FJR vs Concours--Follow UP...

[Scythian]

And I doubt the class's instructor would approve of: "I hit the brakes for all they were worth"? A controlled progressive squeeze of the brake lever is what's usually called-for...

So that you don't lock up the anti-lock brakes?

I doubt the class' instructor knows anything about using anti-lock brakes.

You're probably right...?

In deed, with the industry-wide promotion of and public acceptance of (nay, demand for) electronic/computerized control of what were once rider-control functions -- the motorcycle instructor may/will become an anachronism?

With ABS (computerized brake operation); the FJR AE's computerized clutch control; electronic cruise control -- and it's successor, automatic traction control; Dynamic Vehicle Control and 'Ride-by-Wire' engine power control -- motorcycles are becomming "crash proof".

In the 'Brave New World' of 21st century motorcycling, do anything you want: go ahead, yank the throttle WFO; mash on the brakes whenever, wherever, and as hard as you want; buy a 150 HP M/C for your 1st bike -- nothing bad will happen -- you've got (electronic) protection.

The computerized, so-called, safety devices are not "safety" -- knowledge and training are safety. They're merely 'band-aids' and (maybe?) false/misplaced security?

The MSF can't ignore those things forever, someday they will have to teach courses that teach people how to use them safely and effectively.

Raging against them doesn't make people safer....

 

[NMRoadRunner]

On a three day ride through southern Colorado this last week I saw 12 FJRs and just one Connie! That says alot about which bike poeple are choosing to ride! :yahoo: :yahoo: :yahoo:

 

[Johnnytrek]

My two cents: differences between the bikes discussed here on an objective basis boil down to the number of angels that can dance on the head of a pin. In other words, the main reason becomes what emotional response the bikes evoke. In short, ride whichever one puts the biggest smile on your face and the small differences in price won't matter a month after you buy.

~John

Finally made it out today and looked at both bikes. Each shop was just down the road from the other.
The C14 was a brand new left over 09, black non ABS. They just lowered the price from $9999 down to 9399, which form what I've found is a heck of a bargin.

The FJR is a 08, black, not a scratch with 3100 miles. They were also asking 9999 but immediatly priced it at 9500.

I still hav'nt ridden either bike, but I think I like the FJR a little better. Seamed not as big, heavy, massive, etc. The FJR also seamed to have a little better fit and finish. I almost when back to the FJR shop and offered them 8500, but was afraid they would take it. But I'm a little slow to move and have to sleep on it a nite or two.

Also, let my wife sit behind me on both bikes and there seamed to be plenty of room on both, tho I liked the seat better on the c14.

Anyways, still thinking/looking. Sorry to ramble, thanks for listening.........

 

[Sticky Throttle]

I've still got the MCN test of the 2003 FJR from March '03 linky. The '03's performance stats (0-60, 0-100 and 1/4 mile as well as 60-0 braking) are significantly better (per MCN) than the tested 2010 C14 stats, let alone the 2010 FJR. With suspension mods and good tires, the FJR gets even better.

No doubt the Kawasaki is a great motorcycle with more going for it than just a powerful engine, and one ought to be careful about how much stock to place in magazine comparos, but this info brings the mighty C14 back into some humbling perspective.

Notwithstanding MCN's conclusions, I don't think the FJR owes the C14 any apologies--certainly not the Gen I. It was the [self-proclaimed] first Super Sport Touring bike, and may still qualify as the standard all others are judged by according to these measures.

Needless to say, I'm an '03 Gen I fan. :thumbsup:

 

[FJR Bill]

I've still got the MCN test of the 2003 FJR from March '03 linky. The '03's performance stats (0-60, 0-100 and 1/4 mile as well as 60-0 braking) are significantly better (per MCN) than the tested 2010 C14 stats, let alone the 2010 FJR. With suspension mods and good tires, the FJR gets even better.
No doubt the Kawasaki is a great motorcycle with more going for it than just a powerful engine, and one ought to be careful about how much stock to place in magazine comparos, but this info brings the mighty C14 back into some humbling perspective.

Notwithstanding MCN's conclusions, I don't think the FJR owes the C14 any apologies--certainly not the Gen I. It was the [self-proclaimed] first Super Sport Touring bike, and may still qualify as the standard all others are judged by according to these measures.

Needless to say, I'm an '03 Gen I fan. :thumbsup:

In 2003 the FJR set the new standard for "Super Sport Touring." Compare it with S/T bikes available then and you'll see it provided a magnitude jump in performance. I think this sparked the development of the ST1300, C14, and BMW whatever its called. This competion amoung manufacturers benefits all of us as all the bikes in the venue are amazing. Gotta love the new SST's. Bill