The Kawasaki Concours 14: A Timeless Classic, Reimagined

The Kawasaki Concours 14, a name synonymous with sport-touring excellence, has been a mainstay in the motorcycle world for over two decades. Its blend of powerful performance, comfortable ergonomics, and practical features has earned it a loyal following of riders seeking the ultimate long-distance companion. But in a world of ever-evolving technology and shifting rider preferences, does the Concours 14 still hold its own?

This article delves into the heart of the Kawasaki Concours 14, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and how it stacks up against the competition in today’s market.

A Legacy of Power and Refinement:

Introduced in 2007 as a successor to the venerable Concours 1000, the Concours 14 immediately made a statement. Its powerful 1352cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four engine, capable of producing a staggering 150 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque, was a force to be reckoned with. Coupled with a lightweight aluminum frame and sophisticated suspension, the Concours 14 delivered exhilarating performance that rivaled dedicated sportbikes.

But the Concours 14 was more than just a fast machine. Kawasaki meticulously engineered the bike for long-distance comfort. The plush, adjustable seat, wind-cheating fairings, and generous luggage capacity made it a true touring machine. The addition of features like cruise control, heated grips, and an electronic windscreen further cemented its position as a premium sport-touring motorcycle.

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1 The Kawasaki Concours 14: A Timeless Classic, Reimagined

The 2023 Concours 14: A Refined Classic:

While the Concours 14 has undergone several updates over the years, the 2023 model year marks a significant evolution. Kawasaki has incorporated modern technology and styling cues, while retaining the core DNA that has made the Concours 14 so popular.

Engine and Performance:

The heart of the Concours 14 remains its potent 1352cc inline-four engine. It delivers smooth, linear power throughout the rev range, making it both exhilarating for spirited rides and effortless for cruising. The engine is known for its remarkable smoothness and refinement, with minimal vibration even at high speeds.

While not as potent as some modern sport-touring rivals with larger displacement engines, the Concours 14’s power delivery is exceptionally well-suited for long-distance riding. Its abundance of torque makes overtaking effortless, while the smooth power delivery ensures fatigue-free riding.

The Kawasaki Concours 14: A Timeless Classic, Reimagined

Transmission and Handling:

The Concours 14 is equipped with a six-speed transmission, known for its precise and smooth shifting. The transmission is well-spaced, allowing the engine to operate in its sweet spot for both highway cruising and spirited riding.

The Concours 14’s handling is a testament to Kawasaki’s engineering prowess. The lightweight aluminum frame, combined with a well-balanced suspension, provides a confident and predictable ride. The bike feels planted and stable at speed, while still offering a surprising level of agility for its size.

Styling and Features:

The 2023 Concours 14 receives a subtle yet impactful styling update. The front fairing, inspired by the Ninja H2, features sharper lines and a more aggressive look. The LED lighting, including the iconic Kawasaki "K" signature, adds a modern touch.

The Kawasaki Concours 14: A Timeless Classic, Reimagined

The instrument cluster, a fully digital unit, provides a wealth of information, including speed, RPM, gear position, fuel gauge, and trip computer. The display is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight.

Comfort and Ergonomics:

The Concours 14 has always been known for its exceptional comfort. The plush, adjustable seat offers ample support for both rider and passenger. The wind protection provided by the adjustable windscreen is excellent, effectively reducing wind buffeting and fatigue on long rides.

The rider triangle is designed for long-distance comfort, with a relaxed, upright riding position. The handlebars are well-placed, allowing for a comfortable grip, and the footpegs offer ample room for stretching out on long journeys.

Technology and Safety:

The 2023 Concours 14 incorporates modern technology to enhance rider experience and safety. The bike features a Kawasaki Electronic Control System (KECS), which includes traction control, ABS, and cruise control.

The traction control system, adjustable to three levels, helps prevent wheelspin in slippery conditions, providing added confidence in challenging situations. The ABS system provides additional safety by preventing wheel lock-up during braking, ensuring more stable and controlled stops.

Practicality and Luggage:

The Concours 14 is a true touring machine, offering ample luggage capacity for long-distance adventures. The standard hard saddlebags provide generous storage space for gear and essentials, while the optional top case adds even more capacity.

The saddlebags are easy to open and close, and they are designed to be weatherproof, ensuring your belongings stay dry even in inclement weather. The top case, also weatherproof, provides a secure and convenient location for helmets and other items.

Fuel Efficiency and Range:

The Concours 14 is surprisingly fuel-efficient for a bike with its performance credentials. It boasts a fuel tank capacity of 5.8 gallons, providing a respectable range of over 250 miles on a single tank. This makes it an ideal choice for long-distance rides, reducing the need for frequent fuel stops.

The Verdict: Still a Champion of Sport-Touring?

The Kawasaki Concours 14, despite its age, remains a strong contender in the sport-touring segment. Its combination of powerful performance, comfortable ergonomics, and practical features makes it an excellent choice for riders seeking a versatile machine that can handle both daily commutes and long-distance adventures.

However, the Concours 14 is not without its drawbacks. Its styling, while updated, may not appeal to all riders, and its price point can be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.

Competition:

The Concours 14 faces stiff competition from other established sport-touring models, including:

Honda Gold Wing: The Gold Wing is a luxurious and technologically advanced touring machine, offering unparalleled comfort and refinement.
Yamaha FJR1300: The FJR1300 is a well-rounded sport-touring bike, known for its excellent handling and comfortable riding position.
BMW R 1250 RT: The R 1250 RT is a premium sport-touring bike with a strong reputation for quality and performance.
Suzuki Hayabusa: The Hayabusa is a powerful sport-touring machine with a reputation for speed and agility.

Who is the Concours 14 for?

The Concours 14 is a great choice for riders who:

Value comfort and practicality: The bike’s comfortable ergonomics, ample luggage capacity, and long-distance capabilities make it an ideal choice for long rides.
Want powerful performance: The Concours 14’s powerful engine provides exhilarating acceleration and effortless overtaking.
Seek a versatile machine: The Concours 14 can handle everything from daily commutes to long-distance adventures.

Final Thoughts:

The Kawasaki Concours 14, despite its age, remains a worthy contender in the sport-touring segment. Its combination of power, comfort, and practicality makes it a compelling choice for riders seeking a versatile and capable machine. While it may not be the most technologically advanced or stylish bike in its class, the Concours 14 offers a timeless blend of performance and practicality that continues to captivate riders.

Pros:

Powerful and smooth engine
Comfortable and refined riding experience
Ample luggage capacity
Excellent fuel efficiency
Well-equipped with modern technology and safety features

Cons:

Styling may not appeal to all riders
Price point can be a deterrent
Not as technologically advanced as some rivals

Overall:

The Kawasaki Concours 14 is a classic sport-touring motorcycle that continues to deliver a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and practicality. It is an excellent choice for riders seeking a versatile and capable machine for long-distance adventures.

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Thus, we hope this article has provided valuable insights into The Kawasaki Concours 14: A Timeless Classic, Reimagined. We thank you for taking the time to read this article. See you in our next article!

Moto Custom

The Kawasaki Concours 14: A Timeless Classic, Reimagined

The Kawasaki Concours 14: A Timeless Classic, Reimagined

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