Good write up, but I don't think that these 2 bikes should be compared to each other. The BMW is so much more money and many more options. I think thats like comparing a touring bike to a cruiser. I don't think the concours steers heavy at all but I guess it's what bike you came off of.
Agreed. And it is a good review of both bikes. I could nit pick some of their conclusions (like gas mileage, windshield height, steering), but they did a fair job.
If you MUST compare the two bikes, which are completely out of the same price universe, the C14 *still* does remarkably well. I don't think Kawasaki needs a 6 cyl or an "answer" to the BMW, because it will just push them right out of the reasonably priced market.
Overall, the C14 performs almost as well (better in some ways, worse in others, but close overall), is just as comfortable, has just as much storage, and has most of the high-tech amenities as the K1600 (abs, traction, computer, electric windshield, heated grips, tps, etc). And it does all that with a MUCH better warranty and MUCH lower price.
About the ONLY thing I am jealous of is the factory cruise and the tracking headlight; neither of which is a deal-breaker. If I had no C14 and were in the market to buy again, I would make the same choice- the Kawasaki (and I could afford to buy either).