Traction control, heated grips, extra hp, tire pressure monitoring and on and on..... makes those speed lines more palatable. Cans are pricey but can be replaced.
Yeah, I don't get the Connie bashing. While it isn't my "cup of tea", it is a very nice motorcycle and Kawi seems to have listened to the owners and changed/added features for the new model.
I'm not in the market for a new sport touring bike nor am I ready to exchange my FJR. If I were, I'd take a long look at the 2010 Connie and the new VFR (but for the "1st model year syndrome" of the Honda).
I agree Mike.
However, after my experience with the 1st year of the GEN II FJR, I would not go for the new 2010 Connie -- I'd wait for any bugs in the electronics to get sorted out and go for a 2011 or 2012.
If I was in the market to replace my sport-tourer.
Waiting a year or two has two other advantages. Either Yamaha takes the challenge on and listens to their customer wishes with a major upgrade worth buying, or the known 2010 Connie (inevitable) bugs are worked out and you find a clean used version to have fun on at a discount. With the cash saved you buy new cans or suspension.
I know I'll be branded a heretic by some, but the FJR is getting long in the tooth, and traction control alone can save me hospital bills. If Kawi really has sorted out the heat problems and windshield buffeting issues, etc. I would buy the Kawasaki. It has negatives like higher maintenance costs, but unique features in the class worth a small premium, IMHO. I can overlook some styling cues for that raer drive shaft. Ya can't see half that stuff from the saddle anyway.
The Beemer has nice features, but at too high a premium for me.
The new transmission on the Honda Viffer intrigues me, but still seems a little gimicky to me. And the styling doesn't float my boat.
I'm not in the market, but I may be in two years.
