PH Motorbike pool
Discussion
I'll keep this short as I'm not a regular here, but great thread:
Name: Andy
Motorbike: BMW HP4 Carbon, BMW K1300R
Owned Since: HP4 since July 13, KR since May 09
Previously Owned: Suzuki Bandit 650
Why I bought it:
HP4 - because it seemed the ideal bike with the DDC for roads in North Yorkshire and it was limited production.
K1300R - because I wanted a very powerful naked bike with loads of grunt that could do touring and taking a pillion easily.
What I wish I'd known:
HP4 gets lots of attention when I park up - I don't like attention, so bit embarrassed. How endless the farkles catalogue for the KR is, it can be very expensive.
Things I love:
The HP4 just looks fast, and is. The KR looks aggressive, and is.
Things I hate:
The HP4 is a fantastic track toy but I'm ashamed to admit I have taken it on track twice but never taken it to the limits it could attain, the fear of throwing it down the track takes that fun away. Need something the same, but much cheaper.
There is nothing I hate about the KR.
Where I have been:
On the KR: Monza (WSB), Nurburgring, Switzerland, Scotland. So far 33k miles.
On the HP4: no where that requires luggage!
Costs:
HP4 - nothing
KR - few bits being nearly 5 years old and high mileage, but nothing scary other than BMW services.
Whats Next?
Track s1000rr bike, maybe another KR before production ends?
Name: Andy
Motorbike: BMW HP4 Carbon, BMW K1300R
Owned Since: HP4 since July 13, KR since May 09
Previously Owned: Suzuki Bandit 650
Why I bought it:
HP4 - because it seemed the ideal bike with the DDC for roads in North Yorkshire and it was limited production.
K1300R - because I wanted a very powerful naked bike with loads of grunt that could do touring and taking a pillion easily.
What I wish I'd known:
HP4 gets lots of attention when I park up - I don't like attention, so bit embarrassed. How endless the farkles catalogue for the KR is, it can be very expensive.
Things I love:
The HP4 just looks fast, and is. The KR looks aggressive, and is.
Things I hate:
The HP4 is a fantastic track toy but I'm ashamed to admit I have taken it on track twice but never taken it to the limits it could attain, the fear of throwing it down the track takes that fun away. Need something the same, but much cheaper.
There is nothing I hate about the KR.
Where I have been:
On the KR: Monza (WSB), Nurburgring, Switzerland, Scotland. So far 33k miles.
On the HP4: no where that requires luggage!
Costs:
HP4 - nothing
KR - few bits being nearly 5 years old and high mileage, but nothing scary other than BMW services.
Whats Next?
Track s1000rr bike, maybe another KR before production ends?
Name: gwm
Motorbike: 2008 Suzuki GSX-R 750 (K7)
Owned Since: April 2014
Previously Owned: 2009 KTM Duke 690
Why I bought it:
After having a sit up and beg supermoto in the KTM, I wanted something with a bit more rev range and had a bit of wind protection. Was looking for something cheaper, as I want to track it, but I saw it and love the way it looks - although I'm in general not a fan of GSX-Rs. The 750 is perfect for me too - I don't like how you have to rev the tits off most 600s (why I was initially looking at the Daytona) but 1000s seems pointless for me, as you miss the fun of going wide open throttle on the public road. As far as I'm concerned, 750 is best of both worlds.
What I wish I'd known:
That it would be so torquey and such a doddle to ride - I've already been pulled over once when I thought I was just cruising along. I'd also failed to take into account that it's due a service in less than 1k miles when I bought it (but no biggie!).
Things I love:
The linear and smooth power delivery, with the bansai take off when you get right up the rev range. I also like the colours of this one, not just flat blue/white. Not really my bike per se, but my local dealer is also great (an issue when I had the KTM).
Things I hate:
Don't rate the brakes much, but I'll see what a fluid and pad change does. The bike's ability is also much MUCH higher than mine - so I've still got massive chicken strips.
Gets very hot when not moving too. I also wish the Yoshimura end can was louder - my inner chav is disappointed (though I'm sure my neighbours and hearing appreciates this fact).
Where I have been:
Not had it long, but have done the Yorkhill Easter Egg Run on it and up round lower West Coast of Scotland. Tried commuting on it once, but Edinburgh's roads are so bad I was bouncing all over the place.
Costs:
Only the cost of the bike so far and paddock stands. But I am finding myself constantly distracted by all the shiny bits available for these bikes...
Whats Next?
More sunshine runs and as many track days at Knockhill as I can fit in.
Motorbike: 2008 Suzuki GSX-R 750 (K7)
Owned Since: April 2014
Previously Owned: 2009 KTM Duke 690
Why I bought it:
After having a sit up and beg supermoto in the KTM, I wanted something with a bit more rev range and had a bit of wind protection. Was looking for something cheaper, as I want to track it, but I saw it and love the way it looks - although I'm in general not a fan of GSX-Rs. The 750 is perfect for me too - I don't like how you have to rev the tits off most 600s (why I was initially looking at the Daytona) but 1000s seems pointless for me, as you miss the fun of going wide open throttle on the public road. As far as I'm concerned, 750 is best of both worlds.
What I wish I'd known:
That it would be so torquey and such a doddle to ride - I've already been pulled over once when I thought I was just cruising along. I'd also failed to take into account that it's due a service in less than 1k miles when I bought it (but no biggie!).
Things I love:
The linear and smooth power delivery, with the bansai take off when you get right up the rev range. I also like the colours of this one, not just flat blue/white. Not really my bike per se, but my local dealer is also great (an issue when I had the KTM).
Things I hate:
Don't rate the brakes much, but I'll see what a fluid and pad change does. The bike's ability is also much MUCH higher than mine - so I've still got massive chicken strips.
Gets very hot when not moving too. I also wish the Yoshimura end can was louder - my inner chav is disappointed (though I'm sure my neighbours and hearing appreciates this fact).
Where I have been:
Not had it long, but have done the Yorkhill Easter Egg Run on it and up round lower West Coast of Scotland. Tried commuting on it once, but Edinburgh's roads are so bad I was bouncing all over the place.
Costs:
Only the cost of the bike so far and paddock stands. But I am finding myself constantly distracted by all the shiny bits available for these bikes...
Whats Next?
More sunshine runs and as many track days at Knockhill as I can fit in.
gwm said:
Things I hate:
Gets very hot when not moving too.
rl]
It's not nice sat in traffic and watching that gauge go up. After I passed my test my first bash at filtering was done because it was getting to hot when the gauge reached a 102 thought to myself f
k this I don't care how tight it is I'm off. theshrew said:
My 600 is the same gets very hot very quick.
It's not nice sat in traffic and watching that gauge go up. After I passed my test my first bash at filtering was done because it was getting to hot when the gauge reached a 102 thought to myself fk this I don't care how tight it is I'm off.
It's mad right? Mine hits 105 before the fan comes on. It's not nice sat in traffic and watching that gauge go up. After I passed my test my first bash at filtering was done because it was getting to hot when the gauge reached a 102 thought to myself f
k this I don't care how tight it is I'm off. Different engine, but my GSX-R600 SRAD heats up quite quickly when stopped, the fan comes on about 100. It says in the owners manual though that the high temp warning is at 120, which is when the temp warning light starts to flash, and will permanently illuminate at 140. I'd st a brick if I looked down and saw 140, normal running is about 74.
t a brick if I looked down and saw 140, normal running is about 74.Name: Tim
Motorbike: 2005 honda hornet
Owned Since: December 2013
Previously Owned: 2001 zx6r, 2006 gsxr1000
Why I bought it:
Had a baby in January so had to sell the gsxr1000 to fund a 2nd car. Picked the hornet up as it was dirt cheap of a friend. Had the intention to turn it into the old hornet cup bikes to have a cheap track hack
What I wish I'd known:
That the hornet cup fairings moods had been destroyed and parts are like rocking horse poo.
Things I love:
That it's trouble free fun. It can keep up and surprise some bigger bikes if ridden properly. There's something satisfying about running a bike that I don't really care about. I can thrash it and feel like it doesn't owe me anything
Things I dislike:
The step down in power from the gsxr1000.
I don't like the lariness that come with riding a naked bike hard. It shakes it's head and lifts over tiny bumps at places where faired bike with your weight over the front feel planted and sure footed.
The low pegs. If you don't hang off like a bit of a wally it's easy to hit the pegs.
Where I have been:
All over the north (best bit) of England
Costs:
£1500 paid for the bike and the only thing I've paid for since is petrol. If something breaks I'll fix it but at the moment it's cheap motoring
Whats Next?
2006 r6 track bike if possible. And I'll keep the hornet to keep my no claims ticking over on the road and to get me out from time to time
Motorbike: 2005 honda hornet
Owned Since: December 2013
Previously Owned: 2001 zx6r, 2006 gsxr1000
Why I bought it:
Had a baby in January so had to sell the gsxr1000 to fund a 2nd car. Picked the hornet up as it was dirt cheap of a friend. Had the intention to turn it into the old hornet cup bikes to have a cheap track hack
What I wish I'd known:
That the hornet cup fairings moods had been destroyed and parts are like rocking horse poo.
Things I love:
That it's trouble free fun. It can keep up and surprise some bigger bikes if ridden properly. There's something satisfying about running a bike that I don't really care about. I can thrash it and feel like it doesn't owe me anything
Things I dislike:
The step down in power from the gsxr1000.
I don't like the lariness that come with riding a naked bike hard. It shakes it's head and lifts over tiny bumps at places where faired bike with your weight over the front feel planted and sure footed.
The low pegs. If you don't hang off like a bit of a wally it's easy to hit the pegs.
Where I have been:
All over the north (best bit) of England
Costs:
£1500 paid for the bike and the only thing I've paid for since is petrol. If something breaks I'll fix it but at the moment it's cheap motoring
Whats Next?
2006 r6 track bike if possible. And I'll keep the hornet to keep my no claims ticking over on the road and to get me out from time to time
srob said:
Things I love: The event of riding it. It's one of those bikes that stops events, not just people when you turn up on it. It has an open pipe, and a high compression ratio so it sounds like a Manx Norton on overrun (for those that have heard one!). It breathes, you blip the throttle and on the overrun it breathes out just as loud as the inlet, but with a deep booming noise. It has no kickstart (it was a race bike until recently) so you have to run and 'side saddle' it, which is fine but nerve wracking as it's so unusual to see these days, everyone stops and watches or films you. I tend to get a push off randoms instead if I can, for fear of dropping it in front of everyone!
Things I hate: The clutch is incredibly temperamental. It's a fine line to balance it between slipping and dragging. When it's right it's a great clutch; light and easy to use. But when it's slipped slightly out of adjustment it either slips or you can't get it into first without paddling along. It also sticks, so when you're baking hot in full leathers and having to try and start it by running, a clutch that's not working isn't what you need!
Where I have been: I've done a day of the Irish rally on it, which was around 100 miles on what would be C roads over here I reckon. It was incredibly hard work, the bike doesn't idle so you have to blip the throttle constantly to keep it running. After 9 hours of riding on those roads, when you get to a junction you want a break but you can't sit up or it'll stall. The clutch lost adjustment too, but luckily a fellow rider stopped to help and between us we found some logs of wood to stand the bike on, and between us we got it sorted on the side of a mountain road. That chap is the one who we stayed with on the Isle of Wight last year; motorcycles make friends! It also lost the positive stop in the foot gearchange, so every time you lifted the lever it'd stay up, and vice versa on the way down. So, slowing for a junction I had to press down, then lift half up, press down, lift half up etc. I've also done the Festival of 1000 Bikes on it a couple of times, where it comes alive on track, and Banbury quite a few times. I also use it for general bombing about on, and used to take it to the local bike night which was all R1s and Fireblades, so it was nice to take something different.
Costs: Itdrinks runs on Castrol R, and is pretty much total loss oiling (it has open valves, so it pisses out of the head) so that costs a bit. It's also a pain to clean off! Other than that, it's probably cost a couple of hundred quid in the time we've had it, and probably gone up in value to the tune of a new 600, so I suppose the running costs aren't too bad!
I've always wanted a very early bike but every single word you've put there has made me want one even more! That is also gorgeous Things I hate: The clutch is incredibly temperamental. It's a fine line to balance it between slipping and dragging. When it's right it's a great clutch; light and easy to use. But when it's slipped slightly out of adjustment it either slips or you can't get it into first without paddling along. It also sticks, so when you're baking hot in full leathers and having to try and start it by running, a clutch that's not working isn't what you need!
Where I have been: I've done a day of the Irish rally on it, which was around 100 miles on what would be C roads over here I reckon. It was incredibly hard work, the bike doesn't idle so you have to blip the throttle constantly to keep it running. After 9 hours of riding on those roads, when you get to a junction you want a break but you can't sit up or it'll stall. The clutch lost adjustment too, but luckily a fellow rider stopped to help and between us we found some logs of wood to stand the bike on, and between us we got it sorted on the side of a mountain road. That chap is the one who we stayed with on the Isle of Wight last year; motorcycles make friends! It also lost the positive stop in the foot gearchange, so every time you lifted the lever it'd stay up, and vice versa on the way down. So, slowing for a junction I had to press down, then lift half up, press down, lift half up etc. I've also done the Festival of 1000 Bikes on it a couple of times, where it comes alive on track, and Banbury quite a few times. I also use it for general bombing about on, and used to take it to the local bike night which was all R1s and Fireblades, so it was nice to take something different.
Costs: It
Name: Matt
Motorbike: 1998 Ducati 996 Bip, 1992 Honda CB750
Owned Since: Ducati-August 2013, Honda-Summer 2012
Previously Owned: 2002 Honda CBR600F sport
|http://thumbsnap.com/BS50XGKy[/url]
Why I bought it:
Wanted to move on from the 600 but thought the new litre bikes are a bit much for the road for my experience level. Thought having an Italian exotic would be the best of both worlds.
The 750 was dirt cheap on ebay and I like taking things apart and putting them back together. Have no real plans other than to see where inspiration takes me.
What I wish I'd known:
That I would spend too much time worrying about it going wrong and costing a fortune.
Nothing on the 750, too cheap to think about it
Things I love:
The feeling I get opening the garage to see a 996 in there. The way it has two personalities, crap, annoying, hot and uncomfortable at low speeds and then it's like a switch at 50MPH as it turns into a fantastic bike to ride. Oh, and the noise!!
The Honda was £500 with a years MOT, can't grumble at that
Things I dislike:
Worrying about things going wrong as above. The cost for servicing, it seems like a simple bike with design touches that mean you can strip the thing down in minuets so why so much for a full service?
The Honda, it's old and the tyres are like plastic but it's in bits at the moment so it's not a problem.
Where I have been:
Not too far yet as I haven't had it long, but I hope to change that this summer.
The Honda won't be going anywhere for a while yet.
Costs:
Under £4K for the bike, couple hundred quid for tyres and I've serviced it myself so far. Want to get a full belt and valve service done by a specialist as I would like them to give it a look over, then I'll do it all myself I think.
£500 for the Honda, and about £50 in Ebay bits to tack on to it and paint.
Whats Next?
Still wouldn't mind a modern 1000cc sports bike, ZX10 or S1000RR. But not for a while yet
Motorbike: 1998 Ducati 996 Bip, 1992 Honda CB750
Owned Since: Ducati-August 2013, Honda-Summer 2012
Previously Owned: 2002 Honda CBR600F sport
|http://thumbsnap.com/BS50XGKy[/url]Why I bought it:
Wanted to move on from the 600 but thought the new litre bikes are a bit much for the road for my experience level. Thought having an Italian exotic would be the best of both worlds.
The 750 was dirt cheap on ebay and I like taking things apart and putting them back together. Have no real plans other than to see where inspiration takes me.
What I wish I'd known:
That I would spend too much time worrying about it going wrong and costing a fortune.
Nothing on the 750, too cheap to think about it
Things I love:
The feeling I get opening the garage to see a 996 in there. The way it has two personalities, crap, annoying, hot and uncomfortable at low speeds and then it's like a switch at 50MPH as it turns into a fantastic bike to ride. Oh, and the noise!!
The Honda was £500 with a years MOT, can't grumble at that
Things I dislike:
Worrying about things going wrong as above. The cost for servicing, it seems like a simple bike with design touches that mean you can strip the thing down in minuets so why so much for a full service?
The Honda, it's old and the tyres are like plastic but it's in bits at the moment so it's not a problem.
Where I have been:
Not too far yet as I haven't had it long, but I hope to change that this summer.
The Honda won't be going anywhere for a while yet.
Costs:
Under £4K for the bike, couple hundred quid for tyres and I've serviced it myself so far. Want to get a full belt and valve service done by a specialist as I would like them to give it a look over, then I'll do it all myself I think.
£500 for the Honda, and about £50 in Ebay bits to tack on to it and paint.
Whats Next?
Still wouldn't mind a modern 1000cc sports bike, ZX10 or S1000RR. But not for a while yet
Name: Tom
Motorbike: 2008 Suzuki SV1000 (K7)
Owned Since: September 2013
Previously Owned: 2004 Honda CBR125r, 2001 Suzuki SV650, 1966 BSA C15, 1979 Kawasaki Z200
Why I bought it:
It's all my friend's fault... I was quite happy on the SV650 until, when it borked itself with electrical issues last summer, I got to borrow her ZZR1100. After riding that, I just needed a little more power while retaining the characteristic V-twin thump and other endearing traits of the 650.
What I wish I'd known:
It shares a number of parts with the 650 including the fuel tank...this does not result in a good tank range.
Despite what the reviews might have you believe, it's not just a bigger version of the 650. The handling and power delivery are in a different league altogether.
Things I love:
Oh my it's rather quick to rev for a V-twin. It also makes a brilliant noise, from the off-beat thump at idle, to the 7k+ rpm scream. It's an extraordinarily capable machine for covering large amounts of distance in a day while still being comfortable. Day trips to Milton Keynes from York and back for work are perfectly feasible (if a little dull).
Things I hate:
The tank range is annoying if I'm using it for work, the suspension is a little too hard for my tastes, random electrical gremlins...
The fact it feels slower than the 650 even though I know it's not.
Where I have been:
Mostly motorway schlepping. I'm off to Scotland and Hungary later this year. Oh yes, and A&E last year after crashing it..
Costs:
Writing off a bike isn't cheap... I got it back on the road for a reasonable sum, but have then have the reg/reg replaced, followed by the stator, engine casing and a new chain, sprocket and rear sprocket carrier. Oh yes, I had a PC3 fitted along with some Microns (which were very cheap - £40!). It might need a new ignition barrel depending on exactly what is generating the fault codes,
Whats Next?
Cadwell, Scotland, Hungary and possibly a track slut to keep it company
Motorbike: 2008 Suzuki SV1000 (K7)
Owned Since: September 2013
Previously Owned: 2004 Honda CBR125r, 2001 Suzuki SV650, 1966 BSA C15, 1979 Kawasaki Z200
Why I bought it:
It's all my friend's fault... I was quite happy on the SV650 until, when it borked itself with electrical issues last summer, I got to borrow her ZZR1100. After riding that, I just needed a little more power while retaining the characteristic V-twin thump and other endearing traits of the 650.
What I wish I'd known:
It shares a number of parts with the 650 including the fuel tank...this does not result in a good tank range.
Despite what the reviews might have you believe, it's not just a bigger version of the 650. The handling and power delivery are in a different league altogether.
Things I love:
Oh my it's rather quick to rev for a V-twin. It also makes a brilliant noise, from the off-beat thump at idle, to the 7k+ rpm scream. It's an extraordinarily capable machine for covering large amounts of distance in a day while still being comfortable. Day trips to Milton Keynes from York and back for work are perfectly feasible (if a little dull).
Things I hate:
The tank range is annoying if I'm using it for work, the suspension is a little too hard for my tastes, random electrical gremlins...
The fact it feels slower than the 650 even though I know it's not.
Where I have been:
Mostly motorway schlepping. I'm off to Scotland and Hungary later this year. Oh yes, and A&E last year after crashing it..
Costs:
Writing off a bike isn't cheap... I got it back on the road for a reasonable sum, but have then have the reg/reg replaced, followed by the stator, engine casing and a new chain, sprocket and rear sprocket carrier. Oh yes, I had a PC3 fitted along with some Microns (which were very cheap - £40!). It might need a new ignition barrel depending on exactly what is generating the fault codes,
Whats Next?
Cadwell, Scotland, Hungary and possibly a track slut to keep it company
Name: Andi
Motorbike: 2001 Fireblade
Owned Since: 2013
Previously Owned: Dt125, Drz Sm 400, Gsxr k7 600, Zx7r.
Why I bought it:
I was looking for a 1000cc bike after a 3 year absence from biking. That was physically bigger than my 2008 Gsxr 600. After trawling ebay I found that the RR1 Firblade was huge value for money and had the looks I was after within my budget.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really. Id done my research knew what the common issues were.
Things I love:
Everything, the size of it , the colour of it. The fact its a Fireblade
Shes might be old but keeps up with the modern machinery.
Things I hate:
The vibration in the bars.
Where I have been:
Only around Scotland so far.....
Costs:
Other than a yearly service and tyres. Ive replaced wheel bearings only when I changed the colour of the wheels. And replaced the radiator and a Camshaft sensor.
Whats Next?:
I fancy a pre big bang R1 next, purely for the way they look as ive still to test ride one. But maybe not for a couple more years.
Motorbike: 2001 Fireblade
Owned Since: 2013
Previously Owned: Dt125, Drz Sm 400, Gsxr k7 600, Zx7r.
Why I bought it:
I was looking for a 1000cc bike after a 3 year absence from biking. That was physically bigger than my 2008 Gsxr 600. After trawling ebay I found that the RR1 Firblade was huge value for money and had the looks I was after within my budget.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really. Id done my research knew what the common issues were.
Things I love:
Everything, the size of it , the colour of it. The fact its a Fireblade
Shes might be old but keeps up with the modern machinery. Things I hate:
The vibration in the bars.
Where I have been:
Only around Scotland so far.....
Costs:
Other than a yearly service and tyres. Ive replaced wheel bearings only when I changed the colour of the wheels. And replaced the radiator and a Camshaft sensor.
Whats Next?:
I fancy a pre big bang R1 next, purely for the way they look as ive still to test ride one. But maybe not for a couple more years.
MrB1obby said:
I've always wanted a very early bike but every single word you've put there has made me want one even more! That is also gorgeous
Cheers!You should try a vintage bike, they're so different to anything else they just make you smile!
You could always have a go on one at the VMCC's training day. May be a good way to have a go without spending too much
Name: Dave
Motorbike: Aprilia RSV 1000 Mille
Owned Since: May 2009
Previously Owned: Kawasaki GPX 750R, Yamaha TDR 250
Why I bought it: The GPX was getting a bit old and I fancied something a bit newer. I always liked the idea of a twin or a V4 and was looking for a Honda SP2 or a clean VFR750. I test rode all sorts while hunting for a new bike: an old Fireblade, TL1000R, VFR800, GSXR1000 and all sorts run of the mill stuff. Finally a call came that a friend of my brother was selling an Aprilia, something I knew very little about. The Aprilia was immaculate and very low miles, I took it for a test ride, it sounded fantastic and although it seemed like quite a big lump of a bike it was quite easy to ride. The first bit of straight road and the application of some noise concluded the hunt for a new bike.
What I wish I'd known: The electrics were rubbish, I've rewired it but you have to wonder how they put such a brilliant bike together and let it down with poor wiring.
Things I love: The power delivery, the noise and the looks. It has a very distinctive look. The ability to ride it hard without having to rev it to 10 billion RPM. The clocks and the need to get the instruction book out every time you want to set the time. There's a lap timer in there somewhere as well, no idea how that works, quirky little things that make it different.
Things I dislike: Now the "features" have been fixed, nothing to dislike. The features were: The side stand was a joke and made the bike very unstable when parked (replaced with modded stand). The wiring! (re-wired). The rear brake still needs bleeding fairly often. The mirrors are fairly useless, I have a plan for them which I'll get around to one day.
Where I have been: No where really. Living on the Isle of Man means the bike is just a toy with the occasional ride to work and about 2000 miles per year.
Costs: I do my own servicing and repairs. Just fitted new tyres, changed the oil and filter, new air filter. I'll fit a new chain and sprockets in the next couple of months.
What's Next?Fit twin pipes. I also have the overwhelming urge for a BMW 1200GS and do some touring - the Ewan and Thingy type of ride. Or possibly an Aprilia Caponord and something old and oily.
Motorbike: Aprilia RSV 1000 Mille
Owned Since: May 2009
Previously Owned: Kawasaki GPX 750R, Yamaha TDR 250
Why I bought it: The GPX was getting a bit old and I fancied something a bit newer. I always liked the idea of a twin or a V4 and was looking for a Honda SP2 or a clean VFR750. I test rode all sorts while hunting for a new bike: an old Fireblade, TL1000R, VFR800, GSXR1000 and all sorts run of the mill stuff. Finally a call came that a friend of my brother was selling an Aprilia, something I knew very little about. The Aprilia was immaculate and very low miles, I took it for a test ride, it sounded fantastic and although it seemed like quite a big lump of a bike it was quite easy to ride. The first bit of straight road and the application of some noise concluded the hunt for a new bike.
What I wish I'd known: The electrics were rubbish, I've rewired it but you have to wonder how they put such a brilliant bike together and let it down with poor wiring.
Things I love: The power delivery, the noise and the looks. It has a very distinctive look. The ability to ride it hard without having to rev it to 10 billion RPM. The clocks and the need to get the instruction book out every time you want to set the time. There's a lap timer in there somewhere as well, no idea how that works, quirky little things that make it different.
Things I dislike: Now the "features" have been fixed, nothing to dislike. The features were: The side stand was a joke and made the bike very unstable when parked (replaced with modded stand). The wiring! (re-wired). The rear brake still needs bleeding fairly often. The mirrors are fairly useless, I have a plan for them which I'll get around to one day.
Where I have been: No where really. Living on the Isle of Man means the bike is just a toy with the occasional ride to work and about 2000 miles per year.
Costs: I do my own servicing and repairs. Just fitted new tyres, changed the oil and filter, new air filter. I'll fit a new chain and sprockets in the next couple of months.
What's Next?Fit twin pipes. I also have the overwhelming urge for a BMW 1200GS and do some touring - the Ewan and Thingy type of ride. Or possibly an Aprilia Caponord and something old and oily.
Nice day for it.....
Name: Owen
Motorbike: Fireblade 2012 Anniversary ABS
Owned Since: March 2014
Previously Owned: 2006 675, 2001 R6, also own aprilia habana 125 scooter.
Why I bought it:
Came back to riding after a 10 year hiatus last year on the 675. Took it to the TT, and loved it really liked it but fancied something a little meatier. The BMW didnt appeal and I always fancied a blade. I got a cracking deal on mine. it had Yoshis, new rear sets, ASV levers etc etc on it and only 500 miles. The price was south of 9k and they offered me what I paid for my 675 in PX and the deal was done.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really, its very comfy and mentally fast. I did 240 miles on it first time out around the Brecons and could have turned round and done it all over again. read about the ABS issues but so far no issues touch wood.
Things I love:
Acceleration, smoothness, the way its bolted together. It may be a bit vanilla in the superbike world but I love it. It doesn't feel like its trying to kill you which is what my perception of a litre bike was.
Things I hate:
Nothing really. all good so far. Need to get some suitable luggage for this years TT trip
Where I have been:
early morning assaults into Wales from Bristol.
Costs:
Nothing yet, luggage to come and maybe bluetooth headset ( but thats not really the bike)
It had pipes and sexy things on it when I bought it.
Whats Next?
TT, Ron Haslam, a trip to Europe.
Name: Owen
Motorbike: Fireblade 2012 Anniversary ABS
Owned Since: March 2014
Previously Owned: 2006 675, 2001 R6, also own aprilia habana 125 scooter.
Why I bought it:
Came back to riding after a 10 year hiatus last year on the 675. Took it to the TT, and loved it really liked it but fancied something a little meatier. The BMW didnt appeal and I always fancied a blade. I got a cracking deal on mine. it had Yoshis, new rear sets, ASV levers etc etc on it and only 500 miles. The price was south of 9k and they offered me what I paid for my 675 in PX and the deal was done.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really, its very comfy and mentally fast. I did 240 miles on it first time out around the Brecons and could have turned round and done it all over again. read about the ABS issues but so far no issues touch wood.
Things I love:
Acceleration, smoothness, the way its bolted together. It may be a bit vanilla in the superbike world but I love it. It doesn't feel like its trying to kill you which is what my perception of a litre bike was.
Things I hate:
Nothing really. all good so far. Need to get some suitable luggage for this years TT trip
Where I have been:
early morning assaults into Wales from Bristol.
Costs:
Nothing yet, luggage to come and maybe bluetooth headset ( but thats not really the bike)
It had pipes and sexy things on it when I bought it.
Whats Next?
TT, Ron Haslam, a trip to Europe.
Edited by Obiwonkeyblokey on Thursday 24th April 16:01
Edited by Obiwonkeyblokey on Thursday 24th April 16:07
Name: John
Bike: Yamaha FS1M
Owned since: 1996
Lives: In the garage?
Previously owned: A fair few
Why I bought it: Nostalgia
I wished I'd known: Not to buy Chinese parts of any description for it because they either fall apart or rust or fall apart and rust
Things I love... Just riding it by myself on the back roads around where I live.
Things I hate: People who tell me they had One when they were 16 then ask how much they are worth now.
Where I have been: The FS1E meet at Brighton, Rothbury and the surrounding countryside
Costs: Cost nearly 5k to restore with me doing most of the work.
What's next? It needs striping and doping all over again.
Bike: Yamaha FS1M
Owned since: 1996
Lives: In the garage?
Previously owned: A fair few
Why I bought it: Nostalgia
I wished I'd known: Not to buy Chinese parts of any description for it because they either fall apart or rust or fall apart and rust
Things I love... Just riding it by myself on the back roads around where I live.
Things I hate: People who tell me they had One when they were 16 then ask how much they are worth now.
Where I have been: The FS1E meet at Brighton, Rothbury and the surrounding countryside
Costs: Cost nearly 5k to restore with me doing most of the work.
What's next? It needs striping and doping all over again.
soofsayer said:
How endless the farkles catalogue for the KR is, it can be very expensive.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=far...
Bringing this topic back from the dead!
Name: Pete
Motorbike: Honda CBR600RR-5
Owned Since: May 2014
Previously Owned: Nothing
Why I bought it:
Always wanted one in Repsol colours, it just looks awesome. Was going to look at a GSXR600 but this popped up online on a Monday night I bought it the Tuesday.
What I wish I'd known:
That riding feels this good! I've been wanting a bike since forever and its taken till i'm 30 to finally get one!
Things I love:
Everything! I'm a new rider and the bike just feels so stable/comfy/quick. It's awesome to look at and the scorpion can sounds the dogs danglies..
Things I hate:
That I can't live on it.
Where I have been:
Only managed to get out on a couple of rides, I live in Wiltshire so just a few roads round here.
Costs:
Just what I paid for it ATM. It doesn't need for anything.
Whats Next?
It's pretty standard apart from the scorpion can so i'll be looking to upgrade a few parts.. Levers/rearsets/rear hugger. Will probably go and get my suspension setup but as i'm a new rider I doubt I would notice to much of a difference ATM?
EDIT: Forgot to put pic of bike!
Pics don't do this bike justice, especially on my stty iphone!
Name: Pete
Motorbike: Honda CBR600RR-5
Owned Since: May 2014
Previously Owned: Nothing
Why I bought it:
Always wanted one in Repsol colours, it just looks awesome. Was going to look at a GSXR600 but this popped up online on a Monday night I bought it the Tuesday.
What I wish I'd known:
That riding feels this good! I've been wanting a bike since forever and its taken till i'm 30 to finally get one!
Things I love:
Everything! I'm a new rider and the bike just feels so stable/comfy/quick. It's awesome to look at and the scorpion can sounds the dogs danglies..
Things I hate:
That I can't live on it.
Where I have been:
Only managed to get out on a couple of rides, I live in Wiltshire so just a few roads round here.
Costs:
Just what I paid for it ATM. It doesn't need for anything.
Whats Next?
It's pretty standard apart from the scorpion can so i'll be looking to upgrade a few parts.. Levers/rearsets/rear hugger. Will probably go and get my suspension setup but as i'm a new rider I doubt I would notice to much of a difference ATM?
EDIT: Forgot to put pic of bike!
Pics don't do this bike justice, especially on my s
tty iphone!Edited by Mr Pew on Saturday 17th May 19:40
Name: Sossige
Motorbike: 2009 Honda CBR1000RR
Owned Since: May 2013
Previously Owned: 2005 CB600F Hornet, 2009 Triumph Speed Triple
Why I bought it:
For me the Fireblade was the 'poster bike' of my generation, growing up as a kid. My mates had posters of Ferraris on their bedroom walls, for me it was a poster of the Fireblade. Buying one realised a childhood dream in some respects!
I also bought it because it's the ultimate 'do anything' bike. Want to just pootle around, it'll do that in relative comfort. Want to reach warp speed - it'll do that too. It's reliable and has that usual Honda quality.
I'd always really liked the 2009 HRC colour scheme, so that was the one I had to have
What I wish I'd known:
I had test ridden one a few years before, so was happy with what I was getting into. It hasn't really surprised me in many ways, but does highlight that I have a lot of room to develop riding sportsbikes. With hindsight I might have been better off going via a 675 Daytona or something, but am happy just increasing my skill level as time goes by.
Things I love:
As above, I love the colour scheme - hands down the best colour scheme since the 2008 style Fireblade was released.
Things I hate:
The gearing can be a bit of a chore around town when commuting. Some of the time 1st seems too low, but 2nd too high. In town the temperature seems to go up quickly, but goes down again as soon as you get moving.
Where I have been:
Not far really, just pootled around locally and commuted to work on it. I have recently rejoined my local IAM group to try and get out on some more social rides.
Costs:
Nothing beyond routine servicing at the moment. A lot of my bike clothing is a few years old (bought when I learnt to ride in 2008) so that will be my main expense as opposed to the bike itself.
Insurance is definitely worth shopping around for and playing brokers against one another.
What's next?
I don't have any plans to change my Fireblade in the near future. I can see that when I do, it'll probably be to enjoy some older bikes. I also have an irrational urge to have a Triumph Scrambler when I am a bit older!
Motorbike: 2009 Honda CBR1000RR
Owned Since: May 2013
Previously Owned: 2005 CB600F Hornet, 2009 Triumph Speed Triple
Why I bought it:
For me the Fireblade was the 'poster bike' of my generation, growing up as a kid. My mates had posters of Ferraris on their bedroom walls, for me it was a poster of the Fireblade. Buying one realised a childhood dream in some respects!
I also bought it because it's the ultimate 'do anything' bike. Want to just pootle around, it'll do that in relative comfort. Want to reach warp speed - it'll do that too. It's reliable and has that usual Honda quality.
I'd always really liked the 2009 HRC colour scheme, so that was the one I had to have
What I wish I'd known:
I had test ridden one a few years before, so was happy with what I was getting into. It hasn't really surprised me in many ways, but does highlight that I have a lot of room to develop riding sportsbikes. With hindsight I might have been better off going via a 675 Daytona or something, but am happy just increasing my skill level as time goes by.
Things I love:
As above, I love the colour scheme - hands down the best colour scheme since the 2008 style Fireblade was released.
Things I hate:
The gearing can be a bit of a chore around town when commuting. Some of the time 1st seems too low, but 2nd too high. In town the temperature seems to go up quickly, but goes down again as soon as you get moving.
Where I have been:
Not far really, just pootled around locally and commuted to work on it. I have recently rejoined my local IAM group to try and get out on some more social rides.
Costs:
Nothing beyond routine servicing at the moment. A lot of my bike clothing is a few years old (bought when I learnt to ride in 2008) so that will be my main expense as opposed to the bike itself.
Insurance is definitely worth shopping around for and playing brokers against one another.
What's next?
I don't have any plans to change my Fireblade in the near future. I can see that when I do, it'll probably be to enjoy some older bikes. I also have an irrational urge to have a Triumph Scrambler when I am a bit older!
Gassing Station | Biker Banter | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff