2013 model

[doebag]

'Why yes sir, what shade of black would sir like' 

[Gonome]

I see nothing to tempt me to upgrade. Glade there are plenty of miles left in mine. 

[Kwikasfuki]

Well it's certainly helped me decide which direction I'll be going in potentially when I decide to have an upgrade......

Won't a k1600 be a downgrade?

[Kwikasfuki]

'Why yes sir, what shade of black would sir like' 

"Sir, the black is much faster than the off black"

[mecki]

Considering they changed it at 2 years old to get the little niggles sorted and that the model run is now approaching 6 years with the only updates being colours, added to the fact that it's donor bike, the ZZ-R is now sporting an upgrade engine, I reckon an all new GTR or end of the line will be the plan for 2014.

How do you make that 6 years?
AFAIK the last change was 2010 and involved a lot more than just new colour schemes.  indeed
I am totally happy with what I got and don't see much that needs improving.
If I wanted a K1600 I would buy one even if Kawasaki would offer a copy.

[Winston Smith]

2007 - present/2013 is a six year run.  The update in 2010 was only a facelift, a couple of gimmicks and a cosmetic change (which was necessary due to some overheating issues.  All they did was put on some new technology (that maybe should have been on the original) and addressed customer feedback with relocation of cubby hole and heated grips for example.

I love the GTR and it should be given the 1440 from the ZZ-R, but as it stands it's en excellent machine.

Problem is the other manufacturers move on, although only BMW with the GT have done anything 'new' since the mighty GTR came on line.

Honda went down the adventure route with the Cross dresser (likely to morph into a new Pan in a couple of years if the market comes back), Suzuki have no offerings, Yamaha STILL continue with the FJR (!!???!!?) the new one not looking much other than a facelift (again).

Actually, looking at my own argument why bother - it's the only other decent sports/tourer out there!

[mecki]

Following your logic all bikes haven't changed for over 100 years.
They still have 2 wheels, handlebars and a motor - everything else are just new 'gimmicks' and cosmetic changes.   

[Bumpkin]

It's the implication that 2010 was four years ago that worries me - sod the bikes, stop ageing me!!!

[coman37]

Hi,

    If they dont add cruise control, sat-nav(with Bluetooth option), mp3/music option, bigger engine, better screen, cubby hole for toll money/card, keep the heated grips, dont care about Trac(but have not tried with) get rid of pointless keyless start, then my replacement for the GTR will be the BMW 1600 GT(L?) or the Triumph Explorer, bikes already properly equipped for touring

Coman

[O.C.]

Considering they changed it at 2 years old to get the little niggles sorted and that the model run is now approaching 6 years with the only updates being colours, added to the fact that it's donor bike, the ZZ-R is now sporting an upgrade engine, I reckon an all new GTR or end of the line will be the plan for 2014.

Ahhhh, now there's a learned sage type man 

Chris, I totally agree its a stunning bike but its due for a major upgrade and I too think that will arrive in 2014. OK the GTR isn't the perfect bike (I doubt that one exists) but it does a mighty fine job of ticking the boxes.

BTW the 2013 model does boast a 70mm taller screen, and its available in that dull Black colour  and why does it need a 1600 engine most of us on here cant use the current 1400cc lump to full effect.

Also check the latest FJR1300 that isn't full of new ideas either, we are in a recession you know

[Bryn]

my replacement for the GTR will be the BMW 1600 GT(L?) or the Triumph Explorer, bikes already properly equipped for touring

Coman

Had a new launch model Explorer... all I really miss is the cruise control.... weather protection is much better on the GTR .

[coman37]

Hi Bryn,

   Thanks for that info. I doubt I will change for 1-2 years (if I can sort the screen issues,Calsci lge next?) But if Big K wont give us as standard or as integrated options, those that available on other touring machines then they will lose my custom. I have good BMW and Triumph dealers within 20 miles so will be test riding their bikes next spring

Coman

[2kwacks]

2kwacks you need to look at my ride - it already has that 

Infact a name change would be perfect - 1kwack1beemer 

how about 3 kwacks 1 beemer, may as well throw the new model zzr1400 in as well the only problem is.. if I throw the zzr1400 and the beemer in.. then there would not be enough room in the garage for me

[viper]

Ahhhh, now there's a learned sage type man 


BTW the 2013 model does boast a 70mm taller screen, and its available in that dull Black colour 

i dont think the 2013 has a bigger screen , its the exact  same wording lifted from the 2012 model specs  ( check the link on model history, they are still reffering to it being larger than the pre 2010 bikes , its very mis-leading and does suggest the screen has grown another 70mm

[zedmeister]

They are probably doing what the car manufacturers do, giving it a different colour scheme etc to get rid of the last production types before the new ( hopefully ) 1440 comes in, they will also be looking closely at how the explorer is recieved, with all the toys on etc. I think the new model will be released arround this time next year ready for the show rounds. Mr K needs to price it right too, so i would agree, there need to be a base price, ( say what we have now as std ) with an options list to personalise to your own taste.