About a month ago I bought a new 2004 ZZR1200 and decked it out with a full bag set from GIVI and optional 3" taller windshield form Kawasaki and it is the best motorcycle I've ever owned and I've been riding for 27 years. It may not have the electric adjustable windshield, ABS, and computer do-dads that some of it's competitors have (ST1300, FJR1300), but I do not think they are needed. Plus, I paid about $4000.00 less out the door even fully equipping the bike with the full set of GIVI luggage.
The ZZR1200 has lot's of good things going for it. First, it has a mighty powerful motor. The last dyno I've seen says 145 hp (you guys say 140) at the rear wheel (even with catalytic converters) not counting ram air with about 186 mph top end! One thing overlooked by some people is that this bike has a 600 watt alternator. Great for the electric underwear some of us must wear to ride year round, plus some electric do-dads if I so desire. The ZZR1200 has a fully adjustable suspension front and rear. The last 2002 road test I saw and this one said the front only had preload adjust. Mine has preload and dampening adjustment all around which has to be better than Yamaha's hard/soft adjustability on the rear.
The luggage from GIVI is first rate. Some magazines have criticized it's looks and how the bike looks with them off, but you cannot argue with the functionality of these bags. They hold a ton of stuff, are weather proof, and come off with a push of one button to take with you. Plus, the GIVI V46 trunk can be ordered with a trick brake light kit that matches the round tail lights of the bike. Cool indeed.
I'm sorry to see that you guys rated it last in this comparison. I ride my ZZR 120 miles per day and get 45 mpg doing 80+ mph and the suspension and riding position seem fine to me. I do agree that the riding position is a little more sport, but that can be corrected with Helibars or Genmars for not much cash. I have to also admit that I am smitten by the power of the thing and have to constantly remind myself to watch my speed. One last thought concerning the engine buzz. I only experience the buzz between 4500-5000 RPM and the thing is smooth on either side of that range.
Anyway, nice test. I guess I'll have to take satisfaction in the fact that I can out run any of the other sport tourers without a thought since engine power is about the only category that it won and the fact that I have at least $4000.00 more cash in my pocket by buying the ZZR.
