I've been silent for awhile but check the forum daily to see what's new from my ZX14 bros. I have been at crossroads with whether to trade my 2009 14 for the 14r or go in a completely different direction. So over the weekend I was at my favorite candy store (a local Kawi-Ducati dealer) and fell in love with the 2013 Duc Multistrada Granturismo. Wifey just doesn't like being on the back on the 14, so I was looking for a compromise and this bike does it all for me except for the crazy not "ready for me to pay price" of 22K. However I still put deposit money down Sat and got approved Monday.

Now on my way to the dealer I'm 2nd guessing the deal. Obviously, stealership is licking their chops to sell at list price (haven't seen any discounts on this bike yet anywhere), giving me nothing for my 14 (26k mileage) and financing which is ready to hang me out forever on monthly payments. So I went back into the dealer yard where my special edition black & orange sat looking good for the next guy to have her. I mean I just cleaned her up and had changed the sparks so she could dance strong again, new chain & sprockets and oil; she was ready to go! I tell the sale guy I need to take her home to think (he already new I was backing out with a smile). I get on her and instantly road her hard taking her through the paces long sweepers, twisties, stop light blasts and simply fell in love with her all over again.......What a motorcycle!

* Last updated by: Shogun1 on 5/14/2013 @ 12:02 PM *

Nice man. Yeah, I just love this bike. Has her for about 16k miles now, and still definitely in the honeymoon phase... Good call imo.

C

Yeah man - I feel ya...
I am thinking that I might upgrade to the 14r next year - but either way, I'm staying with a 14 no matter what.
If you are second guessing it, then it's not meant to be.

Dang shogun... glad you got back to reality. It's a common phenomenon when you've had a bike for a while though! Like a good wife, sometimes you forget how good she is. My last get off definitely made me appreciate it more. Just save your money and when you're ready get another bike. Personally, I don't believe in trading in. Newer bikes are nice but not having to make a monthly payment beat that in my opinion.

I definately feel I made the right call and while I know the 14R is King, there is still a certain strange rawness connection I enjoy knowing all inputs are not regulated by tech goodies of the latest bikes out here. Like you said Drag, keep the bike (meaning never trade-in) and ride it to 100k like some here have already done, then get the Multi as 2nd bike when money is right for one. The 14R will always be a possiblilty too but after yesterday's ride I can't see a need to changeover yet. The Multi gave me a "so-called" 4 in 1 bike but would never match the killer speed thrill of our bikes.....Enjoy the ride season fellas, I know I am....

* Last updated by: Shogun1 on 5/14/2013 @ 9:35 AM *

Just save your money and when you're ready get another bike.

Like you said Drag, keep the bike (meaning never trade-in) and ride it to 100k like some here have already done, then get the Multi as 2nd bike when money is right for one.

Dude! GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD Decision. I am sticking with mine till my riding days are done and I hang up my jacket for a recreation vehicle.
Good choice bro, good choice!
Wman

When someone pointed out how his duc was not coming out of the corners like a 14, is that a no brainer or WATT? I set the bike a F-1, passed a truck at a steady 65mph. Between his rear swinging doors, the length of the trailer, the cab, the return to the slow lane...

... Blip-blip-BLAPast the cab, my left hand almost left the bar. I've been riding in F-2 for the break in and now I forgot how nasty F-1 can be. You know how you are silent for a split second being the main witness of that event and all of a sudden you start R-oaring with laughter?

Yup...she'll take ya into the clear in a heartbeat and keep on goin!Slick and smooth into that next straight and curve...passing everything in front with ease...I love this bird.You just know those passed cages gotta be really pissed;)They're stuck behind some Sunday Driver...while you're out and free in the clear!Ahh...that's the way it goes."Speed up then" is what I say to em!Either that or use the turnout!At least THINK about something besides yourself...will ya?Gonna get us all killed.

My boy Beast says the bike makes him feel like the King of the Urban Jungle, and I can't express with enough enthusiasm what a joy it is to ride this bike when you crack the throttle and hit the twisties. I will not part with my 14 for another ride. Anything else is just underclass!

Good choice sir

Friction...
That's for sure, good choice, ppheeew! That was a close call!
Wman

I test-rode a Mulitstrada a couple of years ago, just after they came out with the 3 drive modes and electronic/adjustable suspension. Liked the motor, handling and brakes, but hated being confined to one spot on a rather smallish pilot's perch. Never liked the looks, although the older ones were even uglier. You made the right choice not to trade.

Danno
They are ugly as stink, why would a manufacturer put this bike out, and not stop to think it's looks are going to scare away many customers. It looks like a Pelican when firmly planted on the ground.
E
iiik!

I thought about selling my 14 after I crashed in Dec.'11. I was thinking about the Ninja 1000. It just seemed more "sensible"?
I'm sure it's a nice bike but I reconsidered. Though I don't ride my 14 anywhere near its potential, it still puts a smile on my face whenever I open it up a little or just humming along at 60. It just seems happy at any speed. I could go on and on just about that motor, but you guys know what I mean.
I think you made the right decision. It also sounded to me like you don't need to spend 22 grand right now.

put a Corbin on see if that suits her fancy, but never get rid of any kawasaki let alone THE 14!!!!!!!!!!!

Bobby, I'd feel like I was burying my best friend, if I sold my 14.
Not ready to let go, bro, no ready to let go!
On that note - I'm hoping this rain will stop so I can mount my monster!
Wman

Bobby, I'd feel like I was burying my best friend, if I sold my 14.
Not ready to let go, bro, no ready to let go!
On that note - I'm hoping this rain will stop so I can mount my monster!
Wman