Kawasaki unwrapped their new 2010 Concours and it’s obvious they haven’t ignored this super sport touring machine since the new version appeared in 2008. With a couple of years and many thousands of miles, they refined the bike to reflect feedback from riders and added some extra technology, too.
The bodywork has been changed a bit for better heat management so riders don’t get uncomfortable on those hot days. The windshield is now larger, that had become a common upgrade among buyers of the first version. Heated handgrips are also new, something many said was missing for a bike aimed at the long range touring rider.
Traction control is now part of the package on the ABS equipped model. Using a combination of computer engine control and the ABS sensor, the Concours reduces engine output using airflow, ignition timing and fuel delivery when wheel slip is detected. Since it uses existing components, no weight is added for this extra function.
There’s a new fuel economy assistance mode that should substantially extend the range of this powerful long range cruiser. Activating fuel economy assistance mode changes the engine to a leaner map which prioritizes fuel economy, for as much as a 25 percent MPG boost. Fuel economy assistance works in any gear, as long as rpm is below 6000, throttle opening less than 30 percent and speed less than 80 mph.
There’s a lot to like in the Concours 14 and Kawasaki intends to make this a real flagship in their fleet. If you think a fast coast to coast jaunt would be fun, this could be your machine.
Here’s the full rundown of what’s new for 2010:
Enhanced Comfort & Touring Potential
* A completely redesigned, more aggressive fairing with new inner guide surfaces and outlets is designed to facilitate heat dissipation, greatly reducing the amount of hot air transmitted to the rider
* A 70mm taller windscreen with a wider upper portion reduces upper-body turbulence. The screen is electrically adjustable, with four new programmable preset positions
* When the power is turned off, the windscreen goes to its lowest position. When the power is turned back on, the windscreen’s memory function returns it to the selected preset position
* Passages from windscreen slits direct air through the inner fairing to vents next to the instrument panel; alleviating the lower pressure helps prevent turbulence around the rider’s head
* An exhaust pipe guard added to the upper part of the exhaust mid-pipe helps protect the rider from heat when stopped
* Stepless adjustable grip heaters are standard, with an easy-to-reach switch located in front of the new lockable storage case on the inner left fairing panel
* A new, lockable storage case in the left fairing inner panel uses an electromagnet lock to prevent entry when the engine is off
* New mirrors positioned 40mm higher increase rear visibility and provide increased hand protection from the wind
* New hooks at the front of the tank facilitate securing a tank bag
New KTRC Traction Control (Concours 14 ABS only)
* KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control): Kawasaki’s first traction control system reduces engine output when wheel spin is detected, allowing the rear tire to regain grip
* Advanced, 3-way control (airflow, ignition timing, fuel delivery) gives KTRC smooth operation, natural feel and the ability to operate on long stretches of bad road
* KTRC adds no weight, since it uses the existing ECU and ABS sensors
New 2nd Generation K-ACT ABS (Concours 14 ABS only)
* 2nd Generation K-ACT (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) ABS links front and rear brakes for most effective front-rear brake force distribution
* A smaller, lighter K-ACT ABS unit with a higher-spec ECU is capable of more detailed calculations for smoother operation
* The rider can choose one of two modes to suit riding situation or rider preference: The linked effect from front brake lever actuation is largely the same in both modes, but the linked effect when actuating the rear brake pedal is quite different
* In Standard Mode, rider control is prioritized, with linked effect reduced at initial pedal stroke for natural sensation when sport riding
* In High Combined Mode, there’s a more pronounced linked effect from the beginning of the pedal stroke — ideal for touring and two-up highway use
* A low-battery mode maintains the ABS function as best possible when the battery charge is low. In low-battery mode, ABS timing and pressure relief functions are maintained, so brake effectiveness is preserved (although riders will notice that ABS operation is not as smooth). The K-ACT lamp will flash and “Low Battery†will be displayed on the LCD screen. The system resets when the engine is turned off
New Fuel Economy Assistance Mode
* Activating fuel economy assistance mode changes the engine to a leaner map which prioritizes fuel economy, for as much as a 25 percent MPG boost
* Fuel economy assistance works in any gear, as long as rpm is below 6000, throttle opening less than 30 percent and speed less than 80 mph
Improved KIPASS
* Now each Concours 14 comes with one key fob (kept in a pocket) and a small card-type key for emergency/backup use.
* The new card-type key includes an immobilizer function (but no remote activation) and is highly portable, measuring just 1.2 x 1.6 x 0.25 inch
Improved Finish, Higher Quality Design
* Improved overall fit and finish results in a higher quality, more luxurious feel
* A revised muffler end cap gives the silencer a more compact appearance; internal construction is unchanged, but the end cap itself is 1.6 inches shorter
* Multi-function display now includes outside air temperature. The sensor is located at the intake duct (the furthest point from the engine)
* Other new instrument functions include the K-ACT mode indicator, Economical Riding Indicator, and Fuel Economy Assistance Mode mark
* The Mode-Select button on the front of the left grip lets the rider change LCD modes without taking his/her hand off the grip, toggling through average fuel consumption, instant fuel consumption, remaining range, tire pressure, battery voltage and outside temperature
New Accessories
* Engine guards, a larger top case, tank bag, GPS bracket, a low seat and side spoilers join the list of authorized Kawasaki Accessories.
Link: Kawasaki
dave says
Why don’t they put a stereo and a heated seat on all bikes with touring in their name? I hate earbuds when I ride so a stereo is a huge deal to me. Do they make an aftermarket stereo that would fit on this somewhere? I would buy this bike tomorrow if it had those two items.
Nicolas says
@ Dave : nothing personal, but what about a blue ray player and a flat screen TV, so that you can watch and record your favorite episode of housewives of NJ … ? Maybe I’m wrong or short-minded, but to me a motorcycle needs to be a primal and basic transportation mode, on which you get your entertainment from the ride itself and from the landscape you’re going through. Stereo and comfort gadgets are for SUVs, not motorcycles …
That being said, it’s an handsome kind of bike …
greg says
oooh…. so close.
as another BMW guy who has lost the faith due a string of $$$$ failures – this bike has featured prominantly in my plans to restore rationality and economy to my moto-travelling life.
the heat management changes, windscreen redesign and heated grips all get 4 thumbs up. 😉
cruise control, though, is something that really earns its keep if one is taking a string of 6-800 mile days. i know a bike like this isn’t built for the ‘straight and boring bits’, but america has more than few in between the ‘twisty and tasty bits’, and the cruise is great at letting a long distance guy rest the shoulder and arm muscles when its practical to do so. having one can mean the difference between looking like quasimodo at the end of a long day in the saddle or feeling refreshed and ready to re-rock again tomorrow.
when the bike already has combined ABS and traction control as well as multiple fueling maps there is no technical reason why cruise ciouldn’t be part of the engine management package.
guess i’m waitin’ for version 3.0 🙁
todd says
Funny how the better bikes get, the more they need to be improved.
-todd
MikeC says
I think you are a little off base with your comments Nicolas. Each to their own. Of the 4 bikes in my stable, one naked, one SM, one race replica, and one ’08 Concourse, all have their optimum riding environment. After spending 4500 kms this spring on an ’08 Concourse, all of the upgrades would be greatly welcomed by me. I sure wouldn’t want to ride my race replica 4500 kms in a week, and expect to be at work on Monday, nor would I want to take the Concourse on a 1 hour Sunday morning scratch in the mountains (although you could with ease). After spending some time on an R12RT, the stereo, heated grips and seat would be assets that would put the Concourse into the German class of bikes without the price, or lack of local dealers.
JakeT says
All I asked for was heated grips. Now the Connie is perfect. I’ll be picking my 2010 up ASAP!
Kurt says
What a great looking bike. Been looking at it for the last few days and it makes me want to sell the two I have so I could afford the new Connie.
Scott Gilmore says
Welcome to San Diego. Presidio park is quite the location for a photo shoot. For more than a decade my daily commute was right through there. I really enjoyed life on various big singles and twins; the exact opposite of the Concours 14.
There are other ways to log long (and short) miles.
jjr says
If I were to buy a touring bike it would be the 14. I currently own a 83 Moto Guzzi LMIII and will be selling it this summer to buy either a Harley or a Kawasaki Concours 14 in my opinion the best sport touring bike on the road. Do I want to travel or just F*T around?
I’m 60 and getting tired of fixing things-the HD and K do not require fixing. I’ll change oil and ride 500 mile days un like I used to when I was young and could do 1,000 on a BSA.
I have been riding for over 48 years seen them all come and go(used to own a Suzuki dealership in AZ mid 60’s had 3rd X6 in USA). Love the sound of HD and all the things you can do with them and dealerships like fleas in a dog pound. Kawasaki rings my bell like when I owned the 93 BMW K100RS w/ABS that failed OH ya that is why I WON\T buy the 14-too many things that can break-like my collar bone because of ABS failure. Guess I have made up my mind-not a HD kind of a guy but like the reliability and dealership net work.
Andrew says
Love my ’08 Connie and really like some of the updates on the ’10 model although not sure about the line of the fairing lower. Nice to see that some of the new improvements are responding to what some people saw as short comings on version 1.0
I wonder what the bike will be like when I wear out my one…
Kenny says
Correct me if I’m wrong but this is only the third or fourth model of motorcycle to offer traction control and the first outside of Ducati.
I’m surprised everyone is just taking it in their stride.
Bob Nedoma says
We have a traction control on our car, some defect in the sensor, every now and then the right front wheel locks-up solid. Pass on having this on a motorbike.
coho says
@ Kenny: The Honda ST1100 was available with TC way back in 1992, it’s not as new as it seems.
mark says
My 01 FireBlade has traction control too: my right hand and a touch
of self-restraint. Would it make me faster? Quite possibly. Safer?
Maybe. Is it another thing to go wrong? Absolutely. More expensive?
Certainly Is that progress? Perhaps…
TruthScreamer says
The more complicated this model gets, and the more “fixes” and changes that get thrown at it, make me conclude my next ride will have to be…the Yamaha FJR1300.
Erik says
I’ve owned two Concours’ in the past, both 1986 models, one with extremely high miles. Both were a blast to ride, had loads of power and could haul tail when needed or wanted. But both had a tendency to overheat on the hot days and in traffic (at the time I wasn’t much of a lane splitting rider and the Connie is a big bike to split on!). All the negatives against the positives, they were great bikes and, if I were in the market for a big touring bike the Concours would be close to the top of the list.
MOTORCOP says
I’ve owned my 09 concourse for approx. 1yr and love it (14,000mls). Converted into a full duty police motorcycle. Never had any problems with it other than wear out tires from chasing speeders on the highway. Worked 16hrs shift on this bike for two months straight and it never overheated. Guess what I’m buying when its available? Look at pictures of my police motor at mainlandcyclecenter.com
Dion O. says
I was thinking about up grading my 2008 BMW R1200R to a 2010 BMW R1200RT but after reviewing the 2010 Kawasaki 14 ABS I think I will save myself over $6000 and get the kawasaki cant wait to get it I like to ride spring / summer / fall and early winter the BMW is a great bike but in todays times people are looking to buy if the deal is good !!! 🙂
Gary T says
I’m on my 2d Connie, both C-10’s. After 62K on the first one and 33K on my present one, I can only think of one bike I’d rather ride – a C-14! ST’s are too “Tour-ey” and the FJR1300 is too sporty. The Connie is just right. I like my current one too much to trade in, but when she’s all wore out in a couple of years, I’ll be going with a 14.
David says
Build me a bike that fits, gets good gas mileage, has cruise control, and a stereo; and I will buy it. C-14 is close to the top of the list. Just getting started with the IBA, want something that can rack up the miles as well as my HD Ultra Classic.
KC says
Nice looking bike. I must be getting old as they call my current ride, a 97 ST1100 , ancient! Well, after 100,000 kms it still handles the twisties really well, is rock stable, flies across Montana and the PNW at high speed for hours on end and gives me lots of time to enjoy the ride. I never seem to want for more power and after trying several of the new sport tourers I cant seem to find a reason to spend all that cash on a new machine. Never had expensive repairs and done the maintenance as required. However, will say that over the years I have added heated grips, heated seat ( very handy in the cold mornings) , and it does have ABS and traction control but likely not as sophisticated as this new Connie. Maybe its time for a change, going to test ride this bike in the spring.
Paul Houle says
This is what a ST bike should be. Good looks, outstanding performance and a price that can’t be beat. My next bike.
RON El Paso says
Where do I start!! I have been riding since I was 12 and now at 42 I have owned every type of bike out there. I have been all over the spectrum of two wheels. Dirt, Enduro,Sport,Cruisers, includiing Harley’s. I was on a ralley trip on my 03 Roadking when I attempted to pass a truck. It was like trying to pass a gall stone. We arrived to our destination and I saw the Concours. I had read alot about it and before my girlfriend could notice I was gone and sitting on the machine. I told the dealer I wanted to test drive it and If I was pleased I would buy it on the spot. He thought I was just another lookie look. So I told him I am going to lunch and when I return If the bike is parked out front he might have a sale. When I returned it was out front. Wow… I rode it for 10 miles and when I returned he asked, \How do you like it.\ I smiled shook his hand and told him to do the paperwork. We drove it home and left the Harley there. My girlfriend and I laughed as we smoothly passed over bumps that she would normally have to raise her rear to keep her chest from bouncing, Ok, I kind of liked that part but she enjoyed the smooth ride. We rode almost 200 miles that day and I accidently hit 90 mph more times than the entire six years I had my Harley. I believe every bike has its purpose. The Harley is a 57 Chevy, loud,with lots of chrome. The Concours is a Mercedes turbo charged sport coupe with style, power, and comfort. I thank the Sun Gods of El Paso for my 300 days of sunny weather each time I mount this machine. All I can say is get one and twist the throttle.
Herve Boudelot says
I’ll be interested of getting a concours 14 2010 model where can I test ride one??
Thanks for taking time to read this.
Regards
Herve
Garet Wetzel says
If I can retrofit the heated grips and windscreen to my 09 Connie I would be a happy camper. Love my connie!
stéphane perrier says
great bike
Dan F. says
I bjought my first “Connie” about 18months ago. It is a 03′ with 32,000 miles on it now. I have put on the last 14,000 since I have owned it. I made the trip to Sturgis in August 09′ and loved the bike on the long haul. However, I would like to have the 2010 simply because of the way it looks, handles, and all the extra amenities. I agree however with the fact that it should have cruise control and a radio for added comfort on the long rides. I personally like to listen to the radio while on the road and cruise would help alleviate the constant speed variations that we have running down the highway and the tired throttle hand. Great bike. Waiting to see if they add cruise in 2011!!
Paul Yak says
I think it is always nice to have the extra safety of ABS and Tractio Control on these super touring bikes. They are so big that when it comes to full on emergency stops/accelerating away from trouble in the wet it gives me that extra confidence. Anything that provides a biker with an Edge is Cool by me.
Scott H. says
You would at least think the people who own one could spell it. Its Concours damn it not Concourse. Jeeez.
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater says
What I’d want in an iron-butt bike (which is what a bike that calls itself a Touring bike should be: if you don’t want Touring, ride something else):
* Stereo with iPod integration (skip CD changer as it takes up too much space), iPod ‘glovebox’ with waterproof gasket seals and a docking cable/charger
* Cruise control
* Integrated GPS with a connection to the ECU that will disable the bike if it leaves its parked spot without the rider inputting an unlock code
* Same key does all the bags/locks/etc like BMW, or central lock/unlock via transponder
* electronically adjustable shocks, maybe even an auto-leveler dependent on weight and center-of-gravity (straddle bike and center it off the stand, then hit button to take weight/distribution measurement, then bike adjusts the suspension accordingly)
* Xenon lamps, LED signals for maximum safety (LEDs light microseconds faster than filaments, therefore they offer a larger reaction-time window) and reliability
* Lockable, waterproof section of fairing that’s electromechanically ‘transparent’ for EZ-Pass transponder
* Clutchless shift (like the S1000RR)
* LOUD horns (Fiamm?)
Leaving BMW would also mean leaving tele/duolever behind, which would be regrettable, but the engineering and reliability of the Kawasaki would make up for that..
Phil S says
I currently ride an 08 HD Ultra Classic.What I like about it is it’s comforts; like cruise,XM,CB,back rest, external speakers and integrated Zummo. I live in central FL and have to drive the Interstate north 100 miles to get to a decent, pretty, fun road to ride What I don’t like once I get there is a sluggish, air cooled, hot bike that weighs 800 plus lbs.I’ve been considering buying a Goldwing; but it’s just a superior engineered bike with reverse that’s still a barge! The market nitch that no one is addressing is a smaller goldwing( sport touring) with all the amenities and engineering. Like a Concours(sport touring), with cruise control, heated seats and grips,radio, external speakers ,Gps, and reverse. Also the Japanese must have the brains to come up with a solution for those of us who are really short, and insist on having our feet rest flatly on the ground.If I could find a fast,agile sport touring bike with these features, I would trade in the Harley tomorrow, and pay 20,000 plus.Please someone read this and build one? I’m retiring in 10 months and want to go to Kalifornia, and ride the roads for about six months. I’d rather be doing this on a sport tourer with amenities!
mark says
Murph’s Kits sells both vacuum and electric cruise-control models. I just installed the electric one in my ’08 and boy, is it sweet. You need to be a bit of a wrench to do it, though …