08 vs 10 model year

[Billabong]

Hi all,

I'm looking to change bikes in large part because I now have tinnitus in both ears and want to protect my hearing! So a touring bike with an adjustable screen seems to be the answer, and the GTR1400 is one of the main contenders.

I've done some research but wanted to ask the people that ride them - are the differences between an 08 plate and a 10 plate worth paying an extra £1500 to £2000 for?

Thanks :-)

[viper]

styling changes
higher screen, heated grips, traction control , different functions on the dash , centre glove box moved to side

loads more stuff I cant remember

yes its worth the extra

[Debs]

Go for the latest models 2010+

I've had both and prefer my 2010. 

[Billabong]

Thank you - that's 2 votes in favour of the newer model so far then!

I'm testing an 08 plate tomorrow which has Oxford heated grips and a taller screen but at least I'll get a feel for the bike.

Are there major differences with the amount of heat thrown out on the 2 models? The FJR1300 went through the same thing a few years earlier...

[Lonewolf]

I've also had both and agree with Debs that the 2010 + model, if funds allow is the way to go. 


As a benchmark I sold my 2011 model in August 2014 with 24k miles on it for £7k. It was mint with full service history and 6 months Kawasaki warranty remaining on it.


Hope you find what you are looking for.

[viper]

higher mirrors , memory function screen, better abs, linked brakes, fuel economy mode,

[Billabong]

The Wolf - Blimey! The cheapest one I can find within a couple of hundred miles of me with average mileage is £8k. The 08 plate just up the road is £6.5k but guess I need to ride both to find out :-)

The later model improvements sound good though I'm not a fan of linked brakes - I'd rather decide which brake I'm using and how much it's applied...

[100milesaway]

The Wolf - Blimey! The cheapest one I can find within a couple of hundred miles of me with average mileage is £8k. The 08 plate just up the road is £6.5k but guess I need to ride both to find out :-)

The later model improvements sound good though I'm not a fan of linked brakes - I'd rather decide which brake I'm using and how much it's applied...

Fully agree about the linked brakes, I hated them on my 011 GTR.  Tecno overload, that nobody asked for, nor needs.

[Lonewolf]

Billabong, this is what I sold for £7k. I even threw in the top box cos I'm super generous!







It was my pride and joy but not in the same league as my current two wheels. 

As for the linked brakes,  I wouldn't get hung up on them, it's something which in my opinion is something you don't even notice. I'm sure others will disagree but that is as I say just my opinion. 

[Billabong]

Billabong, this is what I sold for £7k. I even threw in the top box cos I'm super generous!

Wow! Looks fantastic - someone got a stunning deal!

Looks like you have a K1600GT now? Along with the GTR1400 other potential bikes on my list are K1300GT, R1200RT, FJR1300 and Trophy 1200. All because of bloody tinnitus 

[Lonewolf]

I have to be careful of putting pic's on here of bikes which aren't made by Kawasaki as it causes unrest among the gang but every once in a while I can get away with it  .....yes I have a K1600 GT SE at the moment.

[pross]

I have to be careful of putting pic's on here of bikes which aren't made by Kawasaki as it causes unrest among the gang but every once in a while I can get away with it  .....yes I have a K1600 GT SE at the moment.

Blasphemer 

[Debs]

I have to be careful of putting pic's on here of bikes which aren't made by Kawasaki as it causes unrest among the gang but every once in a while I can get away with it  .....yes I have a K1600 GT SE at the moment.

Get that pile of  off... 

[Debs]

The Wolf - Blimey! The cheapest one I can find within a couple of hundred miles of me with average mileage is £8k. The 08 plate just up the road is £6.5k but guess I need to ride both to find out :-)

The later model improvements sound good though I'm not a fan of linked brakes - I'd rather decide which brake I'm using and how much it's applied...

Moore Speed up the road from me has this 2010.. its up for £6k with 29k on the clock

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPISB94dKTc

http://www.bournemouth-motorcycles.com/index.php/motorcycles

They are a lovely bunch of guys..

[Winston Smith]

Bit of support for you Steve....