Kawasaki Concours Forum
The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => The Bike - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: Kurt on November 30, 2011, 09:42:01 PM
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I am buying a C14 or BMW R1200RT tomorrow. I can't decide which to get as both motorcycles seem to be great, yet different from each other.
I appreciate the comfort features of the R120RT: Heated seat, greater wind protection, more comfortable seat (subjective, I realize), and cruise control. I also appreciate the features of the C14: The engine, shifting smoothly, looks (subjective!), and hopefully lower cost maintenance.
Has anyone here owned, or debated a C14 and R1200RT? What brought you to the C14 in the end?
I suppose that I would be happy with either, but possibly for different reasons. Any insight you could add would be valued.
Thank You.
Kurt
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I test rode both, Love the looks of the RT, but I twisted connies throttle and the love affair began. The BMW engine is smooth but felt almost docile compared to the 14. Many of the things you listed that you like on the BMW are easily added to the C-14 especially if you are doing a $ for $ comparison. You can't go wrong with either bike, they are both very nice motorcycles - buy the one that makes the little man tingle :).
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So you're buying one of them tomorrow but still undecided?? Maybe some test rides and research is in order Kurt... ???
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I sold my R1150RT due to maintenance costs and I wanted more performance. The RT was really comfortable and did indeed offer a touch more protection, which is nice here in the Pacific Northwet. I do about 20-24000 a year, the wetter the better. With my Cee Baileys Eurocut I get all the upper protection I need, the only thing I am missing is foot protection, so I got a pair of Alpinstar Scouts, really great boots, works for both street and DS riding.
I dont miss the RT.
Another reason to buy the C14? This forum and all the great folks with sound advice and witty humor (something that was missing from the RT forums). Both are great bikes, if you're into fairly sedate rides and dont mind the service costs, get the RT, if you want to fling snot with most sport bikes, get the C14, and of course, she is a great long distance canyon carver, one or two up.
Good luck, hope this helps :)
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So you're buying one of them tomorrow but still undecided?? Maybe some test rides and research is in order Kurt... ???
I rode them both and loved them both! I am totally torn. I am not sure that I can make a wrong choice, as they are both great.
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Let the service costs help you out, look into just a simple brake flush. We'll be reading how you love the silky smoothness of the 14, once you wipe the SEG off your face ;D
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As a recent BMW R1150RT owner, that has had two of them and loved them, I recently bought an '11 C14 and I am absolutely certain that I will not miss the RT's nor the dealers that $ervice them. This is after 40 years of BMW ownership. C14 handles much better, goes better, burns more fuel, and I love it! Any questions?
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I rode them both and loved them both! I am totally torn. I am not sure that I can make a wrong choice, as they are both great.
Kurt, I bought an RT in March 2008. I didn't know if to get a 1300GT or the RT, so I basically tossed a coin. In March '09, after only 4500 miles with the BMW, I bought the C14, and had them both in the garage for one year, in which I did 500 miles on the RT and 10 thousand on the C14. So, in april 2010 I sold the BMW. Not one bit of regret. As you say, it is a comfy bike, well made, but didn't light my soul. My Suzuki Bandit 600S was a bike, while the BMW was a car on two wheels. It got the job done, but every time I walked away from it I forgot it existed. My C14 makes me feel nice about life, the BMW didn't. The BMW was a tool, a Ducati would be a lover, and the C14 seats in the middle, with the sum of both aspects being higher than in any other bike I ever drove (and because of my job, I drive many).
So, as you can see, this is a very personal issue. I could point out that I lost some few thousands on the "BMW experiment" by buying and selling it, but this is bikes, not shares, and I do it for pleasure, not profit, so I won't even mention the details. It may be important to mention that I don't see vibrations as character, but as a nuisance, so in my book the more cylinders the better.
I also discovered that to me the cruise control is not that interesting on a bike as it is on a car, so I went with the GoCruise ($17) on the Kawasaki and it more than covers my needs. I also fitted her with grip and seat heating. Basically, I have almost* the same creature comforts as in the BMW, for a lower cost, more power, same reliability in my case, at least thus far; I sold the BMW with 5000 miles and the Kawa has 25000 miles, both had zero issues to report.
*The only thing missing is the ESA suspension. I'd gladly pay those $700 extra to get it. Or more. Are you listening, Kawasaki?!!!
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Huge $$$ differences. I just saw a new C-14 for $12000 and a new RT for $21000. At that cost of the RT I would go for the C-14, but if I wanted to go BMW I'd put a few more $$ out for the GT or GTL. IMHO.
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Of course there is some bias here.....
Like Chet, the service costs on the RT was one of the deciding factors for me to part with it. That and if I needed service done(that I couldn't do myself) like having the bike attached to the moditech computer, I had to travel to another state as there isn't a dealer locally. I really loved riding that bike. I didn't need to make any ergo changes as it was confortable right off the floor.
Over the years, I have been watching the c10 then the c14. I have a friend that put 186,000 miles on a c10 and I always thought I should give them a try. Anyway, I found a used c14 with 300 miles on it and decided to give it a try. While I needed to make some ergo changes, I am happy with getting rid of the RT.
I found after 30,000 miles on the RT the opposed twin was pretty vibey. Although that is the nature of the beast.
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Let the service costs help you out, look into just a simple brake flush. We'll be reading how you love the silky smoothness of the 14, once you wipe the SEG off your face ;D
Check out the cost of service every 6000 miles on the RT and that will help you decide, especially if you ride a lot.
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I have never ridden a BMW before, but will offer my 2 cents:
I never consider BMW because the nearest dealer is 45 miles away and there maybe
two in my state.The dealer network is much smaller than Kawa, not very comforting...
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The BMW RT's have always been hard on my back. I've had three Kawasaki's and all have been kind to my back. Maybe its the seating position. The Kawi's were C10, ZZR1200 and C14.
I think cruise control is over rated as far as needs are concerned.
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Check out the cost of service every 6000 miles on the RT and that will help you decide, especially if you ride a lot.
I read this all the time. Why don't you save us the trouble of calling around and telling us how much service is on the two bikes so we can compare?
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I am in a similar situation as Kurt is. I own a 2005 R1200RT which I love. To be honest, I have no complaints about it at all. That said, I have heard some great things about the Concours, and am debating adding one to my garage, if only because I think that it too is probably a great bike.
I have ridden the Concours on an extended test ride, and the only issue that I experienced about the Concours which I was not happy with was there was a lot of wind noise at freeway speeds. I am assuming that this could be addressed by the installation of a larger windscreen.
After my test ride on the Concours, I want to purchase one, because I think that it's a great motorcycle. I don't particularly need one, and I think that you can't go wrong with either the BMW R1200RT or the Concours. With that said, they are different enough bikes that I think one could get away with one of each and not feel like there's too much redundancy in what they offer.
I read this all the time. Why don't you save us the trouble of calling around and telling us how much service is on the two bikes so we can compare?
I can shed some light on the BMW. Can someone do the same for the Concours?
Dealer Services:
6,000 mile service: $304.55
12,000 mile service: $518.52
18,000 mile service: $312.62
24,000 mile service: $609.07
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My 2009 K1300GT is in the shop now at 16,778 miles getting it's first final drive replacement. Thankfully it's still under warranty.
My 2005 1150RT got it's first final drive replaced at 28,000 unfortunately it was outside of the 36 month warranty and did I mention I was in Nova ****** Scotia?
I bought my first Connie 14 two days after I dropped the GT off for repair. Lesson learned.
Lets watch the language, guys.....VJ
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I bought my C14 from a Kawasaki/BMW dealer so had a good opportunity to compair both.
BMW = expensive to buy, lower depreciation, high spec of options as standard, higher cost for maintainance, concern of final drive reliability, the bike was more 'agricultural' to ride (more 'slop' in the final drive, and noisier engine) and less smooth, accessories were very expensive.
Kawasaki = Very smooth/powerful motor, much cheaper maintainance costs ($100's cheaper), no reliability issues, will depreciate more, prefered the overall look of the bike.
Looking at them side by side in the showroom I simply couldn't justify the extra expense and maintainance costs of the BMW.and that bloody whiny noise they make aghh!!
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Just a thought but are you sure about the depreciation? I would agree that the BMW would seem to depreciate less as the resale value is a much higher dollar value but I wonder about the actual cost of devaluation. For example: if a C-14 is $14K, and the BMW is $20K, what is the actual dollar value of depreciation over the same time period? The same thing is often said about Harley Davidsons but I have not found it to be correct in actual practice- it seems so because the used bikes command a much higher value than their Japanese competition but once the extremely high price of initial purchase is considered, there is less 'out of pocket' loss on most Japanese bikes.
Brian
I bought my C14 from a Kawasaki/BMW dealer so had a good opportunity to compair both.
BMW = expensive to buy, lower depreciation, high spec of options as standard, higher cost for maintainance, concern of final drive reliability, the bike was more 'agricultural' to ride (more 'slop' in the final drive, and noisier engine) and less smooth, accessories were very expensive.
Kawasaki = Very smooth/powerful motor, much cheaper maintainance costs ($100's cheaper), no reliability issues, will depreciate more, prefered the overall look of the bike.
Looking at them side by side in the showroom I simply couldn't justify the extra expense and maintainance costs of the BMW.and that bloody whiny noise they make aghh!!
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Just a thought but are you sure about the depreciation? I would agree that the BMW would seem to depreciate less as the resale value is a much higher dollar value but I wonder about the actual cost of devaluation. For example: if a C-14 is $14K, and the BMW is $20K, what is the actual dollar value of depreciation over the same time period? The same thing is often said about Harley Davidsons but I have not found it to be correct in actual practice- it seems so because the used bikes command a much higher value than their Japanese competition but once the extremely high price of initial purchase is considered, there is less 'out of pocket' loss on most Japanese bikes.
Brian
The depreciation comment is based on what the dealer said. He claimed the BMW maintained a higher second hand value compaired to the Kawasaki.
In the showroom were s/h examples of both and the Kawasaki appeared to take the bigger first hit in the % drop on bikes 1-2 yrs old, dont understand why people by a new bike only to sell it again a few months later. I tend to change every three yrs, keep it as mint as possible, follow the maintainance schedule and get a good trade in price every time.
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Not too many people in this forum are paying sticker for a C-14. So the dealer eats over half of the depreciation.
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Not too many people in this forum are paying sticker for a C-14. So the dealer eats over half of the depreciation.
Is $14,200 out the door a great deal, good deal, about right, or a bad deal? $13,200 before tax and license.
I am down to the wire and making my decision
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Is $14,200 out the door a great deal, good deal, about right, or a bad deal? $13,200 before tax and license.
I am down to the wire and making my decision
What year?
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What year?
2011
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2011
I have seen new 2011 C14's sell for as little at $12,000 (not including TTL), the price dropped on them a little when the 2012 hit the showrooms.
Here is one for $12,500
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Kawasaki-KAWASAKI-CONCOURS-BRAND-NEW-2011-KAWASAKI-ZG1400-CONCOURS-ABS-SALE-OUT-DOOR-PRICE-/140653384885?pt=US_motorcycles&hash=item20bf9854b5 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Kawasaki-KAWASAKI-CONCOURS-BRAND-NEW-2011-KAWASAKI-ZG1400-CONCOURS-ABS-SALE-OUT-DOOR-PRICE-/140653384885?pt=US_motorcycles&hash=item20bf9854b5)
Buy it now for $11,750!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Kawasaki-Ninja-KAWASAKI-CONCOURS-14-NEW-2011-ZG1400-ZG1400CBF-/230708177640?pt=US_motorcycles&hash=item35b7476ae8 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Kawasaki-Ninja-KAWASAKI-CONCOURS-14-NEW-2011-ZG1400-ZG1400CBF-/230708177640?pt=US_motorcycles&hash=item35b7476ae8)
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14200 is a good deal . i have seen them lower and tried to get one at that price only to find out it was bullshit. you got a good deal buy the bike. you wouldnt catch me buying a bike i have not seen from out of state on ebay.
keep shopping around or buy a 2012.
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14200 is a good deal . i have seen them lower and tried to get one at that price only to find out it was bullshit. you got a good deal buy the bike.
$14,200 would be a decent deal for a 2012 IMO, but the dealer should cut a better deal than that on a bike that is already one model year old. Just my 2 cents.
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My local Dealer is closed now. It's past 5:00
I hope He got a BMW, that will make my bike more rare. ;D
Of course I'm kidding. If he rides anything like I do, He needs the Connie under him. 8)
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I will say that a lot of the servicing can be done by the owner. It only took me about 45 minutes to adjust the valves on the R bike. Of course that was 15 minutes longer than on my airhead R bikes. Unless you need the computer for a service or replacing a final drive etc. A lot of the service costs can be negated. With that said, I still own a c14 now. :)
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I call every dealer in a 300 mile radius and make them earn the sale. I used the prices on ebay to bicker a little. $13,100-$13,500 is a good deal. Under $13,000 are great deals. I could probably get myself on a 2012 for mid $14,000 if I was trying. I bought my 2010 abs in January on 2011 for $13,200 and feel I did good.
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Where are you located? If you are in the mideast that is too much money. I ride a 2009 RT all day for work and have NO complaints. In STOCK form I would prefer it on longer trips. In MODIFIED form the C14 is just as good. (Wind protection etc) If you want to twist the throttle and feel acceleration the BMW is light years behind the C14, you will be nothing short if disappointed if you are a speed freak. The RT is smooth, the C14 is a monster. They can both be modified to fit you ergo wise so it boils down to what YOU want. If you can do most of your own maintenance then that is no issue. The fit and finish is better on the RT but at 7,000 more i would expect it to be. The warranty is same on on both bikes. I would buy a RT in a minute if cost was no issue and I preferred the styling, I just could not give up the feeling of the C14's throttle. I prefer the silver on the 2011 C14 and that is what I would buy if I had to choose today as I like the color, it is that easy for me. I do not like the black rims on the 2012 and there are no differences to validate a higher cost. GOOD LUCK!
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I hate to say it (esp. not owning an RT) but after owning an LT and looking hard at the RT(wanted badly for motor simplicity) or C-14 for my next bike a bit later... the beemers are much better tourers-but often top-heavy and the FD issue debate still rages on. Far better standard farkles -its not even close. Beemers are smooth powered until lately and an RT won't come close to hanging with the connie.
All that said:
The C-14 is the far better bike in my opinion-lighting quick for its heft,handles and brakes well. Not to mention it feels 100's of #'s lighter than my beemer.
Mike
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I suppose that I would be happy with either, but possibly for different reasons. Any insight you could add would be valued.
You can pretty easily add a better and heated seat, and some handlebar stuff to the C-14 (I did) and end up with just as much comfort and still come out way ahead with the Concours. The cruise is a bit more difficult a situation (it is a shame Kawasaki didn't offer it as an option in 2010 when they made all the other changes).
Like others said, this is a big purchase, if you don't know what you want and have only a day to decide, you are not ready to purchase yet...
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Well, today was the day I was going to buy a motorcycle...
I took both the R1200RT and the C14 out on test rides along the same stretch of roads. In my opinion, the bikes are totally different; the C14 clearly sporty, while the RT more tour oriented. There was a surprising amount of wind noise on the C14 along with upper body heat (that surprised me, had not read about that in 2011). But the power and smoothness the bike has is contagious and makes you have to have the bike!
I rode the RT and fell in love. It is quiet, comfortable, has plenty of power, and handles well.
Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
Kurt
2011 C14 Silver
2012 R1200RT Blue
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Well, today was the day I was going to buy a motorcycle...
I took both the R1200RT and the C14 out on test rides along the same stretch of roads. In my opinion, the bikes are totally different; the C14 clearly sporty, while the RT more tour oriented. There was a surprising amount of wind noise on the C14 along with upper body heat (that surprised me, had not read about that in 2011). But the power and smoothness the bike has is contagious and makes you have to have the bike!
I rode the RT and fell in love. It is quiet, comfortable, has plenty of power, and handles well.
Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
Kurt
2011 C14 Silver
2012 R1200RT Blue
Hahaha! Nice option! Well, enjoy them both! :chugbeer:
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Didn't see that coming!
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Wish I could buy two bikes because I couldn't make up my mind! :D
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regarding depreciation costs. Keep in mind that I live in Germany and use euros, but whatever that is in USD nowadays, it doesn't really matter for what I'm explaining:
- I paid 17900 for my RT (list price, since BMW doesn't know the word "deal"). Sold it 2 years later with 5000 miles for 12500. That's 30% depreciation and 5400 loss.
- I paid 12000 for my GTR ('08 bike bought in March '09; list price for an '09 was 15900, but they were selling for about 14500):
case 1. If I sold it today, 2 years and 8 months later with 25000 miles, I'd get 8500. That's 30% depreciation and 3500 loss.
case 2. If I had sold it in March '11, 2 years old and if it had 5000 on it, I'd have gotten 10000. That's 17% depreciation and 2000 loss.
Once you go through the numbers, you can take your pick. The only problem with the Kawa is the cost of the platic surgery to take the ;D off your face!!!
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Well, today was the day I was going to buy a motorcycle...
I took both the R1200RT and the C14 out on test rides along the same stretch of roads. In my opinion, the bikes are totally different; the C14 clearly sporty, while the RT more tour oriented. There was a surprising amount of wind noise on the C14 along with upper body heat (that surprised me, had not read about that in 2011). But the power and smoothness the bike has is contagious and makes you have to have the bike!
I rode the RT and fell in love. It is quiet, comfortable, has plenty of power, and handles well.
Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
Kurt
2011 C14 Silver
2012 R1200RT Blue
Congrats!! I'll be interested in which bike gets more seat time ;D
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Kurt -
Congratulations on your purchases. The RT/C14 debate comes up frequently here, so now you'll be one of the resident experts. I'll be interested to hear how you like each of them after you've had them for a bit. Good luck with them. At least now you should never be without a bike even if one is down for service or repairs.
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Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
Who'd a thunk?
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regarding depreciation costs. Keep in mind that I live in Germany and use euros, but whatever that is in USD nowadays, it doesn't really matter for what I'm explaining:
- I paid 17900 for my RT (list price, since BMW doesn't know the word "deal"). Sold it 2 years later with 5000 miles for 12500. That's 30% depreciation and 5400 loss.
- I paid 12000 for my GTR ('08 bike bought in March '09; list price for an '09 was 15900, but they were selling for about 14500):
case 1. If I sold it today, 2 years and 8 months later with 25000 miles, I'd get 8500. That's 30% depreciation and 3500 loss.
case 2. If I had sold it in March '11, 2 years old and if it had 5000 on it, I'd have gotten 10000. That's 17% depreciation and 2000 loss.
Once you go through the numbers, you can take your pick. The only problem with the Kawa is the cost of the platic surgery to take the ;D off your face!!!
I'm no t sure I'm following your depreciation numbers on the GTR. All I know is I've been following the for sale of the Concours and it appears to me it has horrible resale value. Admittedly, I did not buy one of the dirt cheap leftovers. I bought my '10 literally before they came out, but I still got over $1000 discount on it. I'm prepared for it to be worth about 50% of what I payed for it even if I sold it now - it is almost exactly two years old.
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It's nice to think we would get more for them when we sell them but no one buys a toy with the investment value in mind. After all, they're only really worth what someone is will to give you at the time you're trying to sell it.
I just bought my Connie so I got the advantage of buying at a time where the market was soft and realized the end of season savings. I'll wait to sell my GT at a time where I can realize the beginning of riding season inflation. But still will only get what someone is willing to give me.
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Who'd a thunk?
Also the sound of the gearbox going into first.
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Didn't see that coming!
You and me both!
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Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
Kurt
2011 C14 Silver
2012 R1200RT Blue
Kurt..... I want you to know this.... I hate you!!!!!! :battle:
But,,, Enjoy the bikes anyway.
Let us know which gets the most seat time which is the most enjoyable.
Ride safe, Ted
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regarding depreciation costs. Keep in mind that I live in Germany and use euros, but whatever that is in USD nowadays, it doesn't really matter for what I'm explaining:
- I paid 17900 for my RT (list price, since BMW doesn't know the word "deal"). Sold it 2 years later with 5000 miles for 12500. That's 30% depreciation and 5400 loss.
- I paid 12000 for my GTR ('08 bike bought in March '09; list price for an '09 was 15900, but they were selling for about 14500):
case 1. If I sold it today, 2 years and 8 months later with 25000 miles, I'd get 8500. That's 30% depreciation and 3500 loss.
case 2. If I had sold it in March '11, 2 years old and if it had 5000 on it, I'd have gotten 10000. That's 17% depreciation and 2000 loss.
Once you go through the numbers, you can take your pick. The only problem with the Kawa is the cost of the platic surgery to take the ;D off your face!!!
If he bought both I am sure he could give a rats azz about depreciation..LOL
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Well, today was the day I was going to buy a motorcycle...
I took both the R1200RT and the C14 out on test rides along the same stretch of roads. In my opinion, the bikes are totally different; the C14 clearly sporty, while the RT more tour oriented. There was a surprising amount of wind noise on the C14 along with upper body heat (that surprised me, had not read about that in 2011). But the power and smoothness the bike has is contagious and makes you have to have the bike!
I rode the RT and fell in love. It is quiet, comfortable, has plenty of power, and handles well.
Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
Kurt
2011 C14 Silver
2012 R1200RT Blue
NICE! My favorite colors of both bikes. CONGRATS
It will be interesting to hear your opinion of both bikes here.
PICS PICS PICS
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Well, today was the day I was going to buy a motorcycle...
I took both the R1200RT and the C14 out on test rides along the same stretch of roads. In my opinion, the bikes are totally different; the C14 clearly sporty, while the RT more tour oriented. There was a surprising amount of wind noise on the C14 along with upper body heat (that surprised me, had not read about that in 2011). But the power and smoothness the bike has is contagious and makes you have to have the bike!
I rode the RT and fell in love. It is quiet, comfortable, has plenty of power, and handles well.
Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
Kurt
2011 C14 Silver
2012 R1200RT Blue
Nicely played sir!! :chugbeer:
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My mom used to always say that you need two of everything. One for day and one for night.
Enjoy!
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enjoy!
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Yes enjoy. But couldn't have brought 2 very different bikes? This is almost like driving a ford and gm truck.
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Nice!
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Doesnt make any sense to me. :o I have a GSXR 600 for track days, Street Glide for beer runs with the guys and CONNIE when I'm serious about riding into the sunset. Completely different styles and different riding types.
WHATEVER!
I call B@11$H177!!
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Doesnt make any sense to me. :o I have a GSXR 600 for track days, Street Glide for beer runs with the guys and CONNIE when I'm serious about riding into the sunset. Completely different styles and different riding types.
WHATEVER!
I call B@11$H177!!
I am pretty skeptical too, myself. There are some appreciable differences between the two bikes, but they are way too similar in most ways to possibly justify buying both of them. Just doesn't make any sense at all.
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I would have gone for the GTL1600 if I had the money to buy both, but that's just me.
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I posted the maintenance costs on my R1200RT yesterday, and asked others to do the same for the C14, for comparison purposes. Thus far, nobody has done so.
Would someone please post their maintenance costs for comparison purposes?
I can shed some light on the BMW. Can someone do the same for the Concours?
Dealer Services:
6,000 mile service: $304.55
12,000 mile service: $518.52
18,000 mile service: $312.62
24,000 mile service: $609.07
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I posted the maintenance costs on my R1200RT yesterday, and asked others to do the same for the C14, for comparison purposes. Thus far, nobody has done so.
Would someone please post their maintenance costs for comparison purposes?
What maintenance cost? It's a C14... ::)
No really, oil, gas & tires. That's about it.
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Heavy on the tires... :o
I'll wear out a set in a weekend.
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What maintenance cost? It's a C14... ::)
No really, oil, gas & tires. That's about it.
+1. I've had one valve check in 47k and the above. The farkling has been more expensive.
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+1. I've had one valve check in 47k and the above. The farkling has been more expensive.
+2. I could have made me new teeth already. The whole set. ;D
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I am pretty skeptical too, myself. There are some appreciable differences between the two bikes, but they are way too similar in most ways to possibly justify buying both of them. Just doesn't make any sense at all.
If I had the scratch, I'd have gone with a BMW 1600, then get a ZX14.
I have two bikes, my C14 and '91 Katana 1100- long live Ratty Katty!
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If I had the scratch, I'd have gone with a BMW 1600, then get a ZX14.
I have two bikes, my C14 and '91 Katana 1100- long live Ratty Katty!
My dad loves his GSX-1100F, but he wants to move to a C14 after riding mine. But that bike had an electrically adjustable windshield in 1990!
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Dammit, I wish I would have seen this thread sooner. I owned a 1200RT and I now own a C14.
The 1200RT is a great bike. In comparison with the C14, it's lighter, has a tighter turning radius, and offers a bit more weather protection from the fairings. And I used the cruise control a LOT. That's the single, #1 biggest minus of the C14 to me. Regarding the 1200RT in comparison to the C14:
Plusses:
Lighter, tighter turning radius.
Slightly more weather protection.
Narrower, easier to lane split with if you can do that.
Great range (300+ miles.)
Valve adjustments and spark plug replacements are easy.
Fairings a bit easier to remove.
Lighter clutch and throttle feel.
Minuses:
The Boxer motor has low torque at low RPM and tends to randomly cut out. Easy to stall. Runs like crap when cold.
First gear is overly tall - not great for inching along.
Not as much cornering clearance as a C14.
Handling at speed is not as good as the C14.
Final drive oil changes are a PITA compared to a C14 but not overly so.
Eats H7 headlight bulbs for lunch. Lighting is good but the C14 is better.
I would say the RT is a better long distance touring bike, in terms of comfort and range. The C14 is much closer to being a sport bike but it is still a great touring bike.
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My dad loves his GSX-1100F, but he wants to move to a C14 after riding mine. But that bike had an electrically adjustable windshield in 1990!
The GSX 1100F was the first bike to have an electric windshield when it debuted in '87 0r 88 (forgot the year it was introduced). And, unlike most
bikes, it doesn't look goofy when fully extended. Of course, I wish it were taller, but hey, the bike looks cool. I did a lot of touring on it, but the buzzing from that GXSR
motor is real bad, the C14 is so much smoother and comfy that it isn't funny.
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Hey Kurt I call BS and would like to see a pic.
Just saying!
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I am in a similar situation as Kurt is. I own a 2005 R1200RT which I love. To be honest, I have no complaints about it at all. That said, I have heard some great things about the Concours, and am debating adding one to my garage, if only because I think that it too is probably a great bike.
I have ridden the Concours on an extended test ride, and the only issue that I experienced about the Concours which I was not happy with was there was a lot of wind noise at freeway speeds. I am assuming that this could be addressed by the installation of a larger windscreen.
After my test ride on the Concours, I want to purchase one, because I think that it's a great motorcycle. I don't particularly need one, and I think that you can't go wrong with either the BMW R1200RT or the Concours. With that said, they are different enough bikes that I think one could get away with one of each and not feel like there's too much redundancy in what they offer.
I can shed some light on the BMW. Can someone do the same for the Concours?
Dealer Services:
6,000 mile service: $304.55
12,000 mile service: $518.52
18,000 mile service: $312.62
24,000 mile service: $609.07
I don't ever have dealers do my service - I do it myself. But these numbers you are showing don't sound all that high to me. Do the higher two include a valve check?
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I don't ever have dealers do my service - I do it myself. But these numbers you are showing don't sound all that high to me. Do the higher two include a valve check?
Probably includes the ABS brake service. Wanna see a shade tree nightmare? Look at what is needed to do the servo assisted ABS brakes. It was what drove me into the proverbial ditch. Praise be to mama kaw and getting me back on road :)
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I don't ever have dealers do my service - I do it myself. But these numbers you are showing don't sound all that high to me. Do the higher two include a valve check?
Yes, the higher numbers include a valve check (all four prices do, actually) and the final drive fluid change.
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Probably includes the ABS brake service. Wanna see a shade tree nightmare? Look at what is needed to do the servo assisted ABS brakes. It was what drove me into the proverbial ditch. Praise be to mama kaw and getting me back on road :)
For my servo assisted brakes equipped bike, the brake fluid flush is $230. I am told the non-servo assist bikes cost about $130 to do a brake fluid flush (one hour less labor).
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Well, today was the day I was going to buy a motorcycle...
I took both the R1200RT and the C14 out on test rides along the same stretch of roads. In my opinion, the bikes are totally different; the C14 clearly sporty, while the RT more tour oriented. There was a surprising amount of wind noise on the C14 along with upper body heat (that surprised me, had not read about that in 2011). But the power and smoothness the bike has is contagious and makes you have to have the bike!
I rode the RT and fell in love. It is quiet, comfortable, has plenty of power, and handles well.
Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
Kurt
2011 C14 Silver
2012 R1200RT Blue
Congratulation the BMW is a nice bike when it runs the Kawi is a better bike. You’ll also have the Kawi to ride while your BMW is at the dealer for repairs. Also never trust the fuel gauge on the BMW or eventually you’ll find yourself out of gas with a gauge that read a half a tank.
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Congratulation the BMW is a nice bike when it runs the Kawi is a better bike. You’ll also have the Kawi to ride while your BMW is at the dealer for repairs. Also never trust the fuel gauge on the BMW or eventually you’ll find yourself out of gas with a gauge that read a half a tank.
Did you previously own an R1200RT?
I have 102,000+ miles on my RT, and never have had any breakdowns. Truth is, I can't think of anyone else who has had a breakdown on their RT either. That said, I am always in the market for new & different bikes, and the C14 appeals to me.
As far as the gas gauge is concerned, I have never heard of the gas gauge indicating fuller than it actually is on the BMW. The common complaint is with fuel strips, and it leads to fuel gauges indicating lower (or empty) than reality. What experience have you had in which the gauge indicated higher than actual?
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Had one since 08, 4 or 5 fuel strips replaced and every time it went out it would read higher than actual fuel levels. After the second time I was stranded out of gas with a gauge reading of a half a tank I started to rely on the trip odometer for fill ups. It’s also been through 1 clutch, 2 windshield actuator arms, drive shaft came apart, rear wheel bearing went out and at least a half dozen kick stand switches, all within 50k miles. The last 10k have been trouble free. It’s a great bike when everything works.
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I posted the maintenance costs on my R1200RT yesterday, and asked others to do the same for the C14, for comparison purposes. Thus far, nobody has done so.
Would someone please post their maintenance costs for comparison purposes?
I ll be honest with you, i dont see the purposes of your questions when yours answers are biased toward the R1200.
I would ve try to answer your question but i do almost all the work myself. So for the 7500, 11250 and the 15000, it cost me between 75$ and 200$ mainly in fluid, gease and parts.
Good luck in your quest
Derry
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I ll be honest with you, i dont see the purposes of your questions when yours answers are biased toward the R1200.
I would ve try to answer your question but i do almost all the work myself. So for the 7500, 11250 and the 15000, it cost me between 75$ and 200$ mainly in fluid, gease and parts.
Good luck in your quest
Derry
I am sorry if it seems that I am bias towards the 1200. I know it well, because I have had one since 2005. However, I am on the verge of buying a C14 (going to look at one at the dealer tomorrow), possibly to replace my 1200, so I am attempting to learn as much about it as possible.
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Had one since 08, 4 or 5 fuel strips replaced and every time it went out it would read higher than actual fuel levels. After the second time I was stranded out of gas with a gauge reading of a half a tank I started to rely on the trip odometer for fill ups. It’s also been through 1 clutch, 2 windshield actuator arms, drive shaft came apart, rear wheel bearing went out and at least a half dozen kick stand switches, all within 50k miles. The last 10k have been trouble free. It’s a great bike when everything works.
That's happened to me once. The ONLY time I forgot to display the trip odometer (Beemers have a bad habit of not starting up with the same information displayed when you shut it down) the fuel strip failed indicating a quarter tank left. I ran out of gas on the freeway. When I cycled through the displays to show the trip odometer, sure enough, I travelled 318 miles. From then on, I went strictly by the trip odometer and nothing else.
That by the way is the ONLY time I've run ANY vehicle out of gas in my life. Cars, motorcycles, airplanes - I'm always conscious of fuel.
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After having both motorcycles for a few days now, I thought that I would post a quick sunmary.
The C14 is a fast bike!! It is loud on the highway, but for sport riding on roads, I am not sure it can be beat. I don't see myself taking this bike on extended tours.
The RT is a comfortable bike that is quiet on the highway, and comfortable to ride. I can certainly see touring on this bike.
Overall, my feeling is the BMW is built with higher quality standards and is better for touring. The C14, I view as a more upright seated sport bike.
I am always looking for riding partners. If anyone is ever out here in central to southern CA, that's where I keep my bikes. Look me up and lets go ride!
Kurt
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Pics, Pics, Pics. We need to see some pics. Without pics nothing is real... ;D
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The C14 is a fast bike!! It is loud on the highway, but for sport riding on roads, I am not sure it can be beat. I don't see myself taking this bike on extended tours.
Kurt
I guess it depends on the rider... I rode mine to Reno and back from the East coast and it did fine. I'd tour with it anywhere except off road.
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7 December 2011
Kurt,
This may be late, but here goes. I had a 1992 Connie that I owned over six years. Bought used with almost 22K, sold it with almost 172K. Great machine and it was quite good. Would love to have a later-model post-93 red or black C10 Connie.
After a couple of interim bikes following the C10, I bought a 2003 BMW R1150RT w/ 19,600 miles in November 2005. Over six years now, she has almost 111,000 miles and running strong. I did have the dreaded HES (ignition sensor pickup) failure this past April at 96K, which stranded me, but that's over with.
The bike is very DIY shadetree-mechanic friendly except the ABS servicing, which I don't have the expertise to perform. The 6K and 12K services I combine to do every 20K and that works fine - the screw-and-locknut valve clearances have stabilized. Single-sided swingarm making wheel removal a piece of cake. Front wheel removal also very easy. The brake pads all three calipers are ridiculously easy to change, unlike the real pain in the neck of my 1992 Connie.
No water pump, no coolant, two spark plugs. A simple machine in most respects. How does this extrapolate to the R1200RT? Mechanically, about the same. The R1200RT is much uglier than the R1150RT, but still a great machine. New bikes have heated everything, BlueTooth, cruise control, tailored displays, etc. Nice.
The RT has a much bigger fuel tank and much better gas mileage. MUCH better. While touring, figure 270-320 miles per tank, easy.
Drawbacks - the fuel filter and fuel pump are inside the fuel tank and not trivial to replace. The alternator belt (yes, a belt like your car) is replaced every 36K (new bulletin now sez every 25K, which is overkill).
The 2010 and newer Oilhead / Hexhead machines have the new "semispherical" shims for valve adjustment. Very, very mechanic friendly for DIY, but the drawback is shim replacement - have to go to the dealer and swapout / buy new shims (gotta do the math right - "measure twice, cut once") or buy a pricey shim kit. I like the screw-and-locknut setup much better.
I feel the same emotions about the R1200RT vs the C14 Connie. If you are gonna do your own mainteance and very handy and DIY capable, the new and late model R1200RTs are better to work on, with some of the Kraut bike quirks not seen in the Japanese bike wold. If you are mechanically a klutz and will do all dealer servicing, the C14 is quite attractive
Cheers, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone,
Mike Shelton
Stafford, VA
2003 R1150RT
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Cheers, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone,
Mike Shelton
Stafford, VA
I am consistently amazed at how many of us are from Virginia on this message board. Seems way disproportionate. Anyone else notice that? (Yes, I am a native and resident Virginian).
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I am consistently amazed at how many of us are from Virginia on this message board. Seems way disproportionate. Anyone else notice that? (Yes, I am a native and resident Virginian).
I see them (C14's) in Hampton Roads every now and then, not a lot as this is Harley Country for some reason.
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I am consistently amazed at how many of us are from Virginia on this message board. Seems way disproportionate. Anyone else notice that? (Yes, I am a native and resident Virginian).
Yep, not that there's anything wrong with that. :)
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Cheers, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone,
Mike Shelton
Stafford, VA
2003 R1150RT
Mike, glad you found us. Believe it or not I was thinking about you the other day.
Jim
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Jim,
Thanks for the welcome back. Refresh my dull memory - where are you located? In my previous Connie life, I was CoggerMike when I was a COG Member and semi-frequent participant on the COG-List. Recent magazine articles and some discussions with others have made me think of the C14 if and when I get a new machine.
I had always been a Jap bike owner - the R1150RT is my first German bike and it took a while to get acclimated to some of the unique attributes it has, but it has turned out to be a nice machine. It does have potentially problematic certain ABS failure scenarios that may be unpleasant, but so far so good on the reliability. I took it on a 7543-mile tour to the NorthWest and down to Las Vegas this Summer. In October rode it on business to Kansas City, down to Albany, GA, and return. Been to Oshkosh twice and KC several times, plus a bunch of times to Tennessee. Did the "Big Bend Ride The Twisties" in March 2008 where I hooked up with my dear friends Ted Adcock and Troy Minton. It is fun in the twisties and mountains. And it will drone all day and night on the superslab.
Thinking hard about a C14 myself, but the 2007-2011 R1200RT models look enticing also. I love the simplicity and long-term reliability of an oil-cooled / air-cooled twin boxer. They are neat bikes.
Cheers,
Mike Shelton
Stafford, VA
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Ah, getting old eh? 2002 C10, King George, I rode your BMW to Kilmarnock and at that time couldn't wait to get back on the C10... ;)
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Jim Sparkman, hey, is that you? How the heck is ya?
Mike
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I is fine and enjoying my C14, at least I was until August or so...but that's another story outside of this thread. Am tickled you made it back to us, Mike.
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Hey Jim, anyone ever call you Sparky? :o
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Yep and it's fine by me...
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Jim, glad to know you're still vertical w/o a toe tag. How is Martha?
As for being "old," my son thinks I flew pterodactyls when I was in Navy primary training. But this summer I did a 17-day 7543-mile trip up to the great NorthWet (w/o rain, actually) on the RT. Did Rapid City, The Badlands, Devil's Tower, all that stuff, then 212 across Montana to Little Big Horn, I-90 into Washington, spent a couple of nights with an old grad school buddy in Chehalis, then down through Nampa, ID and to Las Vegas for three nights with the kids and my grandchillen. My son graduated from Navy Test Pilot School in June and is now assigned to a joint Navy / Air Force test office at Nellis AFB, flying the Hornet, the F-16, and some stuff he can't discuss.
Then the long drone home via I-40 / I-81 / I-64, etc.
Not bad for an old guy. IBA#9019. All on the marvelous machine you chose to diss. Shame on ya. That bike now has a tick below 111,000 miles and running great. In many ways, much easier to work on than the mighty fine C10. I just would prefer an RT w/o ABS and I would be much happier.
You can ping me off-list and tell me your C14 saga. I have a RT saga story also but she's great now.
Cheers,
Mike Shelton
Stafford, VA
oilheadmike@comcast.net
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Hey Jim, anyone ever call you Sparky? :o
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/sakdjsiuiu.jpg)
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(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/sakdjsiuiu.jpg)
>:( ;)
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Well, today was the day I was going to buy a motorcycle...
I took both the R1200RT and the C14 out on test rides along the same stretch of roads. In my opinion, the bikes are totally different; the C14 clearly sporty, while the RT more tour oriented. There was a surprising amount of wind noise on the C14 along with upper body heat (that surprised me, had not read about that in 2011). But the power and smoothness the bike has is contagious and makes you have to have the bike!
I rode the RT and fell in love. It is quiet, comfortable, has plenty of power, and handles well.
Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
Kurt
2011 C14 Silver
2012 R1200RT Blue
Kurt, I like the way you operate!
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Kurt, I like the way you operate!
Some would claim it is a hoax, since no pictures have ever been posted..... ;)
(I wanna see him next to BOTH!)
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+1
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+2...
no pics, didn't happen.
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Connie's really depreciate this badly? :-[
http://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/mcy/2759921991.html (http://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/mcy/2759921991.html)
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Connie's really depreciate this badly? :-[
http://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/mcy/2759921991.html (http://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/mcy/2759921991.html)
Has nothing to do specifically with "Connie's". ALL motor vehicles take a huge hit the moment you drive them off the lot and they are not "new".
PS. where are those pics??!!?!
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Connie's really depreciate this badly? :-[
if you are looking for a motorcycle as an investment, you are looking at the wrong one.
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if you are looking for a motorcycle as an investment, you are looking at the wrong one.
If he sells the bike for $10,500, considering the price that he paid, it's only a 25% hit. Really, seems about on par with any other new motor vehicle purchase.
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That's a good deal for one of us on the other side of the country. Very good deal.
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if you are looking for a motorcycle as an investment, you are looking at the wrong one.
Pretty much NO new motor vehicle is ever an "investment". It is just an expense. Perhaps if you get into some rare antique stuff, one might expect appreciation. But I stress the word "rare".
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My 2009 K1300GT is in the shop now at 16,778 miles getting it's first final drive replacement. Thankfully it's still under warranty.
My 2005 1150RT got it's first final drive replaced at 28,000 unfortunately it was outside of the 36 month warranty and did I mention I was in Nova ****** Scotia?
I bought my first Connie 14 two days after I dropped the GT off for repair. Lesson learned.
Lets watch the language, guys.....VJ
i dont understand the thinking that german engineering/build is superior.
We have some german equipment and machines at work .They break down often.
I dont even want to fool with BMW motorcycles.
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I've wondered about that as well....
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Pretty much NO new motor vehicle is ever an "investment". It is just an expense. Perhaps if you get into some rare antique stuff, one might expect appreciation. But I stress the word "rare".
Oh I would think there are a few of us kicking our back sides for not buying some of the old gas hogs of our youth. Corba Jets, Hemi Cuda's etc.
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Yep. :(
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Oh I would think there are a few of us kicking our back sides for not buying some of the old gas hogs of our youth. Corba Jets, Hemi Cuda's etc.
I'm not so sure. Do the math on a 40 year old car- with expenses like maintenance, insurance etc. Then look up how much you would have made on an investment in the market in the same 40 years. The old rule of thumb is you can double your money every seven years (last 3 years an anomaly).
Granted, the cars would be more fun, but most people who make money on cars don't drive them.
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I've owned a 2010 RT, and I have to say that is one of the nicest bikes I've ever owned. In fact, I liked it better than my K1600GT in many ways.
It is quite light for a touring or sport touring motorcycle, which is something I really appreciate. The handling on the RT and the manner in which I could toss that bike around in corners is nothing short of amazing! It truly has sport bike like handling, and is also docile and stable at triple digits speeds.
The RT is not the speedster that the K16, or C14 are, but honestly, it's no slouch either, and is very torquey down low. I had a ball with my RT at Deals Gap!!
Enjoy them both!
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I am buying a C14 or BMW R1200RT tomorrow. I can't decide which to get as both motorcycles seem to be great, yet different from each other.
So you're buying one of them tomorrow but still undecided?? Maybe some test rides and research is in order Kurt... ???
Well, today was the day I was going to buy a motorcycle...
I took both the R1200RT and the C14 out on test rides along the same stretch of roads. In my opinion, the bikes are totally different; the C14 clearly sporty, while the RT more tour oriented. There was a surprising amount of wind noise on the C14 along with upper body heat (that surprised me, had not read about that in 2011). But the power and smoothness the bike has is contagious and makes you have to have the bike!
I rode the RT and fell in love. It is quiet, comfortable, has plenty of power, and handles well.
Truly I could not decide which to buy. So I bought both!! :)
PICS PICS PICS
Doesnt make any sense to me. :o
WHATEVER!
I call B@11$H177!!
I am pretty skeptical too, myself. There are some appreciable differences between the two bikes, but they are way too similar in most ways to possibly justify buying both of them. Just doesn't make any sense at all.
Hey Kurt I call BS and would like to see a pic.
Just saying!
Pics, Pics, Pics. We need to see some pics. Without pics nothing is real... ;D
Some would claim it is a hoax, since no pictures have ever been posted..... ;)
(I wanna see him next to BOTH!)
+1
+2...
no pics, didn't happen.
Just checking back in on this thread, we never saw any pics, any update? (http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/smiley_dunno.gif)