PH Motorbike pool
Discussion
Name: Pete
Motorbike: 2004 Kawasaki ZX10R
Owned Since: March 2013
Previously Owned: curvy SV650
Why I bought it:
Had the SV to start learning the craft on, wanted something quicker. Why the 10R - I've always had a soft spot for Kawasakis, but I don't really know why, and I fancied something a bit different. It also sounds mega. Especially on the over run.
Why I actually handed over the money: I loved it by the time I'd covered 100 metres.
What I wish I'd known:
Can't really think of anything. I did my research - thanks chaps!
Things I love:
Literally everything. The noise, the looks, the wheels, the paint job, the smell of it. How terrifying it is at full throttle and how friendly it is to me even when it's scary. Knowing that it's mine and it's in MY GARAGE, waiting for me whenever I want to ride it. Seriously, I f
king love this bike.
Things I hate:
My lack of talent. I wish I had a couple of grand to 'restore' it.
Where I have been:
Cadwell, Rockingham, Cadwell. Sheffield numerous times. All around the roads of Bucks and Northants, over to Bizzle's place in Oxford, up to Wellingborough a few times. Want to do Scotland. And Europe.
Costs:
Just about to have its first service, and I'm putting pimp grade oil and brake fluid in so that's not been cheap. Accossato M/C's going on it on Thursday. Then it's the usual costs. Insurance is oddly inexpensive.
What's Next?
Nothing. It's definitely not being replaced. My as yet non-existent son or daughter will probably own this bike one day. I do fancy an RSV4 one day though, so that will go alongside it at some point. As it is, I plan to slowly 'restore' it - get rid of the crusty bits, one by one until it's all shiny again. Axle bolts are top of the list.
It looks like it will be joined in the garage by another iconic superbike soon though: MrsKipling has her eye on a 954 'Blade.
Now without those chav-tastic grips and pussy chicken strips.
Motorbike: 2004 Kawasaki ZX10R
Owned Since: March 2013
Previously Owned: curvy SV650
Why I bought it:
Had the SV to start learning the craft on, wanted something quicker. Why the 10R - I've always had a soft spot for Kawasakis, but I don't really know why, and I fancied something a bit different. It also sounds mega. Especially on the over run.
Why I actually handed over the money: I loved it by the time I'd covered 100 metres.
What I wish I'd known:
Can't really think of anything. I did my research - thanks chaps!
Things I love:
Literally everything. The noise, the looks, the wheels, the paint job, the smell of it. How terrifying it is at full throttle and how friendly it is to me even when it's scary. Knowing that it's mine and it's in MY GARAGE, waiting for me whenever I want to ride it. Seriously, I f
king love this bike.Things I hate:
My lack of talent. I wish I had a couple of grand to 'restore' it.
Where I have been:
Cadwell, Rockingham, Cadwell. Sheffield numerous times. All around the roads of Bucks and Northants, over to Bizzle's place in Oxford, up to Wellingborough a few times. Want to do Scotland. And Europe.
Costs:
Just about to have its first service, and I'm putting pimp grade oil and brake fluid in so that's not been cheap. Accossato M/C's going on it on Thursday. Then it's the usual costs. Insurance is oddly inexpensive.
What's Next?
Nothing. It's definitely not being replaced. My as yet non-existent son or daughter will probably own this bike one day. I do fancy an RSV4 one day though, so that will go alongside it at some point. As it is, I plan to slowly 'restore' it - get rid of the crusty bits, one by one until it's all shiny again. Axle bolts are top of the list.
It looks like it will be joined in the garage by another iconic superbike soon though: MrsKipling has her eye on a 954 'Blade.
Now without those chav-tastic grips and pussy chicken strips.
Name: Dave
Motorbike: BMW R1200GS
Owned Since: November 2013
Previously Owned: Yamaha FJR1300
Why I bought it:
Had a notion of getting a 2nd bike to explore some of the more remote parts up here without risking damaging the FJR. Test rode a couple of the baby GS's and hated them with a passion - it would be unfair to call them gutless, it's just that I've only owned litre-plus bikes so far. There's also a particular bolt on the engine casing that digs into my leg on every sodding one of them - weird. Dismissed the 1200 on the way out the door as I wanted a cheap 2nd bike, not a replacement for the FJR. Cunning salesman convinced me to try one anyway. Smiles-per-mile factor had me sold within about 5 miles.
I'm also an old codger at heart, so this was the logical choice.
What I wish I'd known:
That BMW use customers as beta-testers for new models.
That I would have to cultivate a beard.
Things I love:
The sound of any non-parallel twin. The fact that such a big machine actually can corner. The one appreciative comment from a fellow commuter in Glasgow, about finally seeing a "fking GS owner that can actually filter" 
Things I hate:
Never being entirely sure which warranty recall is due next... So far, rear brake pads at 1100 miles, windscreen pins & switchgear have all been done under warranty. And as of last week the oil level check (pointless gadget!) has started disagreeing with the nice, simple sight glass.
Where I have been:
Ireland with work, a couple of runs around the Trossachs, a few Forestry roads (nothing more exciting than that as proper green laning isn't legal up here and I'm scared to break it), and a hefty bit of commuting.
Costs:
Just add fuel. Insurance same as 3 year old FJR. Any work so far under warranty.
Whats Next?
Whatever catches my eye - having only owned a Bandit 1200, FJR 1300 and R1200 GS I might try something a bit smaller and nimbler next time - I'll just need to lay off the pies first.
Motorbike: BMW R1200GS
Owned Since: November 2013
Previously Owned: Yamaha FJR1300
Why I bought it:
Had a notion of getting a 2nd bike to explore some of the more remote parts up here without risking damaging the FJR. Test rode a couple of the baby GS's and hated them with a passion - it would be unfair to call them gutless, it's just that I've only owned litre-plus bikes so far. There's also a particular bolt on the engine casing that digs into my leg on every sodding one of them - weird. Dismissed the 1200 on the way out the door as I wanted a cheap 2nd bike, not a replacement for the FJR. Cunning salesman convinced me to try one anyway. Smiles-per-mile factor had me sold within about 5 miles.
I'm also an old codger at heart, so this was the logical choice.
What I wish I'd known:
That BMW use customers as beta-testers for new models.
That I would have to cultivate a beard.
Things I love:
The sound of any non-parallel twin. The fact that such a big machine actually can corner. The one appreciative comment from a fellow commuter in Glasgow, about finally seeing a "f
king GS owner that can actually filter" Things I hate:
Never being entirely sure which warranty recall is due next... So far, rear brake pads at 1100 miles, windscreen pins & switchgear have all been done under warranty. And as of last week the oil level check (pointless gadget!) has started disagreeing with the nice, simple sight glass.
Where I have been:
Ireland with work, a couple of runs around the Trossachs, a few Forestry roads (nothing more exciting than that as proper green laning isn't legal up here and I'm scared to break it), and a hefty bit of commuting.
Costs:
Just add fuel. Insurance same as 3 year old FJR. Any work so far under warranty.
Whats Next?
Whatever catches my eye - having only owned a Bandit 1200, FJR 1300 and R1200 GS I might try something a bit smaller and nimbler next time - I'll just need to lay off the pies first.
Name: Liam
Motorbike: KTM 950 Adventure, Aprilia RS250, Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC
Owned Since: 2006, 2007 and 2012 respectively
Previously Owned: RVF400 (NC35), 748, R1, GSXR1000 K6
Why I bought it:
KTM
After a change in work I had more free time available and wanted a bike that I could travel far and wide on without boring myself to tears. The KTM had a sufficient hooligan content to keep me amused.
RS250
Until the KTM I'd spent my life on sportsbikes. After a year without one I found myself missing them so started hunting for something cheap as a weekend toy. When I was younger I always loved to looks of RS250s and it had the added bonus of giving me a chance to pop my 2-stroke cherry.
RSV4
I've loved these things since launch. Work was being kind to me and I fancied a change from the GSXR so bit the bullet and spent far more than I'd originally planned on using for a bike change. I've not regretted it.
What I wish I'd known:
KTM
In hot weather it over heats. If you brim the tanks in hot weather you can get vapour lock which ultimately results in fuel pissing over your boot and back tyre (slidey!).
RS250
They are an absolute b
h to keep them in tip top condition. I refuse to add up the amount of money I have spent on this thing over the years. 2-strokes are no cheap things to own. RSV4
Nothing that I can think of, other than the fact that there is absolutely nowhere on the bike to put stuff. I can't even fit my mobile phone under the pillion cowl.
Things I love:
KTM
Everything. It can go anywhere, sounds great, scare the s
t out of people with the fact that it is surprisingly quick for something that is the size of a horse. RS250
The smell, the lightness, the noise on the over-run. Every ride is an occasion.
RSV4
The looks, the noise, the speed, the gadgets that serve no purpose other than to amuse me ("How much of a tit do I have to be to get the TC light flashing in the wet?", "Do I really need to fire through the gears using the quick shifter on every single slip road?" Etc)
Things I hate:
KTM
It didn't survive particularly well when I used it throughout a Scottish winter. In fact, two years later and I am still dealing with issues that winter 2011 created.
RS250
It can be temperamental which is a pain when the weather is good and you just want to go out to play. Hopefully after a lot of work being completed over the last 12 months this should no longer be an issue.
RSV4
Tank range, tank range and tank range. Did I mention the tank range?
Where I have been:
KTM
Scotland to Egypt
Scotland to Morocco
Numerous trips to the highlands
RS250 and RSV4
Sadly no where nearly far enough. Mainly spent time playing on various roads around Scotland.
Costs:
La la la la I can't hear you la la la la
Whats Next?
No idea. I can pretty much say for certain that the RS250 is with me for life now. Provided the KTM can be sorted out (it's with a mechanic just now) then I'll keep it going for as long as I can as I have a real bond with it. The RSV4 is such a great bike that I haven't even considered changing it.
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[/url]Name: James
Motorbike: 1996 Triumph Speed Triple 900
Owned Since: June 2006
Previously Owned: Yet to sell a bike so still own a Triumph Bonneville, another Speed Triple 900, Daytona 1200SE, Honda VF750F, BMW R100, Honda CG125 and a Panther Model 65 Scrambler (It's a disease!)
Why I bought it:
To replace an identical one that had just been written off thanks to a SMIDSY. I already loved the old bike having taken it round Europe for a few months and I'd just returned from the IOM TT with it. When an identical bike came my way for the right price I knew it was meant to be.
Plus I now had virtually a whole bikes worth of spares
What I wish I'd known:
Not a lot really. Having had the old one for 2 years I knew the bike's quirks. It's bizarre mix of over-engineering of pointless parts and other critical bits that left a lot to be desired! I made sure I went for another '96 model to ensure I got the 6-speed box and gold brakes.
Things I love:
The old-school heavy weight feel of the thing coupled to it's brutish Cafe-Racer style. The roar from the exhausts as you go past 6k rpm is just beautiful and it's incredibly stable and reassuring in corners.
I find it incredibly comfortable and a full day's riding is no problem at all despite the clip-ons. Looking down at the classic twin white clocks sweep round makes me giggle.
There is now a brilliant owners club full of genuinely great people and useful ideas to keep them running sweet.
And the noise, again.
Things I hate:
The randomness with which the coils fail. Could be 5 weeks or 5 years old, they will fail... but you never know when! There is a fix with Stick-coils being worked on...
The side-stand seems completely unsuited to such a whale of a bike and it leans at a precarious angle. Post 2000 Trophy side-stand solves this.
It's a thirsty bertha, so even with a 25 litre tank you have to fill up more often than you'd like
Where I have been:
It gets used for everything from City commuting to Euro-touring to the odd bit of track time. Seems to handle anything I throw at it. Will be going to Biarritz this year for Wheels and Waves.
Costs:
The odd coil at £60 a pop, general consumables and one speedo cable which snapped.
Whats Next?
I think I have enough bikes and projects to keep me going for a while. But I am tempted by a BMW Nine-T or a CCM GP450. Unlikely to happen this year though.
Motorbike: 1996 Triumph Speed Triple 900
Owned Since: June 2006
Previously Owned: Yet to sell a bike so still own a Triumph Bonneville, another Speed Triple 900, Daytona 1200SE, Honda VF750F, BMW R100, Honda CG125 and a Panther Model 65 Scrambler (It's a disease!)
Why I bought it:
To replace an identical one that had just been written off thanks to a SMIDSY. I already loved the old bike having taken it round Europe for a few months and I'd just returned from the IOM TT with it. When an identical bike came my way for the right price I knew it was meant to be.
Plus I now had virtually a whole bikes worth of spares
What I wish I'd known:
Not a lot really. Having had the old one for 2 years I knew the bike's quirks. It's bizarre mix of over-engineering of pointless parts and other critical bits that left a lot to be desired! I made sure I went for another '96 model to ensure I got the 6-speed box and gold brakes.
Things I love:
The old-school heavy weight feel of the thing coupled to it's brutish Cafe-Racer style. The roar from the exhausts as you go past 6k rpm is just beautiful and it's incredibly stable and reassuring in corners.
I find it incredibly comfortable and a full day's riding is no problem at all despite the clip-ons. Looking down at the classic twin white clocks sweep round makes me giggle.
There is now a brilliant owners club full of genuinely great people and useful ideas to keep them running sweet.
And the noise, again.
Things I hate:
The randomness with which the coils fail. Could be 5 weeks or 5 years old, they will fail... but you never know when! There is a fix with Stick-coils being worked on...
The side-stand seems completely unsuited to such a whale of a bike and it leans at a precarious angle. Post 2000 Trophy side-stand solves this.
It's a thirsty bertha, so even with a 25 litre tank you have to fill up more often than you'd like
Where I have been:
It gets used for everything from City commuting to Euro-touring to the odd bit of track time. Seems to handle anything I throw at it. Will be going to Biarritz this year for Wheels and Waves.
Costs:
The odd coil at £60 a pop, general consumables and one speedo cable which snapped.
Whats Next?
I think I have enough bikes and projects to keep me going for a while. But I am tempted by a BMW Nine-T or a CCM GP450. Unlikely to happen this year though.
Name: Brent
Motorbike: Honda VFR1200
Owned Since: August 2013
Previously Owned: Tiger 1050
Why I bought it:
I liked the Tiger a lot, went touring and hoofed about the place just fine.
Then I stupidly spend a happy 45 mins on a mates GSXR1000 and was seduced by the speed. I’m a big lad so the superbikes were never really an option, sold the Tiger that week and got the Honda.
What I wish I'd known:
The seat is just fine for about 2 hours, after that it’s a plank.
3K miles in a week around Europe in summer made me buy another seat that’s mostly solved the issue.
Things I love:
It’s properly fast with effective wind protection. I like the looks too, although I may be the only one.
Things I hate:
It’s properly fast and I struggle to maintain self control. I like the throttle just a little too much.
It’s also a bit too quiet, but a new exhaust will be solving that when I get home.
The panniers are a bit small.
Where I have been:
Umm… Germany, Holland, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Italy, Lichtenstein, Austria, and bit’s of England (unavoidable to get the ferry) That was in a happy 8 day trip last year, going back in June but with less countries to go to unless we get lost again. North and West coast of Scotland too.
Costs:
Tyres and fuel. No fines yet.
Whats Next?
I’m thinking about adding another classic to the fleet so an R90S may be coming at some point. If I replaced the VFR it would be with a newer VFR I think.
996 and VFR1200 by Brent Leport, on Flickr
VFR1200 in Austria by Brent Leport, on Flickr
VFR1200F by Brent Leport, on Flickr
Motorbike: Honda VFR1200
Owned Since: August 2013
Previously Owned: Tiger 1050
Why I bought it:
I liked the Tiger a lot, went touring and hoofed about the place just fine.
Then I stupidly spend a happy 45 mins on a mates GSXR1000 and was seduced by the speed. I’m a big lad so the superbikes were never really an option, sold the Tiger that week and got the Honda.
What I wish I'd known:
The seat is just fine for about 2 hours, after that it’s a plank.
3K miles in a week around Europe in summer made me buy another seat that’s mostly solved the issue.
Things I love:
It’s properly fast with effective wind protection. I like the looks too, although I may be the only one.
Things I hate:
It’s properly fast and I struggle to maintain self control. I like the throttle just a little too much.
It’s also a bit too quiet, but a new exhaust will be solving that when I get home.
The panniers are a bit small.
Where I have been:
Umm… Germany, Holland, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Italy, Lichtenstein, Austria, and bit’s of England (unavoidable to get the ferry) That was in a happy 8 day trip last year, going back in June but with less countries to go to unless we get lost again. North and West coast of Scotland too.
Costs:
Tyres and fuel. No fines yet.
Whats Next?
I’m thinking about adding another classic to the fleet so an R90S may be coming at some point. If I replaced the VFR it would be with a newer VFR I think.
996 and VFR1200 by Brent Leport, on Flickr
VFR1200 in Austria by Brent Leport, on Flickr
VFR1200F by Brent Leport, on Flickr
Edited by Speed addicted on Wednesday 5th March 21:40
Edited by Speed addicted on Wednesday 5th March 21:44
Name: Mark
Bike: Yamaha R1 2004
Owned since: June 2009
Lives: Berkshire
Previously owned: RRY Blade, 748sp, Trophy 900, zx6r, gpz1100, thundercat, zxr750 rd350ypvs, tzr125
Why I bought it:
I wanted something to replace the blade I'd had for 8 years that did everything but that had started to suffer some electrical issues that left me stranded on a few occasions which was a drag on the commute. It was great on the test ride and comfier than the gsxr1000 I test rode.
I wished I'd known:
That I wouldn't gel with it like I did with the blade.
Things I love...
The power and the way it handles and the way it looks and sounds. I thought it was pretty funny that it would do nigh on a 100 in 1st gear.
Things I hate:
I don't hate anything about it. I've not found it as engaging as the blade. More down to me than the bike, I suspect I'm just not brave enough.
Where I have been:
Mainly commuting and a few trips up to the lakes as family responsibilities allowed. Took the blade to france a couple of times, never got round to it on this.
Costs:
No idea, serviced it myself. Just tyres, oil, filters, chain, stuff like that. Just kept pouring petrol in.
What's next?
An R1200GS. I pick it up this saturday. Anyone want to buy my R1 at a good price?
Bike: Yamaha R1 2004
Owned since: June 2009
Lives: Berkshire
Previously owned: RRY Blade, 748sp, Trophy 900, zx6r, gpz1100, thundercat, zxr750 rd350ypvs, tzr125
Why I bought it:
I wanted something to replace the blade I'd had for 8 years that did everything but that had started to suffer some electrical issues that left me stranded on a few occasions which was a drag on the commute. It was great on the test ride and comfier than the gsxr1000 I test rode.
I wished I'd known:
That I wouldn't gel with it like I did with the blade.
Things I love...
The power and the way it handles and the way it looks and sounds. I thought it was pretty funny that it would do nigh on a 100 in 1st gear.
Things I hate:
I don't hate anything about it. I've not found it as engaging as the blade. More down to me than the bike, I suspect I'm just not brave enough.
Where I have been:
Mainly commuting and a few trips up to the lakes as family responsibilities allowed. Took the blade to france a couple of times, never got round to it on this.
Costs:
No idea, serviced it myself. Just tyres, oil, filters, chain, stuff like that. Just kept pouring petrol in.
What's next?
An R1200GS. I pick it up this saturday. Anyone want to buy my R1 at a good price?
Edited by dern on Wednesday 5th March 22:53
Name: Rog
Motorbike: Kawasaki ZX7R P1 – 1996
Owned Since: July 2012
Previously Owned: Kawasaki ZX7R P1 - in 1996!
Why I bought it:
Back in 1996, I upgraded from a Kawasaki GPX600R to a new ZX7R. At this time I was doing a lot of motocross and in the Spring of 1997 I was laid off from a job with a half decent payout so decided to take the summer off… which meant I was riding "a lot" of motocross, 3 or 4 days a week 6 to 8 hours a day and at weekends I would ride the ZX7…
Fast forward 6 months, October 1997, whilst riding my my Honda Cr250. Ahem, whilst flying my Cr250, I had a massive off mid flight, and made a real mess of my Femur on landing… At first it looked like I might lose my leg, but in the same fashion as Hutchy (I’m from the same town originally
) I refused to accept it and struggled on… it took 6 months of hard graft but I finally got the all clear that my bone had survived.
Although I’d been riding all my life, I made a very hard decision to quit, cold turkey, and sold all my bikes! The metal holding my leg together meant that another off could cause the bone to fracture around the metal and the likelihood of it being repaired again was slim…
Fast forward 15 odd years, and the build up to the Summer Olympics, specifically the Para-Olympics I figure, what the hell, prosthetic limb technology has moved on and if now I were to fall off a bike again and lose my leg, I could get one of the those springy things and become and Olympic athlete…
So I grabbed the last bike I owned, a 1996 Kawasaki ZX7R, and started where I left off…
What I wish I'd known:
I should have know… I didn’t appreciate what 15 years had done to me physically until I got on my new/old ZX7R… fook me it’s uncomfortable!
Things I love:
The looks, the induction, the Kawasaki music from the exhaust… the handling… it’s old, 18 years old, and it has carbs! But the biggest thing is telling people I meet out and about how much it cost! (See below)
Things I hate:
Fook it’s really really uncomfortable… and man is it heavy, which isn’t a problem, but really noticeable when compared to moving around other bikes. I have to make a decision to leave it as it is, and not ride it far, or lower the pegs with rear sets and chuck some bar risers on it… nothing drastic an inch or 2 each way should do it…
Where I have been:
Not far, more than an hour and it just about cripples me… I guess I ‘ve put 2500 miles on it since July 2012, I’m just enjoy plodding round my local area, with occasional hoonin where I know I can get away with it… but got to say I’m not enjoying riding on the road like I use to. Unsurprisingly I also found that 15 years out of the saddle lost me some of my skills!!! So been on a couple of track days and also I went to wheelie school on it too… I use to pull great wheelies, but that 15 years lost me a lot of confidence…
Costs:
£500 to Buy, only 25k miles, but another £1800+ spent putting it right - K-Tech fork rebuild, new discs and pads all round, rebuilt the calipers all round, chain and sprockets, a bit of body work repair here and there, double bubble screen, new fuel pump and a set of Pilot Sport 3’s… (oh, and a new exhaust, down pipes and carbon Scorpion end can, didnt' need it, but I did ) Still needs carbs checking, jets, balancing, dyno, probably could do with valve clearances doing too, oh and a rear shock, might go the Nitron track route rather than a rebuild, not sure yet…
Whats Next?
I keep eyeing up a ZX10R but can’t imagine it’s gona be any more comfortable, and I can’t quite bring myself to admit defeat and leave sports bikes behind… and as daft as it sounds, I quite like the idea of one of those new Honda MSX125 things to fool around on, would probably be more fun cause you can’t hoon around like we use to in the 90’s anymore. I’m also thinking of following in the footsteps of many a great talent that’s admitted they’re over the hill and try my hand a pre ‘65 Trials… I’ve also figured out I could probably do 3 or 4 full days at Ron Haslam’s a year for less than keeping a nearly 20 year old ZX7R on the road… But it's mine, and i love it!
Motorbike: Kawasaki ZX7R P1 – 1996
Owned Since: July 2012
Previously Owned: Kawasaki ZX7R P1 - in 1996!
Why I bought it:
Back in 1996, I upgraded from a Kawasaki GPX600R to a new ZX7R. At this time I was doing a lot of motocross and in the Spring of 1997 I was laid off from a job with a half decent payout so decided to take the summer off… which meant I was riding "a lot" of motocross, 3 or 4 days a week 6 to 8 hours a day and at weekends I would ride the ZX7…
Fast forward 6 months, October 1997, whilst riding my my Honda Cr250. Ahem, whilst flying my Cr250, I had a massive off mid flight, and made a real mess of my Femur on landing… At first it looked like I might lose my leg, but in the same fashion as Hutchy (I’m from the same town originally
) I refused to accept it and struggled on… it took 6 months of hard graft but I finally got the all clear that my bone had survived.Although I’d been riding all my life, I made a very hard decision to quit, cold turkey, and sold all my bikes! The metal holding my leg together meant that another off could cause the bone to fracture around the metal and the likelihood of it being repaired again was slim…
Fast forward 15 odd years, and the build up to the Summer Olympics, specifically the Para-Olympics I figure, what the hell, prosthetic limb technology has moved on and if now I were to fall off a bike again and lose my leg, I could get one of the those springy things and become and Olympic athlete…
So I grabbed the last bike I owned, a 1996 Kawasaki ZX7R, and started where I left off…
What I wish I'd known:
I should have know… I didn’t appreciate what 15 years had done to me physically until I got on my new/old ZX7R… fook me it’s uncomfortable!
Things I love:
The looks, the induction, the Kawasaki music from the exhaust… the handling… it’s old, 18 years old, and it has carbs! But the biggest thing is telling people I meet out and about how much it cost! (See below)
Things I hate:
Fook it’s really really uncomfortable… and man is it heavy, which isn’t a problem, but really noticeable when compared to moving around other bikes. I have to make a decision to leave it as it is, and not ride it far, or lower the pegs with rear sets and chuck some bar risers on it… nothing drastic an inch or 2 each way should do it…
Where I have been:
Not far, more than an hour and it just about cripples me… I guess I ‘ve put 2500 miles on it since July 2012, I’m just enjoy plodding round my local area, with occasional hoonin where I know I can get away with it… but got to say I’m not enjoying riding on the road like I use to. Unsurprisingly I also found that 15 years out of the saddle lost me some of my skills!!! So been on a couple of track days and also I went to wheelie school on it too… I use to pull great wheelies, but that 15 years lost me a lot of confidence…
Costs:
£500 to Buy, only 25k miles, but another £1800+ spent putting it right - K-Tech fork rebuild, new discs and pads all round, rebuilt the calipers all round, chain and sprockets, a bit of body work repair here and there, double bubble screen, new fuel pump and a set of Pilot Sport 3’s… (oh, and a new exhaust, down pipes and carbon Scorpion end can, didnt' need it, but I did
) Still needs carbs checking, jets, balancing, dyno, probably could do with valve clearances doing too, oh and a rear shock, might go the Nitron track route rather than a rebuild, not sure yet… Whats Next?
I keep eyeing up a ZX10R but can’t imagine it’s gona be any more comfortable, and I can’t quite bring myself to admit defeat and leave sports bikes behind… and as daft as it sounds, I quite like the idea of one of those new Honda MSX125 things to fool around on, would probably be more fun cause you can’t hoon around like we use to in the 90’s anymore. I’m also thinking of following in the footsteps of many a great talent that’s admitted they’re over the hill and try my hand a pre ‘65 Trials… I’ve also figured out I could probably do 3 or 4 full days at Ron Haslam’s a year for less than keeping a nearly 20 year old ZX7R on the road… But it's mine, and i love it!
Edited by Charger500 on Wednesday 5th March 23:04
Name: Jon
Motorbike: Suzuki Bandit 650 SA ABS (oil cooled, half faired)
Owned Since: April 2010
Previously Owned: Varadero 125
Why I bought it:
I was on 33bhp restriction which makes test rides pretty much out of the question on most bikes. I tried the usual suspects - hornet, fazer, etc - the new Divi was too expensive (also didn't fancy running a brand new bike on 33 brake for 2 years - seemed like a waste); the v-strom too ugly and the bandit was just the nicest to sit on for me.
What I wish I'd known:
The Bandit's so straight forward that there's not much to write here!
Things I love:
I've been riding a few things recently to decide on the next bike, and it's given me a real appreciation of the Bandit's engine. OK, it's not the fastest, or the most responsive, but it runs and pulls happily from 30 in 4th without any fuss and is generally without any vices anywhere (or personality...). MPG is reasonable, and overall the bike's got no strange characteristics at all. It's been a great bike for my first big one.
Things I hate:
Chain maintainence, especially through winter.
The brakes. They are rubbish. They work, but every other bikes' work better.
Complete lack of personality or character. The same things that made it a good starter bike are now holding it back for me.
Where I have been:
Mostly commuting. But as I work across South and West Wales, that's been a LOT of good riding! I don't always take the shortest route home
Costs:
Nothing major. Only thing really above normal servicing was getting the rusty exhuast collector replaced - a well known problem - £80.
Whats Next?
BMW K1200S
'07 or newer. In May, when my current insurance is up, as they won't touch me on that BM and I don't want to lose a year's NCB (and I researched them and found I should save up an extra grand or two to get into the facelift '07 onwards model to cut down on the likelyhood of expensive problems...).
Motorbike: Suzuki Bandit 650 SA ABS (oil cooled, half faired)
Owned Since: April 2010
Previously Owned: Varadero 125
Why I bought it:
I was on 33bhp restriction which makes test rides pretty much out of the question on most bikes. I tried the usual suspects - hornet, fazer, etc - the new Divi was too expensive (also didn't fancy running a brand new bike on 33 brake for 2 years - seemed like a waste); the v-strom too ugly and the bandit was just the nicest to sit on for me.
What I wish I'd known:
The Bandit's so straight forward that there's not much to write here!
Things I love:
I've been riding a few things recently to decide on the next bike, and it's given me a real appreciation of the Bandit's engine. OK, it's not the fastest, or the most responsive, but it runs and pulls happily from 30 in 4th without any fuss and is generally without any vices anywhere (or personality...). MPG is reasonable, and overall the bike's got no strange characteristics at all. It's been a great bike for my first big one.
Things I hate:
Chain maintainence, especially through winter.
The brakes. They are rubbish. They work, but every other bikes' work better.
Complete lack of personality or character. The same things that made it a good starter bike are now holding it back for me.
Where I have been:
Mostly commuting. But as I work across South and West Wales, that's been a LOT of good riding! I don't always take the shortest route home
Costs:
Nothing major. Only thing really above normal servicing was getting the rusty exhuast collector replaced - a well known problem - £80.
Whats Next?
BMW K1200S
'07 or newer. In May, when my current insurance is up, as they won't touch me on that BM and I don't want to lose a year's NCB (and I researched them and found I should save up an extra grand or two to get into the facelift '07 onwards model to cut down on the likelyhood of expensive problems...).
Name: Scott
Motorbike: Yamaha YZF-R1 5VY
Owned Since: January 2013
Previously Owned: Yamaha YZF-R1 5PW
Why I bought it:
I broke my old 5PW R1 by throwing it down my street... ahem. I don't want to talk about it
Having enjoyed my old R1 massively it didn't take long for me to make a decision to buy another. I'd always loved the look of 5VY so I started looking before the insurance cheque had even arrived and my arm still being in a sling from the collarbone surgery. Had a look at a few in main dealers and the like but none came up right condition wise but eventually I found my new R1 with two owners (original owner from 2004 to 2012!), 9000 miles from new and in gunmetal metallic in the middle of nowhere ... much to Loon's disgust ...
... which meant a road trip in Loon's beasty Mercedes van.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really... I did my research before buying it and having ridden an R1 for over 20,000 miles I knew what to expect.
Things I love:
It looks stunning ... it always attracts comments wherever I park it. The handling, brakes and engine are just effortless... it is very comfortable to ride, is a superb road bike, is good on fuel when commuting and just does everything so well. More surprising given it is a superbike - not ridden a more comfortable superbike yet.
Things I hate:
The heat from the underseat exhausts in Summer... decat and mapping has helped massively but in town she gets hot so it's best to keep moving. First gear is also very long which makes pulling away from standstill a little harder than it should be ... you just need to pay attention. Other than that it's the perfect superbike.
Where I have been:
It's been all over Wales, Yorkshire, Scotland and some parts of the UK... it travels from Manchester to Liverpool almost daily... it's been on track too ... it gets used but importantly it gets looked after.
Costs:
It's a Yamaha... other than tyres, fluids and fuel... nowt... I have installed Decat, A&R baffles (exhaust), Power Commander and it's been custom mapped by FW Developments. The suspension has been serviced and setup by KAIS Suspension as well... various proper carbon bits have been installed as well... uprated brake pads, race brake fluid and braided lines too ... none of it the bike needs in all honesty but it's just a bad expensive habit of mine... it will shortly get stripped down for spring clean and will be getting more suspension work, new tyres and chain and sprockets.
Whats Next?
Most likely a 2009> Honda Fireblade HRC... or possibly BMW S1000RR ... I will keep riding superbikes until my body says no more!
Motorbike: Yamaha YZF-R1 5VY
Owned Since: January 2013
Previously Owned: Yamaha YZF-R1 5PW
Why I bought it:
I broke my old 5PW R1 by throwing it down my street... ahem. I don't want to talk about it
Having enjoyed my old R1 massively it didn't take long for me to make a decision to buy another. I'd always loved the look of 5VY so I started looking before the insurance cheque had even arrived and my arm still being in a sling from the collarbone surgery. Had a look at a few in main dealers and the like but none came up right condition wise but eventually I found my new R1 with two owners (original owner from 2004 to 2012!), 9000 miles from new and in gunmetal metallic in the middle of nowhere ... much to Loon's disgust ...
... which meant a road trip in Loon's beasty Mercedes van. What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really... I did my research before buying it and having ridden an R1 for over 20,000 miles I knew what to expect.
Things I love:
It looks stunning ... it always attracts comments wherever I park it. The handling, brakes and engine are just effortless... it is very comfortable to ride, is a superb road bike, is good on fuel when commuting and just does everything so well. More surprising given it is a superbike - not ridden a more comfortable superbike yet.
Things I hate:
The heat from the underseat exhausts in Summer... decat and mapping has helped massively but in town she gets hot so it's best to keep moving. First gear is also very long which makes pulling away from standstill a little harder than it should be ... you just need to pay attention. Other than that it's the perfect superbike.
Where I have been:
It's been all over Wales, Yorkshire, Scotland and some parts of the UK... it travels from Manchester to Liverpool almost daily... it's been on track too ... it gets used but importantly it gets looked after.
Costs:
It's a Yamaha... other than tyres, fluids and fuel... nowt... I have installed Decat, A&R baffles (exhaust), Power Commander and it's been custom mapped by FW Developments. The suspension has been serviced and setup by KAIS Suspension as well... various proper carbon bits have been installed as well... uprated brake pads, race brake fluid and braided lines too ... none of it the bike needs in all honesty but it's just a bad expensive habit of mine... it will shortly get stripped down for spring clean and will be getting more suspension work, new tyres and chain and sprockets.
Whats Next?
Most likely a 2009> Honda Fireblade HRC... or possibly BMW S1000RR ... I will keep riding superbikes until my body says no more!
Edited by Mr OCD on Thursday 6th March 10:38
Name: Ian
Motorbike: Suzuki gsx650f L0
Owned Since: December 2009
Previously Owned: nothing
Why I bought it:
Company I work for moved office with a 5 yr deal and i didnt want to waste £1000 a year on parking at the new premises so having always wanted a bike decided to use man maths and do my DAS course and buy a bike plus it saves me 30 minutes each way on the commute. Tried most of the other good starter bikes at the time ie ER6F, diversion 6F but didnt gel with them on my short test rides I had when I could get them due to being a new rider and this one fitted me fine even if it was a little heavier than the others I looked at
What I wish I'd known:
How much the servicing was going to cost me whilst it was still in warranty (8 services including 2 shim checks)
Things I love:
The rugged simplicity of everything on the bike
Things I hate:
The chain maintainence before I got a centre stand for it,
Where I have been:
Mostly commuting. but have had a few weeks/weekends away on it best being my trip to the lake district
Costs including some mods:
Bike and riding gear £6k
Crash bungs £170 (more than paid for themselves)
Ex demo exhaust £100
Ex demo dubble bubble screen £20
Topbox and rack £150
scottoiler £70
Heated grips £60
2nd hand centre stand £50
8 services whilst under warranty approx £1400 (now done by myself)
3 new sets of tyres £700
fork seals and headstock bearing because I loved bouncing it over the bumps where I live (including parts and the hire of the workshop space I used) £200
Couple of incidentals like number plate bulbs approx £2
Although it has cost me more in the short term than I thought I couldnt really give a monkeys now as it has got under my skin
Whats Next?
Haven,t the foggiest but want to see if I can get it to 100k without any major issues should be around that mark by the time the bike is 8-10yrs old
Under the knife so to speak
Loaded for the lakes
Motorbike: Suzuki gsx650f L0
Owned Since: December 2009
Previously Owned: nothing
Why I bought it:
Company I work for moved office with a 5 yr deal and i didnt want to waste £1000 a year on parking at the new premises so having always wanted a bike decided to use man maths and do my DAS course and buy a bike plus it saves me 30 minutes each way on the commute. Tried most of the other good starter bikes at the time ie ER6F, diversion 6F but didnt gel with them on my short test rides I had when I could get them due to being a new rider and this one fitted me fine even if it was a little heavier than the others I looked at
What I wish I'd known:
How much the servicing was going to cost me whilst it was still in warranty (8 services including 2 shim checks)
Things I love:
The rugged simplicity of everything on the bike
Things I hate:
The chain maintainence before I got a centre stand for it,
Where I have been:
Mostly commuting. but have had a few weeks/weekends away on it best being my trip to the lake district
Costs including some mods:
Bike and riding gear £6k
Crash bungs £170 (more than paid for themselves)
Ex demo exhaust £100
Ex demo dubble bubble screen £20
Topbox and rack £150
scottoiler £70
Heated grips £60
2nd hand centre stand £50
8 services whilst under warranty approx £1400 (now done by myself)
3 new sets of tyres £700
fork seals and headstock bearing because I loved bouncing it over the bumps where I live (including parts and the hire of the workshop space I used) £200
Couple of incidentals like number plate bulbs approx £2
Although it has cost me more in the short term than I thought I couldnt really give a monkeys now as it has got under my skin
Whats Next?
Haven,t the foggiest but want to see if I can get it to 100k without any major issues should be around that mark by the time the bike is 8-10yrs old
Under the knife so to speak
Loaded for the lakes
Edited by Iang84 on Thursday 6th March 11:12
Name: David
Motorbike: BMW K1300S Sport
Owned Since: March 2013
Previously Owned: BMW K1200S, Aprilia RST1000 Futura, Honda VTR1000F Firestorm
Why I bought it:
It is, in my opinion, the best all-purpose road bike you can get. Seriously quick, extremely comfortable, sensible range, decent handling (much better than most people expect), reliable, good luggage capacity, well-built and with more extras than a Hollywood epic.
What I wish I’d known:
Not much! I’d done my homework before I bought it and so far have had no surprises.
Things I love:
Well, there’s the list in why I bought it! It really is just so easy to live with. It’ll keep up with the ‘thou sports bikes’ on both the ‘point and squirt’ straight roads and on the mountain sweepers but will tour and crunch the miles with the mega-barges and “Ewan and Charlie wanabees”. It’s pillion friendly and with the ESA you can change the whole feel of the bike from soft, comfy tourer to taught, focused sports bike at the press of a button – literally.
I also love the quick shifter though it is a total gimmick. It’s great fun to accelerate hard, listening to the Akraprovic barking and the induction roar, while short shifting up through the gearbox. It sounds like a WRC car at full chat and gets a grin on my face every time.
Things I hate:
Hate is too strong a term. I am disappointed with some of the component quality considering the price of the bike. It is also very German in character in that it’s incredibly efficient but doesn’t quite have the character that the V-twins had. Perhaps I expect too much!
Where I’ve been:
I used it for 6 months last year to commute daily 75 miles (2 hours) each way from rural Suffolk to central London. It was also used to do a week in the Alps with the Old Gits and a long weekend taking my son as a pillion in Northern France
Costs:
Other than the initial purchase price, normal servicing and tyres, there’s been nothing. I fitted my own Garmin sat nav and HID headlights but that’s it.
What’s next:
I’m not sure! This bike needs to do another 18 months or more. At the moment, there’s nothing on the market that betters the K1300S for me though the ZZR1400 runs it a close second. I’ll see what the options are when I come to replacing this one.
Motorbike: BMW K1300S Sport
Owned Since: March 2013
Previously Owned: BMW K1200S, Aprilia RST1000 Futura, Honda VTR1000F Firestorm
Why I bought it:
It is, in my opinion, the best all-purpose road bike you can get. Seriously quick, extremely comfortable, sensible range, decent handling (much better than most people expect), reliable, good luggage capacity, well-built and with more extras than a Hollywood epic.
What I wish I’d known:
Not much! I’d done my homework before I bought it and so far have had no surprises.
Things I love:
Well, there’s the list in why I bought it! It really is just so easy to live with. It’ll keep up with the ‘thou sports bikes’ on both the ‘point and squirt’ straight roads and on the mountain sweepers but will tour and crunch the miles with the mega-barges and “Ewan and Charlie wanabees”. It’s pillion friendly and with the ESA you can change the whole feel of the bike from soft, comfy tourer to taught, focused sports bike at the press of a button – literally.
I also love the quick shifter though it is a total gimmick. It’s great fun to accelerate hard, listening to the Akraprovic barking and the induction roar, while short shifting up through the gearbox. It sounds like a WRC car at full chat and gets a grin on my face every time.
Things I hate:
Hate is too strong a term. I am disappointed with some of the component quality considering the price of the bike. It is also very German in character in that it’s incredibly efficient but doesn’t quite have the character that the V-twins had. Perhaps I expect too much!
Where I’ve been:
I used it for 6 months last year to commute daily 75 miles (2 hours) each way from rural Suffolk to central London. It was also used to do a week in the Alps with the Old Gits and a long weekend taking my son as a pillion in Northern France
Costs:
Other than the initial purchase price, normal servicing and tyres, there’s been nothing. I fitted my own Garmin sat nav and HID headlights but that’s it.
What’s next:
I’m not sure! This bike needs to do another 18 months or more. At the moment, there’s nothing on the market that betters the K1300S for me though the ZZR1400 runs it a close second. I’ll see what the options are when I come to replacing this one.
Name: David
Lives: Kendal
Bike: Triumph Speed Triple 955
Owned since: Feb 2014, but 2008-2011 previously.
Previously owned (in the last 10 years) Fazer 1000, Daytona 955i, Hornet 600, Speed Triple 955i, ZX9R, ZZR1100, ZZR600, VFR750, VT250, TRX850, ZXR750, Daytona T595, FZR1000 Exup, Fazer 600, Bandit 600, TL125, and a scooter, can't be bothered to list anymore but there have been a few ; )
Why I bought it? :
I'd owned this bike previously 3 years ago and had to sell it to pay some unexpected bills, it turned up on ebay whilst I was browsing, gave the seller a call and agreed to buy it back.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really.
Things I love:
The noise, the attitude, even though it's not really that fast in reality it is quick enough, I also like the way it looks.
Things I hate:
Silly QR fuel connectors on the tank, silly top nut on the yokes, not a lot of legroom.
Costs:
Not much, I paid a lot less than I sold it for with only an extra 1200 miles on it, bit of paint and some consumables probably £100 in total.
Where have I been? :
Not that far really, Donnington, Oulton, Croft and lots of road miles in the NW.
What's next? :
Its a keeper so I'll spend a bit tidying it up but it doesn't really need much, I may buy something else to complement it when my finances improve.
Lives: Kendal
Bike: Triumph Speed Triple 955
Owned since: Feb 2014, but 2008-2011 previously.
Previously owned (in the last 10 years) Fazer 1000, Daytona 955i, Hornet 600, Speed Triple 955i, ZX9R, ZZR1100, ZZR600, VFR750, VT250, TRX850, ZXR750, Daytona T595, FZR1000 Exup, Fazer 600, Bandit 600, TL125, and a scooter, can't be bothered to list anymore but there have been a few ; )
Why I bought it? :
I'd owned this bike previously 3 years ago and had to sell it to pay some unexpected bills, it turned up on ebay whilst I was browsing, gave the seller a call and agreed to buy it back.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really.
Things I love:
The noise, the attitude, even though it's not really that fast in reality it is quick enough, I also like the way it looks.
Things I hate:
Silly QR fuel connectors on the tank, silly top nut on the yokes, not a lot of legroom.
Costs:
Not much, I paid a lot less than I sold it for with only an extra 1200 miles on it, bit of paint and some consumables probably £100 in total.
Where have I been? :
Not that far really, Donnington, Oulton, Croft and lots of road miles in the NW.
What's next? :
Its a keeper so I'll spend a bit tidying it up but it doesn't really need much, I may buy something else to complement it when my finances improve.
Edited by Jazoli on Thursday 6th March 12:47
defblade said:
Whats Next?
BMW K1200S '07 or newer. In May, when my current insurance is up, as they won't touch me on that BM and I don't want to lose a year's NCB (and I researched them and found I should save up an extra grand or two to get into the facelift '07 onwards model to cut down on the likelyhood of expensive problems...).
Great choice!BMW K1200S
'07 or newer. In May, when my current insurance is up, as they won't touch me on that BM and I don't want to lose a year's NCB (and I researched them and found I should save up an extra grand or two to get into the facelift '07 onwards model to cut down on the likelyhood of expensive problems...).Charger500 said:
[
Fast forward 15 odd years, and the build up to the Summer Olympics, specifically the Para-Olympics I figure, what the hell, prosthetic limb technology has moved on and if now I were to fall off a bike again and lose my leg, I could get one of the those springy things and become and Olympic athlete…
So I grabbed the last bike I owned, a 1996 Kawasaki ZX7R, and started where I left off…
Thats the spirit owd lad Fast forward 15 odd years, and the build up to the Summer Olympics, specifically the Para-Olympics I figure, what the hell, prosthetic limb technology has moved on and if now I were to fall off a bike again and lose my leg, I could get one of the those springy things and become and Olympic athlete…
So I grabbed the last bike I owned, a 1996 Kawasaki ZX7R, and started where I left off…
Edited by Charger500 on Wednesday 5th March 23:04
Name: James
Motorbike: Suzuki GSXR1000 K2
Owned Since: Jan 2014
Previously Owned: YZ350, RD350, GT250, GSXR750WW, 99 R1, GSxr1000 K1
Why I bought it:
Came into a bit of cash, not getting any younger so thought what the hell. I originally intended to by a 10 plate Speed triple but spending 6K couldn't be justified with the mrs, so I decreased my budget to 2k and in my opinion this fits the bill perfectly. I have power, brakes to stop it and a bike that is far more competent than the rider.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing, I had the K1 before so I knew what to expect.
Things I love:
The power, it is so fast, stable and looks the bks. Also knowing that in a few years if I look after it I can sell it for a near to what I paid for it.
Things I hate:
I have experienced alarms for the 1st time ( needs to be removed)also scottoilers, ok it saves your chain but I don't sit comfortably when oil is flicked all over the wheel and then around onto the edge of the tyres!
The crap roads I have to put up with.
Where I have been:
Just to work so far, but I am looking forward to some track days
Costs:
Nothing major. replaced all of the fluids, filters.
Whats Next?
Nothing planned, will see how it goes.
Motorbike: Suzuki GSXR1000 K2
Owned Since: Jan 2014
Previously Owned: YZ350, RD350, GT250, GSXR750WW, 99 R1, GSxr1000 K1
Why I bought it:
Came into a bit of cash, not getting any younger so thought what the hell. I originally intended to by a 10 plate Speed triple but spending 6K couldn't be justified with the mrs, so I decreased my budget to 2k and in my opinion this fits the bill perfectly. I have power, brakes to stop it and a bike that is far more competent than the rider.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing, I had the K1 before so I knew what to expect.
Things I love:
The power, it is so fast, stable and looks the b
ks. Also knowing that in a few years if I look after it I can sell it for a near to what I paid for it.Things I hate:
I have experienced alarms for the 1st time ( needs to be removed)also scottoilers, ok it saves your chain but I don't sit comfortably when oil is flicked all over the wheel and then around onto the edge of the tyres!
The crap roads I have to put up with.
Where I have been:
Just to work so far, but I am looking forward to some track days
Costs:
Nothing major. replaced all of the fluids, filters.
Whats Next?
Nothing planned, will see how it goes.
Name: Alex
Motorbike: Kawasaki ZX6R G1 – 1998
Owned Since: MAY 2010
Previously Owned: GSX 650 F, ZX6R F1, ZZR 600
Also owns: another zx6r G1, Daytona 675
Why I bought it:
It was my first sports bike after passing my test, I bought it because it was immaculate, low mileage and a decent trade price.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really, the bike has been bomb proof. I cannot say Ive had one problem with it.
Things I love:
How well it ticks all the boxes, it might not excel at them but as far as all round bikes go the zx6r has to be the best out there (for its age). Its good for on motorways, a and b roads, the track, its frugal, comfy, got enough ooomph without being boring and handles as well as some of the new stuff ive ridden or owned.
To others it would just be a fling away 16 year old 600. worth maybe £1500 but to me its priceless, I had planned to turn it into my track bike but I just couldnt put it through that. So I kept it for just the odd ride as its too special to me. No idea why, just after spending 14,000 miles on it I just couldn't part with it. I like them so much i bought another one for the track.
Things I hate:
I wouldnt say hate but the weakest part has to be the brakes, they are pretty terrible compared to my daytona and require constant PM to keep them workable.
Where I have been:
All over Scotland, but thats it really.
Costs:
£1800 to buy 3 years ago. Its had nothing spent on it in terms of upgrading parts etc, just the routine PM and servicing that bikes require and new rubber every once in a while.
Whats Next?
Im keeping this forever as it stands,
Its just had everything done to it mechanically and its like a brand new bike.
sell the other ninja I have and track my daytona might be on the market for a R1 or Fireblade.
Motorbike: Kawasaki ZX6R G1 – 1998
Owned Since: MAY 2010
Previously Owned: GSX 650 F, ZX6R F1, ZZR 600
Also owns: another zx6r G1, Daytona 675
Why I bought it:
It was my first sports bike after passing my test, I bought it because it was immaculate, low mileage and a decent trade price.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really, the bike has been bomb proof. I cannot say Ive had one problem with it.
Things I love:
How well it ticks all the boxes, it might not excel at them but as far as all round bikes go the zx6r has to be the best out there (for its age). Its good for on motorways, a and b roads, the track, its frugal, comfy, got enough ooomph without being boring and handles as well as some of the new stuff ive ridden or owned.
To others it would just be a fling away 16 year old 600. worth maybe £1500 but to me its priceless, I had planned to turn it into my track bike but I just couldnt put it through that. So I kept it for just the odd ride as its too special to me. No idea why, just after spending 14,000 miles on it I just couldn't part with it. I like them so much i bought another one for the track.
Things I hate:
I wouldnt say hate but the weakest part has to be the brakes, they are pretty terrible compared to my daytona and require constant PM to keep them workable.
Where I have been:
All over Scotland, but thats it really.
Costs:
£1800 to buy 3 years ago. Its had nothing spent on it in terms of upgrading parts etc, just the routine PM and servicing that bikes require and new rubber every once in a while.
Whats Next?
Im keeping this forever as it stands,
Its just had everything done to it mechanically and its like a brand new bike.
sell the other ninja I have and track my daytona might be on the market for a R1 or Fireblade.
Name: Ryan
Motorbike: Yamaha YZF-R1 '01
Owned Since: September 2012
Previously Owned: Triumph TT600, NC30 VFR400
Why I bought it:
Always wanted one, nearly bought a blade (shudder) but the bloke royally messed me about. I'd looked for R1s but nothing in budget then I just decided to check the MCN classifieds which I'd never bothered to before, and there it was, total gem and in budget.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really, it's comfortable and goes like the clappers with plenty of grunt. I've not had any issues with carbs or gearbox etc. All been great, I have upgraded stuff to my own liking but there was never anything wrong with the bike from the offset, it's just better now than it was.
Things I love:
I can spend all day on it in comfort, and I mean all day 300+ miles, not going to the café to pose and back home. The thing pulls well, sure it doesn't have the power of modern stuff but it's got lots of grunt for the road. It handles well, but to be fair I've spent time and money on that front, the handling wasn't great when I got it but you could live with it if you wanted to.
To me it's the bike I always wanted and therefore it means more to me than the majority of the plastic top trumps superbikes that have come after it - I might not say that with as much confidence if I rode a lot of more modern bikes to compare. But I don't need to, I'm happy with what I have.
Things I hate:
It didn't handle great when I first got it, but that's sorted now - partially due to previous owners poor setup and just that it didn't steer as well as what I'd had previously. Apart from that it's better than my two previous bikes put together.
Where I have been:
All over wales, settle, lakes, devils bridge, hartside etc. Taking it to the TT this year.
Costs:
It's not needed anything... but I have spent money on suspension upgrades, gearing, 2003 R1 yokes, Radial master cylinder etc.. I'm not adding it up, it'll make me wince.
Whats Next?
I'm happy with it for now. There's the project bike but that'll be accompanying the R1.
Motorbike: Yamaha YZF-R1 '01
Owned Since: September 2012
Previously Owned: Triumph TT600, NC30 VFR400
Why I bought it:
Always wanted one, nearly bought a blade (shudder) but the bloke royally messed me about. I'd looked for R1s but nothing in budget then I just decided to check the MCN classifieds which I'd never bothered to before, and there it was, total gem and in budget.
What I wish I'd known:
Nothing really, it's comfortable and goes like the clappers with plenty of grunt. I've not had any issues with carbs or gearbox etc. All been great, I have upgraded stuff to my own liking but there was never anything wrong with the bike from the offset, it's just better now than it was.
Things I love:
I can spend all day on it in comfort, and I mean all day 300+ miles, not going to the café to pose and back home. The thing pulls well, sure it doesn't have the power of modern stuff but it's got lots of grunt for the road. It handles well, but to be fair I've spent time and money on that front, the handling wasn't great when I got it but you could live with it if you wanted to.
To me it's the bike I always wanted and therefore it means more to me than the majority of the plastic top trumps superbikes that have come after it - I might not say that with as much confidence if I rode a lot of more modern bikes to compare. But I don't need to, I'm happy with what I have.
Things I hate:
It didn't handle great when I first got it, but that's sorted now - partially due to previous owners poor setup and just that it didn't steer as well as what I'd had previously. Apart from that it's better than my two previous bikes put together.
Where I have been:
All over wales, settle, lakes, devils bridge, hartside etc. Taking it to the TT this year.
Costs:
It's not needed anything... but I have spent money on suspension upgrades, gearing, 2003 R1 yokes, Radial master cylinder etc.. I'm not adding it up, it'll make me wince.
Whats Next?
I'm happy with it for now. There's the project bike but that'll be accompanying the R1.
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