Kawasaki ZG-1000 Concours
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The ZG1000 Kawasaki Concours (known in Europe as GTR1000) is a 997cc, six speed, four cylinder, liquid cooled sport-touring motorcycle with a shaft drive. It has enough "sports" power to cruise at triple-digit speeds and is designed to negotiate twisty, canyon, mountain, or back-country roads with ease. With a full fairing, tall windshield, two removable locking luggage cases, and a 7.5 gallon gas tank that uses regular unleaded gas, The "Connie" will carry its pilot and passenger, plus accoutrements, across a continent in relative comfort and economy hence the "touring" part of the "sports-touring" depiction. The main difference between the GTR1000 and the American "Concours" is the GTR1000 has between 10 and 20 percent less horsepower depending on the regulations of the importing country.
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[edit] Flexible Roles
The Concours may be the best definition of the "ultimate utilitarian" motorcycle, since it has been around a long time, is generally very reliable, can be used for weekend "get aways," for multi-week cross-country excursions, is an able commuter bike, can handle many errands, and is considered the best motorcycle value in its class. Often referred to as motorcycling's "Best Bang For The Buck".
[edit] Longevity
In an era when the evolution of a motorycle model may seem as short-lived as some women's fashions, the Concours is unique in having been around since 1986 without many revisions. A Concours manufactured in 1986 looks largely similar to one manufactured in 2006. Due to its longevity, many motorycle mechanics already have experience working on Concours motorcycles, which means a new owner has a better chance of receiving experienced service on the bike. As well, for a do-it-yourself mechanic, there exists a substantial market for used parts that can be purchased at reduced prices through motorcycle salvage yards. There is also a fair amount of after-market accessories available to a Concours owner to better personalize his/her vehicle.
[edit] Concours Owners Group
An additional benefit to the Concours owner is the support of the Concours Owners Group which is comprised of helpful, knowledgeable and in some cases, quite passionate members who enjoy their Concours and like to help other Concours riders.
[edit] 2008 Concours
In September, 2006, Kawasaki announced a new Concours to be sold in 2007 as a 2008 model [1][2]. The new bike is based on the completely new ZX-14 platform but has some similar features to the original Concours: an inline-4 engine, luggage, shaft drive and a full fairing.
