Rode over to the local Kawasaki dealer this afternoon and took a peak at the new 14R in Passion Red. That's my color and if this bike was going to move me, this would be the one. Sat on it only, no test ride. Here are my thoughts, I like the color but just can't get excited about this machine and trying to figure out why. First I think is the price tag, they were asking a hair over $15,000 out the door for the ABS model...ouch! With trade in, I 'd still be on the hook for ten grand. Then the size, the bike just feels and looks gargantuan to me, my old 14 looks svelte by comparison. The between the legs test made it feel heavy and bulky. Looks wise, I prefer the old one better, it's aged we'll and has got a classic look to it now like the old Hayabusas do.
I'm sure the bike is faster, more powerful and has better brakes, not to mention TC and ABS but there's just not enough pluses there to make me go into debt.
For that kind of drive out cash, we're getting dangerously close to several Euro bikes that would stir my soul.
Looks like my trusty '06 will be staying for awhile.