Time to upgrade the bike....

[600HPREX]

Looking at buying a new bike very shortly. Currently riding a 2001 CBR600F4i. Looking at staying in the 600cc class as it is plenty fast enough for me too lose my licence but not also lose my life. At the moment they stack up this way:
1. Kawasaki ZX6-R
2. Honda CBR600RR
3. Suzuki GSX-R600
4. Yamaha YZF-R6
5. Triumph Daytona 650 (the dark horse)

All 2005 models. Naturally will have to go and ride them all to see which I like best, but just after any input or comments from you guys.

[DennisTheMenace]

ZX6R more comfy for 2005 , plus you get that kawasaki intake roar Its got the most attitude of the lot

[Incorrigible]

Another outsider ....

But I went from a ZX6R to a Duke 748, it's not any faster, but I'm sooo glad I did it

Try the 749 (they're at bargain prices ATM as well)

[nords]

What about a second hand 748R? A bit special, but you are less than 5'8"? Second hand MV 750 perhaps? If you are sticking with your five choices the 650 is reported as being very good, hence worth a testride, but the '05 ZX does look good. Lastly, you can't go wrong with a suzook!

[hugoagogo]

160mph isn't enough to make you lose your life?

you can crash any bike (performance bikes ronnie smith, killed on a scooter)

[caduceus]

DennisTheMenace said:

ZX6R more comfy for 2005 , plus you get that kawasaki intake roar Its got the most attitude of the lot

Seconded. Sat on the new 636 last Sunday at Colin Colins and its more comfy than last years one.

Theres a gorgeous ZX10R there in black too

[600HPREX]

On my way out this morning to test ride a 2004 GRX-R600. the only difference for '05 is new paint. Most of the other 2005 models haven't started arriving in showrooms here yet.

[600HPREX]

Just came back from the suzuki dealer and the plan has changed a bit now. Took the GSX-R600 out for a spin and yes it is an exceptional bike, but afterwards was having a chat with the manager. Got to talking about favorite bikes and the like, got to talking about the new MV Agusta dealer (as that is also a brand they deal in). Well to cut a long story short, ended up taking another test ride. Me on a brand new MV F4 1000 and the manager following on a 2004 Aprilia RSV Factory. Rode for about half an hour on the MV then swapped and rode the Aprilia back. Both incredible bikes and very beautiful I might add. The Aprilia seemed to be better balanced of the two. The MV you had to work the engine and chassis that little bit harder to get the most out of it but when you do it just gels. The reason I didn't want to go into the 1000cc bikes was the fear that it would be an absolute uncontrolable monster but both these bikes were so confidence inspiring I'm going to take the plunge. Looks like ill have to go back to the budget and stretch it a fair bit further but I think it will be worth it. Now just to decide which of the two to get. I guess I'll just have to go back and have another test ride

[nords]

600, now test a GSXR thou! They are cheap new now!!!

[gixxerrider]

Please, please, please take out the Gixxer thou

You know you have too.its also cheaper that the aprilia and its not italian... but the main thing is they are awesome and you wont be disappointed.

Stay safe.

[600HPREX]

Now that I have had a test ride on almost all the bikes in my list. I have almost come to a decision.
ZX-6R Is the clear leader. Exceptional bike. 2005 model a big improvement. While the 1000cc bike were nice to ride I don't need the extra power. After having given the ZX-6R a good fast flog a couple of times It's limits are still higer than my courage and common sense will alow me to go on the road anyway.
Only bike I haven't tryed is the Daytona 650, still a month or two away from release date here. I want to wait till after I have at least tried this bike out. The Daytona 600 was a good bike just lacked engine punch. I have seen some good press reviews on the 650. Ill have to wait and see for myself.