2010 Kawasaki Concours 14

Motorcyclist · 01-08-2010

2010 Kawasaki Concours 14

Redefining Rapid Transit-Again
To the less perceptive observer, it could pass for a warmed-over version of last year's Concours 14. Given the currently chilly financial climate, we didn't expect many changes for 2010 beneath the fresh coat of Candy Neptune Blue paint. The home office had a more ambitious agenda. When customer research came back with the same list of flaws in the original '08 design, Kawasaki Japan wanted them fixed. All of them.

They say: "Engineered to surpass expectations of what a sport-tourer should be."

We say: "More than we expected for less than we'd expect to pay."

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motowebmaster · 01-09-2010

A few extra photos. It's a good-looking bike:

122_1001_02_o-2010_kawasaki_concours_14-right_side_view.jpg

122_1001_06_o-2010_kawasaki_concours_14-left_side_view.jpg

Speedtrip · 01-09-2010

Thes are great bikes at a great price, very hard to beat IMHO. Had a chance to demo one and was very impressed what a great motor.

The Prophet · 01-11-2010

It's interesting to look at this offer, for roughly say $16,000 all in, and all of the admirable and useful high tech features offered as standard.

Now go look at the Harley Davidson CVO Ultra Classic Electra Gilde post, and see what you get for $35,999. Lots of chrome and bling, a stereo to drown out the sounds of the road, lots of chrome and bling, and a more plush and comfy seat.

I guess it's all about how you define "Upgrade", and/or "high performance.

I would take the Kawa any time, hands down over the 900 pound bling-wagon, and you could add tons of additional comfort items to the Concours and still have plenty of cash left over. AND a dramatically better bike!

Am I confused, or does Harley expect folks pay a ton of money to remain within the brand, and then a ton more for inter-brand bragging rights. Somehow, this doesn't come off as being in the "Freedom of the Road" concept. Sounds more like "Pay to be the most obnoxious, most expensive and the largest". Impress your friends!

As we all know, the margins on all this bling accessory stuff is huge, much more than within the original purchase price of the standard bike. I see this as perhaps yet another of Harely's short-sighted (until folks get wise) strategy to remain solvent. Gouge 'em for the accessories. Affix a H-D badge on most anything, and triple the price. Harley Davidson boxer shorts anyone?

I'll take this Concours any time!

Ride Safe!

Bob