Future owner

[Joe]

Hello Folks,

I'm in the UK and thinking about buying a used GTR1400. I'm thinking a 2010 onwards model because of the traction control gibbons which might come in handy during the winter months. Is there anything I should really be looking out for when looking at bikes other than the usual, i.e. are there any GTR specific known problems? Other bikes in the running are the BMW K1300GT and Yam FJR1300 but out of them all, I'm drawn to the Kwak.

Thanks for any pointers.

[Ant]

Hi

The GTR is a lovely bike to ride, a few known issues, but nothing serious, on the older models.

Compared to the others ?  I can only comment on the FJR as I owned both at one point and used the GTR most until I got the newer FJR.  Slightly different riding position on the FJR but more roll on power without changing gear.
Better weather protection on the GTR and mirrors and id have another when they bring in cruise control.
A few on here have gone to the dark side (bmw), and to be honest they are a nice bike (k1600) but too juicy, expensive and colossal servicing costs for me.
The FJR is tried and tested and is very reliable as is the GTR engine on the ZZR.
You need to first test ride the FJR and then the GTR, and i'll think you'll like the GTR most.
Good luck

[PRD]

Excellent advice that. Totally agree.

[nightrider]

The gtr is a fantastic bike with a bullet proof engine , and only has the same niggles as  most other bikes have , it's the Bentley of bikes , super smooth and fast , get one you will not go wrong , 

[snowy]

Considered the FJR before I bought my GTR, FJ may have been better for the long hauls and touring as it feels bigger, but for a day 2 day and "the one bike for all purpose", the GTR wins hands down for me - scratch, commute or tour!

[Phill_York]

I had an FJR work bike alongside a Pan and hated riding the FJR in comparison.  The GTR was head and shoulders above both of them for speed (Pan) and build quality (FJR). However, I hear the new FJR is a lot better and has cruise control and lots of fancy electronics and, in the view of many, nosed ahead of the GTR but I can't comment as I haven't ridden it.

In summary, if you're looking at the FJR, make sure it's the newer version 2013 onwards and make a personal comparison. If you can't stretch to one that new then go straight for a GTR (in my view).

P.S. the FJR is more expensive so if it's just cruise control that's persuading you, it's probably cheaper to get a GTR and have an electronic cruise control fitted

[Joe]

Thanks for the replies, I appreciate you taking the time to respond.

The GTR is the bike I want, the FJR is more of a 'thinking with the head and not the heart' bike, the BMW is 3rd on the list - never been much of a fan and have heard bad things about the build quality and reliability of their bikes, despite the supposedly 'premium' badge.

I had a 2005 ZX6R many moons ago, loved that bike and couldn't fault the build quality on that.

I've been looking for a GTR near me, my local Kwak dealer seemed deserted when I popped in there yesterday, literally - I could not find a single person working in there and they looked closed from the outside. It looked like they were having work done on the place and all the bikes were in the back, I tried to have a look but couldn't see a GTR in there. P&H in Crawley or Dobles in Coulsdon look like the closest dealers that have one.

One last thing, the whole keyless ignition thing, how reliable is it? I don't fancy being stranded because it's playing up.

Thanks

[pross]

Hi joe.
And welcome to the group.
The keyless ignition I cannot see you having an issue with it others on here will verify this.
The people who have have ether lost the fob or left home without it after starting the bike .
There is a battery inside that will need replacing yearly ? Who knows I suppose it depends on usage like all battery's.
I myself have never had an issue my fob is on a lanyard around my neck so I never forget it .
Enjoy the bike 

[Ant]

The 2016 FJR has been revised again BTW. Now with 6 gears.

Personally I would let the dust settle for a couple of years to see how this change goes if considering new.

Also the GTR and FJR are the same price new at base level with slightly different gizmos. ( FJR, cruise ) (GTR, TPS ).

You can get the FJR with electronic suspension - but then that's just more to go wrong !

http://www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/kawasaki/gtr_1400_abs/2012/antloz/205965 not bad mpg on the GTR either.

[O.C.]

hiyaJoe and welcome along to this excellent forum with lots of great advice and more than a little banter.

In simple terms the GTR is a stonking bike, and the keyless ignition,  whilst at first may seem odd, won't cause you any  trouble

Now stop dithering and get one bought,         remember a good service history is important as is a good comprehensive dealer backed warranty for your peace of mind

Good luck my friend and let us knowhow youget on     

[Burchy]

Get along to P & H in Crawley and ask for Amy Dunn, their marketing manager.  I met here when I was a KMUK a little while back and she seemed very enthusiastic to all things K.  I am sure she will sort out a test ride for you if they have a GTR in stock

[Lonewolf]

Ant, I read recently that all cars produced after 2014 have to be fitted with TPS. Do you know, is this something which is going to be mirrored with bikes?

[Joe]

TPS?

P&H have a 2010 GTR in the showroom right now by the looks of things, only 6000 odd miles but I think the price is a tad high.

It's a sunny day and I'm off work, I might take a scenic ride down there for a mooch around.

[virginiajim]

Tire Pressure Sensor

[Lonewolf]

Yes TPS = Tyre Pressure Sensors......not to be confused with the weird spelling of Tyre by Jim who thinks it should be Tire as in Tire   d