map or not at that moment. If it does, then it doesn't make the best comparison test. I also don't remember if it turns itself back on in such cases.
From the manual: "can be activated[...] when rpm is less than 6 000, throttle position is less than 30 percent and speed is less than 152 mph. " They say nothing else useful. :(
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Max, I don't think it actually turns itself off. Just that the fuel map at higher RPM's and higher throttle is the same as normal mode. But I'm not sure.
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Max, I don't think it actually turns itself off. Just that the fuel map at higher RPM's and higher throttle is the same as normal mode. But I'm not sure.
Could be, but who knows? Inquiring minds want to know, damnit!!!
In the most "main" thread: http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=5749.15 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=5749.15) "Wally_games" says:
"It automatically drops out of the ECO mapping if you apply more than 30% throttle. That's why I try to remember to engage it every time I ride. That way it's in ECO when it might matter, and doesn't do anything when I feel the urge for power. " And jjcC6 says "I feel the transition from eco to normal mode as I roll into the throttle and it makes for a surge of power at a time when I want the power to come on smoothly. " Neither claim is backed in the manual, although it seems logical for it to be true. I might have to play with it some myself. Meanwhile, I will also post it on the correct thread.
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It's funny I use to use ECO a lot ... since the flash , NEVER ... spoiled.
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It's funny I use to use ECO a lot ... since the flash , NEVER ... spoiled.
I know the feeling. I want to save a little fuel but I just LOVE the extra torque!
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When I read posts from people looking for more power out of the C14, I wonder what other vehicles are in their garages. The concours is the most powerful machine I own and I rarely use all of the power available.
So what cars, trucks, boats, etc., do you guys have in your garages that make you want for more power out of the concours ?
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So what cars, trucks, boats, etc., do you guys have in your garages that make you want for more power out of the concours ?
A gas Volkswagen that wouldn't pull the skin off a grape...lol.
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When I read posts from people looking for more power out of the C14, I wonder what other vehicles are in their garages. The concours is the most powerful machine I own and I rarely use all of the power available.
So what cars, trucks, boats, etc., do you guys have in your garages that make you want for more power out of the concours ?
I think it is just the nature of the adrenaline junkie. We always want more. ;)
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When I read posts from people looking for more power out of the C14, I wonder what other vehicles are in their garages. The concours is the most powerful machine I own and I rarely use all of the power available.
So what cars, trucks, boats, etc., do you guys have in your garages that make you want for more power out of the concours ?
A Prius! :rotflmao:
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My other vehicles are a Suzuki 650 enduro and a pick up truck. The C14 is by far the fasted machine I have ever owned and that includes an airplane.
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A Prius! :rotflmao:
Man you need twin engines in a connie to get past that. :rotflmao:
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I think it is just the nature of the adrenaline junkie. We always want more. ;)
I am definitely not an adrenaline junkie. My adrenaline only kicks up when I almost screw up big time. I don't like that feeling at all.
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Man you need twin engines in a connie to get past that. :rotflmao:
Actually, stock power is sufficient. I rode it down into southern VA on Sunday and back again. I always fall in love with that bike every time I ride it. It does have one glaring deficiency and that is that no matter what speed your at, it always wants to go faster than that. The Prius isn't that awful bad ,especially in power mode (yes, it does have a power mode and an eco mode and pie ala mode if conditions dictate).
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I am definitely not an adrenaline junkie. My adrenaline only kicks up when I almost screw up big time. I don't like that feeling at all.
Which explains why your not looking for more power. I was speaking for many of us who do look for more power. Actually I was just speaking for myself. ;)
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Actually, stock power is sufficient. I rode it down into southern VA on Sunday and back again. I always fall in love with that bike every time I ride it. It does have one glaring deficiency and that is that no matter what speed your at, it always wants to go faster than that. The Prius isn't that awful bad ,especially in power mode (yes, it does have a power mode and an eco mode and pie ala mode if conditions dictate).
I like pie.
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I like pie.
Mmmmmm... Pie.....
Jim is right, I've never topped it out. Not even close. It always wants to go faster. I've topped out my Valk, VTX and Suzuki but never my C14. I like adrenaline but don't have the balls to 150+ on the street.
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+1...
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Seen 276kms (171ml) on my 07 Bandit with 1800rpm to go before rev limiter (private road in the prairies ;) )that was fast enough. Changed the final drive dropped 1 in front and added 2 in the back and it's never seen that kind of speed again.
No interest in topping out the Connie, for now anyways.
Figure the 2015 will have cruise, considering I waited 3 years then finally pulled the trigger and bought this years Connie.
:chugbeer:
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I wouldnt be looking for more top end speed, i know someone that has had theirs up to 160 @5am on a lonely stretch of highway and he said that was fast enough. What i would like is a bit more roll on snap from it.
My other vehicle isnt a prius...2012 Ford superduty diesel.....far from being a prius, but it does put out 400hp.
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Actually all my performance mods (Full AreaP exhaust and PCV) were done by the prior owner. He only had 2500 miles on it then had medical problems and couldn't ride any more. I've always enjoyed performance, even racing motocross for years, and have topped out every bike I've ever had (21)..........except this one. Just knowing it's capability and feeling the amount of acceleration it has is enough for me to know I've had enough. This bike is SOOOO tempting it's insane! But I really don't want to be scraped off the highway with a spatula. More than likely, the next bike will be a big tourer seeing how I've finally reached my limit. After this, I'll need something that isn't so damned tempting.
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Jim ...you'll be back! I just walked away from about 10 years of riding HArley tourers, my previous being a Ultra CVO. i just couldnt take any more of being that slow, loud, poor handling, overheating and poor braking! once i bought the connie as a second bike that harley was doomed, it hadnt moved in months till i finally just sold it.
Now im not going to say i will never own another HD, but for now i needed to return back to something more performance oriented.
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Now im not going to say i will never own another HD, but for now i needed to return back to something more performance oriented.
something more performance oriented than a Harley includes many, many vehicles, including this (perhaps too forward thinking for HD owners?):
(http://www.final-touch-cars.co.uk/images/icecream2.jpg)
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Granted, not your typical Harley, but it's kinda MOCO...and really fast, too...
(http://www.prostockharley.com/about/prostockharley.jpg)
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something more performance oriented than a Harley includes many, many vehicles, including this (perhaps too forward thinking for HD owners?):
:thumbs: I like it!
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Happy Labor Day every one! Hopefully your all off today relaxing at home?
Ok here we are Sept 1st...only a couple of weeks away before the 2015's are officially announced by Kaw....are we gettin a new concours, some updates, or just "bold new graphics!"?
Anyone out there have any friends at Kaw? ;D
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Ok here we are Sept 1st...only a couple of weeks away before the 2015's are officially announced by Kaw....are we gettin a new concours, some updates, or just "bold new graphics!"?
Sounds like you spend time on KLR650 sites. That's all they ever get, BOLD NEW GRAPHICS!!
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Sounds like you spend time on KLR650 sites. That's all they ever get, BOLD NEW GRAPHICS!!
Actually I think I stole that from Honda.... They use that term allll the time....lol
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Actually I think I stole that from Honda.... They use that term allll the time....lol
That may be, but just checked their powersports site and there are 13 relatively new models; 14 if one counts the CB1100, too. Kawi has been lagging behind for a while now. Yamaha's new FZ-07/09 models are creating a stir, too. An ST model is hopefully coming out soon, based on the FZ-09. Not much from Suzuki, still living off of Busa memories...
Come on Kawi, bring back an EPA approved H1R with a direct injected two stroke triple... Slow around here, on this Labor Day Holiday...
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Previous quote...
"I'm guessing Kaw isn't gonna make us wait till 2028 for a new concours. The days of 20yr model runs seem to be over. I mean Kaw updated the concours in just 2yrs after the launch in '08. Now that BMW, yamaha, triumph have all come out with updated/new ST's, I'm guessing we'll see a new concours this fall"
Just don't tell the KLR 650 guys...
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Just don't tell the KLR 650 guys...
I was one of those KLR guys for years. They would be happy if the DooHickey was properly replaced, and a 6th gear was added to the transmission. But if that happened, no one would have anything to gripe about on the forums.
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I was one of those KLR guys for years. They would be happy if the DooHickey was properly replaced, and a 6th gear was added to the transmission. But if that happened, no one would have anything to gripe about on the forums.
I wonder if the bike could handle an additional gear ratio. It may not have enough power to push the bike through the wind at a lower RPM.
My Versys has a 6 speed tranny, but it is in 6th gear at 45 mph and pushing 5000 RPMs at highway speeds. Top speed is attained in 5th gear, not 6th.
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A popular mod for the KLR is replacing the stock 15T C/S sprocket with a 16, Drops Highway speed RPM 3-400. Many who use theirs for all on road riding have gone up to a 17 with no problems. Have to learn to get used to 1st gear being almost like 2nd was, before the sprocket change with a 17. Not so much the 16.
Never used the clutch except to get moving and times when engine braking wasn't needed. Kawi builds some tough transmissions, that's for sure...
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That may be, but just checked their powersports site and there are 13 relatively new models; 14 if one counts the CB1100, too. Kawi has been lagging behind for a while now. Yamaha's new FZ-07/09 models are creating a stir, too. An ST model is hopefully coming out soon, based on the FZ-09. Not much from Suzuki, still living off of Busa memories...
Come on Kawi, bring back an EPA approved H1R with a direct injected two stroke triple... Slow around here, on this Labor Day Holiday...
Yes I know, & I actually do like the their '14 CB1100. I'm not saying this particular year, but I have def read that on their website more than once over the years. It prob says it on the CBR 600RR since its been the same bike since '07.
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http://www.kawasaki.com/NPL/Default.aspx (http://www.kawasaki.com/NPL/Default.aspx)
As of today. Norhing new for the C14 or KLR650, yet. Guess they figure that owners/buyers of these models are so loyal, that major updates aren't needed. Last year, they changed the suspension springs and seat on the KLR, called it a New Edition model, and charged more for it, while continuing to make the standard version, that still needed improved seating and suspension. What a marketing scam that was.
I'm happy with my 08. It looks new, runs like new, faster than I care to ride, doesn't have linked brakes, and is mine not the bank's, for the next six years.
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I'll bet the C-14 will just be a different color. The KLR will have a different color milk crate. :P
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I was one of those KLR guys for years. They would be happy if the DooHickey was properly replaced, and a 6th gear was added to the transmission. But if that happened, no one would have anything to gripe about on the forums.
Luv my KLR...wish it didn't burn so much oil. Lots of trouble making round cylinders in Thailand, apparently. Oh, well...Still the best ride for the dollar I've ever had.
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Luv my KLR...wish it didn't burn so much oil. Lots of trouble making round cylinders in Thailand, apparently. Oh, well...Still the best ride for the dollar I've ever had.
http://www.eaglemike.com/ (http://www.eaglemike.com/)
Here ya go. Get the 685 or larger kit, and oil consumption is a thing of the past. A friend did his '08 with the 685 kit, and no more oil problems Says it much runs better, too.
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Need I remind the peanut gallery that this is a thread concerning the 2015 connie. Other bikes can be freely discussed on the 'It's not a Concours - other bikes board'
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?board=11.0 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?board=11.0)
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http://www.kawasaki.com/NPL/Default.aspx (http://www.kawasaki.com/NPL/Default.aspx)
As of today. Norhing new for the C14 or KLR650, yet. Guess they figure that owners/buyers of these models are so loyal, that major updates aren't needed. Last year, they changed the suspension springs and seat on the KLR, called it a New Edition model, and charged more for it, while continuing to make the standard version, that still needed improved seating and suspension. What a marketing scam that was.
I'm happy with my 08. It looks new, runs like new, faster than I care to ride, doesn't have linked brakes, and is mine not the bank's, for the next six years.
30th anniversary of some of the Ninja bikes, huh? Good year to be a Ninja owner I guess.
I see the 'more to come' at the top of that bike list, although I'd guess that the 2016 model year will be when the Connie gets something new and cool (30th Connie anniversary...), although I'm not sure how you count those Anniversaries. Does the first year count as Year 1 or Year 0. If 1986 counts as year 0, my '06 is a 20th Anniversary Edition...
;D
The GPZ1000R (aka Ninja 1000) was introduced in 1986, so if it's a 30th anniversary for the Ninja, that'd make it a 30th anniversary for the Connie, unless 2007 doesn't count...
Not sure when the GPZ900R was first called a Ninja, but the 900R was introduced in 1984. Apparently it was the first stock bike that was able to exceed 150 MPH...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kawasaki_GPZ900R (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kawasaki_GPZ900R)
So, I'm with you guys. This SHOULD probably be the 30th Anniversary edition for the Connie, and Mama Kaw needs to do something cool!
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Kaw will prob announce the 2015 Connie prior to intermot so they can have all the press on the new H2?....unless maybe we see a new C14 too?? Hurry up Kaw ;D
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Kaw will prob announce the 2015 Connie prior to intermot so they can have all the press on the new H2?....unless maybe we see a new C14 too?? Hurry up Kaw ;D
http://www.sportrider.com/sportbike-news/kawasaki-announces-2015-ninja-h2-teaser-video (http://www.sportrider.com/sportbike-news/kawasaki-announces-2015-ninja-h2-teaser-video)
Wonder if the C14 will get supercharging too? Not that it needs it, just wondering.
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http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/news/h2-kawasakis-supercharged-ninja-confirmed?src=SOC&dom=fb (http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/news/h2-kawasakis-supercharged-ninja-confirmed?src=SOC&dom=fb)
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http://www.sportrider.com/sportbike-news/kawasaki-announces-2015-ninja-h2-teaser-video (http://www.sportrider.com/sportbike-news/kawasaki-announces-2015-ninja-h2-teaser-video)
Wonder if the C14 will get supercharging too? Not that it needs it, just wondering.
If they could make it 100lbs lighter would be nice.
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Ain't gonna happen.
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If they could make it 100lbs lighter would be nice.
Yeah and put on knobbies and call it an ADV version! ;D Course the knobbies would probably handle better than the original Bridgestones it comes with now. :censored:
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Yeah and put on knobbies and call it an ADV version! ;D Course the knobbies would probably handle better than the original Bridgestones it comes with now. :censored:
They tried something similar to that a while back. The Versys 1000. Not so much the knobbies, but an inline 4 ADV bike, at least. It didn't make it into the US, that I remember.
Oh, and how about that new 2015 Concours.Bet it's gonna be great...(gotta keep thread on track). Sorry Jim, it's been a long and not so great week and I couldn't help myselff... tp
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Wonder if the C14 will get supercharging too? Not that it needs it, just wondering.
Not even a remote chance. Forced induction will typically increase the wear on the engine, which is diametrically opposed to the entire concept of the C14- which is good performance but with good life and reliability. Sure, you can do a mild boost and be OK, but it also will increase cost, weight, size, and complexity.... none of which the C14 needs more of :)
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Oh, and how about that new 2015 Concours.Bet it's gonna be great...(gotta keep thread on track).
No question in my mind it will be identical to the 2010, 11, 12, 13, and 14.... perhaps with a new color.... but more likely a rerun of one of those year's color- preferably silver ;)
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Not even a remote chance. Forced induction will typically increase the wear on the engine, which is diametrically opposed to the entire concept of the C14- which is good performance but with good life and reliability. Sure, you can do a mild boost and be OK, but it also will increase cost, weight, size, and complexity.... none of which the C14 needs more of :)
I agree with all that. It was just a bit of sarcasm and making sure the thread stayed on the 2015 C14. You understand, right???
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Speaking of staying on track, we haven't heard anything from the OP since he/she started this thread. Strato, where you at?
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:offtopic: where does the 'stratochile' moniker come from? For instance, I could be a 'chileosac' myself. I'm thinking strato has something to do with flying?
I was wondering that too. Maybe from here....
Jimi Hendrix --- Voodoo Child, Live '69 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9irsg1vBmq0#)
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A new black and maybe a green.
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A new black and maybe a green.
They always have black (as if that is necessary)
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They always have black (as if that is necessary)
Gotta have black. #1 color for Harley and MB. White is #1 color for BMW cars, and for many years, Black was, for BMW motorcycles, what it was for the Model T, the only color available. It is now normally a Special Edition color for Beemers. I had an 03 RT, that was a limited edition black. Beautiful.
Love the color of my 08, but the burgandy wine color that has been offered, like it was in '12, is my favorite. Sofisticated looking, for sure...tp
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https://scontent-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10538574_759905124048057_6995681377481918296_n.jpg?oh=c05bc108334447251e2dee9a39ff090f&oe=548F20AA
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That green looks much nicer than I thought it would. Thanks for sharing. tp
Rode a while this afternoon. Funny that I have three good road bikes, but always seem to be grabbing up the fobs, before going out to the garage.
BTW, I was asked if the C14 would do 100MPH in 2nd gear. No place around here to find out. Anyone know what 2nd red line speed is? The question was asked of me after the go pro video of the accident that killed the guy in UK hit the interweb and news this week. I refuse to watch it, as I have seen vehicle death a few times before, and don't need to be reminded of just how fragile our lives are...
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That green is the same green as the new Dodge Viper green. Stryker Green Metallic.
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I love what he did with the lower fairing.
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BTW, I was asked if the C14 would do 100MPH in 2nd gear.
Tonight I went [briefly] 95MPH @ 10K in 2nd gear. Not at redline, but this probably answers your question.
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That would make redline of 10.5K at least 100. Thanks for your effort. I will pass on the info to the one who questioned me...
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That would make redline of 10.5K at least 100. Thanks for your effort. I will pass on the info to the one who questioned me...
I am pretty timid.... I have only been over 100MPH or over 9K RPM a few times on the C14, and have never hit redline, and have certainly never been over 60MPH in 2nd :) Man, there is a lot of HP up in the high RPM... the bike feels light as a feather and feels like it wants to launch to much higher speeds with zero effort. There are few opportunities to do such a thing around here (plus I value my license). Very different than putting along at 70 in 6th.
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What we have versus what we do with it can be a conflicting thing. I took both my ZZR1200 and C14 to a little over 135 once before, and in both cases, the bikes seemed to just beginning to be in their elements, but I wasn't, so no higher and no more times.
I have a riding buddy who feels 100 is just a starting point, but after a while, as BB King sang, "The thrill is gone." Almost wet my pants more than once riding with him, with some REALLY close calls. That's why I like riding alone. Usually 55-65 on back roads or the legal limit on highways. Riding with others can sometimes bring out the racer and competativeness that can lead to some nasty stuff happening, and I'm not ready to meet my maker, just quite yet... tomp
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Speaking of staying on track, we haven't heard anything from the OP since he/she started this thread. Strato, where you at?
Oh...speaking of staying on track...we have three weeks to go before finding out about the 2015 Concours-14...whether it gets an update or not. Unless somebody already posted something in this thread that I didn't read...lol.
We know that Kawi is releasing the new Supercharged "Ninja H2" at the end of this month (Cologne motorcycle show?), and there have been some spy shots in Europe of major updates to other models (Looks like the Versys 650 and 1000 are getting makeovers for 2015).
No word on the Concours-14 yet?
I think I'll stick with my 2010 C14 anyway...maybe swap my Rostra kit for MC Cruise this winter if I'm feelin' wealthy. If they DO change the C14 for 2015, I fear it will be for the worse anyway, since everybody wants it to be like a BMW 1600 Luxo-tourer with every option available to man. I think the North American masses will drive Kawasaki to turn the bike into more of a sport-TOURING bike instead of a SPORT-touring bike. I'm sure it will get more power, but it will likely also get bigger and heavier too...bigger windscreen, higher handlebars, winder fairings, etc. If you read any of the magazines or these forums, everybody wants the ultimate in comfort with zero wind ever touching their body or helmet, etc. I guess we'll see soon enough, and then in October we can start a new thread about predictions for the 2016 Concours-14...lol.
Rem :o
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Back when the '08 came out, there were of course a lot of generic complaints but also a small number of very earnest people with laundry lists of what Kawasaki needed to do to "fix" the bike. And Kawasaki listened- now we have linked brakes, KTRC, and a price tag approaching $17K (the '08 brand new was $12,699 as I remember, full retail) during 5 years of 2- 3% inflation. So as the whiners keep it up, soon enough the bike will crack $20K and yet the whining will not end, just change pitch and note for other 'needed' changes.
How does it go- be careful what you wish for, you may get it?
All of that is making a VFR1200 attractive. If it were not for the drive line snatch, I think it would be a great bike. And maybe, just maybe, the drive line snatch can be buffered too.... :-)
Brian
No word on the Concours-14 yet?
I think I'll stick with my 2010 C14 anyway...maybe swap my Rostra kit for MC Cruise this winter if I'm feelin' wealthy. If they DO change the C14 for 2015, I fear it will be for the worse anyway, since everybody wants it to be like a BMW 1600 Luxo-tourer with every option available to man. I think the North American masses will drive Kawasaki to turn the bike into more of a sport-TOURING bike instead of a SPORT-touring bike. I'm sure it will get more power, but it will likely also get bigger and heavier too...bigger windscreen, higher handlebars, winder fairings, etc. If you read any of the magazines or these forums, everybody wants the ultimate in comfort with zero wind ever touching their body or helmet, etc. I guess we'll see soon enough, and then in October we can start a new thread about predictions for the 2016 Concours-14...lol.
Rem :o
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Back when the '08 came out, there were of course a lot of generic complaints but also a small number of very earnest people with laundry lists of what Kawasaki needed to do to "fix" the bike. And Kawasaki listened- now we have linked brakes, KTRC, and a price tag approaching $17K (the '08 brand new was $12,699 as I remember, full retail) during 5 years of 2- 3% inflation. So as the whiners keep it up, soon enough the bike will crack $20K and yet the whining will not end, just change pitch and note for other 'needed' changes.
How does it go- be careful what you wish for, you may get it?
All of that is making a VFR1200 attractive. If it were not for the drive line snatch, I think it would be a great bike. And maybe, just maybe, the drive line snatch can be buffered too.... :-)
Brian
...and after all the supposed value added cost increases it will still lose half it's value in three years.
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Back when the '08 came out, there were of course a lot of generic complaints but also a small number of very earnest people with laundry lists of what Kawasaki needed to do to "fix" the bike. And Kawasaki listened- now we have linked brakes, KTRC, and a price tag approaching $17K (the '08 brand new was $12,699 as I remember, full retail) during 5 years of 2- 3% inflation. So as the whiners keep it up, soon enough the bike will crack $20K and yet the whining will not end, just change pitch and note for other 'needed' changes.
How does it go- be careful what you wish for, you may get it?
All of that is making a VFR1200 attractive. If it were not for the drive line snatch, I think it would be a great bike. And maybe, just maybe, the drive line snatch can be buffered too.... :-)
Brian
A new 2014 C14 at the local dealer here in Canada is $19,299 and of course they want to charge freight ($599) and PDI ($299) on top of that. Oh, and lets not forget the 15% provincial tax...lol. That puts a new C14 just over $23,000 out the door.
Of course the prices drops drastically in the fall, and you can get the same bike for $16,999 but the extra fees and taxes are still there.
This is why I refuse to buy new most of the time, when I can pick up a lightly used model in the US for FAR less.
My 2010 C14 (ABS/Ktrc) with 4300 miles was $9500 bucks USD...back in 2012. So I don't get any warranty....pfft...even if I DID have to pay for shop labor, which I don't, I can buy a lot of repairs for almost $10,000 in savings...lol. The risk is extremely low imho.
Anyway...that's all irrelevant with regards to the current topic. Even IF the 2015 C14 has changes that I like (I highly doubt it), I wouldn't be buying one until at least 2017 anyway...lol. For Rembrant, it's a non-issue at this point in the game.
I'm not saying it should stay as it is forever either, but in the grand scheme of things, it is my opinion that the public will drive this beautiful motorcycle into being something that some of us (the minority...lol) will dislike.
Maybe not...lol, so I guess we'll wait and see won't we?
And just to add to it all, It seems strange to me (at my young age) to dislike all these so-called "enhancements" and "upgrades" for greater comfort and further gadgetry and accessories, but the "better" things get, the more I just want to buy something like an old Suzuki Bandit for $5000 to do my sport-touring on....for it's simplicity and cost effectiveness (and I'm the farthest thing in the world from being a Suzuki fan). Whatever happened to "roughing it" with traditional handlebars and a couple analog gauges?....lol. Open the gas cap and give the bike a shake to see if you have enough fuel left. 8)
That's my rant for the day;).
Rem :o :o :o :o
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In may of this year i bought my 2013 for $12500 out the door, so i still think even though first model years can be higher, the concours can be had for a lot less than a BMW. Do i wish i had cruise and a bit more snap at rollon speeds, yes, but for a few $$ that will be resolved this winter.
AS for the 2015, if they come out with some big changes i will have to wait a few more years. A buddy just sent me the new goldwing pictures, fancy paint,badges and black out chrome for $30k ...i hope kawasaki doesnt go that route!
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Kawasaki's web site has the 2015's listed for most of their lineup except the concours. New C14 to follow??
http://kawasaki.com/Home/Home.aspx (http://kawasaki.com/Home/Home.aspx)
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Nothing on the UK site either....
http://www.kawasaki.co.uk/en/products (http://www.kawasaki.co.uk/en/products)
or the Australian site.
http://www.kawasaki.com.au/ (http://www.kawasaki.com.au/)
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Yep, same lineup that they were showing a week or more ago. Looks like they are making lots of changes in the products, but still no C 14. Here's direct link for new products, posted a week ago.
http://www.kawasaki.com/NPL/Default.aspx (http://www.kawasaki.com/NPL/Default.aspx)
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Got this email on the 9th:
http://view.email.kawasaki.com/?j=fe92177577620c7f76&m=fe9c15707663077f76&ls=fdf21072726d007976117072&l=feca117476640575&s=fe2f15717760017e721372&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe2e15727367037d741376&r=0 (http://view.email.kawasaki.com/?j=fe92177577620c7f76&m=fe9c15707663077f76&ls=fdf21072726d007976117072&l=feca117476640575&s=fe2f15717760017e721372&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe2e15727367037d741376&r=0)
No mention of the Concours so I don't think there will be any significant changes.
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Got this email on the 9th:
http://view.email.kawasaki.com/?j=fe92177577620c7f76&m=fe9c15707663077f76&ls=fdf21072726d007976117072&l=feca117476640575&s=fe2f15717760017e721372&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe2e15727367037d741376&r=0 (http://view.email.kawasaki.com/?j=fe92177577620c7f76&m=fe9c15707663077f76&ls=fdf21072726d007976117072&l=feca117476640575&s=fe2f15717760017e721372&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe2e15727367037d741376&r=0)
No mention of the Concours so I don't think there will be any significant changes.
Shoot, the only thing I ever get from them are extended warranty quotes that are outragiously high. One would have to be
high himself to spend so much on the policy. $750 for three years.
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Interesting, not, that every section had information about 2015 models, except the Concours which just had a 2014. Does that mean they aren't even coming out with a 2015? ???
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Kwakers has proven themselves to be inscrutable. We'll know when we know.
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That email/page didn't mention the Ninja H2 and we know that will be a new bike for 2015.
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That email/page didn't mention the Ninja H2 and we know that will be a new bike for 2015.
I doubt that they would introduce a brand new model without more fanfare.. Read it is to be introduced at the Intermot in October.
The image just looks like another sport bike to me. I'd rather they make a real DS, using the 650 twin from the Versys, with off road suspension and wheel set ups.
http://www.motoroids.com/news/video-2014-kawasaki-ninja-h2-teased-before-intermot-debut/ (http://www.motoroids.com/news/video-2014-kawasaki-ninja-h2-teased-before-intermot-debut/)
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Interesting, not, that every section had information about 2015 models, except the Concours which just had a 2014. Does that mean they aren't even coming out with a 2015? ???
If they weren't making any changes, they would of listed the '15 along with the others. I bet they are waiting to announce a new bike...perhaps at intermot along with the new H2?? Is it Sept 30th yet?? :)
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Interesting, not, that every section had information about 2015 models, except the Concours which just had a 2014. Does that mean they aren't even coming out with a 2015? ???
No '15 Versys information yet. All the other bikes mostly just new color choices. Or should I say recycled color choices. When was the last time Kawasaki went with an entirely new color on any bike?
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No '15 Versys information yet. All the other bikes mostly just new color choices. Or should I say recycled color choices. When was the last time Kawasaki went with an entirely new color on any bike?
The Versys 650 and the Versys 1000 are getting updated for 2015. The 1000 is getting a major change/update, and the 650 is supposed to be updated as well, but how much of an update hasn't been mentioned.
Rem
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2015 Versys 1000...
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2015 Versys 1000...
Looks like a Tiger 1050. Sure hope the front lighting is better. Tiger's headlights were horrible. Worst I ever rode at night, tp
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2015 Versys 1000...
I like the stacked headlights on my '11 Versys. The new 1000 just looks like all the other bikes now. From the front end you can't tell the difference between a Concours and a Maxi-scooter.
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If they weren't making any changes, they would of listed the '15 along with the others. I bet they are waiting to announce a new bike...perhaps at intermot along with the new H2?? Is it Sept 30th yet?? :)
H2 Supercharged ?? Will it have a bigger cousin ? ???
http://www.cycleworld.com/2014/09/09/kawasaki-ninja-h2-supercharged-superbike-technical-analysis-and-insights-by-kevin-cameron/?cmpid=enews091114&spPodID=030&spMailingID=21431733&spUserID=NzQ5OTQyNTc0NTYS1&spJobID=400678362&spReportId=NDAwNjc4MzYyS0 (http://www.cycleworld.com/2014/09/09/kawasaki-ninja-h2-supercharged-superbike-technical-analysis-and-insights-by-kevin-cameron/?cmpid=enews091114&spPodID=030&spMailingID=21431733&spUserID=NzQ5OTQyNTc0NTYS1&spJobID=400678362&spReportId=NDAwNjc4MzYyS0)
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H2 Supercharged ?? Will it have a bigger cousin ? ???
Someday it might but they didn't put the Ninja based engine into the C-14 the first time until they had quite a bit of customer experience with it.
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Maybe the Concours will become a ZG1000 again with more power than the current ZG1400 and less weight. That could be interesting.
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Wonder what it will be size wise. I've read 750, to 1000cc's. Personally don't see the viability of a 12-1400 CC supercharged.model.
Just too much power for daily street use,,and insurance would probably equal the bike's monthy payment...
I loved my ZZR1200 and my 14, and other than being able to say, "I own one.", it doesn't twist my wick.
Whatever the size, insurance is going to be a bee-otch, for sure... tp
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While i can certainly understand the insurance concerns, i live in Ma where they just bend us over and charge what they want! I will say when i bought my connie this year and they quoted me $570 for full coverage i was shocked as i was paying $1300 for a 2009 harley. So with that said go ahead Kawi make it bigger, i can afford a few bucks per year.
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and other than being able to say, "I own one."
Definitely the driving factor in a lot of bike purchases. ::)
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My guess on the H2 is a supercharged ZX10R. Kind of a poor man's BMW HP4 that you can actually go down to a dealer and buy off the showroom floor. The few pics in the vids sure look like a full on sport bike.
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Guys, a question...1000 supercharged, or 1400 natural. Why should we care? Not meant as a smart butt, but do we really gain much? For me, I'm ok with 1400 normal...
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Guys, a question...1000 supercharged, or 1400 natural. Why should we care? Not meant as a smart butt, but do we really gain much? For me, I'm ok with 1400 normal...
I'm guessing the 1000 supercharged is only going in a ZX bike for now. Maybe something for a Gen 3 ZG bike later. Should get as much or better HP in a smaller lighter engine.
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Steering this ship back on course...
When do we see our new concours?? It's already mid sept. I wonder if Kaw used the new H2 engine in the new '15 concours?? Or if it will have the ZX14R engine with the power modes, & different TC settings??
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Checked the Euro and Japan Kawi sites, still no 2015 Concours/GTR1400 info yet. All showing 2014's.
Check out this page. With all they build, it is amazing that they even care about motorcycles, for the comparative revenue they bring in to the corp.
https://www.kawasaki-cp.khi.co.jp/brand/index_e.html (https://www.kawasaki-cp.khi.co.jp/brand/index_e.html)
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There is no need for additional power, at least on the top end. If they would make a Guhl-type remap to the low end of the baseline map, then they'd have something.
Regarding an earlier post, I know that my Connie ONCE hit the rev-limiter in fifth gear. Quite exhilarating. 8)
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I was just completing our order for the fall, and noticed there is no Concours14 listed as non-current or 2015 models at this time??
So are they done making them??
Are they all going to have the zx14r motor?
Enquiring minds want to know?
www.jmpcycle.com (http://www.jmpcycle.com)
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I have absolutely no idea but from a purely manufacturing point of view, it would make sense to use the same block in both bikes (ZX and Concours). Manufacturers usually avoid making two different devices where one can be used so I belive the newer, large engine will show up in the Concours as well; it would again mean that there was only one basic '1400' size engine being made. Which is exactly why the Concours has a 5.8 gallon fuel tank by the way- because the ZX that proceeded it had that same tank and it is cheaper to make more of the same thing than have another production run of, say, 6.8 gallon fuel tanks.
By the way, I am not saying Kawasaki is an evil corporate monster or anything, merely that they are trying to help US achieve our goal of not spending any more than we have to on a new bike. ;)
Brian
I was just completing our order for the fall, and noticed there is no Concours14 listed as non-current or 2015 models at this time??
So are they done making them??
Are they all going to have the zx14r motor?
Enquiring minds want to know?
www.jmpcycle.com (http://www.jmpcycle.com)
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According to Cycle World, Kawi is going to debut the new superbike at the Intermot show in Cologne, Germany on September 30th.
http://www.cycleworld.com/2014/09/16/teaser-video-6-kawasaki-ninja-h2-the-original/?cmpid=enews091814&spPodID=030&spMailingID=21470269&spUserID=NzM4NjMwNjg5MzkS1&spJobID=401109877&spReportId=NDAxMTA5ODc3S0 (http://www.cycleworld.com/2014/09/16/teaser-video-6-kawasaki-ninja-h2-the-original/?cmpid=enews091814&spPodID=030&spMailingID=21470269&spUserID=NzM4NjMwNjg5MzkS1&spJobID=401109877&spReportId=NDAxMTA5ODc3S0)
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I was just completing our order for the fall, and noticed there is no Concours14 listed as non-current or 2015 models at this time??
So are they done making them??
Are they all going to have the zx14r motor?
Enquiring minds want to know?
www.jmpcycle.com (http://www.jmpcycle.com)
killingbugs, are you jmpcycle?
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1400 GTR /C14 is the only Kawa model without the MY 15 announcement. Hmmmmmmm
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Why did it so many years for KHI to put a decent seat and better suspension on the KLR650? Why, because it sold as is, successfully. Probably the same with the 14/1400. KHI had to add accessories that other brand bikes had, to stay competitive in '10. Other than cruise control, and a built in sound system/GPS, what does the current model need now?
The larger ZX/ZZR1400 engine would be possibly nice, but to maintain decent MPG, and touring manners, it would have to be detuned from the ZX specs, giving us maybe 10-15 more HP, only available at RPM peaks. Triumph went major when they changed from the Sprint ST (GT) to the Trophy 1200 SE. That got the public's attention.
What must KHI do to get the same attention? Triumph went after the RT customer sales. Who would Kawi need to draw from to justify the cost of changing a successful motorcycle? FJR1300? Not the VFR1200 or 1300 ST, for sure. Bean counters would prevail at KHI, unless the engineers and marketing group could prove worthwhile improvements. . .
FWIW, I had a 1050ST, and can say that my 08 C14 is a better all round motorcycle, except for the awesome sound of the triple. Unsure how my 14 compares to the Trophy, but they are too expensive to satify my curiosity. Perhaps a '15 model 14 may not be made available until sometime in '15. Guess we have to wait and see... tomp
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Take a mild version of that 300hp H2 motor, maybe 180-200hp, put it in an ST frame with all the other ST features such as electric windshield, full locking hard bags, shaft drive, big comfy seat and add CC this time, but make it < 600 lbs and Kawi would go straight to the head of the class again. My dream for a new bike in 2016.
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Kawi has redesigned the cosmetics on the Versys with some additional upgrades. Hopefully we will know today whether the value of our '14s has dropped or gone up.
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Take a mild version of that 300hp H2 motor, maybe 180-200hp, put it in an ST frame with all the other ST features such as electric windshield, full locking hard bags, shaft drive, big comfy seat and add CC this time, but make it < 600 lbs and Kawi would go straight to the head of the class again. My dream for a new bike in 2016.
Now thats what im talkin about...
...In all reality that's what Kaw would need to do to start making some of the R&D $$$ back, cuz lets be honest...how many 300HP $30k super bikes are they really gonna sell??? It's a very narrow market. They need to repurpose that engine in dif platforms to really start payin for the r&d.
Yeah the new versus 1000 & 650 look pretty sweet. Hope the 1000 makes it to the US??
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Spotted 1:51 silverdammit in the back ground.
Looks like a different tank=
http://youtu.be/jmSPbLdh5P0 (http://youtu.be/jmSPbLdh5P0)
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Man you have good eyes. I kinda saw something silver in the background, but the ZX14/ZZR1400 was more noticable.
Around 300HP for the H2R, that's more than MotoGP bikes have. Imagine the TC requirements for it.
I'm sorry but all the angular look to the recent bikes, like the Z1000 and the BMW S1000R, etc, are just too much for me. I like my bikes like I like my women, with curves. May not be the best in wind tunnel testing, but my 04 RT looks so much better than the 14 RT, IMO.... Ain't life great?!?
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Just checked the Australian Kawi site, The H2R is there with all the other 15's but the GTR/Concours is still a 14. Nothing new for us yet. . .
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Maybe they didn't get the new Connie ready in time. I can't find any news on it anywhere and you would think someone would be reporting on it since they are reporting on the redesigned Versys 650 and 1000. BTW: the new Versys isn't showing up on Kawasaki.com yet.
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IIRC, last year, the 2014 model wasn't announced until very late in the year. Seems they don't even start production on the following model year until November or so.
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Spotted 1:51 silverdammit in the back ground.
Looks like a different tank=
That's not the tank you see different, I think that's the tail of the ZX14 in the way.
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That's not the tank you see different, I think that's the tail of the ZX14 in the way.
There is a C14 saddlebag visible but I think the view is misleading. There is another bike that is parked at an angle to it that blocks the view of the front of the C14.
Besides, if there was a new and different 2015 C14 there at that show, someone would have reported on it by now.
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kawasaki will do something with the 2015 connie, and it will be more than changing colour.... :)
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An optimist. I like that!
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Not a bad idea in the abstract but let's look at it realistically: given the cost of a new C-14 and what you have mentioned below, I doubt the bike could be brought to market for less than $22K- $25K at a guess (reasonable guess I think). Then there are the insurance considerations: mention the magic words "supercharger" (of any type, mechanical, exhaust driven or Paxton type) and watch the insurance skyrocket. Finally, a touring bike, even a sport tourer, is graded on how well it handles the miles and typically, supercharging is NOT the ticket for lots of miles, low maintenance and low cost of ownership.
Hey, I too like the idea and would absolutely go to the local dealer and have a look at such a machine, no doubt about it. But would enough people actually 'pony up' the actual money to make marketing such a thing profitable? I really doubt it. We live in a world driven by common economics and practical devices regardless of what we think we want. I believe the C-14 is a great bike at any price but I do not delude myself for one instant that price is not important in the actual purchase (as opposed to the imaginary purchase- in that case, I'll take two :-) ).
Just as food for thought, lots of Americans scream that we want out products made here (the US) no matter what.... then we get in our cars and go to WalMart and buy everything because it is the least expensive place and do not really care where it was made (in almost all instances at that store, China). So we tend to blather with our mouths and really endorse products with our wallets. I am not criticizing you (Rhino) or anyone by saying this as I am as guilty as anyone in doing this. It is merely the reality encroaching on the imaginary and more emotionally desirable.
Brian
Take a mild version of that 300hp H2 motor, maybe 180-200hp, put it in an ST frame with all the other ST features such as electric windshield, full locking hard bags, shaft drive, big comfy seat and add CC this time, but make it < 600 lbs and Kawi would go straight to the head of the class again. My dream for a new bike in 2016.
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You are absolutely KILLING ME with that 'Thunder nugget' name for your bike.
:rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao:
Brian
kawasaki will do something with the 2015 connie, and it will be more than changing colour.... :)
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Maybe they didn't get the new Connie ready in time. I can't find any news on it anywhere and you would think someone would be reporting on it since they are reporting on the redesigned Versys 650 and 1000. BTW: the new Versys isn't showing up on Kawasaki.com yet.
EICMA, in Milan Italy, is the leading motorcycle show in Europe. The German Intermot is at every other year playing the BMW game.
I expect something new or updated from Kawa other than the production H2... it seems all line up is already announced except... the C14 /1400GTR.
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EICMA, in Milan Italy, is the leading motorcycle show in Europe. The German Intermot is at every other year playing the BMW game.
I expect something new or updated from Kawa other than the production H2... it seems all line up is already announced except... the C14 /1400GTR.
The H2 is on Kawasaki.com, but the new Versys 650 is not, and we still don't know if we will get the Versys 1000. In fact there is no mention of a KLX250S on their website, 2015 or 2014.
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Just checked the Australian Kawi site, The H2R is there with all the other 15's but the GTR/Concours is still a 14. Nothing new for us yet. . .
UNSPOTTED then :(
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Not a bad idea in the abstract but let's look at it realistically: given the cost of a new C-14 and what you have mentioned below, I doubt the bike could be brought to market for less than $22K- $25K at a guess (reasonable guess I think). Then there are the insurance considerations: mention the magic words "supercharger" (of any type, mechanical, exhaust driven or Paxton type) and watch the insurance skyrocket. Finally, a touring bike, even a sport tourer, is graded on how well it handles the miles and typically, supercharging is NOT the ticket for lots of miles, low maintenance and low cost of ownership.
Hey, I too like the idea and would absolutely go to the local dealer and have a look at such a machine, no doubt about it. But would enough people actually 'pony up' the actual money to make marketing such a thing profitable? I really doubt it. We live in a world driven by common economics and practical devices regardless of what we think we want. I believe the C-14 is a great bike at any price but I do not delude myself for one instant that price is not important in the actual purchase (as opposed to the imaginary purchase- in that case, I'll take two :-) ).
Just as food for thought, lots of Americans scream that we want out products made here (the US) no matter what.... then we get in our cars and go to WalMart and buy everything because it is the least expensive place and do not really care where it was made (in almost all instances at that store, China). So we tend to blather with our mouths and really endorse products with our wallets. I am not criticizing you (Rhino) or anyone by saying this as I am as guilty as anyone in doing this. It is merely the reality encroaching on the imaginary and more emotionally desirable.
Brian
I agree with everything you said. And yes a supercharged engine might put it over the top in price. But I do think the market is ready for a full featured but lighter sport tourer with C14/FJR like power. The first mfg that can bring that to market for under 20K will do well IMO. Maybe that's not possible but it seems with all the high power sport bike liter engines around, one of the big 4 Japanese should at least be looking at it. Think an updated C10 with a ZX10R engine. Do you think that could be made to be in the 550 lbs range for $16,000? Would anybody be interested in it? I think the C14 is one of the best trade offs for performance and touring that money can buy. But would love it to be 100 lbs lighter. That would get me back to the show room ;)
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The H2 is on Kawasaki.com, but the new Versys 650 is not, and we still don't know if we will get the Versys 1000. In fact there is no mention of a KLX250S on their website, 2015 or 2014.
this is where it counts...
https://www.kawasaki-cp.khi.co.jp/mcy/street_e.html (https://www.kawasaki-cp.khi.co.jp/mcy/street_e.html)
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Yeah, there no doubt IS a market for such a bike, as long as the buyer is willing to take the limitations such as less power and perhaps not quite as rigid a frame and probably a shorter saddle area (fine for one person riding though).
And I think there are stabs in that direction- the original 800 VFR was exactly what you are talking about I think. Right now, that Kawi 1000 with the hard bags would probably fill the bill too. It is chain driven but an automatic chain oiler, combined with modern chains will bring the lifespan of a chain and sprocket set to well over 30K miles- not bad really and not horrible maintenance.
Then there is the whole 'roll your own' type using something like a Suzuki Bandit and dressing it as needed for touring. Not as tidy or 'slick' as a factory tourer but a very workable rig and reasonable in price.
Another thing that would be a big plus I think in a 3/4 size C-14 / FJR would be significantly reduced saddle height. These big bikes are a real handful (or is that a real crotchfull (Easy Boys!)?) for average or slightly below men and most women who are now a significant part of the motorcycle buying community. I think a 750 - 900 sport tourer might be a great seller but only if the price could be held down in that same 3/4 C-14 / FJR range and I am not confident that can be done. Now spending 90% of the price of a C-14 for 3/4 of the bike just ain't gonna' work IMO.
Brian
I agree with everything you said. And yes a supercharged engine might put it over the top in price. But I do think the market is ready for a full featured but lighter sport tourer with C14/FJR like power. The first mfg that can bring that to market for under 20K will do well IMO. Maybe that's not possible but it seems with all the high power sport bike liter engines around, one of the big 4 Japanese should at least be looking at it. Think an updated C10 with a ZX10R engine. Do you think that could be made to be in the 550 lbs range for $16,000? Would anybody be interested in it? I think the C14 is one of the best trade offs for performance and touring that money can buy. But would love it to be 100 lbs lighter. That would get me back to the show room ;)
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this is where it counts...
https://www.kawasaki-cp.khi.co.jp/mcy/street_e.html (https://www.kawasaki-cp.khi.co.jp/mcy/street_e.html)
Now if you go and look at the offering, you will see exactly why K has not shown the '15 Conni yet. It is clear they have gone way overboard making wayyy too many Z and Ninja models, in wayyyyy too many color combos, because the quick sell lower bikes are the niche they are aiming for.. also keep in mind that for 2016, they will clearly produce a 30th anniversary edition of the Concours. No doubt in our minds, K has been very open eared to COG, we have had them bring truckloads of bikes, numerous occaisions, to our national rallies.... there will be a 2015 model, with possible a new color offering, but the big kahuna will be the 2016,
Understand just how much it costs to stockpile all this color matched plastic for all these models, for squid replacments when they get road rash, then add that onto the Conni pricetag...
I figure next improvement will be throttle by wire, a slightly lowered seating height, and some interesting paint. Only, for the 2016... oh, and Badges... we don neeeed no steeeenkeen badges...
As for the H2.... get real, its a bogus hype set of videos, designed to cause people to drool.
The bike s not "real" at this point, meaning not produced for sale. It has no mirrors, lights, or real world parts suggesting it will be available for consumption, and even in the state they show it, would cost a racer well into the $100k range to posess....
Cool looking? Yes
Realistic? In my eyes.... mehhh, just eyecandy, to appease the silly people that can't do their own CGI or photoshop renditions.
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We will find it out soon...EICMA is just around... http://www.eicma.it/en/ (http://www.eicma.it/en/)
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http://youtu.be/ZG3NlOgy0Zo (http://youtu.be/ZG3NlOgy0Zo)
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I'd be curious to hear from some of the long time Connie owners (prior/current C10 most likely), in 2007 did Kawi announce that there would not be a Concours that year? Or did they release that there would be nothing that year but in 2008 (mid 2007) there would be a C14? :-\
Maybe there is a C16 coming for 2016 (mid-2015) and this will just be a year off for the Connie? :-\ :cool:
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I think you are right......
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Just to add to the plethora of information and suppositions, Kawi has bean counters who will determine if any real changes will happen to the C14. With all the adventure bikes now on the market, set up for touring, and the mid size tourers from the likes of BMW, Aprilia, as well as Honda's new funky CTX line, and what plans Yamaha has for the FZ-07 and 09 models, Kawi may see a change in the market for models in the 700-900cc range for pricing and broader public appeal, to be where the money needs to be spent for the greatest reward and ROI.
How many riders world wide, are stepping up to C14/GTR1400's, FJR1300, R1200RT's and 1600GT/GTL's, at today's prices. As was mentioned, "what we desire vs what we actually buy(wallyworld), how many on this site would actually fork over your beloved motorcycle and bunches of more money to gain the features of an R1200RT? Your bike and $10-15K cash/ loan for those features? I for one wouldn't, especially again.
I had to have a 1200RT, with all the bell and whistles, and it set me back over $23K. Giant waste of my money. Sold it to someone who felt the price was worth it, and got a 10 year old RT w 30K miles, and my 08 14 with 20K. Saves me $400 a month in payments, and I have two bikes to ride, which allow me much more opportunities for fun...
One thing I know, regardless of what does or doesn't happen with the Connie, there will be folks who won't like it and complain, creating fodder for many more threads on this and other sites....FWIW, why Cruise control wasn't on the 14 from the start, I will never understand...tp
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this is where it counts...
https://www.kawasaki-cp.khi.co.jp/mcy/street_e.html (https://www.kawasaki-cp.khi.co.jp/mcy/street_e.html)
Nice website, but has nothing to do with what makes it to the US. I would have bought a w800 in a heartbeat, but now I have my Guzzi and not looking back.
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The 1000cc (N1K engine)Versys with hardbags will be available in the States for 2015 as well as the Yammy FJ09 for those of us looking for a light weight touring bike
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Gonna be a looooong Oct waiting for the ECIMA show where we finally get to see our new supercharged concours ;) ;D 8)
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Can only hope..
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I would love to see a lighter version of the Concours. I've been eyeing the beemer F800GT as a possibility. If Kawi could do the same thing at a cheaper price point I'd be in. I don't think the Ninga 1K with bags is an option since the faring is smaller, too much forward lean etc....
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I would love to see a lighter version of the Concours. I've been eyeing the beemer F800GT as a possibility. If Kawi could do the same thing at a cheaper price point I'd be in. I don't think the Ninga 1K with bags is an option since the faring is smaller, too much forward lean etc....
Not me... I had basically that in my 06 VFR800, great bike for just me, but too small for 2up touring IMO, hence why I went to the Connie. :)
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Not me... I had basically that in my 06 VFR800, great bike for just me, but too small for 2up touring IMO, hence why I went to the Connie. :)
I agree that if 2up touring, and 1up fun in the same bike is your goal the C14 is it. For me though I commute an hour each way on the bike, and the wife has only gone on one weekend trip and i doubt will go again.
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Yes I find myself in this situation now as well.
Commute went from 22 miles to 40 miles each way.
I have thought about something that gets closer to 70 mpg.
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Yes I find myself in this situation now as well.
Commute went from 22 miles to 40 miles each way.
I have thought about something that gets closer to 70 mpg.
Motorcycles aren't really economical rides. When you figure in the cost of tires, the $/mile goes up.
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I guess the point is I ride to work and back. Four day per week. It would be nice to get better than 41 MPG, but I can live with it.
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Yes I find myself in this situation now as well.
Commute went from 22 miles to 40 miles each way.
I have thought about something that gets closer to 70 mpg.
Excluding all other costs, the NC700X is getting around 65MPG, and it is a Honda...
http://www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/honda/nc700x (http://www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/honda/nc700x)
I got around 70MPG on a KLX250S, but if your commute is all hiway speeds, the 250 single will be buzzing, and only 90 miles to reserve, so that's buying gas every day...
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Excluding all other costs, the NC700X is getting around 65MPG, and it is a Honda...
http://www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/honda/nc700x (http://www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/honda/nc700x)
I got around 70MPG on a KLX250S, but if your commute is all hiway speeds, the 250 single will be buzzing, and only 90 miles to reserve, so that's buying gas every day...
My next door neighbor has a NC700X with givi V35 bags and top trunk. He is getting 70 mpg commuting 60 miles one way every day. It is a great commuter bike, but not really a great performance bike. I prefer the Versys over it.
I would choose the Versys 1000 over the Ninja 1000, but prefer the shaft drive on the Concours 14.
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My next door neighbor has a NC700X with givi V35 bags and top trunk. He is getting 70 mpg commuting 60 miles one way every day. It is a great commuter bike, but not really a great performance bike. I prefer the Versys over it.
That's actually at the top of my list.
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That's actually at the top of my list.
That would be my choice, too. I thought I was getting a job requiring a commute, and found a KLX250SM at a great price. Then I figured the cost of the bike and the cost of gas on it and compared the cost of gas on the C14, and realized that the ROI on the 250 would be several years out. Didn't take the job, but I would have kept the 14 as the commuter, instead of investing in another bike. My daily would have been only 50 miles, where yours is more, so your ROI should be much shorter. tp
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Not that I mind that much (well actually I do) but this really is a thread about the 2015 connie, at least according to the OP's subject line. If you really must discuss other bikes we do have a board for that...
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?board=11.0 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?board=11.0)
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Yes Jim. I guess many of us are wearing out waiting on Kawasaki to reveal the rest of the 2015 lineup.
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Not that I mind that much (well actually I do) but this really is a thread about the 2015 connie, at least according to the OP's subject line. If you really must discuss other bikes we do have a board for that...
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?board=11.0 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?board=11.0)
you know your herd, Jim. We would never, ever derail a thread (http://www.mysmiley.net/imgs/smile/angel/angel02.gif) (http://www.mysmiley.net/free-winking-smileys.php)
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>:( ;) :D
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I start next week at a dealership that sells Kawi's among other brands. Maybe I can learn something. FWIW, I checked, no one knows about the actual appearance of H2R's and H2 street versions. Well kept secret so far... Same about the 14's, no news yet.
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http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/motorcycles/2015/Kawasaki.htm (http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/motorcycles/2015/Kawasaki.htm)
??? 2015 Connie not on the list yet.
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Copied from a friend of mine on Facebook's Kawasaki Concours 14 Enthusiasts (one of the better pages on Facebook. IMHO.)
OFFICIAL 2015 CONCOURS INFO FROM KAWASAKI WHILE AT THE AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE EXPO IN ORLANDO TODAY.
First, Kawasaki launched several new bikes. Unfortunately, they showed only a 2014 Concours. No 2015 model or news!!!
Bummer.
This had me consented so I tracked down an official and asked if there was going to be a 2015 model at all and mention our page, or membership and what was being rumored. Specifically, I asked if there was going to be a 2015 model or if it was being phased out !!
ANSWER:
THERE "WILL" BE A 2015 MODEL OF THE CONCOURS / GTR. IT WILL HAVE MINOR CHANGES OTHER THAN JUST COLOR. THERE IS A MAJOR EVENT IN MILAN IN NOVEMBER. MAY ANNOUNCED THERE, BUT COULDN'T CONFIRM THE VENUE, JUST THAT THERE WOULD BE A NEWER, 2015 CONCOURS / GTR.
That's it hits and girls. It's official.
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??? 2015 Connie not on the list yet.
I believe every other model of Concours was announced before mid-October- am I correct?
If so- this would suggest a repeat of events of the last model change, and we can look forward to a supercharger.
Let the good times roll!
mat
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??? 2015 Connie not on the list yet.
I believe every other model of Concours was announced before mid-October- am I correct?
If so- this would suggest a repeat of events of the last model change, and we can look forward to a supercharger.
Let the good times roll!
mat
I fully expect a 2015 Connie.
I believe that one of the changes is going to be electronic cruise. Considering I grew tired of waiting for this option and pulled the trigger on the 2014. :o
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I laugh in the direction of your expectations...it would be nice to have though.
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We still have 13's we are selling. C14's aren't big sellers around here. This is H-D country, for sure, so putting unchanged 15's on the floor would be a waste of time for us. tp
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We still have 13's we are selling. C14's aren't big sellers around here. This is H-D country, for sure, so putting unchanged 15's on the floor would be a waste of time for us. tp
Agreed. Perhaps I should clarify. :) If Mother Kaw does the switch for the third generation like the second, we won't see a model yr during the change to allow them to sell all remaining (2014) stock. Now this may be lofty thinking, but given the so far non-existant '15 model, isn't it possible?
mat
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I think they'll bring that ZX-14R 1441 cc engine, WITH compressor, on the new '15 C14. No doubt. Kind off... well, a bit of doubt, maybe...
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We still have 13's we are selling. C14's aren't big sellers around here. This is H-D country, for sure, so putting unchanged 15's on the floor would be a waste of time for us. tp
I think the whole USA is H-D country. I see 9 to 1 Harleys when I am out touring the country.
I stopped in Lynchburg, TN on Friday. Strolled the square and the shops and they had a lot of HD stuff for sale. I was looking at metal signs and the lady said she had a lot of HD stuff. I said, "I don't follow the crowd. Everyone and his brother has a Harley." Of course I got a lot of looks from the riders in the shop. LOL!
(http://pic20.picturetrail.com/VOL1275/13548833/24249654/410222405.jpg)
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I think they'll bring that ZX-14R 1441 cc engine, WITH compressor, on the new '15 C14. No doubt. Kind off... well, a bit of doubt, maybe...
;D ;D
The new concours must be pretty awesome since KAW is waiting til the show in Italy to reviel it 8)
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I spoke with the Regional Sales Mgr for Kawa at the Orlando AIM and he said minor changes only and NO electronic cruise control. He said that would raise the price by $1100 and they aren't selling well at the current price.
But they did have the 1000 Versys in black and orange/black. Standard with hardbags and a center stand, weighing in at about 550 lbs and a very neat optional top case that will hold 2 full face helmets and is one button removable. I lked it
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I guess we'll have to see what their minor changes are.......let me guess...................wait for it.........................................wait for it..................................color change! Just what we've all wanted. Bet it's another shade of black.
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I spoke with the Regional Sales Mgr for Kawa at the Orlando AIM and he said minor changes only and NO electronic cruise control. He said that would raise the price by $1100 and they aren't selling well at the current price.
:yikes: :yikes:
Well then, I'm glad I didn't wait I would have missed out on 14762km on smiles. Throttlemeister does the trick for now
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I guess we'll have to see what their minor changes are.......let me guess...................wait for it.........................................wait for it..................................color change! Just what we've all wanted. Bet it's another shade of black.
Not even "Bold New Graphics".
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I spoke with the Regional Sales Mgr for Kawa at the Orlando AIM and he said minor changes only and NO electronic cruise control. He said that would raise the price by $1100 and they aren't selling well at the current price.
Could be something to that. My local dealer doesn't have a single 2014 C14 on the floor and they have two 2013's. Last time I was there I think they had $11,999 on the tag. I see folks asking MORE for older used bikes on CL locally. They're probably just trolling...
I guess I don't get the delay. If the 2015 C14 is essentially the same as the 2014, why keep the potential buyers in the dark? All that does is discourage someone from buying a 2013 or a 2014 since they don't want to pull the trigger on that only to wish they had waited for the "new and improved" 2015 model.
Of course I'm not paid enough to be a marketing genius so we'll just have to wait and see what Kawasaki does...
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Their (Kwakers) situation is thus.. They haven't really done much of anything to the bike since Gen2. Their biggest worry is what color to make the next bike, other than that they're skating along. I hates them I does. What is also happening because Kwakers is sitting on their bums (at least it seems so to us) doing nothing but worrying about colors is that some of those that bought new are finding other manufacturers coming out with better options/gizmos/displacement and leaving the brand. Meanwhile the used market in the C14 arena (not our Arena) isn't that awfully bad for the newcomers. Kwakers, of course, gets very little monetary gain (nothing actually) from these transactions. New sales are sliding. Why should they do something about it? Pour money into a platform that isn't providing revenue? This to me is short sighted assuming I'm correct.
Of course, I could be wrong, and they have had their pencils sharpened working on a gen3 BMW/Yammy killer and it will come out next year in 2016, but by then the situation will have worsened even more for them and even possibly for us that want a gen3 (not me, this is my last bike and I'm keeping it forever if I can). More potential riders will be looking at other brands the longer this plays out. That's the way I see it.
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Of course there is some advantage to being the last one to introduce a next-gen bike. In the touring bike market, Honda has updated the GL1800 in 2012, Yamaha has redesigned the FJR1300 in 2013, BMW is now all in with their K1300GT in 2009 and the K1600GT in 2011.
So that leaves only Kawasaki with a older design. It seems to me that KHI likes to either trump the market with something entirely unexpected (Z1, Ninja, H2 to name a few) or wait until the other players show their cards and then regroup and come up with a better one.
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Year after year?
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Could be something to that. My local dealer doesn't have a single 2014 C14 on the floor and they have two 2013's. Last time I was there I think they had $11,999 on the tag. I see folks asking MORE for older used bikes on CL locally. They're probably just trolling...
Have a look on Ebay, you'll see old leftover 2013 C14's for even less than that...I'm amazed at how low the prices are this fall for the leftovers.
I was talking to a Kawi dealer yesterday, and they have a 2014 C14 they're tryin to unload for $5000 off of list price.
Tough market where I live...sigh*...lol.
Rem :o
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...this is my last bike and I'm keeping it forever if I can....
+1 on the sentiment (I can't promise to never get another though ;) )
But I'm happy with the 2013 I got. In fact, if I knew then what I know now, a 2011 or 2012 could have saved me some money for the same bike. (albeit a different colour perhaps)
New features are nice and all, but you'll be perpetually unhappy if you constantly "pine" for the latest/greatest thing.
You see the same thing in other markets - cameras, phones, TV's... Is a new TV going to make viewing that much better? After 10 or 12 megapixels, how much can be improved by adding a couple more? There are exceptions, but I'll bet they're few and far between...
This is all IMHO, FWIW, and YMMV and all that...
Jamie
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Could be something to that. My local dealer doesn't have a single 2014 C14 on the floor and they have two 2013's. Last time I was there I think they had $11,999 on the tag. I see folks asking MORE for older used bikes on CL locally. They're probably just trolling...
1) The economy still isn't great.
2) The demand for sport touring is much smaller than other categories.
3) The Concours is expensive- it is big, complex, and feature-packed. Most shoppers don't want to spend that much and/or can't afford it.
4) The dealers often don't even understand the Concours- why it exists, what it can do, etc.
5) The competition is finally starting to catch up.
I have noticed over the years that most dealers will have either one or no Concours on the floor. I think of that as pretty normal.
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New features are nice and all, but you'll be perpetually unhappy if you constantly "pine" for the latest/greatest thing.
You see the same thing in other markets - cameras, phones, TV's... Is a new TV going to make viewing that much better? After 10 or 12 megapixels, how much can be improved by adding a couple more? There are exceptions, but I'll bet they're few and far between...
So VERY true. And computers too- the improvements in computers over the years was so dramatic and fast that the last years most people simply don't need to upgrade anymore... they are fast and capable enough. It has led to a huge slump in the computer market. Manufacturers keep adding superficial fluff that really doesn't matter and consumers are tired of the upgrade game.
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If you look on Kawasaki's website, they have reduced the MSRP on some of their models for 2015. The high end bikes as much as $2000 lower than 2014.
Yamaha is coming out with competitive bikes in the low and mid markets and pricing them quite a bit lower than Kawasaki's offerings. The new R3, FZ07, and FZ09 are taking away market share.
The adventure touring market is growing and Kawasaki is hoping the Versys 650 and 1000 are competitive, but many are choosing the lower maintenance shaft drive bikes. Plus Electronic Cruise is the way to go for touring bikes. Yamaha added it to the Super Tenere this past year.
I do find it confusing how Kawasaki decides to add certain features to a bike and not other features. They put cruise on the big Vulcans, but no TPMS. They give the Concours a nice digital display along with the analog speedo and tach, but don't have the option of showing the speed digitally. I either leave the display on temp or tire pressure, but having a nice large digital display of speed would help when I pass through small towns that rely on tickets to keep their police force funded.
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They give the Concours a nice digital display along with the analog speedo and tach, but don't have the option of showing the speed digitally. I either leave the display on temp or tire pressure, but having a nice large digital display of speed would help when I pass through small towns that rely on tickets to keep their police force funded.
Agreed completely. Plus, it would have been nice to allow us to display more than one function on the screen at a time. It is a huge waste of available space for something like the temperature (which is what I leave it on after checking the tire pressures when first starting out). Of course, the more complex it is, the more it would need additional buttons and such.
I am *SO* glad the Concours has big analog tach/speedo. That is getting REALLY hard to find now on bikes, and it is a shame. I don't mind *also* having a digital display, but hate an ONLY digital display. What I think would be the best (for cars and bikes) would be a huge LCD display with the ability to customize and put anything you want anywhere on the screen (digital readouts, simulated analog guages, info boxes, etc) using a smartphone app or something as a convenient interface. Maybe some day...
By the way, I like the same thing in a watch- a dual digital AND analog display.
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I understand that the US has a new "boss" from Kawasaki. We will have to see what he thinks the market wants.
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I agree to this:
http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/kawasaki/2015-kawasakis-yet-announced.html (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/kawasaki/2015-kawasakis-yet-announced.html)
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It would be nice but that article is all speculation.
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Damn, I keep coming to this thread hoping to see all the magical links to the 2015. Still in the dark it seems. Sighs
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Damn, I keep coming to this thread hoping to see all the magical links to the 2015. Still in the dark it seems. Sighs
Yup- but no news is good news. I believe each day they don't introduce a 2015 model is one day closer to a no 2015 announcment.
mat
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Yup- but no news is good news. I believe each day they don't introduce a 2015 model is one day closer to a no 2015 announcment.
And a day closer to no 2015 is a good news??
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And a day closer to no 2015 is a good news??
Why is no 2015 bad news? The final decision on anything will probably need to be signed off by Shigeru Murayama, so just chill already. Sometimes companies will give a model a sort of gap year, with little or no production, especially if there is low demand or a lot of late model examples still in showrooms.
Kawasaki's big announcements for 2015 were the H2/R and the Versys. The C14 had it's big hurrah in 2007, so just give it time. If nothing else, for yon's that are dead-set on having the latest and greatest, it only means that the later the announcement, the more time yon's had the time to save up some money, eh? ;D
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let's not get excited about an announcement "bold new graphics" ;D
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Agreed.
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let's not get excited about an announcement "bold new graphics" ;D
Yep [yawn]
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let's not get excited about an announcement "bold new graphics" ;D
nice one, Steve. You had to be realistic, now, didn't you? >:(
;)
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nice one, Steve. You had to be realistic, now, didn't you? >:(
;)
We should find out this week- perhaps tomorrow. I still say there's more than paint and sparkles coming, even if the naysayers disagree!
mat
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I hope the new concours 14 will have the new zx14 power and be kawasaki green. that way in 5 years I might be able to find a wrecked one cheap so i can buy one lol.
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I hope the new concours 14 will have the new zx14 power and be kawasaki green. that way in 5 years I might be able to find a wrecked one cheap so i can buy one lol.
I love my dirt bikes in Kawasaki Green, and really thought I wanted my street bikes in Kawasaki Green, but I couldn't bring myself to trade my '11 'Red' Versys on a screaming deal for a '14 Versys in candy lime green and ABS. The imperial mettalic red is just a really nice color that provides a touch of class to the otherwise cartoonish looking Versys.
In reality, if all my street Kawasakis were the same color I would be tempted to only run one license plate since most LEOs wouldn't see past Black Kawasaki on the registration. Of course I love my freedom too much to truly try and get away with that for long.
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I hope the new concours 14 will have the new zx14 power and be kawasaki green. that way in 5 years I might be able to find a wrecked one cheap so i can buy one lol.
The 2015 C14 is now on the Kawasaki web page and yes it does come in candy lime green. Also looks like there is a new vent or something on the windscreen.
http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/2015-CONCOURS14-ABS (http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/2015-CONCOURS14-ABS)
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ZG, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
(http://www.kawasaki.com/content/uploads/products/6181/ykpqj1m5.xod.jpg)
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Would like to know what this thing on the windscreen is:
Never mind it is a vent
(http://www.kawasaki.com/content/uploads/products/6181/eh1vq1xx.oj4.jpg)
(http://www.kawasaki.com/content/uploads/products/6181/nx1s52k1.5ig.jpg)
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Wow! All that buildup and you get ZG Green and a vent on the screen. I'm really impressed with the brain trust at Kwakers. Sarcasm off. The green isn't bad and neither is the vent I guess. Hopefully there's more under the covers. Engine is the same.
More here on the GTR. What they have may not necessarily be on ours...
http://www.gtr1400.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=4455.msg61643#msg61643 (http://www.gtr1400.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=4455.msg61643#msg61643)
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The 2015 C14 is now on the Kawasaki web page and yes it does come in candy lime green. Also looks like there is a new vent or something on the windscreen.
http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/2015-CONCOURS14-ABS (http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/2015-CONCOURS14-ABS)
Do want.
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ZG, no more green. Time to go burnt orange.
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in Germany it comes in stupid black with snot green line, or yawn grey with fallen asleep white line :banghead:
I guess Kawasaki didn't want €17495 from me after all.
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:rotflmao: Sorry Martin, don't mean to laugh at your pain but how you expressed it I just found funny.
in Germany it comes in stupid black with snot green line, or yawn grey with fallen asleep white line :banghead:
I guess Kawasaki didn't want €17495 from me after all.
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I like how they list out all the features and new things :o
looks like there are minor changes to the cockpit.
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The new website must be optimized for something other than my work browser. How am I supposed to dream at lunchtime?
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The new website must be optimized for something other than my work browser. How am I supposed to dream at lunchtime?
It was faster this morning. I think the Kawi servers are getting hit hard today because of the new Ninja H2 as well as other new info today.
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The 2015 C14 is now on the Kawasaki web page and yes it does come in candy lime green. Also looks like there is a new vent or something on the windscreen.
http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/2015-CONCOURS14-ABS (http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/2015-CONCOURS14-ABS)
Yep. And yet they don't list all the features and still haven't even bothered to post a PDF brochure for 2015. Yeesh.
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I like how they list out all the features and new things :o
Yeah, really
looks like there are minor changes to the cockpit. [photo]
I question that diagram because there is already a huge error. They claim the high beams indicator had been on the left. That is incorrect. It has always been on the right. What appears to have changed was the general "ERROR" light (top left) has changed color from red to be yellow instead.
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Yeah, really
I question that diagram because there is already a huge error. They claim the high beams indicator had been on the left. That is incorrect. It has always been on the right. What appears to have changed was the general "ERROR" light (top left) has changed color from red to be yellow instead.
Thats my diagram, not official K.
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I think it's a very small step in the right direction. I guess implementing throttle by wire and cc is a 2 year proposition. Maybe 2016? I'll keep the '08 in the garage for a bit longer, although I'd like to try the '15 windshield, passenger pegs, and the optional hand wind deflectors.
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Thats my diagram, not official K.
Ooops :)
OK, you might want to edit that part, then. Still, it is useful info. I like the darker reservoirs, always wondered why they made them white (they stand out too much).
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wow, thats neet and we just talked about that yesterday.
Does zg work for kawasaki?
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I think it's a very small step in the right direction. I guess implementing throttle by wire and cc is a 2 year proposition. Maybe 2016?
Many of us (me included) predicted 2016 for the next real change which is likely to include throttle-by-wire and cruise. The big question is powerplant. My bet will be on just a switch to based on the slightly larger last gen ZX-14R engine. All just speculation, of course.
I'll keep the '08 in the garage for a bit longer, although I'd like to try the '15 windshield, passenger pegs, and the optional hand wind deflectors.
Where are you seeing info about "optional hand wind deflectors"?
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Where are you seeing info about "optional hand wind deflectors"?
Some one posted a video about the 2015 GTR. I swear I saw clear wind deflectors on the bike...
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Very disappointing. Makes my next bike-buying decision that much easier though. One less to look at.
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btw... are we going to baptize this '15 as the 3rd generation? ???
::)
EDIT: after seeing the replies, I should have put [sarcasm]...[/sarcasm] :P
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btw... are we going to baptize this '15 as the 3rd generation? ???
::)
Doubtful
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btw... are we going to baptize this '15 as the 3rd generation? ???
::)
No. As far as I can tell now, it's only minor changes. Not enough to call a Gen3. It would have to be a major revamp to call it a gen3.
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Some one posted a video about the 2015 GTR. I swear I saw clear wind deflectors on the bike...
Those are the Side Spoilers which are already avalible.
http://www.kawasaki.com/Accessories/Item/2010-Concours-14/215Wsc0004 (http://www.kawasaki.com/Accessories/Item/2010-Concours-14/215Wsc0004)
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Those are the Side Spoilers which are already avalible.
http://www.kawasaki.com/Accessories/Item/2010-Concours-14/215Wsc0004 (http://www.kawasaki.com/Accessories/Item/2010-Concours-14/215Wsc0004)
Does me no good for a 2008....not that I really need them.
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Wow, I'm underwhelmed... :o
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So here's the list of updates (as reported here http://www.ridermagazine.com/latest-news/2015-kawasaki-concours-14-abs-first-look-review.htm/ (http://www.ridermagazine.com/latest-news/2015-kawasaki-concours-14-abs-first-look-review.htm/))
New features of the 2015 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS:- First gear ratio for easier starts from a standstill and low-speed maneuvering
- Steering stem seal provides lighter steering at low speeds
- Stiffer rear suspension settings for enhanced control and carrying ability
- Sculpted seat for improved comfort (optional Touring Seat available)
- Electrically adjustable windshield with three-position vent
- Exhaust heat shield improves rider comfort when stationary
- Revised ABS settings to reduce the linked braking effect
- Silver bezels on instrumentation
Could the revised ABS settings be applied to current 2010-14? It would be nice for Kawi to offer that since they recognize it's an issue.
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So here's the list of updates (as reported here http://www.ridermagazine.com/latest-news/2015-kawasaki-concours-14-abs-first-look-review.htm/ (http://www.ridermagazine.com/latest-news/2015-kawasaki-concours-14-abs-first-look-review.htm/))
New features of the 2015 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS:- First gear ratio for easier starts from a standstill and low-speed maneuvering
- Steering stem seal provides lighter steering at low speeds
- Stiffer rear suspension settings for enhanced control and carrying ability
- Sculpted seat for improved comfort (optional Touring Seat available)
- Electrically adjustable windshield with three-position vent
- Exhaust heat shield improves rider comfort when stationary
- Revised ABS settings to reduce the linked braking effect
- Silver bezels on instrumentation
Could the revised ABS settings be applied to current 2010-14? It would be nice for Kawi to offer that since they recognize it's an issue.
Wow! Not exactly "gen 3" but more then I expected. Would really like to test this: Revised ABS settings to reduce the linked braking effect
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"The 2015 model benefits from enhancements including a revised first gear ratio, lighter steering at low speed, stiffer rear suspension for enhanced carrying capacity, a new windshield, revised ABS braking and a new rear luggage base."
Aluminum instead of plastic?
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Looks like a great revision. It'll will probably bring the values of leftovers down.
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Wow! Not exactly "gen 3" but more then I expected. Would really like to test this: Revised ABS settings to reduce the linked braking effect
+ 1 don't like the linked brakes one bit. Far worse than I thought they might be. I'll be looking into the mod to get ride of it.
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- First gear ratio for easier starts from a standstill and low-speed maneuvering
That is surprising. I assume they mean a LOWER first gear ratio?
- Steering stem seal provides lighter steering at low speeds
?
- Stiffer rear suspension settings for enhanced control and carrying ability
Does that just mean it is adjusted stiffer? Or did something actually change?
- Sculpted seat for improved comfort (optional Touring Seat available)
Always nice. Easily transplantable.
- Electrically adjustable windshield with three-position vent
Well, the first part we already had. I like the vent CONCEPT but man is it UGLY. Easily transplantable.
- Exhaust heat shield improves rider comfort when stationary
How is that new? It was added on 2nd gen...
- Revised ABS settings to reduce the linked braking effect
Finally. Not that it bothered me, but many complained. And it is just a simple FIRMWARE change that costs nothing. And there is no reason it shouldn't be transplantable to the earlier years... just depends on which computer is doing it and how it can be programmed.
- Silver bezels on instrumentation
Yuck.
Missing from that list:
- Changed error/warning lamp on dash from red to yellow (supposedly)
- Darker tinted fluid reservoirs on handlebars
Meh
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All this is well and good, but I'm sure there are many more dealers who still have 13's that aren't selling, like my dealership. Hopefully not enough changes to turn buyers further away from current stock.
I do miss that new cruise control, though. No wait, I'm good, still no cruise available. ;D >:( ;D >:( 8)
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All this is well and good, but I'm sure there are many more dealers who still have 13's that aren't selling, like my dealership. Hopefully not enough changes to turn buyers further away from current stock.
If I were in the market, there is nothing in the that list that holds any interest that would even slightly sway me to the 2015. Would be more interested in the color.
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If I were in the market, there is nothing in the that list that holds any interest that would even slightly sway me to the 2015. Would be more interested in the color.
I have a red and blue on the floor. I like the red better, but the blue is nice too. To me, though I love Kawi green, it is almost obtrusive on the Concours. Kind of a "Look at me Ma" color. Better on MX and SBK rides. Watching Villapoto cross the finish, on his bike of green, was always a treat for me... tp
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To me, though I love Kawi green, it is almost obtrusive on the Concours. Kind of a "Look at me Ma" color. Better on MX and SBK rides. Watching Villapoto cross the finish, on his bike of green, was always a treat for me... tp
I agree!!!!
Hey tomp..... is there any way that you can check to see if the 2015 ABS firmware will be available to be loaded on the 2010-2014 C14?
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So here's the list of updates (as reported here http://www.ridermagazine.com/latest-news/2015-kawasaki-concours-14-abs-first-look-review.htm/ (http://www.ridermagazine.com/latest-news/2015-kawasaki-concours-14-abs-first-look-review.htm/))
New features of the 2015 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS:- Steering stem seal provides lighter steering at low speeds
I fail to see how adding a seal to the stem will make the steering feel lighter at low speeds. ???
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+1
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It keeps the anti-gravity juice from leaking.
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I fail to see how adding a seal to the stem will make the steering feel lighter at low speeds. ???
I don't think they added a seal, but rather changed it for one with less drag. The existing C14 has upper and lower stem seals.
They likely just changed it so that it has less drag on the frame, etc.
Rem
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It keeps the anti-gravity juice from leaking.
I knew there had to be something that I didn't think of!
I keep mine in the battery, where it belongs.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51kNg34zCUL.jpg)
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I fail to see how adding a seal to the stem will make the steering feel lighter at low speeds. ???
Yep, that is why I gave that one a "?"
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If I were in the market, there is nothing in the that list that holds any interest that would even slightly sway me to the 2015. Would be more interested in the color.
When the Versys came out in green for '14 I looked at what it would take to swap the plastics out. For that bike it would cost me $600. Almost went for it, but found out they don't offer the handguards in green so I passed.
I have missed out on Green Kawasakis several times now. Bought my '07 Ninja 650 and they came out with green in '08. Bought my '11 Versys and they come out with green in '14. Bought my '12 Concours and they come out with green in '15.
No '04 Mean Streaks around when I found my '07. I guess I will just have to be happy with the two green bikes I do have.
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Yep, that is why I gave that one a "?"
They likely changed the bottom seal to one with a lighter lip so that it wouldn't drag on the frame so much.
If I was a betting man, that's what I'd roll the dice on.
Rem
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I have a red and blue on the floor. I like the red better, but the blue is nice too. To me, though I love Kawi green, it is almost obtrusive on the Concours. Kind of a "Look at me Ma" color. Better on MX and SBK rides. Watching Villapoto cross the finish, on his bike of green, was always a treat for me... tp
How much are you asking for them? My local dealer couldn't touch the price I was able to get from SportCycles back in '12 when I bought my '12. They were so far off that it was to my advantage to fly and ride home. It must be hard to sell bikes at retail when most consumers can use the internet to compare pricing.
When I go on CycleTrader and look at any motorcycle in the $15 - $20k range I see as much as $4000 differences in asking price.
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That seal thing.....Yamaha did soemthing similar on their dirt bikes. The new seal stopped water. You had to change or switch upper bearings every 90 days. The new seal was made of a harder, or slicker material. Honest, you could feel it, but it was more noticeable on the stand.
Plus, on the streetbike, you have cables and hoses interfering
Certainly nothing like loose vs tight steering head bearings. If I translated to my Scotts Damper, it was worth oen click, is not 1/2 click. You noticed it for 10 seconds, then business as usual. Nowhere near as dramatic as using moly lube on these bearings instead of light oil. You noticed way more difference switching lubricants.
If your taking this apart to lubricate, by all means order a new seat. The same seal is used on a bunch fo different bikes, oddly enough. You'd assume the c14 woudl be larger, but its not.
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They likely changed the bottom seal to one with a lighter lip so that it wouldn't drag on the frame so much.
If I was a betting man, that's what I'd roll the dice on.
Will that even be noticeable when riding the bike??
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I probably wouldn't notice it as I haven't had any issues with slow speed handling. It's either upright or down on the ground. There is no in between for me.
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Will that even be noticeable when riding the bike??
+1 Hard to believe on a big heavy bike like this you would even notice. Besides, once the bike it moving, i've never noticed any difficulty turning the fork. I would think tire pressure would make a lot more difference then the friction of the seal.
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Will that even be noticeable when riding the bike??
Well, that depends on what you mean by "riding the bike"...
+1 Hard to believe on a big heavy bike like this you would even notice. Besides, once the bike it moving, i've never noticed any difficulty turning the fork. I would think tire pressure would make a lot more difference then the friction of the seal.
If you were "riding the bike" slow enough you would likely feel it. Remember, once you're moving at a decent rate of speed, you don't turn the handlebars to steer...you lean the bike to make it turn. This is why changing the lower seal to one with less friction would only be noticeable in a parking lot, etc. While it doesn't bother me in the least, there have been a lot of complaints online about the bike being difficult to handle at low (parking lot) speeds. To me...it's like "DUH"...it's a 700 lb motorcycle...of course it's a heavy handling beast in a parking lot at slow speed.
Those who have ridden motorcycles with steering dampers know what I mean about the difference in slow speed handling, etc. You can set a steering damper very stiff...and it will be very noticeable at slow speeds when you are still turning the bars to steer. However, once you're up to speed and leaning the bike to turn it, you don't feel the action of the damper.
JMTCW,
Rem
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Yes of course we are talking about slow parking lot speed where you actually turn the bars. But still hard to believe that seal will make much of a difference. I guess I'd have to try it to see for myself.
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Well, that depends on what you mean by "riding the bike"...
Slow speed maneuvers, when you are turning the steering. To me, it is just a large, heavy, top-heavy bike. I don't particularly notice the steering being stiff or perhaps stifled by a seal. Just seems like a non-worth-mentioning "improvement".
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It was either that or cruise so......
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Yep. They chose unwisely.
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You can feel the seals. Have you ever adjusted steering head bearings? The first few times, you dont really know what your doing.
You set them perfectly, then tighten the top triple clamp in place..then the bearings are just a little too tight. Its that sensation, only not as drastic. I'll change mine when I do the steering head.
Actually, it probably has no grease in it now, just lubing it is probably enough. I've never opened up a m a modern motorcycle and found much, if any lube there. Yamaha used the thinnest coat of what looked like vasoline .
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Will you be doing a bearing swap?
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im happy I dont have abs on my 2008 so I dont have to worry about that. :)
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What's ABS got to do with it?
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What's ABS got to do with it?
About the same as cruise control, I guess.
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Well, maybe it's because I haven't started drinking yet but I just don't get it..
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Well, maybe it's because I haven't started drinking yet but I just don't get it..
Too much shrubbery..
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Too much shrubbery..
Another shrubbery, perhaps?
A Shrubbery !!!! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69iB-xy0u4A#ws)
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I have abs, so it might be against a law or ordinance for me to change the seal....
Assuming I can get Federal Clearance to swap the seal, I'll swap the bearing only if I have to. If the seal is under the bearing, I'll just cut the old bearing off with a dremel cut off wheel. Cheaper than having someone press the bearing off.
I prefer nto to swap the bearing as your supposed to change out the race when you change the bearing. Thats a hassle.
BUT, it all might not happen , anyway. I've got different grips....
Do we know if its the top seal, or bottom?
http://www.kawasakipartshouse.com/oemparts/a/kaw/52bc4e59f8700204783348e0/frame (http://www.kawasakipartshouse.com/oemparts/a/kaw/52bc4e59f8700204783348e0/frame)
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What has abs to do with changing a seal on the head bearings?
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Nothing at all...it was a reference to that previous post where it was mentioned..just in fun.
I went through five different seal sets on my yz 250. When Yamaha switched that bike to aluminum frame, they left a path on top of the steering head and it funneled water in. You'd park the bike, for the winter, go back a month later, and the bearing had welded itself to the race, with rust.
I tried parts from Honda and Suzuki in an attempt seal it better. The Honda seals added a bunch of drag, btu kept water out, so thats what i ended up staying with.
You noticed the sensation of the tight seals instantly, but it was a big..whatever....You could get that light, no drag sensation by using moly lube on the bearings. The steering felt heavier when using that thick, marine grade bearing lube, bu tit was still no big deal.
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That I understand. Thanks.
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Man you had me going there because I thought getting a seal changing permit depended on the color of your bike and weather or not you had a stock seat.
I have abs, so it might be against a law or ordinance for me to change the seal....
Assuming I can get Federal Clearance to swap the seal, I'll swap the bearing only if I have to. If the seal is under the bearing, I'll just cut the old bearing off with a dremel cut off wheel. Cheaper than having someone press the bearing off.
I prefer nto to swap the bearing as your supposed to change out the race when you change the bearing. Thats a hassle.
BUT, it all might not happen , anyway. I've got different grips....
Do we know if its the top seal, or bottom?
http://www.kawasakipartshouse.com/oemparts/a/kaw/52bc4e59f8700204783348e0/frame (http://www.kawasakipartshouse.com/oemparts/a/kaw/52bc4e59f8700204783348e0/frame)
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I slid into madness, for a second, and thought I was at work......
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Yeah, other than the really sweet green color, the updates are a full-on 'meh'. CRUISE CONTROL. You hear that mama Kaw? Next upgrade might be a 14R at this rate.
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I like the green color on dirt bikes and sport bikes but it doesn't seem right on the Concours for some reason. But I will be bringing a tape measure and camera with me to the motorcycle show or my local dealer to check out that windshield vent. I'm hoping they actually did some engineering to determine the proper size and shape for a worthwhile benefit.
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if I wanted a windshield with a mail slot I would have bought a wing or another Harley touring bike. I am not impressed at all with the looks of the hole nor have I ever thought I needed one!
I really like the green, but I think on this bike it might get old a little fast.
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In reality most holes aren't really that attractive, but if they are useful, I like them. :P
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In reality most holes aren't really that attractive, but if they are useful, I like them. :P
Internet wouldn't exist today without them...
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if I wanted a windshield with a mail slot I would have bought a wing or another Harley touring bike. I am not impressed at all with the looks of the hole nor have I ever thought I needed one!
I think it could be very useful, I just think the way they styled it is crazy ugly!
I really like the green, but I think on this bike it might get old a little fast.
I like it too, but wouldn't buy it myself... it is way too "look at me" for me. Concours owners tend to be a little more... well..... "low-key" so it is a surprising color to offer. I know lots of people will dig it, though.
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Concours owners tend to be a little more... well..... "low-key" so it is a surprising color to offer.
Yes, but those people already own a Concours which has 120,000 miles on it, and they don't plan to sell it.
They are going for the reckless owners who want to carry two people on their ZX14.
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I like it too, but wouldn't buy it myself... it is way too "look at me" for me. Concours owners tend to be a little more... well..... "low-key" so it is a surprising color to offer. I know lots of people will dig it, though.
My Connie may be black, but my Hi-Viz Olympia one piece riding suit, Bell RS-1 HI-Viz helmet, Sliders Hi-Viz gloves, as well as the Amber LEDs, and Mondo Lights say "look at me" in a big way.
Cagers move out of my way sooner when I am dressed like that than when I am in black leathers.
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i disagree maxdog, as a long time kawasaki fan green is kawasaki, i love it. 8)
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To me, color doesn't matter, dedication does. Here's proof of just that. Enjoy that dedication, 44 years ago...I started riding right before this show hit the airwaves. It meant much more to me than Easy Rider ever did...tp
Then Came Bronson - 1x23 - The Forest Primeval (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xvd2hq)
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http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/kawasaki/kawasaki_concours%2015.htm (http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/kawasaki/kawasaki_concours%2015.htm)
Here's what seems to be all the updates for the 2015 model. Always lots of great info on this site. tp
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Comfort & Touring Potential
- NEW TPMS sensors to warn of tire deflation What's new about these? battery change?
- NEW Tank pad to protect the paintwork from clothing scratches So it looks like they added a pad on the end of the tank.
- NEW Cushioned passenger footpegs
- NEW Larger electrically adjustable windscreen with a three-position vent reduces upper-body turbulence to reduce rider fatigue
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Comfort & Touring Potential
- NEW TPMS sensors to warn of tire deflation What's new about these? battery change?
- NEW Tank pad to protect the paintwork from clothing scratches So it looks like they added a pad on the end of the tank.
- NEW Cushioned passenger footpegs
- NEW Larger electrically adjustable windscreen with a three-position vent reduces upper-body turbulence to reduce rider fatigue
Going bigger again?
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So what's with the new first gear ratio, it seems they've lowered first gear on the 2015 (3.538 (46/13) vs 2014's 3.333 (50/15)).
Anybody here think that the GenIs and IIs first gear is too tall?
They've lowered the price too! :yikes:
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So what's with the new first gear ratio, it seems they've lowered first gear on the 2015 (3.538 (46/13) vs 2014's 3.333 (50/15)). Anybody here think that the GenIs and IIs first gear is too tall?
I have absolutely no idea why they would do that. No, I don't think it is too tall. I have never seen a single complaint about first gear ratio. And yet we have many on other [more important] things that Kawasaki ignored. Of course, these tiny changes were things they could do that cost almost nothing and required no redesigning the bike.
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I'm sure that there's thousands waiting to buy based on the new first gear ratio... I'm quite saddened by the fact that after all the hoopla in 2008 and 2010 that they're really missing the boat in keeping up with the rest of the sport touring industry....7 years later.
I wonder if it's time to start the 2016 thread now.. ::)
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Also of interest is the new revised linked brake settings. That will be interesting to hear about when someone here checks them out and compares them to the old ones.
Personally, I think there were enough changes to call this Gen II.5. I mean, they could have just offered the green bodywork and the silver bezels and let it go at that, which would have been twice as many changes as last year (not including price change). Enough changes so that now I'm doubtful of a big change in 2016 for the 30th Anniversary Concours15 model coming out. Of course seeing the way mama kaw released the H2 with all the dramatic flare, perhaps she is just setting us up for the surprise '15 30th Anniversary edition of the Concourse15 with Cruise control, infinitely adjustable linked ABS, improved KIPASS with remote saddlebag and optional top case remote FOB lock control, angel eye factory HID projectors that pivot through the turns, dynamic ESA, and of course non Takata air bag and stock Michelin PR4GTs. Available for only $18,799 or $20,899 w/airbag.
Back to earth, the only reason I can think of for the first gear change would be if it somehow helps mitigate the slow speed snatchiness of the throttle?
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Also of interest is the new revised linked brake settings. That will be interesting to hear about when someone here checks them out and compares them to the old ones.
The pisser is it is a simple firmware/software change that costs nothing and they SHOULD be able to flash it to the previous bikes; but I bet that won't be an option for the dealers/service.
Personally, I think there were enough changes to call this Gen II.5.
Meh. Compared to the stuff changed in 2010, this is peanuts.
Enough changes so that now I'm doubtful of a big change in 2016 for the 30th Anniversary Concours15 model coming out.
I think it has no bearing on 2016. The next big change will be big- throttle by wire (which means cruise for sure), probably different displacement, etc. They probably won't want to hold onto the non-Z engine any longer because it will cause more expense. It is likely to be 2016.
Back to earth, the only reason I can think of for the first gear change would be if it somehow helps mitigate the slow speed snatchiness of the throttle?
Changing the throttle tube would have been a lot easier, though. It is a really odd move on their part.
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The pisser is it is a simple firmware/software change that costs nothing and they SHOULD be able to flash it to the previous bikes; but I bet that won't be an option for the dealers/service.
You obviously don't work in software if you think that a change costs nothing. ???
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Touche! No truer words have ever been spoken.
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You obviously don't work in software if you think that a change costs nothing. ???
Actually, I do work in I.T. and have for 30 years :) By nothing I meant more like "virtually nothing".
There is probably a simple table or even single value that controls the bias. Regardless of language, making that change should take no more than a few minutes. It would be on the same level of changing a misspelling on the display from "Tenp" to "Temp". Testing to make sure it is safe and what is wanted- that might be a little effort.... I have a feeling all that research was done way before 2010, anyway.
But my point is it is not a PHYSICAL change. There is no part to buy, nothing to re-engineer, no new molds to make, no raw materials to buy, no components to source and ship, no retooling assembly, nothing to crash or stress test, nothing to paint. It is just a very, very small program change. And the cost to come up with that one little change, spread over the many thousands of units that will be sold is essentially a non-cost.
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""Ghul ECU flash, HID, Canyon Cages front/rear, Helibars risers, Phil's wedges, Grip Puppies, Sargent World seat-low & heated & pod, Muzzy lowering links, Soupy's stand, Nautilus air horn, Admore lightbar, Ronnie's highway pegs, front running lights, helmet locks, Garmin Zumo 450, Throttle Tamer, MRA X-Creen. Scorpion EXO-1000, Tourmaster Flex II.""
Maxtog, I agree with what you said. Above is your list of add-ons. Since much of your installs were replacements for OEM parts, seems that Kawi could have used those parts instead of the ones you now have in a box, and you wouldn't be out $XXXXX's. About the only company that will do that is BMW, upon a special order build. Seems most MC companies build one model, and it's up to the owner to make the mods. Capitalism at its finest, keeps us all in rent money, I guess... tp
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Actually, I do work in I.T. and have for 30 years :) By nothing I meant more like "virtually nothing".
There is probably a simple table or even single value that controls the bias. Regardless of language, making that change should take no more than a few minutes. It would be on the same level of changing a misspelling on the display from "Tenp" to "Temp". Testing to make sure it is safe and what is wanted- that might be a little effort.... I have a feeling all that research was done way before 2010, anyway.
But my point is it is not a PHYSICAL change. There is no part to buy, nothing to re-engineer, no new molds to make, no raw materials to buy, no components to source and ship, no retooling assembly, nothing to crash or stress test, nothing to paint. It is just a very, very small program change. And the cost to come up with that one little change, spread over the many thousands of units that will be sold is essentially a non-cost.
Ah so, but Kwakers is a big company. And big companies cannot do small things without getting all sorts of people involved.. Board meetings. Saki. Geisha's. It all takes time and money. I've worked for a large company. Nothing is as simple as it seems to us on the outside.
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Ah so, but Kwakers is a big company. And big companies cannot do small things without getting all sorts of people involved.. Board meetings. Saki. Geisha's. It all takes time and money. I've worked for a large company. Nothing is as simple as it seems to us on the outside.
No kidding, look what it takes to run a government. Sorry Jim couldn't help myself.
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Ah so, but Kwakers is a big company. And big companies cannot do small things without getting all sorts of people involved.. Board meetings. Saki. Geisha's. It all takes time and money. I've worked for a large company. Nothing is as simple as it seems to us on the outside.
True, but (you knew it was coming) what max was describing is what is call at these big companies a "True V.I. (value improvement)" which is something that cost very little or actuilly cost less to the company and creates value to the product in a manner in which customers are wanting and are willing to pay for. When a "True V.I." is presented to managment in these large companies, it normally gets fast tracked. Well, that's how it works within the company that I work for.
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...and it's up to the owner to make the mods.
You mean it's up to the owner to complain all over the internet about how Kawasaki *should* have built the bike and how Kawasaki should have installed their favorite accessories before they even bought the bike?...lol.
Rem 8)
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You mean it's up to the owner to complain all over the internet about how Kawasaki *should* have built the bike and how Kawasaki should have installed their favorite accessories before they even bought the bike?...lol.
Rem 8)
Thank God for internet forums. Now we don't have to go out in the cold and hold protest signs. :)
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Thank God for internet forums. Now we don't have to go out in the cold and hold protest signs. :)
Hahahaha! Ain't that the truth...lol. Protesting, right in the comfort of your own home...lol.
You know what will happen, right? After a few more years, Kawasaki will have added all these options and accessories that the wine-sippin' sport-touring crowd is crying over, the bike will weight another 80 lbs, cost an extra $1500, and nobody will be able to fix them at home...lol. Hey, good things come to those who wait;).
Rem 8)
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Then you can slap a KMW rondel on it and everybody will be happy. :)
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Actually, I do work in I.T. and have for 30 years :) By nothing I meant more like "virtually nothing".
There is probably a simple table or even single value that controls the bias. Regardless of language, making that change should take no more than a few minutes. It would be on the same level of changing a misspelling on the display from "Tenp" to "Temp". Testing to make sure it is safe and what is wanted- that might be a little effort.... I have a feeling all that research was done way before 2010, anyway.
But my point is it is not a PHYSICAL change. There is no part to buy, nothing to re-engineer, no new molds to make, no raw materials to buy, no components to source and ship, no retooling assembly, nothing to crash or stress test, nothing to paint. It is just a very, very small program change. And the cost to come up with that one little change, spread over the many thousands of units that will be sold is essentially a non-cost.
I agree that it can cost less than PHYSICAL changes. We make software changes all the time to compensate for poor hardware designs.
One little software change usually doesn't justify the amount of testing that must occur before a finished product that can harm a human being must undergo. We categorize all the potential changes, assign priorities, risk analysis, etc. etc. and then when a critical change comes along that MUST be done, we are able to slip in 'nice to have' changes which is what the change you are talking about would be categorized as.
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Thank God for internet forums. Now we don't have to go out in the cold and hold protest signs. :)
Like one that says, "Where's our Cruise Control???", or "1442 cc's NOW!" ? ;D
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Or.... UNLINK
[ MY
ABS
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Or.... UNLINK
[ MY
ABS
Just buy an 08-09. Problem solved. ;D ;D Seems progress sometimes isn't, after all...
I do understand, as my RT has linked brakes, and I wish it didn't...tp
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It's pretty easy to sit in the relative comfort of our homes or offices and play motorcycle designer while being unencumbered by any of the constraints motor vehicle manufacturers have to deal with.
The governments of virtually every civilized nation have laws, rules, and regulations regarding vehicles sold there, many of which are exclusive to their country alone. Here in the US, the EPA alone has an enormous impact on the design of motor vehicles. How many of us are aware of the stringent noise standards that must be complied to? The noise standards alone are becoming more strict every year, let alone the emissions standards, safety standards, and God only knows whatever other bureaucratic nonsense manufacturers have to deal with.
What seem to us as changes that are minute, when combined with corporate and government involvement, are usually a BIG deal. Couple that with the whims of consumers and you have a monumental task trying to balance it all.
After riding Harleys for decades, I, for one, am astounded at the magnificent machine called the Concours that KHI is producing. A 100 hp/lt, exceptionally dependable, stylish motorcycle that is more capable than 99.999% of it's riders. No small feat. Think about it.
With the exception of cruise control (a creature comfort, not a necessity ), and a few other "inconveniences", where else can I find this much bang for the buck? How much power is enough? If the Gen III comes out with 25 more hp, in short order there will be cries for more. I will probably never know how fast my bike will go. The vast majority of C14 owners won't either. Buffeting, high beam indicators that are too bright, etc, etc, all sound like Cadillac problems that can, for the most part, be overcome or dealt with.
I think if God himself designed a motorcycle some would have complaints about it.
Just my .02 .........
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Buffeting, high beam indicators that are too bright, etc, etc, all sound like Cadillac problems that can, for the most part, be overcome or dealt with.
:)
One of my employees calls these "First world problems"
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=First+World+Problems (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=First+World+Problems)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_World_problem (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_World_problem)
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<snip I think if God himself designed a motorcycle some would have complaints about it. snip>
Just my .02 .........
If I hear harp music out of the exhaust, darn right I'm complaining.
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My God plays a Fender Stratocaster......
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I agree with Deziner's comments. In fact I have often thought that if I had a motorcycle dealership, I would refuse to sell to any potential buyers that actively participate in internet forums. Some of the exchanges seem to be like a cancer and just feed on themselves with the idle complaining just fuel for the fire. C14 is a fantastic bike and much better than I ever thought I'd have the opportunity to ride. When I gave up on the first generation Yamaha Venture Royal's(over time owned four of them) because of parts availability and lack of modern tire fitment, I thought there would never be a bike to replace them. Boy, was I wrong. The C14 makes them look like outdated machinery. Love my Concours.
Fork
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Deziner...I too owned road donkeys for years, but at least the ones I had came with cruise and on the one that didn't I was able to purchase a plug/play setup from Harley.
BTW....165 with the bags in stock form, it might go a tad faster but my b@ll$ started to shrink as I had pictures in my head of my bags flying off along with me...I mean this is what I have heard.
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BTW....165 with the bags in stock form, it might go a tad faster but my b@ll$ started to shrink as I had pictures in my head of my bags flying off along with me...I mean this is what I have heard.
135 with bags and tall with tall V stream windshield. No problems and plenty left in her, but common sense prevailed and I slowed. Was messing with a Beemer riding friend, making sure he knew the 14 was king of our ride...
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Deziner...I too owned road donkeys for years, but at least the ones I had came with cruise and on the one that didn't I was able to purchase a plug/play setup from Harley.
I refused to pay what the MOCO wanted for cruise, $250 for a switch and a few wires seemed a bit steep. I might feel differently if it had all of the positive attributes that the C14 has.
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I refused to pay what the MOCO wanted for cruise, $250 for a switch and a few wires seemed a bit steep. I might feel differently if it had all of the positive attributes that the C14 has.
I wish only $250. Here's one from mc cruise. Slightly higher priced than $250. I've seen the install directions. Gonna take a while to install, too. ( There are dealers in the US, but no one's selling cheap.)
http://www.mccruise.com/collections/kawasaki/products/27 (http://www.mccruise.com/collections/kawasaki/products/27)
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Or.... UNLINK
[ MY
ABS
Mmm. ABS is not linked. The brakes are linked. The ABS doesn't activate until wheel lock up is detected.
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Mmm. ABS is not linked. The brakes are linked. The ABS doesn't activate until wheel lock up is detected.
Redirecting ABS & Linked brakes stuff to another topic: http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=18474.0 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=18474.0)
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I hope a bunch of you don't show up at my house, and beat me....but....Yamaha linked the brakes on its new 2015 r1, too.
Is it possible, the know how to do this correctly, now?...sorry.....just wondering.
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Hello All,
I hope someone will educate me on why so many people are dying for cruise control on this bike. For years i have used a $20 NEp throttle lock that looks good and works flawlessly. I used a cruise control on a gold wing and it seemed less practical than a throttle lock... so the question is; why add $$ and complexity to your bike? This is in line with all the people that begged for heated grips, now gripe about not being able to change their grips... this was a cheap aftermarket add on for those that wanted it.. but now everyone is stuck with it- that is how i see cruise control as well.. please enlighten me..
thanks
ease suffering, spay all your pets all the time
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They work flawlessly in totally flat conditions... I've used locks and they don't hold the speed and you have to consciously unlock them. They're ok for what they do but....
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I hope someone will educate me on why so many people are dying for cruise control on this bike.
It is a sports touring bike... a lot of people take some very long trips which will involve "super slab" (boring highway miles). Trying to keep your speed what you want for a long time can be a pain (both figuratively and literally). While a throttle lock can be helpful for a short time of relief, they require frequent throttle adjustments. On the next iteration of the Concours, it would be neither expensive nor complex to have factory cruise control because it will likely already be throttle-by-wire.
ease suffering, spay all your pets all the time
(I totally agree with your sentiment, but I think it is better to neuter [most] pets. Spaying is only a female procedure, as castrating is only male; neutering is both.)
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I hope someone will educate me on why so many people are dying for cruise control on this bike.
I'm not one of them. I only use cruise control/throttle-lock to alleviate tingling (hopefully not an issue on this bike ;D), reaccomodate the right liner inside my helmet (bothers my ear), tighten the helmet strap, or something quick like that (no more than a minute every once in a while). I've never used cruise control on a bike like you do sometimes in a car. I hardly ever use it in cars too, but definitely more than bikes. So for me, the Throttlemeister is all I need. If I wasn't that anal that my bikes have to look completely OEM, I'd install one of those instantaneous throttle-locks (Vista Cruise, etc), but they're not for me. I also hope not to need a Throttle-rocker on this bike. Will carry it in my first trip just in case, but by my estimation, I'll probably won't need it (throttle spring pressure is not bad, and modulation is not that finicky). But I agree once with TBW, it'd be very cost-effective to add it, and it'd be better than any throttle lock, even for seldom use like in my case. But yes, it'd be one more thing that can go wrong. Have a good one.
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(I totally agree with your sentiment, but I think it is better to neuter [most] pets. Spaying is only a female procedure, as castrating is only male; neutering is both.)
Thanks Maxtog... I've been involved with animal population control for years.. this is the first i heard that neutering is for both,, it makes sense now that i think about it,, i was trying to be as succinct as possible.. either way it is good for their health and to prevent homeless suffering animals, pass it on and educate the masses..
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I'm not one of them. I only use cruise control/throttle-lock to alleviate tingling (hopefully not an issue on this bike ;D), reaccomodate the right liner inside my helmet (bothers my ear), tighten the helmet strap, or something quick like that (no more than a minute every once in a while). I've never used cruise control on a bike like you do sometimes in a car. I hardly ever use it in cars too, but definitely more than bikes. So for me, the Throttlemeister is all I need. If I wasn't that anal that my bikes have to look completely OEM, I'd install one of those instantaneous throttle-locks (Vista Cruise, etc), but they're not for me. I also hope not to need a Throttle-rocker on this bike. Will carry it in my first trip just in case, but by my estimation, I'll probably won't need it (throttle spring pressure is not bad, and modulation is not that finicky). But I agree once with TBW, it'd be very cost-effective to add it, and it'd be better than any throttle lock, even for seldom use like in my case. But yes, it'd be one more thing that can go wrong. Have a good one.
I also don't feel the need for cruise-control on the bike, though I would probably use it on long distance slabbin' across Oklahoma or Texas if I had it. My combination of "antler aids" consists of 2 inch risers, Grip Puppies, Throttlemeister, and 2 Throttle Rockers- one for each side. Good for 14 hr. days in the saddle by Laam.
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I also don't feel the need for cruise-control on the bike, though I would probably use it on long distance slabbin' across Oklahoma or Texas if I had it. My combination of "antler aids" consists of 2 inch risers, Grip Puppies, Throttlemeister, and 2 Throttle Rockers- one for each side. Good for 14 hr. days in the saddle by Laam.
Exactly! That's when I use my Rostra the most.
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Just found this document....
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Just found this document....
Now if you could just find the 2016 document/press release. We are depending on you, sir. tp
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Just found this document....
"and a new rear luggage base" ??? And yet we have never heard of this before and it is not described anywhere else in the document at all. I think this might be an outright error.
There are also some incorrect wordings in several places (and even repeated a few times). For example, the section on windshield could be misread that the electronic adjustability and/or 3 position memory are new for 2015 when they are not. Same thing with the rear suspension- one might read that the remote preload adjuster is new feature, when it is not. And again with the heat shield- that is not a new feature (all gen 2 have them) it is just revised, not new.
They list "NEW TPMS sensors to warn of tire deflation." This is not a new feature, and to my knowledge, the sensors themselves are not any different than the 2014 model (the potted ones have been out for quite a while now).
Otherwise it is a good overview of the bike, in general.
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Don't over think it, Max. We'd have to see a 2015 to see the difference in the sandwich carrier as both the original and replacement are :censored: t.
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Max, found a bunch of BMW press releases on new models from 30 years ago, forward, yesterday. Much of what they presented in them wasn't actually NEW to the bikes, just reintroduced to the media. Unless the new C14 has the ZX14R engine, with ride by wire, different maps, and C-R-U-I-S-E, the media splash will be the same as BM's in 1986, simply a rehash. "Bold new graphics and colors schemes". Makes me desire a 1290 Super Duke R, even more.. tomp
Sure as hell wish I could afford one. Oh well... I do love my '08 Connie. . . tp
FWIW, a new ZX14R sells for $3K less than the SDR. If the ergos weren't so forward leaning, this old man would be riding the 14R now. tp