Another "what bike" thread

[v8nrg]

After spending the last 10 months without a bike, I have been talked into thinking that I not only want one, but now actually NEED one. Well I’ve been convinced that I should treat myself for my 25th birthday (which is less than two weeks away).

So, I have been left pondering as to what I truly need out of any proposed new steed.

It will be used for:-
• Weekend thrash
• Some commuting
• Occasionally taking a pillion
• Popping out for a pint of milk
• Possible touring trip?

It needs to have 100bhp+ to keep up with mates on a ride out, BUT…… I want it to be comfortable enough to just pootle along on or do long trips on without crippling my knees and wrists.

Oh and it must look good and be available for under £3,500.

Any suggestions or thoughts welcome.

[mtbr]

Older VFR750?

[black-k1]

Just about any bike will do all of those functions but it comes down to how happy/comfortable you are with the compromises that you will have to make in each of the areas. For example, if you plan to carry a pillion either regularly or for long distances then the ‘sporty’ end of the market may be a non-starter. Assuming you are not after a super sports bike then you could consider the following

Run of the mill:

VFR750/800
VTR1000F
Blackbird
Fazer
Bandit
SV1000
ZZR1100/1200
Triumph Sprint

A little different:

BMW R1100/1150 S/RS/GS
KTM
Ducati ST4(s)
Aprilia Falco/Futura

I’m sure there are many more but I would suggest you get a test ride on as many different bikes as possible and use that to narrow your list.

If it were me, then I’d look at the VTR1000F, SV1000, R1100S, ST4s, Falco or Futura, but then I love twins (hence I have a VTR1000F).

[chilli]

I'm thinking about a falco as a second bike to commute on. Not ideal I hear you all say, but I love the look of them and you're getting a hell of a lot of bike for your cash.

[Steve_T]

I thought you were getting an R1 ..... ?

[chilli]

Nope. Change of plan again, and FINAL!.
The point is, how much faster can I go on the road than I currently do? My mate is getting rid of his RSV Factory, cause he is basically becoming scared of riding it fast on the road....and that kinda hit a cord with me. I ride the R6 rather quickly, and I'm sure it's onlyt a matter of time before I come unstuck (BIB or stack)I don't ride the R6 to its full potential, and nor should I on the road. Therefore, surely the way forward, is to get a second older bike for the daily commute, and spruce up the R6 for the track/weekends.

[Steve_T]

A Falco while it's not state of the art is not all that slow. If you're buying one to slow you down compared to the R6, it's probably not the best plan. It's a lovely bike, I'm smitten with mine, but she's not ideal in town either with the riding position, better on a road where a bit of a leg stretch is possible.

Steve.

[anonymous-user]

Might be a bit on the low power side for you, but I'm looking at my first proper bike being a Thundercat. Might be worth a look.

[chilli]

Cheers gents.

[mattrosersv]

I was looking to replace my 99 T reg blade (the last one before bikes started shrinking)with something newer but can't seem to find anything that will do all I want. I bought it after my Mille was nicked as an interim.

For the last 6 months I have been doing:

At least 3 x 150 round trips per week including commuting in rush hour London
Quarterly trip to Paris with work.
Minimum monthly trip to Manchester.
2 up touring in Europe and UK
Thrashing at the weekend.

It is only worth a couple of grand so not the end of the world when I get knocked off in London. I bought it crashed damaged and repaired it so it is not pristine as it is.

It will take a Givi top box (sad but essential for a daily commuter)
It is comfortable two up for long distances
It is not the most nickable of bikes now it is a few years old (still a worry though)
Insurance is cheaper.
I can do a 400 mile round trip in a day with minimal pain (not something I would have attempted on the Mille.

I ride the bike hard and it is a tool not a toy (I have not washed it propoerly for about 6 months). It just keeps on going, I have not had a problem in 15000 miles.

I decided in the end that the only possible upgrade would be a BUSA/Blackbird for two up touring which would be great but would not be as good around town. Would be interested in anyone elses suggestions.

In the end I kept the blade and bought a Husqvarna 610SM as somthing different.

[Fire99]

v8nrg said:

After spending the last 10 months without a bike, I have been talked into thinking that I not only want one, but now actually NEED one. Well I’ve been convinced that I should treat myself for my 25th birthday (which is less than two weeks away).

So, I have been left pondering as to what I truly need out of any proposed new steed.

It will be used for:-
• Weekend thrash
• Some commuting
• Occasionally taking a pillion
• Popping out for a pint of milk
• Possible touring trip?

It needs to have 100bhp+ to keep up with mates on a ride out, BUT…… I want it to be comfortable enough to just pootle along on or do long trips on without crippling my knees and wrists.

Oh and it must look good and be available for under £3,500.

Any suggestions or thoughts welcome.

My guess would be a ZX-9r...

I've had one and may get another.. Its quick, comfortable. reliable and can do most things very well...

and for under 3.5k you'll get a very nice one...