New Bike Advice

[AdamS]

As I have just written off my other half's ZX636 we are after a new bike.

She was never really comfortable on it so want something easier to ride. She likes my gixxer 6 but we want something that we can also tour on. Triumph ST is her current favourite (looks nice!!). No real experience of touring/ sports touring bikes. Any advice welcomed.

When we have moved house would likely be used ofr commuting aswell.

Thanks

[MattOz]

Adam,

I'd consider either a late VFR750 (1999?) or even a Blackbird. Peerless build quality and both are great to ride, be it to work, or to the Alps. Should be plenty to choose from too.

Cheers
Matt

[Deutscher]

Sorry, a bit off-topic, but what didn't you both like about the 636?

I''ve been thinking about getting one of these for short commutes/fun (not touring) and had thought it a good choice.

[black-k1]

My recommendation would be to make a list of your requirements, in order of importance, then see which bikes match those requirements. Examples might be:

Approx min. power output required?
Is low/mid range torque important?
This should direct you to approx. engine size and layout.
600cc 4cyl, 1000cc 2cyl, 900cc 3cyl etc.
Approx bike size/weight requirements – Goldwing to 400 sport bike
Do you take a pillion?
Do you want luggage capacity (Fitted hard panniers or throw over soft panniers?)
Etc.


From this get a “top 5” or so list and start having a closer look. Beg, steel or borrow test rides of you favourites and get feedback from current owners.



You should now end up with just one or two to choose from, neither of which are exactly what you want so ignore both of those and by the latest Jap sportsbike!

[AdamS]

Thanks Guys

Black-K1

Me.....I agree the best choice is a new GSXR1000!!!

Deutsher

I loved the 636 but it was harder to ride than the Gixxer 6 i have particularly in traffic and slow control. Genrally not an easy bike to ride for an inexperienced rider IMHO.