Just before I place my order for a new GTR 1400 / Concours 14

[JIS]

Right guys; the deal is almost done for a new (2008 plate) GTR 1400! However, I need your advice on the following to help me finalise the decision.

1. The standard seat is too hard for my ageing behind (that’s the polite word for “butt” !!); so, which one will provide me with the greater comfort?
2. The standard screen is too low; ordering the optional extended screen from Kawasaki is easy; but is the screen any good; how much taller is it; or is the Cee Baileys Euro Cut shield the way to go (post purchase)?
3. The Kawasaki top box, a 39 litre job (which looks like it’s made by Givi) is “OK” but I’d prefer a larger case. Seeing as I shall buy a black GTR (so cool!) which case would you guys recommend, please?
4. The rear suspension on the test bike I rode was already on the softest setting; does it “give” a bit as it made for a fairly harsh ride over some of the more bumpy roads?

Thanks guys; getting very excited about joining the “fold”; it’ll be my first Kawasaki!

[Biedmatt]

1. No experience with other seats 2. The Cee Baileys Euro Cut is what you want. 3. I would get the size and style you want, but the plastic rack is not up to the task of holding a top box. Buy Phillipintexas's new rack http://www.philsfarkels.com/ 4. I have not noticed it get any softer, but respringing a rear shock is very easy. Had to do it all the time on the Ducatis.

[Hitman]

You just have to realise that every bike is different and fits each rider differently. Our comments, although well intentioned, may not suit you or your style of riding etc. Here is my small insignificant contribution........

1. I have no problems with the standard seat. I can go all day without getting a sore arse and I'm 14stone. I hear that the gel seat is a lot harder and shapes to your bum but doesn't remold again for quite a while after you get off so you leave an indent in it. Also some guys have reported that the gel carries less mileage so you need to get off sooner! I can't comment on the corbins but they look fine. How about getting a custom seat made here in the UK with gel pad inserts using your original seat. It can be made to your spec. try here http://www.cmseats.co.uk/ or here http://www.ppseat.co.uk/
The London Bike shopw will have 3 or 4 custom seat builders. Why not go and see a few.

2. I like the standard screen for everyday riding but I am getting the Cee Baileys EuroCut only for when I go long touring with the wife. here http://www.woodysimportarium.com/main.php?group=gtr1400

3/. Will have to wait and see what the new GTR topbox looks like in the flesh. I is made by Givi. I think I will likely go with that clour matches to the diablo.
I have Phil's rack fitted and it is great. The oem plastic one is bad news and I can't ever see it supporting a topbox. Kawasaki are supposed to be bringing out a new rack with the top box.

4/. No problems with the suspension even two up. I think it is a bit harsher on bumpy roads than I would have expected but not a problem and only one of the few very small niggle in an otherwise great bike.

[philipintexas]

I tried the "euro" shield but found it still too short, very noisy. I traded for the "ultra tour" and it's perfect. I'm 5'-10", in the full up position I just see over it and if I want wind I lower it. I'm 66 and I appreciate your concerns, the suspension is firm but I have learned to accept it.

[JIS]

Phil; have you got a photo of your C14 with the Ultra tour screen? I'd really like to see it. Thanks very much; v helpful.

[GTRPete]

My opinion, the bike surpasses all my expectations in areas of handling, overall comfort, cruise-ability, ease of low-speed (traffic/garage) handling;there are some things I miss from the BMW (1150GS) I had for 5 years -weirdly enough it's the blinker switch operation and handlebar ergonomics... for me the GTR is ok, but I find i need too much movement to use the blinkers and they're not a 'positive' feel.
But, that's me...
for the seat: I'm only a light/shorty (68kg, 5'6"), although my feet would never both flat-foot the ground it never bothered me, most of my bikes were like that, (BMW)GS more so - but the standard seat for me was fine, no sore butt on my little 5-600km day rides - until I saw the new Gel seat, really liked the stronger looking material, the style and stitching, the lowness would've helped - got it and found it rather firm - sore butt for the first time, I'm told they "bed in" in time, but doubt that...I usually stop anyway around the 250-300 for fuel in remote areas, but I'm never sore enough to ache - just not as comfy as the standard.. but, having re-tried that I find the low-seat height of the Gel better... so I put a sheepskin cover on it. that's a long Butt story
Screen - I got a CEE Baileys Eurocut, so nice, limousine comfort on the high setting and with wind options at the lower end, excellent for me - don't use earplugs anymore, find it's just real nice to listen only to the engine sound on longer trips - love it!!

Topbox, no idea on the Kawa model - I use a Givi 45litre (older) style, more than roomy enough with the other bags on...but I mounted it on a better rack (see the earlier thread or the "reflective stickers" one i put up).

Suspension - mmm, yeah, on the standard settings, as with most any setting it handles like on rails - magic brilliance!!!! it's firm, feels the bumps, I have dialed in to the softer end of the settings and it makes a real difference, but it's still bumpier than I like; The brilliant handling does take away any complaint about bumps for me.. it's so secure and responsive, coupled with the power delivery... pure fun!!!

Get Excited, despite these minor changes (and they are minor), it's a truely versatile smooth cruiser that will jeckle and hyde t any given moment to rip the tar from underneath and make your day that little more pleasurable!!! (what a plug )

[FBRR]

GTRpete,
Coming from several Harleys ( five in the last 8 years ) the main suprise for me was the BLINKERS.
With all the technology in these bikes I was suprised they are not self canceling. Even the Sportster has self-canceling turn signal?????

Again as an aside having ridden "naked" Harleys, I find the windscreen just right. Protects my body from the wind and leaves my head in the breeze.
( which I like) I much prefer to look over ( ok way over) any windscreen.
cheers

[Girevik]

Originally Posted by philipintexas

I tried the "euro" shield but found it still too short, very noisy. I traded for the "ultra tour" and it's perfect. I'm 5'-10", in the full up position I just see over it and if I want wind I lower it. I'm 66 and I appreciate your concerns, the suspension is firm but I have learned to accept it.

I'm 6'1" 33.5 inseam, and the Euro cut seems perfect for me. Will put the stocker on in the hot months. Everybody's different. I have sheepskin on the stock seat and can go all day, no problem, and I've stiffened up my suspension.

[kawwow]

Originally Posted by JIS

Phil; have you got a photo of your C14 with the Ultra tour screen? I'd really like to see it. Thanks very much; v helpful.

Hey, JIS you will enjoy the GTR (Concours 14 for me) My last bike was 02 KRS the only thing I missed is Cruise Control. Here's the link for the Euro:
http://www.ceebaileys.com/kawasaki/images/concrs07.jpg
http://www.ceebaileys.com/kawasaki/concours14ws.html

[gspdave45]

I replaced the seat with a Corbin. Hated the angle of the seat, and I insist on leather as a material for my seat. The Corbin is harder, but ergonomically much more correct, I have ridden 100+ miles (its winter here now so no tours) with no discomfort at all.
I have the Euro-cut screen from Cee Bailey. First rate quality, and riding in 37F weather it cuts down on wind chill dramatically. You put it all the way up, you and passenger are in a nice deadair space, no buffeting at all.
I'm 6' 175 lbs, 32" inseam. Enjoy the bike!!!!

[JIS]

Thanks guys; I think it's the Cee Baileys Ultra Tour is for me - these pictures of the various screen mounted on a C14 from Fred Harmon's site are very helpful; thanks to Philip in Texas for this link

Thanks for the other info; I really appreciate the help and support. This forum is really excellent. Thanks again.

John

[Martin B]

John
I have got the Kawasaki 'Lower' Seat from K4U.com -30mm and a bit narrower as well, also its gell filled so should be comfy enough, being only 5ft 6in and 30in inside leg I find this a big improvement over standard. Yes the general ride is harder than I have been used too, but its not a problem just different. Higher screen not required at present, interested to read how you get on, I have a feeling you will not be dissappointed !

[JIS]

Originally Posted by Martin B

John
I have got the Kawasaki 'Lower' Seat from K4U.com -30mm and a bit narrower as well, also its gell filled so should be comfy enough, being only 5ft 6in and 30in inside leg I find this a big improvement over standard. Yes the general ride is harder than I have been used too, but its not a problem just different. Higher screen not required at present, interested to read how you get on, I have a feeling you will not be disappointed !

Hi Martin; well, I am just about to put "pins in a map" and to plot a tour from Kent (where I live) to Chris in Brixham, to Martin in Reading to you in Milton Keynes and then up to Cumbria. That should be enough to break-in the new bike

Yes, I have all the farkles lined up now, including which intercom I should go for. However, the CB Utlta Tour and the Givi-E52 + "butt pads" for the seat (thanks to Philip in Texas).

I haven't been so excited about a bike for many many years (I might have another test ride just to prevent the withdrawl symtoms ).

[PaulG]

Hey JIS

You would be welcome to come in for a cuppa on your way to MK . Im in Aylesbury

[JIS]

Originally Posted by PaulG

Hey JIS

You would be welcome to come in for a cuppa on your way to MK . Im in Aylesbury

Too kind; thanks

John

[Neunelf911]

I had a Kawasaki 1400 GTR ordered for January, but I've had to delay it due to a bit of an accident (not my fault ) at the end of Nov. 2007 in which I broke a wrist, some ribs and trashed my '04 Fazer 600 ........anyway.... I will be getting the Kwacker soon and had already ordered a Corbin replacement saddle. (There is a 10-week lead-time on this by the way - my 10 weeks should be up any time now.)

As for top-box, I had a Nonfango 855 (55 litre) box on my Fazer, and it was great due to its size. I might get another one for the GTR if they provide the fittings for this bike.


Hope this helps...

[stryder]

My ar*$ is 57 years old and finds the stock seat quite comfy. I am, however, considering an alternative. There are quite a few to choose from.

Martin

[JIS]

Originally Posted by stryder

My ar*$ is 57 years old and finds the stock seat quite comfy. I am, however, considering an alternative. There are quite a few to choose from. Martin

Well, taking Philip in Texas' advice, I have ordered a pair of "but pads" which (he assures me) significantly improves the ride quality and allows him and his wife 500 mile days.

[Neunelf911]

I neglected to point out earlier - the only reason I've ordered the Corbin seat is that I'm a short-a*se and I need to drop the seat height by as much as possible.

Does anyone have any idea why a Japanese company, in a country where on average the population are not giants, can design such a tall bike???

[JIS]

Originally Posted by Neunelf911

Does anyone have any idea why a Japanese company, in a country where on average the population are not giants, can design such a tall bike???

Yes, I think so. I understand that the GTR was designed primarily for the European market wher