Jeff,
You have not indicated the year of your Connie, so I will ask the obvious question first. Have you had the brake recall completed on this bike ?
There is a known issue and a recall that was issued for the rear brake master cylinder linkage which allowed for rocks and pebbles that get kicked up by the rear wheel to get stuck in the linkage and make the rear brake lever stick and jam or cause the brake to drag and overheat.
Kawasaki did issue an initial repair to install a rock guard which in many opinions made the issue worse. A second attempt, which is the current method, required the replacement the master cylinder rod end and remove the rock guard if it was installed. See the info below from NHTSA.
Report Date :
July 27, 2012 at 08:10 AM
NHTSA Campaign ID number : 12V343000
Vehicle Make / Model: KAWASAKI / CONCOURS 14
Model Year(s): 2008-2012
Manufacturer: KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP., U.S.A.
Mfr's Report Date: JUL 18, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V343000
Component: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Potential Number of Units Affected: 13,289
Summary:
Kawasaki is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Concours 14 (ZG1400 A/B/C/D) motorcycles. Due to a gap between the brake pedal and guard, small
stone or debris can become trapped, creating a brake drag. This can cause the rear brake to overheat, leading to rear brake damage and lock-up or
failure of the rear brakes. The front brakes may also be affected on ZG1400C models.
Consequence:
If the brakes lock up or fail, there is an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy:
Kawasaki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear master cylinder rod end and remove the brake guard (if installed), free of charge.
The safety recall is expected to begin on, or about, July 30, 2012. Owners may contact Kawasaki at 1-866-802-9381.
Notes:
Customers may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to
http://www.safercar.gov.