I just made a similar switch. I went from a Honda VTX 1800 to the C-14. I wanted something with hardsided lockable storage, that would eat miles across state lines with ease and have excellent rider comfort. The C-14 is that bike. My back and thighs always got fatigued on the VTX after 2 hours.
I could ride my duty bike, Honda ST1300, for 12 hours in total comfort, but it lacked power and handling could be better. I wasn't ready for a Goldwing...yet. I began my search before the C-14 was released. I followed its development while I looked at all the sport tourers from BMW, Ducati, FJR, etc and road all of them incuding the Goldwing and the Harley Full dresser. NOne were right in every way. The Kawi is the closest yet, would like to have Heated Grips & Seat stock, outside temp gauge, built in GPS, XM radio and speakers, Ipod connection all from the factory.....but you just can't have it all I guess. Maybe those things will come in the next few years.
I have had mine only about 2 weeks now but I am so happy with it. I like the VTX for its tourqe and styling and miss the rumble with the pipes I had on it. But I'll never go back. The performance of the C-14 is amazing. The handling, power, acceleration on a "bagger" is incredible :crazyloco
It is such a better bike than a cruiser could ever hope to be. You ride on a cruiser, you are part of the C-14 ! You should demo one if you have not yet. You won't believe how smooth it is...when I got off of the demo bike I said it was like riding ice on ice...smooooth. 6th gear is awesome...you cruise along effortlessly forever at well....you pick the speed.
As far as problems, none for me in 2 weeks and Ihave been looking , reading and scouring the forums for months now and see no recurring issues. There have been a few problems here and there with only a few bikes, but not the same problem and nothing consistent at all. I think the bike is well designed and tested, basing it on and using the ZX-14 tried and true motor was definate plus.
I also ride a Honda ST1300 as my duty bike and the Kawi is so far superior in balance, handling, power, etc...flickability and nimbleness are so far ahead of the ST1300 that I really don't know why one would by the ST1300 over the C-14....especially considering the ST costs more as well :headscratch
I have already contacted Kawasaki about a Police Model C-14. :thumbup Hope it happens. Honda sells a ton of ST1300 to law enforcement. Kawi was THE police bike for along, long time...now they can be once again.
Ride one and you'll be sold. Good luck.