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Old Guys Riding Old Bikes

OK,I admit so much has been written about the Connie over the years and it's been around so long the first thing that comes to mind is a yawn.

But you have to own one to understand why it's remained so popular for so long. I bought mine in 2005 thinking it was the last chance to own a classic and ...then Kawasaki folded to demand and produced one more year for 2006. Other than color nothing much changed from year to year and a cult following developed. Farkles abound, some produced just for the Connie believers.
Just like owning a Maytag washing machine the bike is so reliable and predictable it's a shock if anything goes wrong. Like being married to the same woman for 20 years it can seem boring at times and you may be tempted to stray to something newer and hotter. But when you come back to your senses the Connie will be there waiting and it knows you better than any of those crotch rockets ever will.

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Utility

I bought my first connie used in 2000. It was a 97'model. My 2nd was bought new in 2005. While the bike isn't the best in it's class it performs well enough & does everything it's supposed to do with ease & then some.

Pros:

- Huge gas tank over 7 gallons

- large aftermarket availability

...
- Does everything it's asked to do w/o complaint.
- "enough" power
- good feedback & fun to ride
- a good rider can sport bike it through the twistees

Cons:
- Valve adjustment periods too short @ 7500 miles
- Buzz. My 97 didn't have much but my 05" does (many fixes to this issue)
- Stock seat is awful for anyone over 170lbs
- Top Heavy
- have to muscle it through the tight stuff Read Full Review

Mr

I really like my 2005 Concours. Low maintenance, shaft drive, good looks, and smooth ride with plenty of power! Read Full Review