Kawasaki Concours Forum

The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => The Bike - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: wcgreen on January 30, 2016, 08:48:39 PM

Title: Lowering question for my C14
Post by: wcgreen on January 30, 2016, 08:48:39 PM
I've found a slightly used Muzzy lowering kit I am thinking of getting.  They fit all model years of the C14?  I'm 6'4'', yes, but till I got this bike, had only rode cruisers and I would like a little lower center of gravity for my riding style.  Do you have to get a shorter kickstand with lowering, or is it just recommended?
Thanks!
Billy
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Title: Re: Lowering question for my C14
Post by: maxtog on January 31, 2016, 12:44:08 AM
I've found a slightly used Muzzy lowering kit I am thinking of getting.  They fit all model years of the C14?

Yes

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I'm 6'4'', yes, but till I got this bike, had only rode cruisers and I would like a little lower center of gravity for my riding style.

Standing height is irrelevant on a bike... only the individual measurements (torso length, leg length, arm length) when discussing various aspects (comfort, windscreen, lowering, etc).  Although with that type of height, it is likely you have way long enough legs to not be required to lower the bike (unless you are way, way more out of proportion than even I am).


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Do you have to get a shorter kickstand with lowering, or is it just recommended?

If using the fixed 1" and lowered correctly (front and back), it is required (unless you don't mind the bike falling over)

http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=260 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=260)
Title: Re: Lowering question for my C14
Post by: gPink on January 31, 2016, 06:36:13 AM
Consider riding the bike long enough to get used to the it was designed to be ridden. It's top heavy...if you lower it it'll still be top heavy. You'll have gained nothing and lost ground clearance.
Title: Re: Lowering question for my C14
Post by: connie_rider on January 31, 2016, 06:52:49 AM
I'm frugal so I modified both my side and center stands after lowering.
Correction; I bought used stands and modified those. Stock stands still available if I opt to raise the bike.
But, I like it lowered!

Ride safe, Ted
Title: Re: Lowering question for my C14
Post by: maxtog on January 31, 2016, 07:10:50 AM
Consider riding the bike long enough to get used to the it was designed to be ridden. It's top heavy...if you lower it it'll still be top heavy. You'll have gained nothing and lost ground clearance.

Agreed
I personally would not recommend lowering the C14 unless it was necessary.

http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=260 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=260)
Title: Re: Lowering question for my C14
Post by: wcgreen on January 31, 2016, 09:51:00 AM
Gotcha... Yeah, it was really for making the bike look a little longer and not as top heaving... I have plenty of leg... Just getting use to the feel as I was a BIG cruiser rider the past 20 years.  Im just gonna keep it as-is.  Thinking of adding the vance and hines to give it a little more throat at lower speeds.  Love the sound of that pipe.
Title: Re: Lowering question for my C14
Post by: maxtog on January 31, 2016, 11:29:29 AM
Gotcha... Yeah, it was really for making the bike look a little longer and not as top heaving... I have plenty of leg... Just getting use to the feel as I was a BIG cruiser rider the past 20 years.  Im just gonna keep it as-is. 

The C14 is a tall and top-heavy bike.  That feeling goes away as soon as it is moving beyond parking lot speed, though.  I am sure it will take some getting used to... but once you do, you will quickly appreciate how much more control you have compared to riding a lounge chair :)