Kawasaki Concours Forum
The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => The Bike - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: twowheeladdict on October 16, 2015, 03:35:51 AM
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https://www.kawasaki.com/products/2016-Concours-14-ABS (https://www.kawasaki.com/products/2016-Concours-14-ABS)
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I see that Kwackers thought long and hard on the color...
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The 2015 green must not have sold well.
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I see that Kwackers thought long and hard on the color...
I love it.
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Of course you do.
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At least you'll never have to wash it. 8)
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Brilliant!
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Yawn
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I love it.
But you didn't buy one.
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https://www.kawasaki.com/products/2016-Concours-14-ABS (https://www.kawasaki.com/products/2016-Concours-14-ABS)
Spoiler! Black ... and Lighter Black.
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Yawn
I second this!!
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I'm totally into 3rding this...
But you didn't buy one.
That's cause he already has a silverish bike..
The new color is strangely reminiscent of my 2002 C10. I wonder if they had tins left and wanted to use it up. Those Kwacker people are very frugal.
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I don't understand all the dissin'!! I think it is a nice color! Not everybody wants a loud or in-your-face color! Some of us are happy with something more subdued but also sublime.
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I don't understand all the dissin'!! I think it is a nice color! Not everybody wants a loud or in-your-face color! Some of us are happy with something more subdued but also sublime.
Sublime?
Not with that Jimmy Durante proboscis (aka porch window). :D
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I don't understand all the dissin'!! I think it is a nice color! Not everybody wants a loud or in-your-face color! Some of us are happy with something more subdued but also sublime.
My car is that color... so I kinda have to like it (but not enough to change the color of my bike to it). Need to see it in person.
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Bold same graphics... different color.
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I like it. I always liked cars that color cause they DON'T stand out in a line. On a bike, I want to be seen. Looks like they'd have called it Quicksilver.
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I like it. For ME, and just for ME, the green was too green though I usually like it on smaller bikes. So watch, when it's time to give up this bike, the best deal I find out there will be green ---- and I'll love it for sure!
The whole shiny black / flat black ethos really came home to me with the yellow versys. Real life made it even more real than pics. Love the depth when done right.
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Really don't care about colors. But where in the heck is cruise control? The FJR has left us in their dust. Has there truly been any significant modifications since 2010? Not really.
-David
2010 C-14 with 95,000 miles
Athens, GA
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Really don't care about colors. But where in the heck is cruise control? The FJR has left us in their dust. Has there truly been any significant modifications since 2010? Not really.
And there won't be, not until they redesign the bike significantly. At that point, it will probably gain cruise (and my bet is that it will be throttle-by-wire).
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Well at the rate they (Kwackers) are going about this it will be throttle by ESP.
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And there won't be, not until they redesign the bike significantly. At that point, it will probably gain cruise (and my bet is that it will be throttle-by-wire).
I really like the throttle and CC on the FJR's. I have a Rostra on my C14 but the FJR is smoother and more constant. If and when Kawi does this to the C14, that's when I may upgrade my 2010. Otherwise I'll just ride mine until the wheels fall off.
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I really like the throttle and CC on the FJR's. I have a Rostra on my C14 but the FJR is smoother and more constant. If and when Kawi does this to the C14, that's when I may upgrade my 2010. Otherwise I'll just ride mine until the wheels fall off.
Almost everyone thinks a touring bike of any kind should have a cruise as standard equipment.
I didn't want to have to WAIT for Kawasaki to wake up and add a cruise as I can't hold my breathe that long.
There is no guarantee that even the 2017 model will include a cruise.
Therefore I installed a McCruise and have never looked back.
So now even if they do come out with cruise on a 2017 it would also have to have a number of other things to make me change bikes.
A few of my "would be nice to have" list would be.
Built in Nav or at least the option - But (as of now) options don't exist except for color choice.
Adjustable handle bars and grips.
A backrest for rider and passenger.
Better stock tires.
The ability to open the saddlebags without a key if the FOB is within range even if the bike is off, same for storage box.
USB ports in place of a useless cover over a blank spot.
I could go on but I'm not sure if anyone (with the power to make decisions) even reads these forums or posts that suggest upgrades,
because if they did, would it really take 7-9 years to add a cruise that most people would enjoy?
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I really like the throttle and CC on the FJR's. I have a Rostra on my C14 but the FJR is smoother and more constant. If and when Kawi does this to the C14, that's when I may upgrade my 2010. Otherwise I'll just ride mine until the wheels fall off.
The main problem with an electronic throttle is that if they program it to be just as "snatchy" as the C14 already is, stock, there is no easy way to fix that. That is, if there are no cables (which I think is likely with a throttle-by-wire on bikes). With a cable system in place, you can simply change the lobe profile and bam- problem solved.
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Went to the International Motorcycle show today in Sacramento and they had two 2016 C14's there. One was stock and the other had a Kawasaki tank bag, had a GPS mounted just like many people already do (can't remember the name of the mount, but it spans across the handlebar mounts, had the Euro style clear plastic wind deflectors on the sides, a different seat and a Kawi trunk.
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I've never ridden a throttle-by-wire (TBW) bike I like; nothing like a linear, mechanical throttle ;D. To me, that makes the Connie a winner. I'm used to precise throttle control due to TBW, track schools, and BMWs in general. So the Connie is just about perfect out of the box for me. Zero complaints. Just took out the excessive throttle cable play, installed grip puppies, and it's perfect for me. I've had cruise on many bikes, and just like on this one, hardly ever use it. Yes, it's quicker and more convenient the few times I need to free my right hand to shake it, adjust something in my helmet, etc. But I'm not in any hurry, and just need it for a moment, so the few extra seconds it takes me to engage the throttle-meister over a factory cruise is nothing. I'll NEVER use cruise control on a bike like on a car, period. So for me to have cruise as standard equipment is money down the drain. I honestly don't know why it's a big deal to sport-touring riders, to be honest. It has never been to me, or to any other rider I know. And I'm not a young punk anymore. He he.
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I've had cruise on many bikes, and just like on this one, hardly ever use it.
A throttle lock does not compare to an electronic cruise control.
I don't have to shake my hand out like you do because I use my cruise.
But your entitled to your opinion just like the rest of us and if you don't want a real cruise control that's fine by me. :loco:
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If I had a real cruise control on my Concours, I would use it all the time just like I do for my cars. I really do wish they had it on the new Concours.
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I hardly ever use the cruise control on my car, but when I had it on my 1200RT, I used it all the time. The ability to give your right wrist a rest is huge.
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The snatchyness of TBW is caused by the manufacturers trying to get the best MPG they can for EPA and marketing. I've experienced the same snatchyness on my Harleys and just about all new cars today have the same issue. But, since a TBW is basically just a computer program, the snatchyness and most any other annoying trait of the system is fix by only a simple download.
The cruise control reminds me of heated gear. Most riders who never used heated gear don't feel they need it. But once they try it, you couldn't pry it away from them. I know a few C14 riders don't like to use a cruise control, especially since they don't have one. But I dare anyone to ride a 2014 or newer FJR through Oklahoma and Kansas without using the CC.
Beary
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But I dare anyone to ride a 2014 or newer FJR through Oklahoma and Kansas without using the CC.
An thus the Central Plains Iron Wrist Riders Association was born. World's toughest carpal tunnels! We've never seen a straight road we didn't like!
Inaugural certifiable route (https://goo.gl/maps/1eEJ821xQ5D2). Expect future routes to have fewer of those pesky wrist resting turns an curves as our flat earth society cartographers gain experience.
Future routes teaser. (http://www.dangerousroads.org/rankings23/3759-the-10-longest-straight-roads-in-the-world.html)
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But I dare anyone to ride a 2014 or newer FJR through Oklahoma and Kansas without using the CC.
Beary
So basically you're saying the 2014 FJR or newer is so slow that they have to have CC because it would take a lot longer to cross those states and they'd get bored and fall off their bikes?
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So basically you're saying the 2014 FJR or newer is so slow that they have to have CC because it would take a lot longer to cross those states and they'd get bored and fall off their bikes?
LOL- I like your interpretation
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I don't have to shake my hand out like you do because I use my cruise.
I wouldn't have to shake my hand (rarely have to do that though) by using throttle lock either. And the only :loco: here is you and others who want to use cruise like if you were driving. For your own protection, you should ALWAYS have your hands on the handlebars and have the brake covered in case you need to brake immediately due to an animal, or whatever other peril out there. And I do that, because I take riding and my health seriously. I only engage it if my hand happens to tingle or something, but it's just seconds, if at all (so no cruise needed). Now, if you want to use cruise, by all means it's your life (just don't endanger others'). But just don't give me your :loco: crap when you're the one being unsafe ;). Rant off. Have a great weekend ahead folks.
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I wouldn't have to shake my hand (rarely have to do that though) by using throttle lock either. And the only :loco: here is you and others who want to use cruise like if you were driving. For your own protection, you should ALWAYS have your hands on the handlebars and have the brake covered in case you need to brake immediately due to an animal, or whatever other peril out there. And I do that, because I take riding and my health seriously. I only engage it if my hand happens to tingle or something, but it's just seconds, if at all (so no cruise needed). Now, if you want to use cruise, by all means it's your life (just don't endanger others'). But just don't give me your :loco: crap when you're the one being unsafe ;). Rant off. Have a great weekend ahead folks.
I would only use it when there is no chance of those things happening, like going down the freeway where there are no animals around or cars to cause me any issues. I am in those situations regularly. So, based on that, I would use it probably almost every day I ride (NEVER while commuting as the statement I made basically never is the case).
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I wouldn't have to shake my hand (rarely have to do that though) by using throttle lock either. And the only :loco: here is you and others who want to use cruise like if you were driving. For your own protection, you should ALWAYS have your hands on the handlebars and have the brake covered in case you need to brake immediately due to an animal, or whatever other peril out there. And I do that, because I take riding and my health seriously. I only engage it if my hand happens to tingle or something, but it's just seconds, if at all (so no cruise needed). Now, if you want to use cruise, by all means it's your life (just don't endanger others'). But just don't give me your :loco: crap when you're the one being unsafe ;). Rant off. Have a great weekend ahead folks.
UNSAFE? Really? LIKE I SAID you are entitled to your opinion. I guess we are just at opposite ends of the spectrum
as you are against a real cruise and I'm for a real cruise.
Yes I use mine like I do in a car. Not in city traffic or when a lot of other vehicles are close by.
Maybe you are a better rider then me in that you can keep a perfect speed for a long time.
Most cars and trucks have cruise and when I use my cruise I feel safer as I'm not slowing down and speeding up
all the time, making the drivers behind me click off their cruised because I slowed down a little and didn't realize it.
When the cars around me are using cruise and I set mine, then I'm not getting closer or farther away from them which is safer in my book.
Also a cruise will return better MPG and may save you from a ticket.
"ALWAYS have your hands on the handlebars" I guess you have never heard the phrase Never say Never - Never say Always?
When you ride and other riders are approaching you (from the opposite direction) and they use a hand jester (wave) do you never acknowledge them?
Because if you do - you just took a hand off your handlebars, right? Even you said you shake your hand.......
I apologize I called you :loco: My Bad. It's just that I think most riders would welcome a real cruise. More and more bikes are
finally starting to come with a cruise as stand equipment. I doubt that if a buyer found a bike he/she really wanted but the only thing it
had that they didn't want was a real cruise - well I doubt that would keep them from buying it, as there is no law you have to use it.
Heck by some miracle the 2017 C14's might come with cruise as standard like the FJR's do now. Time will tell
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Cruise is an excellent feature and should be standard (or optional) on any bike in the touring/sport touring segment. I thought it was cool when HD made cruise standard on the 'S' series (Slim and Fat Boy) which are not touring bikes at all. And you can add it as an option on other bikes. On my 1200 Triumph, I used cruise 95% of the time in all traffic conditions, highway and city. There is definitely 'flat earth' thinking with respect to cruise. Its not there so you can sing the YMCA song or do needlepoint while you ride. Or even just to rest your hand. It is easily used to maintain constant speed with less effort while still keeping hands on bars and covering the brake.
More motorcycle industry foolishness: it should be against the law for 'street legal' bikes (or any vehicle) to be sold with built-in speedometer error. It's okay for toys on tracks, but not real transportation. I have three bikes with three different speedo errors! So cruise helps alleviate this mess. Another unfortunate consequence of motorcycle riding is the proximity of the gauges to line of sight. Even on Connie, peripheral vision can't pick up the speedo like it can in a car. Unless one is riding in attack mode all the time. I loved the giant digital speedo on the Triumph.
Even so, I like the cable throttle on the Connie way better than the RBW throttles on all the Euro tourers. So mccruise and done.
Built-in nav? Never. Add-on Garmin better in every way.
Adjustable handle bars and grips? Meh. Good marketing idea but impossible to get right from factory.
A backrest for rider and passenger. Meh.
Better stock tires. Meh. It's a consumable; roll your own ASAP.
The ability to open the saddlebags without a key if the FOB is within range even if the bike is off, same for storage box? Just allow the latch to close down with the lock open. Fancy not needed.
USB ports in place of a useless cover over a blank spot? I'm just thankful for the spot so you can add what's useful for your needs.
Be thankful the bike is plain with a huge aftermarket. Let the factory concentrate on what they do best- engine and chassis. Let the aftermarket handle the comfort and convenience. It really is the best of both worlds. Holy smokes the griping and complaining over factory accessories when they get it wrong! And it is the norm. Fancy factory features sure do win magazine shootouts, though.
SCR... I was just using your list as a springboard, not attacking your ideas.
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Cruise is an excellent feature and should be standard (or optional) on any bike in the touring/sport touring segment. I thought it was cool when HD made cruise standard on the 'S' series (Slim and Fat Boy) which are not touring bikes at all. And you can add it as an option on other bikes. On my 1200 Triumph, I used cruise 95% of the time in all traffic conditions, highway and city. There is definitely 'flat earth' thinking with respect to cruise. Its not there so you can sing the YMCA song or do needlepoint while you ride. Or even just to rest your hand. It is easily used to maintain constant speed with less effort while still keeping hands on bars and covering the brake.
More motorcycle industry foolishness: it should be against the law for 'street legal' bikes (or any vehicle) to be sold with built-in speedometer error. It's okay for toys on tracks, but not real transportation. I have three bikes with three different speedo errors! So cruise helps alleviate this mess. Another unfortunate consequence of motorcycle riding is the proximity of the gauges to line of sight. Even on Connie, peripheral vision can't pick up the speedo like it can in a car. Unless one is riding in attack mode all the time. I loved the giant digital speedo on the Triumph.
Even so, I like the cable throttle on the Connie way better than the RBW throttles on all the Euro tourers. So mccruise and done.
Built-in nav? Never. Add-on Garmin better in every way.
Adjustable handle bars and grips? Meh. Good marketing idea but impossible to get right from factory.
A backrest for rider and passenger. Meh.
Better stock tires. Meh. It's a consumable; roll your own ASAP.
The ability to open the saddlebags without a key if the FOB is within range even if the bike is off, same for storage box? Just allow the latch to close down with the lock open. Fancy not needed.
USB ports in place of a useless cover over a blank spot? I'm just thankful for the spot so you can add what's useful for your needs.
Be thankful the bike is plain with a huge aftermarket. Let the factory concentrate on what they do best- engine and chassis. Let the aftermarket handle the comfort and convenience. It really is the best of both worlds. Holy smokes the griping and complaining over factory accessories when they get it wrong! And it is the norm. Fancy factory features sure do win magazine shootouts, though.
SCR... I was just using your list as a springboard, not attacking your ideas.
I'm NOT offended - so no worries - I know we are all different and one size does not fit all and what I like maybe someone else wouldn't.
Just a few "corrections" IMO
The built in Nav in my SUV is much better than my Garmin. On an Interstate it will show the next 3 exits and the mileage to each. Rest stops too. ;D
That is a great feature - It counts down the mileage as you get closer and as you pass an exit the next exit will show up with the distance to it.
A Garmin will show ONLY the next (1) exit and NOT show you how far it is to it. SO if they put a system like that on a bike, it would blow away a Garmin, IMO.
Adjustable handle bars and grips might not work for everyone but even if it worked for only 50% of riders it would be worth it.
Some is better then none, again IMO.
Backrests - Have you ever used one? I think not - only that you think they would be useless. I have used them and like them.
Just allow the latch to close down with the lock open. You can't remove the key unless it's in the locked position. And even if you could
you would be risking the bag(s) falling off while riding - that and maybe the cover opening. Other bikes don't have to have a key to open the saddlebags.
OK the USB ports don't have to go in the blank cover spot - but with so many devices using USB for charging a port or 2 somewhere on the bike would be nice.
Well at least we agree that Cruise Should be Standard.
I also agree that the speedometers should be accurate - just like a car.
The above are my opinions alone - if you agree fine - if you don't agree fine. Different strokes for different folks.
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I would literally hate it if everyone agreed on everything. It would be very dull indeed.
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I would literally hate it if everyone agreed on everything. It would be very dull indeed.
yep
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nope..
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Agreed! Wait... what?
I'm NOT offended - so no worries - I know we are all different and one size does not fit all and what I like maybe someone else wouldn't.
Just a few "corrections" IMO
The built in Nav in my SUV is much better than my Garmin. On an Interstate it will show the next 3 exits and the mileage to each. Rest stops too. ;D
That is a great feature - It counts down the mileage as you get closer and as you pass an exit the next exit will show up with the distance to it.
A Garmin will show ONLY the next (1) exit and NOT show you how far it is to it. SO if they put a system like that on a bike, it would blow away a Garmin, IMO.
Adjustable handle bars and grips might not work for everyone but even if it worked for only 50% of riders it would be worth it.
Some is better then none, again IMO.
Backrests - Have you ever used one? I think not - only that you think they would be useless. I have used them and like them.
Just allow the latch to close down with the lock open. You can't remove the key unless it's in the locked position. And even if you could
you would be risking the bag(s) falling off while riding - that and maybe the cover opening. Other bikes don't have to have a key to open the saddlebags.
OK the USB ports don't have to go in the blank cover spot - but with so many devices using USB for charging a port or 2 somewhere on the bike would be nice.
Well at least we agree that Cruise Should be Standard.
I also agree that the speedometers should be accurate - just like a car.
The above are my opinions alone - if you agree fine - if you don't agree fine. Different strokes for different folks.
Just a few more "corrections" IMO
So you want Kawasaki to adopt YOUR built-in nav and make it standard equipment? Just because it's built-in doesn't mean it's going to do everything you want it to do. Many, if not most, built-in navs stink. I can buy the nav that's in your car and RAM mount it to my bike.
So adjustable bars that don't fit the other 50% have to be scrapped anyway and an aftermarket solution fitted. This is the problem with the, for example, Yamaha solution. Yeah, it adjusts, but none of the positions are particularly helpful.
Backrests are nice, but there are just as many backs as there are butts, and the factory offers, at most, two seats.
You miss the point on the luggage. Correct, it is designed so you can't remove the key without locking. BUT, there are separate latches for opening the lid and removing the box. There is an easy solution that wouldn't add thousands to the sticker price. Give the key lock three positions: (1) locked; (2) unlocked, release lid opening latch; (3) remove, release carrying handle. It was one of the features I did like on the Triumph Explorer. And technically, a more positive catch could be added to the carrying handle to keep it from releasing accidentally and keep the same two position lock; just allow the key to be removed.
I would prefer just another 12V outlet if they were going to do something from the factory in the second port. That way, you can pop in a dual USB thing if you want, or something else.
All of the features you mention are definitely worthwhile; I am saying they are not worthwhile from the factory. The factory could only offer one option; the aftermarket has multiple offerings to fit taste, comfort, convenience, etc.
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I would like to see it in the Eddie Lawson Kawasaki race bike green. I didn't say I would buy one that color, just want to see one ;D
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yep
nope..
Maybe.
I also agree that the speedometers should be accurate - just like a car.
You've found one that's accurate in a car? Is that something new?
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If i had cruise, I'd use it.
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You've found one that's accurate in a car? Is that something new?
My vehicles match my Garmin as they should.
If car speedometers were not accurate there would be outrage especially if tickets were involved.
Recalls would be rampant too.
It's strange that most motorcycles are NOT accurate but we as a group (of motorcyclists) don't demand accurate speedos.
Do we really believe they can't make them accurate?
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You've found one that's accurate in a car? Is that something new?
My vehicles match my Garmin as they should.
Well maybe it is something new. Our newest vehicle is a 2010 with lots of features that my regular drive 2002 model doesn't even come close to, but both say they are going faster than they really are.
If car speedometers were not accurate there would be outrage especially if tickets were involved.
Recalls would be rampant too.
Well OK, now you're just making up stuff.
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You've found one that's accurate in a car? Is that something new?
My vehicles match my Garmin as they should.
I have been using GPS in my vehicles for many years (last three cars, last three motorcycles). Not a single vehicle has had an accurate speedometer. And I would define accurate as within 1%. The worst was 6% and the best was about 2.5%.
If car speedometers were not accurate there would be outrage especially if tickets were involved. Recalls would be rampant too.
Not likely. My understanding is that regulations require that speedometers be optimistic (err on reading too high). And manufacturers do not want to get in trouble, so the inaccuracy is quite intentional as a safety margin for them.
It's strange that most motorcycles are NOT accurate but we as a group (of motorcyclists) don't demand accurate speedos.
I think all speedometers should be as accurate as possible, doesn't matter if it is a car or motorcycle. But what I want doesn't amount to squat :)
Do we really believe they can't make them accurate?
All vehicles can be made accurate if that was a goal of the vehicle manufacturers. It is not difficult at all nor to maintain it that way (assuming correctly sized tires are used along with maintaining correct tire pressures). There will still be some variance- tire wear and under-inflation being the most significant.
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GPS based speedo's would be accurate. Other than that, there will always be issues.
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I haven't driven a vehicle in the last 10 years with OE tires where the speedo did not match GPS and/or the speed trap and slow down radars on the side of the road perfectly. Zero error. Four Dodges, two Fords, one Jeep, one Chevy, one Honda, and one Toyota. Bikes are different. Error designed into the speedo. Kawi ZR7 10% high at all speeds, C14 2mph high all speeds, Triumph Explorer no error below 40mph but 3mph high above that. Speedo needs to be right and can be right.
Let me rephrase... zero perceptible error. I can't see 1% error at 55-70mph, so if that level of error is present, then I can allow it. Even 2% is only 1mph at 60, so I admit I don't know if there is zero error, but it is below my detection limit in cars. On all bikes, it is enough to make me mad all day long, so I can detect that.
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I have a Ford Crown Vic with a digital speedo. It is either exactly right or 1 mph off with radar traps or nav systems. The Grand Marquis all were also. I figured that since that is the platform of so many police cars they took time to get it right.
When I ride with friends on Harleys, if they are leading we end up 5mph under the limit. When I lead I ride about 5 over the limit on my speedo. To a man, they all accuse me of racing and taking chances getting the whole group a ticket. They claim I am 10-15 over the limit. These are factory fresh road Kings, tour glides, etc. I have never clicked through one of the road side speed readers more than a couple off the mark, and my bikes usually run a Gold Wing size front tire.
At least they are not like the old MoPar Muscle cars. My cars needle would be pointing a full inch past 120 on the speedo, and my official time ticket at the strip would say I was only doing 108 through the trap. So much for all those 135 or 140 mph bragging rights.
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I have been using GPS in my vehicles for many years (last three cars, last three motorcycles). Not a single vehicle has had an accurate speedometer. And I would define accurate as within 1%. The worst was 6% and the best was about 2.5%.
What I meant to say was my 4 wheel vehicles are accurate - but none of my motorcycles have been accurate from the factory.
Not likely. My understanding is that regulations require that speedometers be optimistic (err on reading too high). And manufacturers do not want to get in trouble, so the inaccuracy is quite intentional as a safety margin for them.
Require - really? - who told you that?
I think all speedometers should be as accurate as possible, doesn't matter if it is a car or motorcycle. But what I want doesn't amount to squat :)
Me too.
All vehicles can be made accurate if that was a goal of the vehicle manufacturers. It is not difficult at all nor to maintain it that way (assuming correctly sized tires are used along with maintaining correct tire pressures). There will still be some variance- tire wear and under-inflation being the most significant.
There is the $64,000 question is why don't they make them accurate - Do they think they are doing us a favor by making them read
faster then we are going? This also screws us mileage wise as it shows more miles then what are really on the bike. :banghead:
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This last statement is not accurate. The odo is correct and gets a different signaling source than the speedo on just about every bike. Your miles are good.
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I use cruise control as a safety feature. It allows me to keep my eyes on the road and watch for hazards instead of constantly checking my speed. Of course it is not needed if you are always following someone, but I ride on a lot of roads where I might see another vehicle once every 10 minutes or so if they are busy.
I will choose cruise every time.
Now that I have experienced electronically adjustable suspension, I will also choose it if available.
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This last statement is not accurate. The odo is correct and gets a different signaling source than the speedo on just about every bike. Your miles are good.
I disagree - sorry.
I reset my Garmin to zero and the bike to zero miles on the trip odometers.
The Garmin always shows less miles. Now it's not something you will see in 5 or 10 miles but if you ride 75 miles or more they will be different. I'll bet on it.
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I disagree - sorry.
I reset my Garmin to zero and the bike to zero miles on the trip odometers.
The Garmin always shows less miles. Now it's not something you will see in 5 or 10 miles but if you ride 75 miles or more they will be different. I'll bet on it.
How much different?
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:popcorn:
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I disagree - sorry.
I reset my Garmin to zero and the bike to zero miles on the trip odometers.
The Garmin always shows less miles. Now it's not something you will see in 5 or 10 miles but if you ride 75 miles or more they will be different. I'll bet on it.
Looks like I've found a sparring partner on this forum. Just kidding; that's just a jab. Oh, wait...Just kidding again.
With which part do you disagree? I admit that half, +/- 25% of what I wrote is wrong. What I meant to say was something different. Take a bike that has a cable speedo/odo driven off the front hub. Single source, but the odo can be made to be accurate while the speedo is still 10% high. They can be setup/calibrated separately from the factory so that if you ride at indicated 60mph constantly for an hour, the odo will only show 54 miles, because the true speed was 54mph. This is IF the clocks have been designed this way, such as my ZR7.
On an electrical system with a speed sensor, it depends on where the speed sensor is located; wheels or countershaft. Either way, the output to speedo and odo can be programmed differently to achieve accurate mileage while maintaining that insidious speedo error (which is done by design). Even the 'speedohealer' makers will say that healing a high speedo will lower an already accurate odo. Maybe some bikes have separate output for odo but I doubt it.
ANYWAY, what I like about forum conversations is the new stuff I learn using the dumb stuff I say as a springboard. I don't trust GPS mileage based on my anecdotal evidence (though I do trust the mph). For fun, since I have a new car and a new bike, I will check these and recheck my other bike. Just for fun. Besides, I've not seen mileage be a factor in bike values, especially the kind of miles that might be recorded if there really is 1-10% error.
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To suggest that the speedo is inaccurate, but the odometer is correct, is some funny stuff. :rotflmao:
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Happy to entertain you. One of the reasons I write long posts. 8)
How 'bout those 2016's?
Oh yeah, it's a similar concept to how a second, minute, and hour hand can run different speeds from the same axis and source...gearing.
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To suggest that the speedo is inaccurate, but the odometer is correct, is some funny stuff. :rotflmao:
I am not saying it is the case, but it is completely possible. Neither the speedometer nor the odometer is cable driven, so the ECU can display anything it wants to :)
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I am not saying it is the case, but it is completely possible. Neither the speedometer nor the odometer is cable driven, so the ECU can display anything it wants to :)
This is true; even easier to make ECU bikes have speedo and odo that don't match; just program it in. Speedo healers work on the main signal from the speed sensor, which is why both odo and speedo are impacted. Crack the code further downstream and you 'could' change them independently. Doubt that's possible outside of the factory. For cable bikes, the odo gearing determines the miles and the needle spring weight (I think) determines needle deflection. They could make a needle say 100mph when you're really going 50 and have the miles still be accurate.
Maybe RedRambler knows.
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Lot's of stuff on the interweb about this speedo error. Basically they all state that motorcycles are set at 6-10% over actual speed, while the odo's are very accurate. Accuracy for the odo's were/are needed for warranty and maintenance purposes, but optimistic speedos were there to eliminate the possibility of law suit clams that the speedos were slow and causing folks to be ticketed, for speed, when they thought they were traveling the legal speed.
The worst I have owned in the past decade was a Triumph T100, that was a consistent 10% off to the plus side at all speeds. Guess that was to make owners believe they were doing the TON, which wasn't easy to get to, when they were really at 90MPH. Most of my bikes read 33 at 35 MPH radar speed readers, in my town. If that % is consistent, that would be around 4MPH at 60-70. I stick to that formula, and have never been bothered by the po-lice when riding for speeding.
Also read for years that GPS readings are only fully accurate if you can travel on an unobstructed road for several miles, at a concistant speed, allowing the GPS and the satellite enough time to sync properly. No scientist here, just repeating what I have heard for many years. tomp
Funny, but it was the fact that the '16 was not improved, as we hoped, that I bought the '11 last week. No reason to waste money on the same bike, regardless of model date. tp
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Just put a 55 series rear tire on and the speedo issue is fixed.
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Based on what I've seen on my bike and comparing to my GPS, the speedo was a little less than 4.5% off before I put the 55 on. Going back to stock size as I couldn't tell the difference in the handling.
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Just put a 55 series rear tire on and the speedo issue is fixed.
If you can deal with the bike being taller... which some of us can't.... not even a little bit.
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If you can deal with the bike being taller... which some of us can't.... not even a little bit.
Perhaps these are necessary if the 55 series tire is desired. Elton just looooved them.
(http://worldismycuttlefish.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/img_0048.jpg)
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Perhaps these are necessary if the 55 series tire is desired. Elton just looooved them.
Probably a bit taller than I would need
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Well, they are silver. :rotflmao: But I do agree they are a bit much..
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Should be able to downshift anyway.
(http://i768.photobucket.com/albums/xx321/mr_beeps/Icons/crazy04_zpsfbev52qf.gif)
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Should be able to downshift anyway.
(http://i768.photobucket.com/albums/xx321/mr_beeps/Icons/crazy04_zpsfbev52qf.gif)
Is that downshift or downlow shift? tp
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Should be able to downshift anyway.
(http://i768.photobucket.com/albums/xx321/mr_beeps/Icons/crazy04_zpsfbev52qf.gif)
Ya- upshifting would be an interesting challenge.
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Ya- upshifting would be an interesting challenge.
Just getting your foot on or off the peg could make a winning youtube video. tp
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Don't need pegs or brakes. Just Kevlar soles. Yabba dabba doo...
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Perhaps these are necessary if the 55 series tire is desired. Elton just looooved them.
(http://worldismycuttlefish.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/img_0048.jpg)
I know you all jest, but I saw Sue, one of Kawasaki's marketing team mebers, wearing platform shoes to ride the taller bikes. No cutout between the heel and sole though.
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I know you all jest, but I saw Sue, one of Kawasaki's marketing team mebers, wearing platform shoes to ride the taller bikes. No cutout between the heel and sole though.
They are basing this partially on my boots, which are elevated. I had a cobbler add sole thickness to mine, but unfortunately the heel didn't end up any taller (I think there was some language issues). Even so, it still helped tremendously. I did discover that if the toe were much thicker, I would not be able to use the shifter.
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They are basing this partially on my boots, which are elevated. I had a cobbler add sole thickness to mine, but unfortunately the heel didn't end up any taller (I think there was some language issues). Even so, it still helped tremendously. I did discover that if the toe were much thicker, I would not be able to use the shifter.
Does that make walking in them more difficult, as they look like they would push you back on your heels?
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Does that make walking in them more difficult, as they look like they would push you back on your heels?
Not that I can tell. It is about the same. The only part that seems to hurt walking is that they weigh more. Those types of boots are already heavy, making them heavier wasn't a great thing, but everything in life is a compromise.
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This thread's been compromised.
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Well, not in a bad sort of way. The main info of any thread here is usually in the first page or so. The rest rambles on...
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This thread's been compromised.
Yep, a long time ago. It is pretty normal for almost all forums and most threads. This thread did make it to two pages before drifting away, though.
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Well, not in a bad sort of way. The main info of any thread here is usually in the first page or so. The rest rambles on...
And that's a good thing!
http://youtu.be/a3HemKGDavw (http://youtu.be/a3HemKGDavw)
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I'll try to get it back on track. At EICMA Kawasaki announced that they were coming out with 12 new models over the next two years, that would be 2017 and 18. According to Cycle News anyway.
http://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/605808-cycle-news-2015-issue-47-november-24
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I'll try to get it back on track. At EICMA Kawasaki announced that they were coming out with 12 new models over the next two years, that would be 2017 and 18. According to Cycle News anyway.
Awesome! I'll be watching, but not waiting. Got tired of the wait.
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Now that the ZX10 is done, the Connie should be next IMO. We'll see.
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....after the release of the 2016' FJR, Kawasaki has no choice with the "old" C14... put up or shut up.
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....after the release of the 2016' FJR, Kawasaki has no choice with the "old" C14... put up or shut up.
True, it took Yamaha what, 9 years, to figure out how to have a 6 speed transmission? I bet it is still a measly 1 year warranty.....
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I wonder what those who always argued that the FJR didn't NEED a 6 speed will say now?
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I wonder what those who always argued that the FJR didn't NEED a 6 speed will say now?
Exactly. Makes you wonder if the FJR diehards will boycott the new version? Yeah, right.
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Makes you wonder if the FJR diehards will boycott the new version?
Of course it needed it. That was half the reason I sold my 2007. The other half was a suspension soft as hell, even for my paltry 160#. It was as sport as an old buick. And the new one is the same way. This bike is even older than the ancient Connie, and the 'improvements' did nothing for me to get another. The Connie is way sporty, exactly the way I want my sport tourer. Even the ES model was way too soft. The standard fork is crap (and looks that way too ;D), and the brakes compared to the Connie's radial ones feel and look much inferior as well. If you want a sport sport-tourer, the Connie has no rival IMO. If you want a touring sport-tourer (defeats the purpose of a sport-tourer IMO), then the Connie is not your ride, so the FJR might be.
Having said the above, I'm a little bummed Yamaha didn't come out with a brand new FJR, because Kawi might not feel compelled to come out with a new Connie, due to the FJR being its main rival. The Honda is even more dated. With the ZX10 out of the way, hopefully the Connie is next for 2017. I plan to keep my 2015 for several years, so it'd be better for me if it takes longer ;D. But some of you folks who have owned yous for several years and want an upgrade, might look elsewere if Kawi doesn't act soon. Take care.