Where is Kawasaki's model line going?

Question

I just took a little break and visited the Kawasaki website. They have updated it which is a good thing, it looks and works well. But when I went to check out the 2007 Kawasaki Concours (ZG1000) I found out it is no longer in the model line up. It has been replaced by a sport touring version of the ZX-14 due to be out as a 2008. Along with that the tried and true Vulcan 750 and Vulcan 800 models have been dropped out of the line up. What is happening over at Kawasaki? Are there plans to replace these beloved models?

Answer 1

Just for the record, Kaw and Suzuki did not merge. They had what they described as an alliance. They were sharing technologies and using each other to fill gaps in their respective line ups.

IMHO Suzuki benefited the most from this, the only thing they really contributed was the engine design in the shared 250 four stroke mx bike.

The alliance was over and done with last year.

Answer 2

Just a bit of fleet modernization... Last year they had three mid-weight cruisers of similar size... the Vulcan 750, 800 and 900. It appears they have trimmed the lineup to just the Vulcan 900, but are offering three different styles based on the same bike.

Kawasaki's Concours 1000 hasn't had an upgrade for many years. When Honda upgraded their ST-1100 to 1300cc a couple of years ago, Kawasaki lost sales, and had to change their bike to remain competitive in the same market. The new ZX-14 based Connie will start a revolution in sport-touring motorcycles.

Answer 3

Back in 2005 Kawasaki & Suzuki merged (I think Suzuki got the better deal and gained controll of the two). That's when Kawasaki started going downhill in their model line up and r&d (research & development) department.
I hate change and this is one change I hate!

Answer 4

Same thing is happening at Honda. They are becoming followers, rather than innovators.