2009 C14 vs. updated 2010 or 11

[wlselph]

Hi guys,

I've been planning to buy a new bike this spring. The C14 is at or near the top of my list.  There is a big difference in price between a left-over 2009 and the updated 2010 or 11. My local dealer says there are quite a few 2009 still available because Kawi made many about the time the economy tanked.

With about a $4000 to $5000 difference, are the changes in 2010 worth it? I can add heated grips and a new windshield for several hundred dollars. I can't change the body work or the mirror position. What are your thoughts? Thanks

[wibornz]

buy to 09.  add the other stuff if you need it.  I have the 08 and love it.  The only real improvement may be the heat management.  In my hubble opinion, the heat is not that big of a deal.  Yea it sucks when your stuck in traffic, but that is about the only time.  Anything moving is just fine.  If you do get hot spots on it, check to make sure the insulation is properly installed.

The bigest thing is to ride.

[Punchdude]

buy to 09.  add the other stuff if you need it.  I have the 08 and love it.  The only real improvement may be the heat management.  In my hubble opinion, the heat is not that big of a deal.  Yea it sucks when your stuck in traffic, but that is about the only time.  Anything moving is just fine.  If you do get hot spots on it, check to make sure the insulation is properly installed.

The bigest thing is to ride.

+1. I have an 09 ABS. Heat is not that horrible. People over-exaggerate. Other than perhaps the traction control the rest of the upgrades (fairing look and mirrors aside), you can do yourself. I'd save the 4-5k and laugh all the way to the bank. It's a great bike that will last forever. I toyed with selling mine a couple times but i'm very glad I didn't. I never considered upgrading. As the miles rack up, they get better and better. Good luck!

[evilted]

There are a lot of nice fixes on the 2010+ bikes, but it's really up to you to decide whether the changes are worth the extra money.  I think it's pretty easy to argue the issue either way.  

The '08 and '09s are excellent machines and represent a great value for anyone who doesn't need the latest & greatest.

That said, I'd personally be looking for a used 2010.  But I wouldn't pass up a good deal on an '08 or '09 with ABS (personal preference for a long distance/all-day/most-conditions touring machine).

[st2sam]

I like my '09 ABS, in my world $5,000.00 ain't chump change. I'd take the five grand and spend it on a sport bike of some kind, then you would have the best of both worlds.
Whats not to like about the first generation C14?

[wibornz]

I would use the 5,000 for a bad ass trip around the USA.

[GS1100GK]

I like my '09 ABS, in my world $5,000.00 ain't chump change. I'd take the five grand and spend it on a sport bike of some kind, then you would have the best of both worlds.
Whats not to like about the first generation C14?

I agree, take that $5K and farkle it to death.  I've added a Kawasaki trunk, heated grips, air wings, com/MP3/CB/Phone system, all for less than $700 and love it!  

[SuperSlider]

I went through the same thing when I bought mine, in the end I was a cheap skate and haven't regretted it. I'll go with used 2nd gen or new leftover and spend the rest on farkles or a nice trip.