Kawasaki Concours 14 reviews

I bought this thing last year and I am impressed with it. There's a reason why this bike has been around so long. Loads of power and a comfortable ride. Show less

I have been riding Harleys for years now. The last was an Ultra. I have the 2008 Concours Non-ABS. The C14 is so smooth and so easy to control. This is an awesome bike and wish I would have gotten one sooner. Show less

Well I am very pleased so far with the ZX-14. Like the previous reviewer I too am the proud owner of a 1999 Super Blackbird. They are simlar in many ways. I can't ride a a bike with bars below the top of the triple tree but I am an addict for power. These being 2 of the 3 most powerful bikes made, the comparisons are inevitable. Both of these bikes I own are completely stock.T he ZX-14 feels lighter, has a lot more power than the blackbird and although it doesn't look like it, it is a lot more comfortable than the blackbird for my build. The engine seems to run a little more raw so to speak than the blackbird. The 14 has an awesome set of brakes but if you're used to a blackbird there is no linked braking so it takes some practice to get back into stopping correctly. The only downside to the 14 that I have noticed is fuel mileage. I can't seem to get better than 34 mpg. The Honda is much better in this respect. But hey let's face it no one buys a bike like this because they are worried about gas mileage. Mine is the midnight blue pearl color and gets many compliments from other riders and people in general. I never thought I would part with the blackbird but the 14 is a much more advanced version of the same style of bike. So I think now is the time for me to part ways with the Honda. Show less

I just bought this bike used with 538 miles on the odometer. No ABS, but at the price I have to pass on it since a new Connie w/ABS is priced a lot higher. What a ride this bike provides - it is the smoothest power delivery and transmission combo I have ever experienced. I considered the FJR and ST1300, but the price on this bike was unbeatable. Nothing has been forfeited that is crucial to my future riding needs. I especially like the KIPASS key fob & TPMS readout. Overall this is a top notch touring bike worthy of consideration and it is a very good value. Show less

I purchased the first black 2009 C14 my dealer had in their inventory. I have been on it every day, cold or hot, for 60 miles a day on average. This bike has comfort, speed, handling and high-tech stuff like K-Pass and 4-link suspension with shaft drive. The electric windscreen is cool too! No more backache! You won't be disappointed! I get 42 mpg every day. Kawasaki definitely made a SUPERTOURING ROCKET! Show less

This bike has about 11 more ponies than the FJR with about the same weight, but it has a slipper clutch, 6 gears, bigger bags, and does the quarter mile in 10.5 seconds! I have 8400 miles on this bike and it is almost broken in. When you pass someone, even in 6th gear, you will be going over 100 easily! Brake rotors are wave style - usually you have to aftermarket those. The drive shaft is massive and is a special design that doesn't rise and dive under hard acceleration. The Battlax tires wear out fast - I recommend a change to Michelin PR2. Europe gets Michelin tires on this bike; the US is stuck with lousy tires on most sport bikes, I don't know why. This bike is a blast to ride; handling is unbelievable. It leans very far without dragging; high clearance. Secondary flies are easily removed for more power at the low end, and I changed to Two Brothers slip-on exhaust as it is much better looking and not very loud. Plus a PowerCommander to keep it from running lean. I want this baby to last forever! The warranty is 36 months! You only get a year with other bikes! Recommended spark plug and valve adjustments are way low, I guess due to EPA requirements because there are no O2 sensors. I will go about 30,000 miles before I do both of them. Definitely get the ABS brakes; they really stop you fast in the rain or sand, etc. Not linked like some bikes. Neat little door on right side of bike allows you to change battery without removing tank; great! Show less

...and haven't looked back. This bike is AWESOME. With my old bike I always made excuses not to ride (too hot, too cold, I need my gym bag, etc.). Now I know it just wasn't fun to ride. I've ridden my Concours almost everyday since I've gotten it. It has power to spare, handling, comfort and hard bags... it has everything I was looking for and it gets looks too. I've had people roll down their windows at stop lights to ask what model it is! Skip the others and just get on the Concours; you won't be disappointed. If one thing could be changed it would only be the name - everywhere but the US Kawi calls it the GTR1400 - much better than Concours! Show less

After 7 previous motorcycles, two of them Black Birds ('97 & '99), I thought you just couldn't get better. Riding the ZX-14 was like putting on a pair of old roller skates after not doing so for several years. It all comes back to you. This bike feels like a much smaller, lighter machine than it is. It is very maneuverable, and responds to the lightest input. I put 2000 miles on this bike in the first three weeks of ownership. I've ridden in the rain and the dry weather, and can say that this motorcycle inspires confidence. One ride was over 780 miles round trip, with no ill effects. Whether it's long country roads or in tight traffic, the braking is smooth and reliable and the throttle response is fantastic. It's a very relaxing ride. I've ridden this bike almost every day since I bought it because it's just so smooth and fun to ride. Overall, this is a great ride! It's easy to maneuver, easy to stop and easy to get out of its own way. If you don't like being near another vehicle, just tweak the throttle. There's plenty of power! I can't wait to ride in the Toys for Tots and Elf Louise Rides before Christmas! Show less

I've come to appreciate her finer details; handling and acceleration. She is a fine piece of work. I was at my dealer to replace the front tire (Florida roads take a toll on the rubber) and I am happy to report not one service-related issue. My Connie has run, stopped and zipped on command. It is truly a masterpiece of technology. I have her stock except for the taller windshield from Cee Jay. I use her for a daily commute of 100 miles roundtrip. I average 38 mpg. Hi-ho, hi-ho, it's off to work I roar... on my Connie ride, the lousy drivers I dodge and I've missed all the speedtraps too... so far.
I know, keep my day job! Drive safe out there. Show less

This is the best all around bike I have owned since 1964, the year of my first bike. 700 mile days are no problem; wind and rain are no problem; and MPG is good for a bike like this. The magazines talked about engine heat but there is very little. With boots on it is not felt. I feel sorry for my dealer as he will not be able to sell me a new bike for a very long time. Show less