Hmm, maybe the N1K is still too modern for the causal rider to own. Around my area I mostly see cruisers/non-sport touring, or pre-2010 sport bikes. My wife saw another N1K the other day, but it was the first and only one.
You are exactly right. I have cruiser buddies who keep saying that I am trying to be a nutty kid (43 yrs old) riding one of them 'crotch rockets'. I tell them constantly, it's more comfortable, handles better, quicker, stops better, turns better, carries what I need....so tell me why a cruiser is better? I think people are waking up to the fact that a single bike that can do most things well is better than one that can do one perfectly. I, for one, can't stand the big heavies. I have had them and they just aren't fun to ride. I don't like going bar to bar. i put miles on and this bike is the best for that all around.I think we're part of a niche market. Most riders of our premium age are usually found on a cruiser. Hey, what do I know?
I have seen a couple in Black Diamond.I live in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
I've only seen two ninja 1000 on the road. The first time I saw one was south of Bragg Creek. I was heading west on Hwy 22, he was going east, "hey man, nice bike, ninja green looks good!" The other one, in red, is ridden by a good guy who is a member in a local riding group which I also belong to.
I ride a 2012 in grey. I'm happy with her, good bike!
This motorbike was my first Japanese bike. It is impressive. Prior to this I rode a HD - FXDL for 12 years. It was good at what is was designed for.It seems the N1K is a kind of a sleeper, recognition-wise. I probably wouldn't have considered this bike if I hadn't ridden with someone that owned a 2013 model.
But there may be another factor. The local dealer from whom I bought my 2015 told me last week that he can't get any more N1Ks this year. The production run is sold out. He said there are a limited number of 2014s in the Kawasaki warehouse, but no 2015s. And the 2016 won't be announced until late July-early August, with shipping in October.