GTR 1400 Concours Long Term Review

[@JamminJere]

Mine was one of the first 08's... got over 120,000 miles on her and she still eats up twisties like she did on day one... 23 sets of Michelins later...I'm still in love!

[@r0bv123]

I have an '08 as well-- Hit 71K miles back in March and hope to get the mileage mark you're at with this awesome machine! Doing some annual maintenance now while we have some downtime due this unprecedented time. But agree the twisties and speed this bike does just makes the adrenaline flow!

[@aryanbryson933]

I guess I am quite off topic but do anybody know a good site to watch new tv shows online?

[@maximilianjon8930]

@Aryan Bryson Flixportal :)

[@aryanbryson933]

@Maximilian Jon thank you, I went there and it seems like a nice service =) I really appreciate it !

[@maximilianjon8930]

@Aryan Bryson Happy to help :)

[@jonnbravo9804]

Love my concours 14. Bought it brand new in 2016 off the showroom floor and it now has almost 20000 on it. People that say they are slow have not been on one or was to scared to get in that 1400. It will power wheelie in first all day long and get halfway up in second. Considering its almost 700 pounds with a two hundred pound rider, that's impressive. Like the man said, you can carry beer in it. A lot of beer.

[@geraldfornadel9129]

I agree with your comments. I gave a 2010 model. Bought it new. I still have it. Been a great bike. Very dependable fun bike to ride. Only things that had to be replaced have been batteries, tires and TPMS sensors over time. Had to replace the radiator due to impact by an object on the highway. Installed a radiator guard immediately afterward. I'm very pleased with my Concours 14. Will keep it until I physically can't ride it anymore. I'm 64 and eventually might not be strong enough to ride it in the future.

[@RiderObvious]

I like how tires came before oil change in your appraisal. I have had a similar experience with my Concours, she eats tires like a cop at a donut shop.

[@RiderObvious]

And I still love to ride it! Daily!

[@sgtmarkins]

That's a fact... lol

[@desperado200909]

Your love for kawasaki is forever .

[@331245]

I bought a Versys 1000 in January 2017 and put 3k on it in 5 months. I'm 6-7/235 lbs and wanted something a little bigger. Got a great deal on a 17 Connie. I've had it for two weeks and already had the first service done, put on 2" risers and dropped the pegs. I ordered a Sargent modular seat. I love the Connie. It's like a Cadi with some balls.

[@sgtmarkins]

It just works :-)

[@sgtmarkins]

I think this is my 3rd ever video I put up :-)

[@brandonyanke6568]

When you dropped the pegs what aftermarket did you use?

[@331245]

Murph’s

[@duncanhines3752]

November ‘18 I got a 2015 FJR, because of some issues with my hard cases, I traded it in the latter part of July for a ‘19 Concours...BRUH!!! I felt like I had been punishing myself for not looking into it sooner! Don’t get me wrong I like the FJR & it has been my “dream bike” for years, but I love my Concours! These NM roads don’t stand a chance, thanks for posting!

[@gwynnromano5881]

Once it's out of warranty, BMW stands for Bring My Wallet.

[@bbtmc]

I put a MCcruise cruise control on my 2010 GTR. Best farkle I have ever purchased. And I use it EVERY time I ride it. Buy one you cheap bastard!!

[@thegreatone582]

i have always loved the concours!!! you make it even more appealing!! great video

[@kansaspatriot2051]

My favorite word for the GTR14 is.......FUN! I've enjoyed my 28k so far! I just installed a throttle lock and it's ALL good!!!!

[@likeaflash-b2i]

Like the dark screen who makes it?

[@toastopia1]

i have a 2018 c14 i have had it for 6 months and i already have 7k miles on it! it really is a great touring bike! super stabe at any speed and just eats up themiles! i get an average of 43 to 53 mpg and it is so so smooth! get a cpu flash and exhaust and its even smoother and faster! it comes with a 3 year warenty and i just love it! thanks for the review!

[@MintyGoodniss]

Have a deposit on a 2021 because I can’t test ride it until April 1st (weird dealer thing) and I’m torturing myself with Connie videos in the mean time. Love how every owner has nothing but good things to say about their bike. Can’t wait to see what it’s about.

[@AkumuX]

Cruise can be added. It's just a lot of work. Good bit of splicing etc etc, but lots of people on the forums have them. So, basically, if someone's head over heels for the C14, cruise (be it Rostra or McCruise can be added) at the expense of price + difficulty (or more price if someone does it for you) + it's obviously 'tacked on' and doesn't look stock. In the mean time, I have no problems using a simple throttle lock like Go Cruise 2.

[@epoxeclipse]

me: I want a sport bike, but I also want to maybe do long distance. kawasaki: just ride a couple blocks on this one...

[@CAZALOBO]

I have 2018 with Ivan's tune, Delkevic exhaust and t-rex crash bars and love it. Also like the tires I just put on, Dunlop Roadsmart 3's... best of both worlds, long lasting and the bike now handles like a cat on carpet and leans very easily. What brand of windshield do you have on your bike ?

[@listairgin]

Hold on a minute, at 4.41 you say a dealer screw up in putting in a new wiring harness??? Please explain. Just imagine buying a used bike like this that needed the wiring harness replaced. The cost to replace a wiring harness on this bike would be phenomenal. Could you please tell me why this needed to be done. Thanks for the video, really enjoyed it other than the frightening thought of having to have a wiring harness replaced.

[@NRSrider]

I totally agree. It's a true work horse unlike fragile boutique bikes out there. Keep on riding :)

[@goodsauto07]

Right with you brother! DEAD ON about everything!!!

[@sgtmarkins]

I missed so many things... There is so much more to cover

[@passtheroadtestca]

Just got an 08 and gave it some love. Valves, fluids, fork seal and suspension adjustments to my taste. Also came with short exhaust from PO - sounds and behaves like a well mannered beast!. Came with an after market cruise control and I striped it out. I say if you are putting yourself in cruise control on this thing you're getting bored. Throttles are meant to be twisted, specially on this bad girl. 😘

[@timothyperry7760]

Yes YEs YES!! I agree 100% with Your review.I just got a 2009 with only 12,000 miles I have cleaned it to showroom,now I need a different exhaust and an IVANS flash and that's it . Right now it's awesome but can get so much better. I have a 2008 Busa and love it shorty bike ,this is a distance eater.thanks TP in Tucson

[@rudyrude7975]

Watched this video so many times, makes me really want one 7/30/2021

[@jimmyphalen7160]

Can you tell me the brand name of that windscreen please.

[@onesupertech]

My comment is very bias I ride a 2008 1400 GTR for over 10 years now. How could a bike be better?

[@patrickcallahan2885]

I just bought a 2019, quite the departure from the sport bikes i have owned previously, particularly the weight. What i am impressed with more than the power delivery, is how smooth and comfy this bike is! I feel like i went from hooligan to old man, but i like it! The reason i made the switch is two fold; 1. My wife would never get on my CB 1000R 2. It is about time i started riding a bit more responsible! I’m probably not going to pull wheelies much with this one.....

[@jboyers1]

Funny post. I just traded my ‘21 CB1000R for a ‘21 Concours yesterday. First ride last night was amazing and I’m looking forward to many miles ahead!

[@markcooper7287]

20 000 ON MINE NOW.LOVE IT.

[@stevenhodgkinson7462]

had two yam fjr's then i bought the 1400 gtr what a bike then like a fool i sold it for a bussa 😢😢😢 o lord i want my kawasaki back, have fun fella respect from the uk 😊😊😊

[@listairgin]

Steven Hodgkinson Hi Steve, how would you compare your FJRs to your GTR 1400? I'm currently interested in both. Thanks in advance for any advice. 🌠👍.

[@stephaneperrier5168]

@@listairgin i had an fjr 2018 that i like pretty much then i felli in love with the ninja 1000 2020 but a bit small for 2 now i bought a concours 14 and its freaking howsome 😅

[@Richard1976]

Still own her? If so whats the longer experience?

[@edwardfrazier1004]

Them handlebars look shorter than original

[@katsugi183]

100 buns😲 is literally a traveling food station. Connie sure is an awesome bike 💯😍😍😍and that sound🎶🎶

[@sanoj1969]

How is it compare to the mighty FJR 1300? Have you tested the Yamaha? I’m very interested in both of these bikes and I own a Suzuki GSX 1400 since almost 10 years now. I’m a little short about 5ft9 and I think maybe the GTR is I little to high for me? Great bike to see and hear and I like the looks better then the FJR.

[@SuperJosiejosiejosie]

My 2013 is Awesome. I would change the diff fluid before 10,000. It’s so easy. Fun fact: the oil and diff caps are the same size. Buy an aftermarket cap for easier removal. $13

[@7452]

I just bought a new 2019 Concours. how did you mount your phone to the steering head? Looks like the ideal place

[@BillEFabian]

I have a 2016 identical to yours with 62,000 carefree miles. Going to buy a 2022 Concours 14 to replace the 2016. I could buy any of the large displacement sport touring bikes, but for performance and RELIABILITY, nothing compares to the Concours 14.

[@22ryanoc]

Great review. How often is a valve check on it? I heard it can be up to $1000 for labor.

[@sgtmarkins]

Ryan O'Connor first service is 10000 miles. I here many owners going 30k and nothing needing adjustment. As far as price I do all my own maintenance.

[@conservativesniperhunter7439]

I’m thinking of buying a well cared for 2010 model GTR 1400 with ABS and KTRC with only 33,000 km on it ( I’m in Australia hence the kilometres and not miles ) . Do you still own this awesome bike ? If so how many miles has it clocked up . Have you ever had any problems with the drive shaft on this bike ? Do the drive shafts ever repairs or need replacing on the Kawasaki Concours 14 ? If so what doe it cost to repair or replace the drive shaft?Cheers 🍻 🍻

[@yarply12]

ive got a 2012. im very pleased with it.

[@michaelbuxton9611]

just picked up a 08 . motor is awesome. heat on legs from vents not so good. can't wait to take to the mountains😋

[@jamesbrace3212]

How did you secure your phone mount?

[@glennschild3913]

That was an awesome review my brother from the US of A. I rode a very tired 08 model from a dealer and could really feel the potential so i will take a fresh one for a test ride this weekend

[@ROrneli]

my 2008 is not "very tired" wtf

[@holdencaulfied7492]

I'm trying to decide between this and the FJR1300. Anybody have any advice?

[@johnjones5977]

I owned a 2008 Connie and now own a 2013 FJR. The FJR is a much better bike in virtually every way. The engine isn't quite as strong, but is still within .2 seconds in the quarter mile. Not much of a difference there. Now that I've had cruise control, I won't go back. I put about 14,000 miles per year on mine and use the cruise much more than I ever thought I would. The handling is also better. MUCH better. Either bike would be a good choice, but I'll go with the Yamaha.

[@chasefreedom5178]

John Jones I owned a 2016 FJ It can't hold a candle to my Concours. Glad you found the bike you like.

[@dalewildey4102]

Right now I ride a klr. Love it. A concourse will be my next bike. Bang for buck I doubt it can be beat. Typical Kawasaki. It will be nice having two kawi's in the stable

[@timothyperry7760]

I have owened 3 Mean Streaks,1 -1600 Nomad, 1 -90clasic Vulcan lt the only Kawi I need and will get is a KLR used in good shape a true bargain of a MC, Kawis are bullet proof!!! TP Arizona

[@nicholasjohnson6724]

I've had kwakas all my life. Never had one let me down yet.

[@raleighabbott7428]

Which type of phone mount are you using on this?

[@takingoutthetrash1512]

really thinking about getting a Concours. tired of my kawasaki Vulcan 900 cruiser. it only have 5 gears and on the highway running 70+ just to keep up with cars the engine is stressed to the max. the engine is just screaming for 6th gear; but there aint none!

[@allenlong7205]

Takingout thetrash I bought the 650 Vulcan then the 900 and the 650 was way faster lol this spring I'm getting a 2014 concours ,new bike 0 miles and factory warranty.

[@ROrneli]

with the concours you are going to struggle to keep it under 100 lol

[@dougrowell7817]

Ooooh Love it. I have a 2013 1400GTR - magic. How awesome is the sound of the Vance&Hines CS1 pipe? The sexiest looking pipe too. I imported one into Australia for mine from the US. I'd kill for cruise control. Put a set of risers on but took em off. My Zumo wouldn't fit. Yup blindingly fast.

[@Annonymous0283745]

Doug Rowell you don't have to kill anybody! check out rostera cruise control. you can install it yourself and have a real-deal cruise control instead of a throttle lock

[@paulcrocker8600]

THAT'S "THE RIGHT PIPE"...PERIOD

[@malcolmnuttall3165]

I had a ZZR1400, then stupidly sold it, I will go the Connie 14 next time, wanting the luggage system, to tour.

[@BloodPlusPwn]

I'm dying here trying to decide between one of these and a Vmax. They're both such awesome bikes. The Vmax is a bit faster, but the Concours has all this extra creature comfort stuff going on! AHHHHHHH The worst part is that I know whichever I get I will be incredibly happy. If I knew there was a wrong decision it would make it so much easier lmao

[@markhilken7026]

so ? it's 2023, which one you get ? V-max or Concourse ?

[@BloodPlusPwn]

@@markhilken7026 I ended up getting a v-max, then a ST1300. I recommend anyone ride one if you get the chance, but the thing only got about 14mpg with a 4 gallon tank with the way I was riding it lol. Definitely don't recommend it as an only bike if you're an avid rider, however it was somewhat of a religious experience.

[@mikecarter3797]

It is an amazing bike.

[@sgtmarkins]

Like a beast in angels clothing

[@jrbass62]

If you ride 500 mile days cruise control is king!!

[@sgtmarkins]

Johnny rowland so true. If I had to do it daily I would have it added

[@jamesmcfarland2648]

Just put a down payment on a 2013. Will pick it up this week. Juiced.

[@windridr66]

Wow, I know you must be pumped! Have fun and be safe.

[@jamesmcfarland2648]

Drove it 170 miles yesterday. Very cool!

[@jamiel9902]

Yeah, same here, but a brand new 2013. Crazy stuff that Kawasaki has released a bunch of 2013s and 2014s from the warehouse to dealers recently.

[@JamminJere]

Over 120,000 Miles on mine... still love her like day one..

[@richardstoffel6585]

How often have you done valve checks? Did they need adjustment or when did they start needing if it didn’t at first

[@JamminJere]

@@richardstoffel6585 I did mine at 25K, 55K, and 100K.. they needed nothing at 100K, not sure if I’ll do it again..

[@jakewaltermire2182]

When I'm on a bike that has it, I use cruise allot. Honestly. Still for the price- in its class. You can't beat the Connie

[@richardstoffel6585]

You can add electronic cruise for the same price as an exhaust ;)

[@davidelizabeth4933]

Beautiful bike. What aftermarket windshield is that?

[@sgtmarkins]

It's a Cee Bailey's. I don't think they make them any more

[@davidelizabeth4933]

@@sgtmarkins Thanks for responding. Yes, looks like they don't make them anymore. ☹

[@ohalright39]

Great bike. Yeah, cruise control is a huge omission on this class of bike. It can be added for about a grand. Once you've had cruise control, you'll always want it. Throttle locks aren't even close to being comparable. But otherwise, the Kawasaki Concours is the best bang-for-the-buck bike out there.

[@WanderingBeast]

Im loving my fjr, its just fun

[@sgtmarkins]

Another great... People overlook these great machines

[@donkramer2579]

& all around a better bike!

[@windridr66]

Great review, Sarge. Stay safe, brother.

[@sgtmarkins]

Thanks so much

[@ju-r1d3r28]

What windshield is that?

[@mistrcrvr]

Which windshield? The smoke looks great!

[@sgtmarkins]

Cee Baileys dark smoke euro

[@sgtmarkins]

The gas can spout just fits.. If not I use a funnel

[@toddjacobs5660]

Im on my 2nd C 14, great bikes

[@trent3872]

Man I like that tinted shield, where'd we get IT? Or did you tint it yourself?

[@sgtmarkins]

I bought it. The company doesn't make them any more

[@toddjacobs5660]

On my 2nd brand new one, they are durable great bikes 👍

[@bogieontwowheels1903]

So do you like it? Can't tell. LOL Which tinted screen are you using?

[@sgtmarkins]

Bogie I might just a little. I'm sorry but I can't remember the name of the screen

[@holdencaulfied7492]

How does it corner?

[@windridr66]

Holden, I don't mean to jump in but, I just put a new set of tires on my '09 and it corners like butter. She's extra sweet.

[@holdencaulfied7492]

Thanks for the comment. I love this bike but still undecided.

[@robcig]

Hey Sarge, what brand is the I Phone holder?

[@sgtmarkins]

robcig Ram mount X Grip

[@mitsurugi7825]

SgtMarkins is that just the stem mount from Ram or did you get something else to attach to the stem? Thanks

[@Gigantor60]

Wake it up with the Ivan performance flash. I have the 2014 Connie with 29k miles. No issues or problems

[@dtharleyman4325]

Beautiful machine!👍

[@stephaneperrier5168]

Great review you make me buy one

[@jennydiazvigneault5548]

I always use my cruise control. You need a comfortable seat, comfortable leg position, and CRUISE CONTROL for a long trip. Love the bike otherwise.

[@ROrneli]

either spend 300-1000 dollars on one or just get a throttle lock. if you constantly need cruise control then are riding the wrong roads. I agree a cruise control would be nice but not a deal breaker.

[@ukymon]

Lack of cruise is a huge miss IMO. Not a fan of the linked brakes either. Other than that, yeah, Concours baby!

[@kingklr1]

I call bullshit. 52 mpg going downhill, with the wind on your back, behind a truck, going 55 mph, maybe.

[@sgtmarkins]

Jose Arevalo non ethanol gas. That was my trick. It can be done

[@martincornish3179]

These bikes get bad press in the UK but I highly rate my 2015 gtr handlings great and goes like fuck what's not to like!

[@BaconsBrokenBits]

Yeah, if I happen to go out, I'm usually pretty quiet. I mean, I have a ton of acquaintances, but only about 3 or 4 REAL friends that I open up to about anything.

[@sgtmarkins]

I think you this comment on the wrong video :-)

[@BaconsBrokenBits]

Haha, no I guess I didn't fully explain, so I shall elaborate a little. There's a big IF I go out there. Usually I hang at the house and keep away from people because of their drama and whatnot. Those people that I consider acquaintances are usually those people, so I choose not to hang out with them.

[@BaconsBrokenBits]

SgtMarkins oh, I guess it switched on me.....😒😒😂😂

[@cmmoto]

its a nice touring machine

[@BrianWest58]

She's a beast! Shhhh, don't tell anybody though. When someone says they want a touring bike but they don't have any power, I point them towards a Connie. 8-)

[@sgtmarkins]

You are the only person I know that has not ridden her ;-)

[@LTVoyager]

SgtMarkins After owning a Voyager XII for 17 years and a K1200LT for 10 years now, real cruise is a big deal for touring, particularly long distance when you are north of 55 years of age. When my LT needs replaced, I am not sure what I will get. I owned Kawasaki bikes for 30 years until they quit making a real luxury touring bike for two-up travel. I would like to own one again, but cruise is a "must have" for me so the C14 is not a contender. And the Harley wannabe Vulcan Voyager is just laughable compared to modern touring bikes. Will probably have to lay down the big bucks for a K1600GTL. I am still hoping the competitive pressure from the FJR1300 now having cruise will get Kawasaki's attention...

[@sgtmarkins]

Funny... I have done without cruse for all these years. 45 myself and have been from Okinawa Japan to Saudi Arabia. Not on a bike but, ridden in those areas without cruse.

[@LTVoyager]

SgtMarkins I didn't use the cruise much on the K1600GTL I toured the Alps with, but did use it on some of the motorways in Switzerland and Italy as we repositioned between hotels. However, when droning on the interstate to get across the Midwest, I find cruise indispensable. I think many other aging riders do also and modern cruise is very inexpensive to add to a bike. However, different strokes for different folks, but when you look at the last decades sales performance of the Japanese brands which lack cruise to BMW which equips almost every bike with cruise, ABS, etc., the difference is dramatic. I would love to have the C14 as a contender, but cruise rules it out. BMW may be prestige machines to some, but for me it they simply make the best touring bikes available no matter the genre. GS to GTL, they simply outperform the others ... if you can stand the pain to the wallet. BMW = Bring More Wallet. 😀

[@Texarmageddon]

Funny.... I point them towards a Multistrada, Superduke GT, Motus MST when they want a sport touring bike with power. ...

[@Richard1976]

Its a cool looking bike, hardly see it in holland. Still i would rather buy a bmw r1200rt. I came from zx12 to bmw r1200gsa, and thats a whole different game in everything. Specially with the rt.

[@gnrands50]

You asked how often I actually use cruise control. The answer is: all the time. I love the Concours, but lack of such a basic touring accessory is strange.

[@sgtmarkins]

In this day and age you are correct. But for me it is no bother.

[@MtnMoto]

Very nice touring rocket! Cruise control is the bomb tho brotha.

[@markcooper7287]

GREAT BIKE 25 000 MILES

[@robcig]

Maybe I missed something, I thought your bike was silver?

[@sgtmarkins]

She has always been black... Wish we could get some of the other colors in the US

[@richardsalyer3995]

Needs cruise. Would use alot

[@HousetoHull]

Are you a member of C.O.G.?

[@sgtmarkins]

No Im not.. I'm on the group Facebook page though

[@HousetoHull]

The Facebook group is really good, but the membership includes all the technical writeups and the forums are pretty active with people who don't do Facebook. I would recommend checkin it out. National Rally starts tomorrow!

[@63trevk]

Beowulf can,Kaoko cruise control and Puig screen with visor...perfect ! And over 200 miles per tank if ride peacefully ! Mines a black 2012 facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1619624331409751&set=a.442597542445775.98415.100000865984339&type=3&theater

[@outdoorsnomad]

Missing mine. Sold her in March. Just play on Barbie now. A KLR! Lol

[@sgtmarkins]

We went 2 different directions... I had a 97 KLR.. Great bikes

[@martinwood76]

Cheap Bastards! Love it 🤟

[@mykidpatkinsingjohn7171]

Kawasaki motor-2nd to NOBODY!!

[@letitrest4662]

I call B.S. Your concours doesn't get anywhere near 52mpg My 2013 Yamaha FJR1300 will get 48 mpg, if you're riding on the open road, few stops, and not exceeding 50mph. I know people that have "connies".... they don't get 52mpg.... at all. 40-46 mpg. Less if you have a twisty wrist.

[@sgtmarkins]

Let it Rest call it what you will

[@ronbrooks9639]

Gotta agree with sarge. In eco mode I have gotten great gas mileage. True I do an average mean of 42.3 miles per gallon. But when I put it in eco there is a 4 to 5 mile per gallon increase and if I’m not getting on it and actually doing the speed limit I hit those numbers too. I have 4 bikes now and absolutely love my Connie. It’s my daily driver. Just flat out fun. These bikes are truly underrated.

[@stevenkraus1679]

I'm only get about 40mpg in mine and I baby the bike. Im completely non-aggressive I bought it for touring.

[@vpraczynski9013]

On a 2019 I find MPG is better at 80mph than 60mph.

[@Jolsen002]

Connie come home to daddy lol

[@sgtmarkins]

Never!!!! She's mine

[@Jolsen002]

SgtMarkins I rather have the 2009 red or 2015? kawi green. I love my 1400cc cruiser but the 3 gal gas tank sucks.

[@sgtmarkins]

Wish we could get the rest of the worlds colors. I seen photos of one in white, NICEEEE

[@lornethurgar3629]

Boring review mate, work out what you are going to say instead of mumbling.... sorry

[@sgtmarkins]

Lorne Thurgar thanks I like yours also.

[@paulcrocker8600]

Lorne Thurgar ENTERTAIN YOUR OWN DAM SELF..."CATS SCRATCHING ON OUT"

[@likeaflash-b2i]

Like the dark screen who makes it?