Looking for a change (I think)

[geordielad]

Just joined the forum as I am thinking of getting a GTR1400.

Currently got an R1200RT LC (stop laughing  ) and have to say I have been very happy with it, it's just ........

Well, I think I fancy a change and the GTR floats my boat although in saying that, I haven't ridden one yet!

So, go on, tell me whether I should change, or stay with the pipe and slippers brigade  (actually, it goes quite well and handles better than it should).

Looking forward to your comments.

[Robbieben]

You won't be disappointed, I had a BMW before the GTR. The GTR is Great to ride, loads of low down torque like you have now, it just doesn't run out of breath like the BMW does. Again handles very well, not a sports bike but in the right hands will easily embarrass a lot of sports bike riders.  Very roomy 2 up and standard luggage has plenty of storage for 2 people doing a 2 week trip.

[nightrider]

Imagine that you had a Bentley motor car ,,justs wafts along on a hint of throttle, then wind it on and 140 showing on the clock feels like, your doing 60 ,,the gtr is the Bentley equivalent,it's a fantastic bike you will not be disappointed, 

[Biker Bugs]

I have a lovely example for sale and not a million miles from Wirral, being Preston based 

[tartan-jock]

I along with a lot of folk have been i your position trying to decide the same as yourself.     i know gtr1400s are not a common bike so even getting to look at one in the flesh isnt easy.   go look at one if you can, test ride even better   youtube reviews are a great way to get peoples opinion on them.    Me i have had many bikes last one a cbr1100xx blackbird but wanted something that was more comfy and more modern.    my thought is this   gt1400 is  pretty good at almost everything i need it to do.    try one i dont think it will disappoint

[geordielad]

Thanks guys - seen what looks like a reasonably priced Grand Tourer in Preston - going to see if I can blag a test ride on a second hand one at Marriots in Birkenhead soon.
Working away next week, so it may be a couple of weeks before I can get to it.

It's not that there is anything wrong with the RT, it's just I think that maybe I'm missing out on something out there.

Tried an FJR - couldn't get away with the centre stand always catching my left heel (and I haven't got enormous feet) 

Also tried a Trophy, but hated the finish on the bars - looked like someone had shaped them using a dremel!

[ChrisB]

Hi
I quite liked the water cooled RT but the wife hated it, and I just don't like the snobbery and arrogance of the marque and dealership network. You will also benefit from cheaper servicing and repairs than a BMW.

[O.C.]

I've never owned an R1200RT  and as far as I know they are a good bike...I've owned a couple of BMWs K1300 GTEE and R 1200 GSA. 

My experience with the BMW dealer network and bikes wasn't very good but that's another story  

I have owned 4 GTRs since 2009 and they are an absolutely stonking bike, if you are able to test ride one you WILL be amazed

The GTR will tour comfortable and will also propel you towards and over the horizon in immaculate style and considerable speed, if that's what you want, if you choose to arrive in a more sedate manner then the GTR will easily do that too.

If you are considering a new GTR then there should be some deals out there as the bike is now out of production due to its lack of EURO 4 compliance, but this takes nothing away from the GTR which is a class act    

[geordielad]

Thanks for that OC.
I have to say that the RT is a great bike and to be honest I have been very lucky and had excellent service from Williams in Manchester (awful attitude from Chester Motorrad in Ellesmere Port though).
I really need to try one out as I am a bit of a short 4rse and as the GTR is 40 kg heavier I need to see if it would be too much to confidently manage - touring quite often takes us on single track roads and I like to be able to get my feet down if the situation requires it. 

I have little or no concerns over build quality of the GTR and residuals seem to be OK considering - didn't know they were out of production though, so I had better get a move on. 

[O.C.]

Yes, I agree, trying one out to see if it is going to be suitable is a good idea

The latest offering from Mother Kawasaki is the H2 SX (SE) .this bike is NOT designed or marketed as a direct replacement for the GTR but it is now Kawasaki's top bike for Sport/Touring, I have attached a link below for you to view.

Let us know how you get on...and good luck      


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVt15iOR73A   

[geordielad]

Thanks OC - couldn't see any link, but I read a couple of reviews - £18k+ is a little rich for my blood though - there is a new Grand Tourer model in Preston for £12,450, so that's nearer the mark.

Off to Cork / Kinsale for the next week, so will have to wait until I can get back.

Cheers lads 

[Longtom]

Maybe I am wearing rose-tinted spectacle, always hopeful etc., but I still believe it won't be too long before Kawasaki have a big comfy shafty, tourer back in their line-up...

[Biker Bugs]

Mines been lowered 😜 , without any issues as I've only got a 29" inside leg 🙄


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[geordielad]

Just been reading about panniers stolen without a key (or any signs of damage to bike) and further reports of losing them during riding!

I had no idea that a design flaw as  fundamental as this was not only evident, but not sorted by Kawasaki!

This is making me think twice about getting one now. (Or as they seem incapable of using the word "twice" now, "two times"  )

[O.C.]

Just been reading about panniers stolen without a key (or any signs of damage to bike) and further reports of losing them during riding!

I had no idea that a design flaw as  fundamental as this was not only evident, but not sorted by Kawasaki!

This is making me think twice about getting one now. (Or as they seem incapable of using the word "twice" now, "two times"  )

I don't consider this to be a GTR 'design flaw' and am not sure where that idea comes from....I've had 4 GTR 1400s since 2008/9 and TBH I think this is the first instance of this happening that I've heard of, there may have been other cases (no pun intended) buy they would be extremely rare IMHO