http://canadamotoguide.com/2018/11/15/test-ride-2018-kawasaki-concours-14-abs/
Couple of things that are incorrect. One was when they said electric windshields are a recent thing
Even the C14 has been using it for 11 [model] years now. Nothing recent about even that.
And from the review:
"Shaft drive, for extra weight and that never-quite-sporty-enough feeling;"Nonsense. The shaft drive does nothing to hurt the sporty feeling. The overall weight of the bike does some, but that is not just the shaft drive- that is the nature of a full-sized sport-tourer. It is also what allows it to be so stable, smooth (long wheelbase), and comfortable (full storage and areodynamics). If you want to fix it, then reflash it (damn I wish reviewers could be given reflashed bikes to test).
"an antiquated instrument cluster that you don’t mind until you realize it’s only because you’re old and nostalgic;No, the fact that it has large ANALOG dials is actually a
very nice feature, not "antiquated". Perhaps the black and white LCD looks a bit dated.
"and a windshield that doesn’t quite rise high enough to complete the job."?? Yes it does. Perhaps the reviewer is super-tall and sits tall?? Besides, plenty of other windscreens available.
"but don’t forget that Kawasaki now also makes the Ninja H2 SX, which is good for 210 hp and 101 lbs.-ft. "And that torque on the H2 is only up high, where it is not used as much in touring riding. But sure, if that is your goal and you don't mind breaking the bank for a tiny, chain-driven, limited range, short-wheelbase, not-real-touring bike.
"Old Beemers and Guzzis suffered from their shaft drives, but like turbo lag on a sport bike, this is now largely a thing of the past."Wasn't that my earlier point?
"All the competition has cruise control, including the H2 SX SE, so why not the Concours? Duh!"Because it is not throttle-by-wire. It is basically a pre-2008 design. He could have added that cruise kits are available. But it is hard to argue against that it should have had it by now.
"There’s no nice way to say this: The Concours feels dated, with old style gauges,"Already covered that
"no drive modes"Actually yes, it does have two drive modes- normal and fuel economy assist mode.
"a big, clunky dial on the side panel for the heated grips"A nice, tactile, easy-to-reach knob is a problem?
"(and no available heated seat)"Yet aftermarkets ARE
available. Really, it is important to mention such things, since some bikes don't have ANY such aftermarket options. Just because it is not from Kawasaki doesn't mean it isn't available.
It is not a bad review, though. But some of the errors and omissions detract from the quality. Also note NO mention of its TPS, legendary reliability, fantastic transmission, best warranty (3 years), and best extended warranty (9 years).