My Next Bike!!

I'm looking for opinions from experienced riders. Of course it comes down to personal likes and dislikes but I'm open for discussion on this subject.
I'm a 50yr old male, currently riding a '02 Honda F4i. This is my first bike. I've been riding for 3 1/2 yrs. and approx. 11k mi. to date. I'm not a track rider but am open to learning some day! I have 2 bikes in mind that I'd like to decide from. My first choice is the Kawasaki ZX14 because of it's looks and power and also because it should be a comfortable bike to ride long distance. I would also like to include hardbags. I'm not going to lie and say I don't like to open it up on a nice straight every now and then, because I do!! My second choice is the Honda VFR 800, as many know as the Interceptor. I like the looks aswell.I'm curious about the VTec and the power band and torque coming in at 7grand. Hardbags with this bike aswell!! I believe the Honda will not have the torque and top end like the ZX14, but I also know that Honda makes a good product!! With that said, adding my height and weight to the mix(5'9" 210lbs) I'm putting this out into the forum for some feedback. Thanks for your time!!  

Either bike would work fine. The ZX-14 won't necessarily be more comfortable going long distance than the VFR800; the Honda has a more upright riding position and shorter reach to the bars. The VTEC is virtually unnoticeable power-wise when it comes on; Honda made sure the transition is smooth, and it won't affect the bike even when wide-open. The VFR also has accessory bags available that are more integrated with the bike; the Kawasaki's accessory hard bags stick out a lot more, so you have to be careful in tight spots.

The ZX-14 obviously has more power, but the Honda won't have any problems pulling a 200-plus-pound rider, I've seen and talked to many on VFRs who are six feet/200+.  

Thank you for your input on this subject, as I do appreciate the feedback! If I may...I'd like to go further by giving additional info about riding style both solo and group. Our/My rides can vary in style to nice and easy to aggressive and cool depending on road conditions and location. I learn and get better with every ride, I realize that I'm going from a 600, to a bigger/heavier bike with more torque and power. It is my understanding that both the ZX14 and VFR800 are simular in curb weight, so I don't think it would matter much there. What I'm wondering tho...is the difference in handling and feel of each bike as I do a "Canyon Run" or head down a nice straight where top speeds can be experienced. Records show that the ZX14 will do 180++ but I'm not sure what the VFR800 will do? With that I hope you understand that it's not "just" about top speeds, but all around performance, handling, and rideability. As far as modifications...plans are, to add a power commander and full exhaust(maybe a slip-on) for added performance. Feedback??  

Actually, the VFR800 weighs more than the ZX-14; the Honda weighs 585 pounds with a full tank, the Kawasaki "only" 567 pounds. So the ZX-14 will obviously have greater acceleration due to a far better power-to-weight ratio. The VFR's top speed is probably around 155 mph, give or take a few.

That said, for a rider of your experience, I'd recommend the VFR over the Kawasaki. I can literally guarantee that you will learn more about riding and getting the most from your motorcycle with the smaller, friendlier VFR in a far quicker amount of time, than you will riding the ZX-14 and tip-toeing around "learning to respect" (as those who feel you can learn on any size bike often state) its greater power and bulk. Yes, it will get left behind in any straightline contests, but the VFR will run rings around the ZX-14 in a canyon run, all things being equal.  

Good stuff!! Exactly what I was looking for when I posted and I respect your opinion and recommendation. Just one more thing....ABS or not? Thanks again!!  

If you do a lot of commuting and ride in all sorts of weather, ABS is definitely worth the extra $$ and weight.  

Thanks for your input on this subject. I may ride once or twice a week, as my current and future bike is not and will not be my daily commuter. I try to plan rides when I know the weather will be nice, but weather patterns have been known to change while on a ride, so.....I feel that ABS will be the way to go!! Once again, Thank you for your time. Your opinion and recommendation has helped in making my decision. Till next time. Take Care!!  

ZX14 compared to a VFR800? I haven't owned either bike, but the 14 has nearly twice the power over the VFR, quite a dramatic difference. The ZX14, like the Hayabusa is one of the fastest, most powerful production Motorcycles in the world, just something to consider, especially for your potential second bike? I have a friend that went from a Ninja 650 to a Hayabusa, he has had no problems, but VFR or ZX14 is kind of a weird comparison.

I like the ZX14, I am considering it for my next machine. I am curious as to how the new VFR1200 will stack up in 2010.  

Seems like an odd comparison, and why not the Hayabusa one may ask, or the Kawasaki Concourse? It all comes down to personal likes and dislikes. Perhaps ones riding style, how they ride and where they ride. Performance and rideability but not necessarily top speed is also something I consider. At some point we all have to decide what best suits us. What are we willing to compromise....speed over comfort, looks, size and weight, the list goes on!! So when the time is right and we go out and buy our next bike, we'll be looking at the pros and cons for each desired bike on our list trying to decide if it's right for us!! For me... I feel that it's time for a change and it's not about what everyone else is riding. Alot to choose from out there!!