Just reviewing

[Yox]

Hi
I currently have a 2012 Versys 1000 which I have had from new and I have thoroughly enjoyed, having taken myself and my pillion across Europe many times trouble free. It's coming up for 3 years old at the end of the year so I'm looking towards a possible replacement of which the 14GTR is one, hence why I've joined this forum to see what sort of bike the GTR really is. Owners clubs give the best, honest opinions as opposed to the media so I hope you all don't mind me lurking and reading.

[Debs]

Im on my 2nd one and love it. 

[O.C.]

Welcome along Yox, I've had three GTRs and they are a great bike, but somewhat different to your current V1K

Its a fact that if you want a mile munching super reliable tourer then the GTR is right up there with the very best, the GTR is heavier than the Versys but that fact isn't apparent when you are riding the Bike, I would also point out that the GTR isn't as comfy as the Versys, so Mrs Yox will need to be consulted, IMHO the GTR, despite having a 1400 cc engine isn't as 'nippy' as the Versys but that isn't really a issue when touring.

The GTR is, some say, a bit long in the tooth nowadays, but I wouldn't let that put you off because it is still very well equipped and a joy to ride.

Without stating the obvious you really need to book yourself a demo

Any way YOX me old china, you and I know each other from the Versys forum....guess who    

[Burchy]

Hello Yox, mate.  I wondered if you would succumb on of these days!  I chopped in my ZRXs for a 2008 GTR then swapped that in for a 2013 version.  You really must have a test ride on one.  I guess Alf's at Worthing would be your nearest.

I've just come back from 2000 miles around France on mine and loved every minute.  Comparing it to the Versys is difficult.  Having ridden both, the Versys is lighter and more flickable, but the GTR has the grunt and the longer legs.  And hard luggage as standard!

[Lonewolf]

Of course you are  to lurk. Awesome bike is the GTR, had two, both versions, pre & post 2010. Depending on your budget try for a 2010+ model of which coincidentally there some for sale on here now. Better to buy from someone on here who wont stiff you than a 'stranger'.

[Yox]

Welcome along Yox, I've had three GTRs and they are a great bike, but somewhat different to your current V1K

Its a fact that if you want a mile munching super reliable tourer then the GTR is right up there with the very best, the GTR is heavier than the Versys but that fact isn't apparent when you are riding the Bike, I would also point out that the GTR isn't as comfy as the Versys, so Mrs Yox will need to be consulted, IMHO the GTR, despite having a 1400 cc engine isn't as 'nippy' as the Versys but that isn't really a issue when touring.

The GTR is, some say, a bit long in the tooth nowadays, but I wouldn't let that put you off because it is still very well equipped and a joy to ride.

Without stating the obvious you really need to book yourself a demo

Any way YOX me old china, you and I know each other from the Versys forum....guess who    

Hello Yox, mate.  I wondered if you would succumb on of these days!  I chopped in my ZRXs for a 2008 GTR then swapped that in for a 2013 version.  You really must have a test ride on one.  I guess Alf's at Worthing would be your nearest.

I've just come back from 2000 miles around France on mine and loved every minute.  Comparing it to the Versys is difficult.  Having ridden both, the Versys is lighter and more flickable, but the GTR has the grunt and the longer legs.  And hard luggage as standard!

Of course you are  to lurk. Awesome bike is the GTR, had two, both versions, pre & post 2010. Depending on your budget try for a 2010+ model of which coincidentally there some for sale on here now. Better to buy from someone on here who wont stiff you than a 'stranger'.

Thank you all for the welcome and hello to Tyke ( Rog) and Burchy whom I know from other forums.
So, excuse the stupid questions, did the GTR get updated in 2010 and if so what are the differences?
I appreciate that the Versys would be more nimble due to it's smaller size but I do like 1) more grunt and 2) shaft drive. Also nowadays most of my riding is 2 up and the Versys is high up for Jo to get on and off and I'd like a bit more protection from the elements. The versys is a very underrated bike and I really like mine and if possible I'd keep it and have a GTR.

[Charlie747]

 

[flatfour]

My wife (5'1") finds the 2015 Versys 1000 easier to climb on and off than she did the GTR, to the point that I have not considered a footrest lowering kit for it, something that I had bought (but not fitted) to the GTR.

[O.C.]

2010 differences were left side glove box to replace the tank top 'ash tray' storage, addition of heated grips, usual colour changes and other bits which TBH I can't exactly remember 

Others will be along to help me out Yox   

The GTR is a great tourer and you'd expect as much as it is the flagship of Kawasakis' line up of bikes, Mrs Yox will find the seat a little lower than the pillon on the Versys although I'm not altogether sure that it will prove to be as comfy as your V1K

[Winston Smith]

Traction control
ECO system, bodywork alterations and styling for better airflow
Re-positioning of mirrors
Additional computer functionality

[Charlie747]

Traction control
ECO system, bodywork alterations and styling for better airflow
Re-positioning of mirrors
Additional computer functionality

+ up rated rear spring rate

A GTR will put a smile on your face 

[Yox]

Thanks guys, A trip to Alfs in Worthing looks likely so we can at least sit on one and see.

[O.C.]

Oh, and a larger screen