I went for a test drive of the new Kawazaki ZX14R (1400 CC/200hp) today which I beleive would be the perfect candidate to replace both the GXS R1000 and CBR 1000 F when the GSX R -03 is planned to be replaced next year. I have learned to like all the advantages of the old CBR so much, the comfort and the superior high speed stability that the next no 1 bike will most likely be a hyper sport tourer and not a full blown sport bike. The ZX14R didn't come today as promised, so I took a test ride on a 2006 ZX10R since I was at the shop, just for fun and to see where the standard is now on a new sport bike. The ZX10R is a very agile an light bike. The was no problems to do long wheelies in high speed with a great feeling of confidence and you only have to think turn and it will. Hower, the bike felt as a moped on steroids and not as a real motorcycle that you want to use for commuting and high speed touring. More like an uncomfy toy and of course a very good choice for those who wants to be competetive on tracks. The bike just asks to be driven like crazy, but it didn't felt like a real bike to me compared to the CBR 1000 F or the GSX R1000 which is in between, with a shift to the ZX10R side.

 

Are you going to get it with turbo!

 

Yes of course I'll get a turbo version, 200 hp is not even close to cover basic needs....Well, the thruth is that even 135 hp as on the old CBR is really enough to take you where you want in any reasonable pace. But they don't do this bike anymore and the power level on similar new bikes, is far above what any sensible person will need, already in stock shape .

 

I am really interested in the Yamaha FJR 1300.
When I read about it, it has the power, the handling and the comfort.
After the Yamaha i would choose the Blackbird.

I would never buy a Kawasaki. I had 2 (z1000 and GPZ 100RX) and the quality sucks.
(Actually, one should never say never)

 

I've also been considering the FJR 1300 as a possible next bike, I guess they are really fine and well handling bikes with premium built quality. Until then, I'll just enjoy the old CBR for weekday travels, it is a hit so far. One reason I thought the ZX10R felt as a moped is of course the swich from CBR 1000 F directly to the Kawasaki that day.

 

my 1000F is capable of 250 kph with it's lower than stock gearing... I *really* dont' need to go faster than that... and it's perfectly stable at 235 which is the tops I've had it at... the new bikes weren't pulling away from me on one of our local sprints, and while riding with my friend who's been riding far longer than i have, and has an 04 GSXR750, I was right on his tail in the twisties, which leads me to only believe he can't ride... I'm thinking about getting a Katana 750 (1989), at least taking it for a test drive and seeing if I cna ride a lighter bike better than this rather heavy 1000F.