Kawasaki Concours Forum

The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => The Bike - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: JerBear on January 25, 2014, 07:27:05 AM

Title: Opinions please
Post by: JerBear on January 25, 2014, 07:27:05 AM
I prefer Gen1 bikes styling and otherwise.  I do not have ABS and would like to get one with it.  I found a 09 ABS (new) within 200 miles of me at a dealership.  I do not care for Black (too hard to keep clean and absorbs solar heat too much) but I could work with it if I got a great price.  What do you various owners think the best price is, approximately? :grouphug:
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: gPink on January 25, 2014, 07:44:33 AM
Wow, a new '09? What was list in '09?
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: maxtog on January 25, 2014, 08:02:23 AM
I prefer Gen1 bikes styling and otherwise.

What is the "otherwise"?  The lack of heated grips?  The missing windshield memory?  The yucky red (non-white) dash lighting?  The non-existent computer grip switch and eco mode?  Worse drain pan?  More annoying mirror height?  Smaller/less effective windscreen?  No midpipe heat deflector?  Having less senors?  (Etc)

I mean, I can understand some people not linking linked brakes or having a color preference, and maybe the fairings (although I think the gen1 fairings are far less attractive)....   But otherwise (and cost/resale aside), I don't know why anyone would "prefer" a Gen1... over a Gen2 especially if given the option between a new 2009 and a new 2014.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: Rembrant on January 25, 2014, 08:07:05 AM
I prefer Gen1 bikes styling and otherwise.  I do not have ABS and would like to get one with it.  I found a 09 ABS (new) within 200 miles of me at a dealership.  I do not care for Black (too hard to keep clean and absorbs solar heat too much) but I could work with it if I got a great price.  What do you various owners think the best price is, approximately? :grouphug:

Geez, I dunno. $9999?

I had an 08 before my 2010, and I like the styling of both models;).
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: JerBear on January 25, 2014, 08:33:19 AM
What is the "otherwise"?  The lack of heated grips?  The missing windshield memory?  The yucky red (non-white) dash lighting?  The non-existent computer grip switch and eco mode?  Worse drain pan?  More annoying mirror height?  Smaller/less effective windscreen?  No midpipe heat deflector?  Having less senors?  (Etc)

I mean, I can understand some people not linking linked brakes or having a color preference, and maybe the fairings (although I think the gen1 fairings are far less attractive)....   But otherwise (and cost/resale aside), I don't know why anyone would "prefer" a Gen1... over a Gen2 especially if given the option between a new 2009 and a new 2014.

You got it, I don't want linked brakes, I do prefer the "lines" of the Gen1 fairing, I don't want or need windshield memory and prefer the smaller windscreen and have bought another one from a guy that didn't like his, heated grips are (for me) a seldom used luxury that I can install myself for 80 buck if I decide I need them and "ECO" is unneeded for me I don't slab.  The only upside (for me) on the Gen2 is the mirror placement and completely black seat but even that may get changed to a Corbin.  I am the type of guy that buys a bike and just keeps on riding it.  I maintain them and just drive.  I don't really care what the "next new thing" is if I'm happy with what I have but what I have did not come with ABS.  I want that but will not throw tons of money at it just to get it.

All I wanted was a few thoughts from other owners about what they thought a OTD cost would be before I contact the dealer.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: Rembrant on January 25, 2014, 08:38:55 AM

Carry on.

Hehehe... :goodpost:
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: gPink on January 25, 2014, 08:42:34 AM
I tried to modify that an disappeared it instead.  :-\
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: maxtog on January 25, 2014, 09:06:58 AM
I tried to modify that an disappeared it instead.  :-\

I was wondering what was going on... I kept trying to find what he was referencing! :)
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: VirginiaJim on January 25, 2014, 09:29:14 AM
I tried to modify that an disappeared it instead.  :-\

You want it back?  I can make the disappeared reappear.  I don't take plastic, only beer and shrubbery.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: ZG on January 25, 2014, 09:29:24 AM
JB,
I bought my 09 ABS new for $10k as a leftover model in the Fall of 2010 when the 2011's were hitting the shops, so I'd think maybe $9K?  :-\


Good luck!  :chugbeer:

Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: gPink on January 25, 2014, 09:29:58 AM
I was wondering what was going on... I kept trying to find what he was referencing! :)
A point by point rebuttal.... nothing earth shattering.  :)
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: rcannon409 on January 25, 2014, 04:32:37 PM
I dont understand why a dealer has a five year old "new" bike.  I doubt the price will be good enough to justify the sale. Otherwise, they'd have sold it on 2010, 11, 12 or 13.   
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: twowheeladdict on January 25, 2014, 08:16:20 PM
Look up the NADA value on a used '09 concours because that is what it will be worth the moment you sign the paperwork.  Unless Kawasaki had some type of incentive to provide the dealer to sell it, or he picked it up at auction from a going out of business dealer, he will have to sell it below his cost to even move it out the door.  So unless he needs to free up some cash, he might as well keep it or part it out on ebay.  Check out Kawasaki's website to see if there are any incentives on this bike.

Good Luck, and ultimately if this is the bike you want and want to start with a new one then make your best deal and don't worry about what others would pay.

BTW: I would make him put new rubber on the wheels since they are now up to 5 years old.  Have him put new batteries in the TPS while he is changing the tires.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: Cuda on January 25, 2014, 08:42:21 PM
Very good info
I would buy a used one with farkles that I would want to buy anyhow, I've seen some super deals between this site and the ... other  :grouphug:

Given the weather I would think It's let's make a deal time.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: manowarwi on January 25, 2014, 09:10:44 PM
JerBear, by chance is the bike you are looking at at Ken's Sports in Kaukauna, WI?  I see they still have one on their website. 

For some reason (besides me owning one of course  ;) ) I also like the styling of the 08s and 09s more than the new ones.  There is a little too much swooping of the front fairing on the new ones for me, of course that's not to say I wouldn't get one if something unfortunate happened to my bike. 

As for this bike, I'd be curious the history.  I know in the past Ken's (of course assuming we are talking about the same bike) would get deals on old stock or demo units and for a while had 5+ different 08 demo bikes for sale.  I'd be a little leery about the bike sitting 5+ years, but if you can verify the 3 year warranty is good, its not as much of an issue. 

I would say if you are interested, call them and bring up that NADA average retail is $8875 http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/2009/Kawasaki/ZG1400A9F-CONCOURS-14ABS-1352cc/Values (http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/2009/Kawasaki/ZG1400A9F-CONCOURS-14ABS-1352cc/Values) and go from there.  If they want to deal, they will, if they want to hold to their asking price, look elsewhere. 
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: JerBear on January 26, 2014, 03:34:20 PM
Yes, that is the bike I was looking at.  Thank you for the info.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: theAmazingKickstand on January 26, 2014, 10:58:22 PM
I had a used '08 and now have a '12 that I got new for $12.5k.
I too much prefer the first gen styling and would rather pay $9.5k for a new '09 than $12.5k for a new current model.....only if it's brand new with 0 miles, not a demo.
The linked brakes are horrible and the windshield memory is a pain cuz none of the positions are right for me. I always have to readjust! I will be disconnecting my linked brakes when I get the chance. Don't pay too much but don't sweat about paying a few pennies over "killer deal" status. My '08 showed me that this would be my 150k mile bike so I don't mind depriciation/not getting the absolute best deal on the planet.
g'luck.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: maxtog on January 27, 2014, 05:40:00 AM
the windshield memory is a pain cuz none of the positions are right for me. I always have to readjust!

Then turn off the memory and don't use it...  no big whoop.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: twowheeladdict on January 27, 2014, 05:50:42 AM
I had a used '08 and now have a '12 that I got new for $12.5k.
I too much prefer the first gen styling and would rather pay $9.5k for a new '09 than $12.5k for a new current model.....only if it's brand new with 0 miles, not a demo.
The linked brakes are horrible and the windshield memory is a pain cuz none of the positions are right for me. I always have to readjust! I will be disconnecting my linked brakes when I get the chance. Don't pay too much but don't sweat about paying a few pennies over "killer deal" status. My '08 showed me that this would be my 150k mile bike so I don't mind depriciation/not getting the absolute best deal on the planet.
g'luck.

I always run mine in the lowest position unless it is raining or very cold.  I put an 08 screen on it for the summer.  I don't race, or brake late so I have no issues with the linked brakes.

 If the new '09 was the red one, then I would say go for it.  Best color so far in the US.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: Classvino on January 27, 2014, 08:30:19 AM
Then turn off the memory and don't use it...  no big whoop.

When you guys refer to "windshield memory" what is it you mean?  Or are you referring to the way it moves to the lowest position when turning the bike off?

I know I've only had the bike a few months, but have I missed something?

Jamie
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: BobK on January 27, 2014, 08:37:49 AM
Nobody has mentioned the difference in heat between the two. If you are only 200 miles from the dealer you will be dealing with hot summers. I had a 2005 FJR1300 that was so hot in the summer you almost couldn't ride it. I have ridden the early C14s but I have heard heat was one of the major complaints from owners that Kawasaki improved with the newer bikes. For me that would be and was the major reason I went with the newer generation and for all the other changes they made to the newer bikes. You can pick up 2012s all over the place for $11,000. the last time I looked.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: VirginiaJim on January 27, 2014, 08:47:49 AM
Kwak thought that there was enough of a user issue to redesign for better heat management control on the 10+ bikes.  The only real time I had an issue on mine was when it was first purchased.  For some reason, it doesn't bother me now but if heat is of great concern then I would go with the 10+ bikes.

Ironically, the heat issue in warmer weather doesn't much help you in colder weather.  I found this to be the case with the C10 as well.

If something were to happen to my 08, I would be purchasing a 10+ bike, linked brakes and all.  It would not be for the heat, though.  It would be for the other features.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: manowarwi on January 27, 2014, 10:06:01 AM
I never noticed a big heat issue on my '08 either, although in all fairness living in Wisconsin I think I have ridden in near 100 degree weather all of 5 days in the last three years.   The previous owner also had installed the engine heat blockers so I'm sure that helps too. 

I think the redesign was as much to modernize the look of the C14s as it was to specifically address the heat.  I'm sure they were thinking "hey, while we are redesigning the fairings anyways, lets address the heat issue we've had complaints about" not the other way around. 

I can't comment on the linked breaks, although ABS would be nice.  I'm really hoping in the near future we'll see another redesign with abs, traction control, cruise control, and maybe even an audio system all standard to help it compete with the new ST offerings from BMW, Triumph, etc, but now we are getting off topic...
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: maxtog on January 27, 2014, 04:07:44 PM
When you guys refer to "windshield memory" what is it you mean?  Or are you referring to the way it moves to the lowest position when turning the bike off?

Gen 2 has an option to automatically put the windshield up to several positions when the ignition is turned on

Quote
I know I've only had the bike a few months, but have I missed something?

Time to read the owner's manual :)
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: gPink on January 27, 2014, 04:12:10 PM
My gen 1 windscreen is automatically where I left it.  :)
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: maxtog on January 27, 2014, 04:12:23 PM
I never noticed a big heat issue on my '08 either, although in all fairness living in Wisconsin I think I have ridden in near 100 degree weather all of 5 days in the last three years.   The previous owner also had installed the engine heat blockers so I'm sure that helps too. 

The blockers will help, but it is only part of the picture.  They added a midpipe heatshield and also significantly changed the front fairings.  As for not having an issue- some don't notice an issue on the 1 gen as much as others- but if you have no basis for comparison, that is a factor too.

Quote
I think the redesign was as much to modernize the look of the C14s as it was to specifically address the heat.

Kawasaki doesn't change the Concours on a whim like that.  It was only 2 years old when they made the change, and they have made no other significant changes in the 5 years following.  The changes for heat management and the many other changes were made to address specific limitations that they thought they would get beaten up over later (I wish that included cruise control).  I don't think the aesthetics were much of an issue.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: maxtog on January 27, 2014, 04:13:17 PM
My gen 1 windscreen is automatically where I left it.  :)

Then it doesn't go down automatically on ignition turn off, now does it?  :)
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: gPink on January 27, 2014, 04:16:24 PM
Then it doesn't go down automatically on ignition turn off, now does it?  :)
Of course not. Why would anybody want that?
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: VirginiaJim on January 27, 2014, 04:45:26 PM
Remember when the 08's came out?  The sun was being magnified through the screen and melting/striping the cluster.  I've got a bit of a mark on mine that I attribute to the screen.  I think the recommendation (somewhere?) was to retract the screen when it was parked.  I don't remember to do that 3/4s of the time.  Quite frankly, I'm lucky to even find my bike again after I park it.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: gPink on January 27, 2014, 04:48:34 PM
I've never had occassion to worry about it as that area is my helmet holder.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: twowheeladdict on January 27, 2014, 05:15:57 PM
Of course not. Why would anybody want that?

so you can put the bike cover on it without stressing the extended windshield.  Because I only put it up if it is raining or a cold wind is hitting my neck.  Because an extended windshield makes the bike look dorky and I don't want to walk out to a dorky looking bike.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: gPink on January 27, 2014, 05:24:36 PM
 :yikes: Not the dreaded dorky bike syndrome.... :rotflmao:
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: maxtog on January 27, 2014, 05:41:36 PM
so you can put the bike cover on it without stressing the extended windshield.  Because I only put it up if it is raining or a cold wind is hitting my neck.  Because an extended windshield makes the bike look dorky and I don't want to walk out to a dorky looking bike.

+1 :)
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: theAmazingKickstand on January 27, 2014, 06:53:46 PM
Remember when the 08's came out?  The sun was being magnified through the screen and melting/striping the cluster.  I've got a bit of a mark on mine that I attribute to the screen.  I think the recommendation (somewhere?) was to retract the screen when it was parked.  I don't remember to do that 3/4s of the time.  Quite frankly, I'm lucky to even find my bike again after I park it.

For the life of me I couldn't figure out how the previous owner managed to slightly melt the speedo needle!!!!
I guess I'll keep the auto down function.
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: stevewfl on January 27, 2014, 07:15:35 PM
(http://derbyimages.woot.com/sticklink/Magnified_Rays-psduhl-s.jpg)
Title: Re: Opinions please
Post by: martin_14 on January 28, 2014, 02:05:44 AM
Then it doesn't go down automatically on ignition turn off, now does it?  :)

Plus, the Generation 2 makes fantastic pancakes, saves the polar bears and reduces the deficit in the health system  ::)
So many, many, many, many advantages of this completely new generation. Life shattering, me says. Come to think of it, I'll get rid of that vintage D600 and get the all new D610 Nikon just brought out. Now THAT will improve my pictures.