Bob Palin Posted June 12, 2007 Share Posted June 12, 2007 Standard model $12,899 ABS $13,799 Thought I'd post them as there has been discussion about the 2008 model here before. Link to comment
ericfoerster Posted June 12, 2007 Share Posted June 12, 2007 Hmmm... I think I want a new scooter I think that is a great price point for that bike. I'd sure like to ride one. Link to comment
ShovelStrokeEd Posted June 12, 2007 Share Posted June 12, 2007 Standard model $12,899 ABS $13,799 Thought I'd post them as there has been discussion about the 2008 model here before. That is going to leave a mark. Figure 1500 for factory bags and add in a top bag from Givi. Everything else is already there. Shaft drive and what looks like a very workable multilever rear suspension, torque monster with still a whole bunch of HP. NOBODY does electronics as well as the Japanese. Another 'g' or so for farkles like GPS, XM/Sirius, Autocom. You are still well under the price of the BMW K12GT with likely equal longevity. If my Blackbird is anything to go by, while it is showing its age a bit at nearly 7 years and 43K miles, new shock and a fork rebuild, one battery and a couple of chains are all it has needed. Valves at 43K still within factory spec, compression is great in all 4 holes, original spark plugs, oil change takes just as much time as a boxer and chain maintenance (not needed on the 14) is 2 cans of chain lube and 300 bux every 20K miles. Tires are an issue but, give up a bit of traction for life and that isn't all that bad. I'm hoping this will prompt Honda into some action on the GT front. Who wants a 5 cylinder shaft drive VFR at about 1400 cc? Link to comment
Whip Posted June 12, 2007 Share Posted June 12, 2007 Exactly the same price as the FJR ABS with clutch......the FJR comes with bags. Link to comment
W. Mazelin Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Who wants a 5 cylinder shaft drive VFR at about 1400 cc? If they do it in red / white / blue (25th anniv. colors) I might bite! Link to comment
skyskier Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 From what I see on their website, bags are included in the price. Where does it state otherwise? Link to comment
TowJam Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Standard model $12,899 ABS $13,799 We'll see in September what Honda's response is. As good a bike as it is, the ST1300 is in need of an update. Link to comment
Redbrick Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Standard model $12,899 ABS $13,799 We'll see in September what Honda's response is. As good a bike as it is, the ST1300 is in need of an update. Any rumors about changes to the ST other than the normal color rotation? I haven't heard any...... Phil.........Redbrick Link to comment
RonStewart Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Who wants a 5 cylinder shaft drive VFR at about 1400 cc? If they do it in red / white / blue (25th anniv. colors) I might bite! Oooh. I am so there. Memories of my first motorcycle love affair - the 500 Interceptor..... Link to comment
Whip Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 From what I see on their website, bags are included in the price. Where does it state otherwise? Sorry, I took for granted that Ed knew something I did not. Whip Link to comment
TowJam Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Any rumors about changes to the ST other than the normal color rotation? I haven't heard any......Not a word - and I try to track the Honda rumors pretty closely (let's just say I have a vested interest). The past two September dealer shows have been such a disappointment for dealers that I have to think that Honda is due for some major product announcements this September. The '08 Wings have been announced and the only updates are some new colors. Personally, I think the new Connie is going to be the "Harry Potter" of sport tourers for '08. I don't see anything that will be able to compete with its feature set at that price point. (And did anyone else notice that it uses a canbus system?) Link to comment
dmk Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Who wants a 5 cylinder shaft drive VFR at about 1400 cc? If they do it in red / white / blue (25th anniv. colors) I might bite! Oooh. I am so there. Memories of my first motorcycle love affair - the 500 Interceptor..... Great bike, one of the best of the 1980s. The prospect of an updated heavyweight V-four sport touring bike (e.g. ST1400) painted in red, white, and blue doesn't do much for me. Having seen what Honda did with the anniversary VFR, I don't think that paint scheme would work on a big sport tourer with full bodywork. But I would love to see an updated 500 Interceptor. Give me a 500cc V-four that revs to 14-15k rpm, makes 80-85 hp, tuned similar to the current CBR600RR with a nice top end hit but also some streetable power down low. Put it in a sporting chassis with quality suspension and keep the weight down to around 400 lbs. Like the original, give it a comfortable, moderately upright riding position and partial bodywork, and paint it red white a blue. Now THAT would have me beating down my local dealer's door with a woody. Of course, it would never sell here in today's market where anything under 1000cc or 500 lbs is "entry level", but I can always dream. Dave Link to comment
keithb Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Bob Have you heard about delivery dates to the dealers? That is very aggressive pricing for sure. I would love to take one for a spin. Link to comment
John Bentall Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Standard model $12,899 ABS $13,799 We'll see in September what Honda's response is. As good a bike as it is, the ST1300 is in need of an update. The ergos on the Connie say that is a competitor for the Blackbird rather than the ST1300. I can't imagine a 175 mph bike having the layout/ergos of a 1200RT or ST1300 - the K1200GT doesn't. Link to comment
ShovelStrokeEd Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Competitor is right with the small thing that Honda stopped bringing Blackbirds into the US in 2004 and, I think, this year was the last for Canada. Seems they have lost touch with the sport touring market completely. The VFR never sold in much volume here as well. Honda's lineup for 08 looks to be the same except for some "bold new colors", 600 and 1000 sport bikes and a whole bunch of cruisers and a few dirt bikes. The bike continues to sell well in Europe and Australia. Over here it never did much. As a Blackbird owner, I don't understand. This really is a wonderful motorcycle and, considering the design is something like 12 years old at this point, it still is capable of holding its own with just about anything out there. Its weakest points as a long distance touring mount are a puny (480 watt) alternator and poor fuel consumption (<40 mpg at speed). Well, add the 43mm cartridge fork in there too as, compared to the USD forks on all its competition it flexes like a limp noodle. Had they continued a program of upgrades as the bike aged, it would still be competitive today. Link to comment
wrestleantares Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Seat Height and Weight are still absent from the spec list. I'm not concerned so much with seat height (heck we ride BMW's) but I am interested in the weight. No heated grips. Why do people still make "tourers" without heated grips. Oh well, that is a cheap fix. 3 Year warranty - up from their one year on other motos. All in all it looks like a nice package. Link to comment
Bob Palin Posted June 13, 2007 Author Share Posted June 13, 2007 Have you heard about delivery dates to the dealers?Not announced yet. Link to comment
velomoto Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Standard model $12,899 ABS $13,799 Me thinks this will be a BIG problem for KGT sales. Based on price, performance and reliability of Kawasaki versus BMW, I just don't see how the new KGT can compete without a SIGNIFICANT price reduction. Even assuming the KGT out performs the new Connie, and the KGT will have options not available on the Connie (Cruise control, adjustable suspension, heated grips), the question is whether the general market will accept a $8K to $10K premium for the KGT. As others have mentioned - I too perceive the RT and Honda ST to be a different class of bike than the FJR, KGT and the new Connie... which is why I need to make room in my garage! Link to comment
AZKomet Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 I have made a few calls even as late as Tuesday and the Phx dealers hadn't a clue.....AMAZING! I will more than likely buy one of these gems after 6 months when the farkle starts rolling in....I was told that mid August is the release date...any word on that boys and girls????? Link to comment
Spike Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 I dont see the ST1300 getting updated for a few years. Link to comment
Lets_Play_Two Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Me thinks this will be a BIG problem for KGT sales. Based on price, performance and reliability of Kawasaki versus BMW, I just don't see how the new KGT can compete without a SIGNIFICANT price reduction. Even assuming the KGT out performs the new Connie, and the KGT will have options not available on the Connie (Cruise control, adjustable suspension, heated grips), the question is whether the general market will accept a $8K to $10K premium for the KGT. As others have mentioned - I too perceive the RT and Honda ST to be a different class of bike than the FJR, KGT and the new Connie... which is why I need to make room in my garage! I think the KGT will continue to sell for the same reason H-D sells motorcycles with, what many people think, are better, lower cost alternatives available. Link to comment
another David Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Standard model $12,899 ABS $13,799 Ugly -- Standard Sorry. Couldn't help myself. David Link to comment
Bob Palin Posted June 13, 2007 Author Share Posted June 13, 2007 Ugly -- Standard Sorry. Couldn't help myself. David No worse than the KGT, in fact I think I prefer it over those big slab panels. Hard luggage is included according to the Kawi web site. Where did the 36 month warranty info come from? Their web site still says 12 months. Just noticed - the MSRP is now posted on the web site. Link to comment
Jim VonBaden Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 For many the BMW will be worth the difference for the suspension, cruise control, adjustable windscreen, heated grips, and accessories available for it. Not to mention a less radical look and IMHO better ergos. I doubt there will be that much of an impact on BMW, they sell so few bikes comparatively already that it will more likely impact Honda more directly. Just my opinion as a "defender" of BMW and a drinker of the corporate Kool Aid. Jim Standard model $12,899 ABS $13,799 Me thinks this will be a BIG problem for KGT sales. Based on price, performance and reliability of Kawasaki versus BMW, I just don't see how the new KGT can compete without a SIGNIFICANT price reduction. Even assuming the KGT out performs the new Connie, and the KGT will have options not available on the Connie (Cruise control, adjustable suspension, heated grips), the question is whether the general market will accept a $8K to $10K premium for the KGT. As others have mentioned - I too perceive the RT and Honda ST to be a different class of bike than the FJR, KGT and the new Connie... which is why I need to make room in my garage! Link to comment
Rich06FJR1300 Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 you dig deeper and it looks like its 3 year, unlimited miles for just the concourse alone and you can purchase an extension of 24, 36 or 48 months...sweet! Link to comment
Deadboy Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Supposed to be in the dealers 7/1/07....... I for one am very impressed, have sat on it already and will likely be buying one in the near future. If you don't think this will effect BMW sales you have been drinking the Kool Aid for too long...this thing will kill KGT sales....7K less for the same (or more) bike....not a hard decision....and yes this bike does have an adjustable windshield and tire pressure sensors.....and the pre-production one I saw had heated grips... Link to comment
Lets_Play_Two Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Supposed to be in the dealers 7/1/07....... If you don't think this will effect BMW sales you have been drinking the Kool Aid for too long...this thing will kill KGT sales.... Of course we are all entitled to our own opinions and I don't see any qualifications you offer that would make me abandon my opinion for yours, and to assume someone is being duped when they don't agree with you is extremely presumptuous and grandiose on your part. Link to comment
Jim VonBaden Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Since when has a price difference really hurt BMW sales? You can buy lots of bikes that compete with BMW on a basic level, such as the Uly and Strom against the 12GS. But at nearly twice the price BMW is selling like crazy. Same with a bunch of other bikes. If you think price is everything to a motorcyclist you might want to look around. HD sells a crapload of bikes at more than twice the price of comparable, and arguably better quality UJM cruisers. I seriously doubt that BMW will lose much because of another sport tourer that lacks many of the lauded features BMW has. Anyone who would have purchased the BMW in the past, will still likely purchase one. Jim PS Cruise control available? Supposed to be in the dealers 7/1/07....... I for one am very impressed, have sat on it already and will likely be buying one in the near future. If you don't think this will effect BMW sales you have been drinking the Kool Aid for too long...this thing will kill KGT sales....7K less for the same (or more) bike....not a hard decision....and yes this bike does have an adjustable windshield and tire pressure sensors.....and the pre-production one I saw had heated grips... Link to comment
wrestleantares Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Where did the 36 month warranty info come from? Their web site still says 12 months. Just noticed - the MSRP is now posted on the web site. Already answered, but you have to dig a bit on their website. The new Connie is indeed 36 month: Motorcycle (Sport, Supersport, Dual Purpose) Includes Ninja®, Concours™, and other street motorcycles (KLR, ZR, Eliminator®) One-Year Warranty Your new Kawasaki motorcycle comes with a 12-month/unlimited mileage limited factory warranty. The Concours comes with a 36-month/unlimited mileage limited factory warranty. Read the next paragraph to find out how you can extend your coverage inexpensively, or ask your dealer for details about the factory warranty and available extended coverage. Link to comment
AZKomet Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Came from the dealer this A.M. They have no idea about prices or a release date....interesting since THEY should know!!! He did say something I did not know. Kaw and Suxuki merged 18 months ago..... The merger is what sparked Kaws changes in machine design for the KLR and the Connie along with a few others. Interesting.... Link to comment
wrestleantares Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Came from the dealer this A.M. They have no idea about prices or a release date....interesting since THEY should know!!! He did say something I did not know. Kaw and Suxuki merged 18 months ago..... The merger is what sparked Kaws changes in machine design for the KLR and the Connie along with a few others. Interesting.... Ummm, I don't think so: KAWASAKI-SUZUKI ALLIANCE ENTERS NEW PHASE The "alliance" announced in August 2001 between Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., (KHI) and Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) will now focus on potential exchanges of indirect resources, rather than on direct OEM product exchanges. It was originally formed as a mechanism to allow sharing of parts sourcing, platform production of OEM units, and joint development of new products. Following a successful three-year arrangement, both companies have considered factors related to sales volume, profitability, customer reaction, influence on brand image, and competitiveness of each OEM product. The two brands have jointly agreed that more focused, independent development activity will serve to further enhance their respective brand identities with their loyal customer bases. This modification to the alliance relationship will mean that OEM product sales will be discontinued, and the following models will not be available from Kawasaki, effective with the 2007 model year: KLX125A/B, KSF80A, KSF50A, KDX50A There certainly was never any merger (stock exchange) either in 2001 or 2005 - the 18 month ago date was actually when any real alliance was terminated. Aren't dealers just the greatest! Link to comment
dmk Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Supposed to be in the dealers 7/1/07....... I for one am very impressed, have sat on it already and will likely be buying one in the near future. If you don't think this will effect BMW sales you have been drinking the Kool Aid for too long...this thing will kill KGT sales....7K less for the same (or more) bike....not a hard decision....and yes this bike does have an adjustable windshield and tire pressure sensors.....and the pre-production one I saw had heated grips... I think it's premature to say that. The FJR and ST1300 have been available for years at prices well below the RT and GT, but BMW still sells bikes. The new Connie will no doubt offer class leading power, but we have no idea how it will stack up in other ways. Dave Link to comment
John in VA Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 I heard that Kaw is contracting their radiators from Peterbilt. Link to comment
AZKomet Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Don't kill the messenger....wasn't in the mix so I asked!!!!! Link to comment
tallman Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Me thinks this will be a BIG problem for KGT sales. Based on price, performance and reliability of Kawasaki versus BMW, I just don't see how the new KGT can compete without a SIGNIFICANT price reduction. Even assuming the KGT out performs the new Connie, and the KGT will have options not available on the Connie (Cruise control, adjustable suspension, heated grips), the question is whether the general market will accept a $8K to $10K premium for the KGT. As others have mentioned - I too perceive the RT and Honda ST to be a different class of bike than the FJR, KGT and the new Connie... which is why I need to make room in my garage! I think the KGT will continue to sell for the same reason H-D sells motorcycles with, what many people think, are better, lower cost alternatives available. Next thing you know, BMW will quit making cars because you can buy Accords, Camry's, and Corvette's. Link to comment
chrisolson Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Supposed to be in the dealers 7/1/07....... I for one am very impressed, have sat on it already and will likely be buying one in the near future. If you don't think this will effect BMW sales you have been drinking the Kool Aid for too long...this thing will kill KGT sales....7K less for the same (or more) bike....not a hard decision....and yes this bike does have an adjustable windshield and tire pressure sensors.....and the pre-production one I saw had heated grips... An honest question ... what makes the Kawi so much better than the FJR - which may have hurt GT sales, but definitely didn't kill them. I know for myself, I went through all the price issues FJR vs GT prior to purchasing the GT. Some decisions are not totally price based ... and I wouldn't call that "drinking the coolaid" ... its more along the lines of buying what I want rather than what makes financial sense ... because I can. Link to comment
Deadboy Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Given that nearly no one here has even seen a production version, must less sat on or ridden one I will just say I was very impressed and leave it at that. Clearly way too many folks on this thread are offended by the idea that anything could be as good as their brand of bike and rather than have a discussion are simply looking to argue. To recap, the bike is shaft drive, has heated grips, abs (optional), adjustable windscreen, great torque and HP #'s, great price and includes the bags...sounds like a recipe for disater to me. Link to comment
chrisolson Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 Given that nearly no one here has even seen a production version, must less sat on or ridden one I will just say I was very impressed and leave it at that. Clearly way too many folks on this thread are offended by the idea that anything could be as good as their brand of bike and rather than have a discussion are simply looking to argue. To recap, the bike is shaft drive, has heated grips, abs (optional), adjustable windscreen, great torque and HP #'s, great price and includes the bags...sounds like a recipe for disater to me. I'm sure its a fabulous bike, but my question was ... so is the FJR ... so why will the Kawi not kill FJR sales as well ? ... But since you didn't really answer my non-argumentative, non-offended question, we'll agree to "leave it at that". Link to comment
Matts_12GS Posted June 13, 2007 Share Posted June 13, 2007 I seriously doubt that BMW will lose much because of another sport tourer that lacks many of the lauded features BMW has. You're right, none of my shaft drive kawasakis have ever left me stranded with stripped clutch splines, nor have I ever broken a rear bearing on one of them . Those useless damn Kaws just started up and ran, although, I did kill a battery once because I didn't have enough alternator output. Finally, a positive for the BMWs I have owned. Link to comment
keithb Posted June 14, 2007 Share Posted June 14, 2007 Well it now appears there are 2 bikes on the market I am not going to test ride anytime soon for fear of buying one of them. Link to comment
leikam Posted June 14, 2007 Share Posted June 14, 2007 Standard model $12,899 ABS $13,799 That's the right price point and the warranty is a nice touch. I can't wait to get a look at one in person. Link to comment
keithb Posted June 14, 2007 Share Posted June 14, 2007 Sounds like Kawasaki believes in the quality of this bike to up the warranty by 2 years. Either that or they are just matching BMW for competitive reasons. I am looking forward to seeing one of these in the local showroom as well. Link to comment
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