Greetings all! I'm looking to purchase a new C14 very shortly (in the next week or so) but have a few questions I hope someone here can help with regarding the changes/updates between the 08-09 models and the updated 2010 model.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kawasaki_1400GTRMy local dealer has a leftover non-ABS 2009 marked down to $10,500 but if all the upgrades and new features on the 2010 are as good as they claim I'm thinking it might be worth spending the extra money to get them.
I would not buy it without ABS, period. But that is me. It is probably also why dealers have a hard time getting rid of them (those without ABS) and why I don't think you can get a 2011 without ABS anymore
First, for those with the new 2010's what kind of fuel mileage are you getting in the new economy assistance mode? From what I've read elsewhere it seems the earlier models were capable of around 41-42mpg on the highway with proper right wrist discipline. Just curious how much more efficiency this new feature is really worth. They claim up to 25% improvement, but that's a pretty big claim.
I think it is probably more marketing than reality, myself. I have not used the "Eco" mode at all yet, and I get 41-42mpg with MIXED highway/non-highway riding already. I might try it on the next trip, though (I haven't had my 2011 very long).
Second, how do the factory heated grips on the 2010's compare to aftermarket ones in terms of heat output? Anyone have any problems with the factory ones worth noting?
They work great. They don't seem to work any better than my aftermarkets on my older bike, but these OEM have some advantages:
1) They look great- no stray wires, great control location and mounting
2) They are infinitely variable
3) The computer will track voltage and drop the heaters if the battery gets low
How much better are the 2010's side covers at effectively venting the engine heat away from the rider?
I can't say, because I don't have a 2008/9. But from what I read on the forums, it is considerable. Look at the Wikipedia page for all the differences. You should be asking the major question- like traction control....