Thinking of changing Z1000SX Tourer for GTR 1400, looking for advice

[chorleyboy]

Hello there

I bought a Z1000SX Tourer (with ABS) new in 2012, have done 4,500 miles mainly on longer trips to South of France, Ardennes, etc. (got back into bikes after a 25 year gap in 2008). I really like the bike but it's a bit too sporty for me (I am 55 years old now) and I'd like something with better wind protection and a bit more comfort, so I've been looking at the GTR 1400. I've seen quite a few web forums with details of issues however and in particular problems with shock adjuster seizures, tank corrosion and brake disc warping. Maybe that was with earlier models. I'm thinking of buying one from new, a 2015 model.

Thanks in advance for any advice you can give me.

John (aka chorleyboy)
Epsom, Surrey

[Charlie747]

 

I'm sure the rest of the gang will be along soon to supply the info you're looking for.

Like you I came and looked at this site before purchase of my 1400GTR..............I don't regret spending the money and enjoy the ride very much.

Go try one before you buy 

These guys normally have a demo bike plus they have some sharp prices.  Ask for
Chris Ley

http://www.motorcyclesdirect.co.uk/road-bikes/kawasaki/sport-tourer/bike/bike/kawasaki-gtr1400-abs-2013/

[chorleyboy]

Hi Charlie747

Thanks for the advice, I'll look into this.

Have a good day.

Regards

[Charlie747]

Hi Charlie747

Thanks for the advice, I'll look into this.

Have a good day.

Regards

My pleasure

[100milesaway]

Hello there

I bought a Z1000SX Tourer (with ABS) new in 2012, have done 4,500 miles mainly on longer trips to South of France, Ardennes, etc. (got back into bikes after a 25 year gap in 2008). I really like the bike but it's a bit too sporty for me (I am 55 years old now) and I'd like something with better wind protection and a bit more comfort, so I've been looking at the GTR 1400. I've seen quite a few web forums with details of issues however and in particular problems with shock adjuster seizures, tank corrosion and brake disc warping. Maybe that was with earlier models. I'm thinking of buying one from new, a 2015 model.

Thanks in advance for any advice you can give me.

John (aka chorleyboy)
Epsom, Surrey

John, If you are looking for better wind protection and more comfort, you will certainly get it from the GTR. But you will also get lots more weight, and more bulk that the SX. Could I suggest you take a look at the 1000 Versys, more wind protection than the SX, and less sporty. But still with a fantastic engine with all the grunt right where you want it. If I were you I would book a test ride on the pair of them.  good luck.     Geoff.

[tapps]

i done what your thinking of doing,i had a z1000sx for just over a year,didn't get on with the riding position,i recommend you test ride one for a decent test ride before you purchase one,it's a lot heavier than the sx,i don't regret getting a 1400 gtr.for piece of mind i took out the extended warranty,4 years cover in all.

[Burchy]

Get yourself to a dealer and go for a test ride.  You won't be disappointed.  55 is about the average age for a GTR rider

[chorleyboy]

Thank you all for your replies, much appreciated.

I've booked a test ride on a GTR but I'll also try a Versys as well for a comparison.

Regards

[Lonewolf]

If Geoff has talked you into test riding a Versys maybe I can talk you into test riding a BMW K1600 


It's a heavy beast and then some but seems to have all the toys on it as standard which GTR owners look to pay extra for to have them fitted on their GTR. Just a thought. 

[100milesaway]

I wonder if anyone gets all their motorcycling kicks, just by taking demo bikes out.  A few hours a week wizzing around on anything that you fancy, no hp payments, no service costs and no cleaning.  Some body some where will do just that. 

[chorleyboy]

I'm not interested in whizzing around on anyone else's bike, it's sad but I have to admit this, the bike has to be MINE, all MINE!!!

[Winston Smith]

1400GTR is an excellent bike.
It is, however, as already stated, a lot heavier.  The weight is also quite high, but disappears when riding.
It is quite front end biased and is best when pushed a little at the front end.
Super smooth and turbine like power.  Very comfy over long distances, far better then the SX and less sporty in position.
Re the 'issues'.  Underseat tank can get surface rusting.  Treat and leave and it will be OK.  Brakes - clean the bobbins and they should be OK.  Tend to build dust up which stops the float and induces warp. Keep clean - no issue!
Shock adjuster needs to be regularly worked, or keep it covered/protected from elements.
The model is getting a bit long in the tooth now, but as K have no immediate replacement in the pipeline it is a good machine.  Doubt you would be disappointed but test ride (a full day if you can) to make sure it's for you.
Wind protection is better than the SX, but not class leading!

[chorleyboy]

Thank you Winston Smith for the very useful advice, much appreciated.

[O.C.]

I have owned 3 GTRs since 2008, and they are, as Winston says, a damn fine machine, he is also correct when he points out the heavy weight, small pitfalls, and now somewhat dated features, overall the bike is good though.

FWIW between my 2nd and 3rd GTR I owned a BMW K1300 GT EE which didn't live up to expectations, although it did have a stonking engine and useful comfort features and then a GSA (pre W.C), the less said about which, the better.   

I think its fair to say that any 'Touring' styled bike will be heavier and perhaps less agile, but what is lost on the swings is generally gained on the roundabout.

Take a good long test ride and be prepared to be amazed by the GTRs performance and street cred....Good luck with your search and let us know how you get on     

[exBanditOwner]

i went for the GTR over the Z1000SX.

I use it for work gadding about the country. it's like flying a Hercules at very low altitude. As for sporty, they go like stink if you are prepared to muscle it about. as for comfy, yes they are.
they will also bimble about in 6th all day.

It's whatever bike you want it to be. i've had mine just over a month now and am really getting used to it. riding through hailstorms today!