Too big a move up?

[varminter]

I've been looking at bigger bikes and spotted one on TardMe I like the look of, it's a Kawasaki ZZR1100 C1. Is this too big a move up from a 250 or is it all in the amount of wrist movement ?? I'm generally a confident rider, ride in all weather but not been on anything bigger than a 250. I know it's my decision but like to see a bit of dissention, it's so rare:rolleyes:

[Shadows]

Is this too big a move up from a 250 or is it all in the amount of wrist movement ??

You've about summed it up I reckon

[BASS-TREBLE]

I went from a GN250 to a FZR1000, pretty much a spur of the moment purchase too.

It still proves to me who is more capable out of us two but with the right mindset, knowing you need to learn to control it, it's awesome.

[cs363]

Don't want to be a wet blanket...but...

If your only experience on a road bike is on a Katana 250 which is a relatively light and modestly powered bike (39hp/160kg), then a ZZR1100 is a huge leap (150hp/233kg). Possibly doable if you are extremely confident, big enough to handle the increase in size and weight and have good self control.
However, if it's just the look of the bike you like I would respectfully suggest that you look at a ZZR400 or 600, same styling but probably a much better stepping stone from the 250.
But at the end of the day, it's your money, your life , your bike and of course your decision....

[varminter]

I'm feeling keen already. Better wait for the naysayers.

[mattian]

going from a 250 to a 1000 cc bike upgrade is a bit like ........ ummm... marrying your first girlfriend. Why would you want to do that when there is so much more fun to have in between?. What happens once you get used to it?? there really isnt much more to step up too.
Don't try to leap before you have learnt how to run :baby:

[mossy1200]

If you are practiced in the art of self control-yes
If you are fearless -no

[YellowDog]

I've been looking at bigger bikes and spotted one on TardMe I like the look of, it's a Kawasaki ZZR1100 C1. Is this too big a move up from a 250 or is it all in the amount of wrist movement ?? I'm generally a confident rider, ride in all weather but not been on anything bigger than a 250. I know it's my decision but like to see a bit of dissention, it's so rare:rolleyes:
There's a lot more to it than twisting your wrist.

Do you have any riding buddies who know you well and have bigger bikes?

I went from a 50 to a 150 to a 250 to a 650 and then to a 1050 (I like the 50 thing)

My opinion now is that the bigger they are (the harder they fall) the easier they are to ride, but there are some physical issues to overcome.

If you are a big strong guy, you willlearn really quickly.

[zeocen]

going from a 250 to a 1000 cc bike upgrade is a bit like ........ ummm... marrying your first girlfriend. Why would you want to do that when there is so much more fun to have in between?. What happens once you get used to it?? there really isnt much more to step up too.
Don't try to leap before you have learnt how to run :baby:

What a laugh.
I went from a GPX250 to a ZZR1100 and loved it, since then I've had mid-sized twins, some more big bore sport tours and have currently settled on a real world Hornet 900. Power isn't everything, there's flickability, handling, weight, style, position, I could go on forever.

If you have common sense your progression will last your life time, no matter what size capacity your bike is.

[BM-GS]

What Mossy said.

Very large forces are at work with a ZZR-11 and they'll remind you of them every time you need tyres, chain, etc. Fairing is quite tough in a low-speed spill, but the C model will be getting on a bit. The engine may not have been unduly stressed in its lifetime (though every previous owner will have tried to find out what the fuss was about at least once) but I bet it's not delivering all 150 horses any more...

Crosswinds are a bugger on those, which may make a difference. Take a test ride and see how you go. If you live through the first week you'll get used to the rest of it. For a city commute it'll be capable enough, but as a mile-muncher it's brilliant (except in a crosswind).

[CookMySock]

Do it. You will be fine. Just FFS watch the rapidly building groundspeed, or you will find yourself stuck up something wondering how the hell... :blink:

Steve

[KrazyGixxerBoy]

I believe it's all down to the individual. If you're confident and understand the power of a bigger bike and above all, respect it, you'll be ok. In saying that, as in one of the earlier posts, why not go for something in between? More power than a 250, less weight than an 1100 etc. Build yourself up to it.

[Bangbug]

that nice (well annoying) but sometimes lifesaving delay between wanting to do something on a 250 and it doing it once it got it's act together and a big bike doing something before YOU'VE thought of it.
Don't poke yourself into oncoming :(
Bigger bikes are easier to ride (to a point), usually more capable and steady.
Go for it mate.
The only reason people kill themselves on big bikes (not because they jumped straight on them) is because they didn't respect them. Though I suppose jumping straight on is a slight form of disrespect but still... you'll be sweet as my left nut and cool as the right one.

[LBD]

[QUOTE=varminter;1129448357 Is this too big a move up from a 250 [/QUOTE]

Yup IMO....

[TomJ]

as others have said your self control will either save the day or leave you down and bruised (or worse)

I went from 250GPX to ZZR1200. I love the bike and it is a pleasure to commute on or cruise all day. I did put in some time on a friend's Busa to get the feel for a big bike before taking the plunge.

be warned the rush after 4000 revs can be addictive so pack the self control every time you go out:2thumbsup

[McJim]

Confident - that's the word that scares me. Whether you can move up depends what is between your ears. Confident riding on a 250 could get you killed on an 1100. I took a step from a 250 twin to a 600 twin. First countryside corner I went in way too hot (thought I was doing 120 but I was doing 160) managed to keep it upright but gave myself a fright.

So long as you use your head and have some humility you'll be fine. Cocky bastards can end up all over the scenery.

good luck.

[Laxi]

ive been eyeing up zx12rs:dodge:

[kave]

I dont know you so I cant recommend yay or nay. If you do decide to do it, the weight at low speeds will be a bigger suprise than the power (at least it was for me going from a SG350 to a GSXR1100). You have to have the bike quite upright when stopping and pay a lot more attention during low speed manouvers. It all becomes second-nature relatively quickly, but can catch you out in the first few weeks. Expect at least one low speed, or stationary drop (though if you are very careful it may not happen to you).

How fast you go is controlled by your wrist. That being said, on a 250 if you want to go somewhere you just crank open the throttle and "go hard" and never really learn good throttle control. A ZZR1100 will teach you good throttle control, and if you try treating it like a 250 the lesson will be painful.

In essence, if you have a wee bit of self-control you will be fine. If you are unsure whether you have sufficient self control ask yourself if your mates would be happy riding pillion with you as the rider. If the answer is no, then you are probably riding like a twat and I would recommend against an 1100.

[scumdog]

or you will find yourself stuck up something wondering how the hell... :blink:

Steve

Yep, me too DB, sometimes those beer-goggles are just too powerful eh?:doh:


OH, and back on topic - I beleive you'll have a few 'oh shit' moments stepping up to a bike like that unless you have really good self-control

[Lurch]

I went from the GT250R to my SV1000s. I'm glad I did, it's the bike I wanted at the price I could afford, I think that's all that matters really.

I say do it if you are realistic and honest to yourself about the risk.

[The Stranger]

I've been looking at bigger bikes and spotted one on TardMe I like the look of, it's a Kawasaki ZZR1100 C1. Is this too big a move up from a 250 or is it all in the amount of wrist movement ?? I'm generally a confident rider, ride in all weather but not been on anything bigger than a 250. I know it's my decision but like to see a bit of dissention, it's so rare:rolleyes:

If you have to ask the answer is yes it is too big a move up.

[Madness]

Get the D-model and a perm.

[_STAIN_]

don't do it

[cs363]

Get the D-model and a perm.

Get the perm first though. :yes:

[speedpro]

It's not so much the size, as the sheer ease you can end up going seriously fast with no real sensation. Cars end up going really really slowly all the time, until you look at the speedo and see a number that will have you walking home if caught. Self control is what it's all about and being alert. Consider running costs as well. Great bikes though.

I think there was a modification to the oil feed to #2(?) main bearing which may be worth checking on but that may only have been an issue on BIG hp modified ones.

[TomJ]

So long as you use your head and have some humility you'll be fine. Cocky bastards can end up all over the scenery.

good luck.[/QUOTE]

point well made!!

[Danae]

After getting that you can't get many higher cc bikes...whereas if you upgrade to a 400cc then you can only go up.

[varminter]

Decided to flag the monster bike idea, likely look for a 650 V twin. Got the wife interested now. See pillion post. Thank you all for your input.

[_STAIN_]

an excellent choice


Decided to flag the monster bike idea, likely look for a 650 V twin. Got the wife interested now. See pillion post. Thank you all for your input.

[mossy1200]

Decided to flag the monster bike idea, likely look for a 650 V twin. Got the wife interested now. See pillion post. Thank you all for your input.

sv650 is great bike but pillion would prefer the 1100 and the 1100 would be easier to ride with rear weight added of a passanger.Short wheel base with high passanger leaves you with very light front end.Would advise try before you buy.For two up you may be better with more torque and longer wheel base with dual seat assy.
Has your budget changed.What figure are you looking at?
Peter is selling his most awesome maintained gsx1100 collectable.Would make an awesome two up headturning bike.
This bike is in top condition and will retain or increase in value.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=236091829

[klyong82]

Just do it ... it wont stop the smile on ya face :yes:

[modboy]

I'm feeling keen already. Better wait for the naysayers.

Do it, you'll be fine !

I went from a Vespa PX200 - about as much horsepower as an egg beater, to a Triumph Thruxton 900. Granted the Thruxys aren't a huge amount of HP but they are well over 200kg. Took a little bit of getting used to.

It is almost entirely about self control and building confidence slowly. Just take it easy - spend plenty of time getting used to the difference - you'll be sweet.

All this crock about incrementally stepping up displacement is a bias based on our licensing system. A Daytona 675 would kick my thruxys butt, well and truely in every sense.

[Blackbird]

Like a lot of other people have said, prudent throttle control is a major consideration. If you're sensible, then no worries and you should get used to the way that everything happens at warp speed compared with your 250. I would however, recommend that you do an advanced riding course at an early stage. When I switched from a 1000cc BMW K series to a Blackbird, the difference in performance and handling was pretty dramatic so I enrolled on an advanced course for extra insurance. Really glad that I did because I learned so much.

Others have mentioned the difference in bike weights. Absolutely true but particularly at low speeds or walking pace when you're trying to manoeuvre it. The Blackbird has a taller seat height than my Beemer and as I'm a relative shortarse, I have to be extra careful at slow speeds as I can't get my feet down flat. Just a thought unless you're reasonably tall as that's where the extra weight can catch you out.

Other than that, best of luck!!

[Dealer]

I've been looking at bigger bikes and spotted one on TardMe I like the look of, it's a Kawasaki ZZR1100 C1. Is this too big a move up from a 250 or is it all in the amount of wrist movement ?? I'm generally a confident rider, ride in all weather but not been on anything bigger than a 250. I know it's my decision but like to see a bit of dissention, it's so rare:rolleyes:

I did the same thing, went from a 250 to the 1300 busa. its entirely your decision, but be warned you need to change your riding style completely.
3 weeks after getting the busa i threw it into a corner and it reminded me that it wasn't a 250 by riding straight off the edge of the road.
If you are a big guy like me, it is worth getting a bike to suit, but take care, they can bite hard when you turn your back.
If you are cautious, go for it!

[Cheshire Cat]

I've been looking at bigger bikes and spotted one on TardMe I like the look of, it's a Kawasaki ZZR1100 C1. Is this too big a move up from a 250 or is it all in the amount of wrist movement ?? I'm generally a confident rider, ride in all weather but not been on anything bigger than a 250. I know it's my decision but like to see a bit of dissention, it's so rare:rolleyes:

Hey!! People give me shit for wanting to upgrade to a bike alot bigger than what i have now but fook em! If you're not a lunatic loose unit then get whatever you want!:rockon:

[varminter]

To answer a couple of questions, not sure about the budget, depends on 'The Leader' I'm six foot and 78kgs.... and cautious. I like the 1100 Katana and it's here in Rotovagas, hmmm. Just got to go try some. Thanks again all of you.

[mossy1200]

To answer a couple of questions, not sure about the budget, depends on 'The Leader' I'm six foot and 78kgs.... and cautious. I like the 1100 Katana and it's here in Rotovagas, hmmm. Just got to go try some. Thanks again all of you.
Peter is a straight up guy and a KB member.Does that work in same sentence.
Im sure he would bring it around for you to check it out.Tell him mossy says its only worth 6.5 and hes dreaming.

His member name is Peter Smith
Its always good to get a bike from someone with attention to detail service wise.Very low milage aswell.

[Cynic]

I went from the GT250R to my SV1000s. I'm glad I did, it's the bike I wanted at the price I could afford, I think that's all that matters really.

I say do it if you are realistic and honest to yourself about the risk.

+1

This is pretty much what I did although I went from an FXR150 to an SV1000s. I calmed down a whole lot and stopped doing a heap of stuff that was going to lead to an injury. That was three years ago. Aside from two standing drops in the first 6 months where the weight caught me out, I've had no problems. Excellent move all things considered... :yes:

[R-Soul]

There are a couple of things to look at - the amount of oomf available and whether you are experienced enough to know WHEN to use it (ie. not coming out fo a corner in the wet), and the way in which the oomf hits.

A nice V-twin 1000 like mine is really easily handleable (no power band as such- just smooth linear FRIGHTENING torque). The more you open throttle, the faster you go. Easy.

I reckon getting a big bike (or even 600 supersport could be almost as dangerous as a really big bike, since it also tends to hit a rev threshold and EXPLODE) is not a problem, as long as it puts its horses out predictably. You just REALLY dont want anything that can explode unpredictably out of a corner in the wet...or when you are not expecting it to. Finding yourself wheelie when you dont want to be can be frightening!

Also, it tales a while to get used to how fast you are actually going in such a SHORt time. It only takes one misjudgement of speed to find yourself buried so far up a cages tailpipe that you can see his valves... The key word here is self control and slow buildup and LOTS of respect for that much power.

[Grubber]

Ok my 2 cents worth....Don't play with the big toys till ya got it all sorted on the small ones. 1000cc and 160hp+ can be deadly. The weight alone can through you out of a good corner with a bit too much gas. As others have said, you will be up a tailpipe before you know it. Some of you have mentioned the odd oops here and there and i would say they have have been very lucky that the oops wasn't a big one as it could well have been if luck went the other way a little.
The 650 twin you mentioned would be my pick for a next step. 12 months on that will get you on your way to riding a bigger bike safely.
You can all carry on now.

I SAY DON"T DO IT!:scooter::scooter::scooter:

[sport-cruzer?]

I think the 650 is a smarter choice than the 1100, I recently moved from a 250 hornet to a vx800, Definitely a totally different ride, you'll notice the weight of the bigger bike but essentially much easier to ride, I find the v twin satisfying just rolling around at the speed limit whereas the hornet was always begging to be rung out. riding the torque out of a roundabout will give you a smile but won't attract too much attention the way 15000rpm can.
A medium to large twin shouldn't cause you any trouble but big fours should be approached cautiously, They can bite!

If I'd had a bit more cash to play with a SV650 would have been my pick.

[Yossarian]

My personal experience....

My first bike was a VTR Honda 250, I had that for about a year then moved and bought myself a Triumph Street Triple R 675. I asked mates that had been riding alot longer than me what to go 'up' to and they said the sensible progression is the mid-range bikes.
I would not have felt comfortable going to a 'thou' or some such until I had served my time on something with less cc.

So yeah, I think progression is the key.

Anyhoo good luck.

[george formby]

I went from a 125 to a 750. It took me 2 months to put it through a hedge. Mind you I was of a bulletproof age & demeanour at the time. The biggest thing I remember was the size & weight of the bike in comparison to my wee 2 smoke. Oh, & realizing that it's not clever to deliberately try to grind the centre stand down through the bends.

[thebadger]

Test ride a whole bunch of the fuckers...

400cc dirt, 600cc gixxers, 1000c dukes if you can find 'em. The DS is a marvel. You get the picture.

Test Ride, then decide.

A gixxer with go fast bits will give you a hellofa run for your money at 750ccs, but a goldwing might bore the pants off you. It's all about HOW you ride. WHAT should always come second.

**oopps: my missus was still logged in. It's EnzoYug posting....***

[R-Soul]

+1

This is pretty much what I did although I went from an FXR150 to an SV1000s. I calmed down a whole lot and stopped doing a heap of stuff that was going to lead to an injury. That was three years ago. Aside from two standing drops in the first 6 months where the weight caught me out, I've had no problems. Excellent move all things considered... :yes:

Yes but as I explained below, a nice linear throttle to control on a big V-twin is very different from throttle control on a 600 supersport at 10000 rpm, or a 180+hp zx10.

If you are going to get a big bike, get a V-twin. End of story. and avoid the 600 supersports classes for a while.

[piston broke]

Decided to flag the monster bike idea, likely look for a 650 V twin. Got the wife interested now. See pillion post. Thank you all for your input.

good move imo.
i mean, what is the hurry to get a hugely powerfull bike?
but then again,
you don't really know until you have taken a few different bikes out.
just get what suits you,and what you are comfortable on.
lotsa choices out there.

[R-Soul]

If you have got the missus interested then it also changes things a little. Because if you are not going tobuy her her own bike, she will want to take yours out (when she has her license obviously), and she may not have the required leg length to ride yours. And also, you could pass yours onto her when she has her lcience, so you want an eminently controllable bike.

Definitely a V650 - but maybe a cruiser as she can get her legs down on that?

[varminter]

I don't think there is any chance of her wanting to ride a bike, she's bad enough on a push bike, but for some reason she's happy to pillion. I don't understand it but she's a woman and their logic (such as it is) is totally different. Had a look at an SV650 at the weekend, nice, there is one here in 'Vagas that I'm hoping for a ride on, bloody high K's though.

[R-Soul]

Keep in mind that with V-twins, they operate a lower revs with higher torque, so relative to in-line fours, they *should* have less wear and tear in the engine because of the fact that the pistons have gone up and down less times.

Then again there is more torque on each cylinder, with a component of these forces acting transversely to push the piston against the side wall of the piston...so I guess it evens out somewhat.

Of course it also depends on how the bike has been ridden, how well it has beeen maintained etc (changing the oil regularly can make a large difference), and the type of kilometers done.

If a bike has been used at mostly high speed (eg motorway speed) on long runs, then it generally has time to warm up and operates at the optimum temps for the oil and undergoes relatively little accelerative forces (as opposed to operating cold in stop-start traffic), so it will have less wear even though it may have higher km's - but high km's affect after sale value.

You may also want to consider the proposed ACC levy groupings (not sure if you get 600cc V-twins?). Maybe a 600cc V-4? I think you get gonda VFR600's (but I am not sure)?

[varminter]

Tried the SV650 today, nice bike but the ride gave me back ache, I must be an odd shape. Hoping to try an RF900 next now that I've lost my over 250 virginity. Yes I know, it's all in how you twist the wrist.

[Ender EnZed]

VFR600

It's a nice idea but it doesn't exist. Though someone wanted to make one on here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=77669).

[R-Soul]

It's a nice idea but it doesn't exist. Though someone wanted to make one on here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=77669).

The thread did mention a VFR 750 or 800 - they are also very nice controllable bikes- and nothing slow about them. Good tourers.

I had ridden a CBR250RR and a BMW R800 before I moved to my VTR1000F. But to be honest I could have gone straight to the VTR. It is so controllable and easy to ride (as long as you are responsible with that wrist). You get them at great prices - I have seen them on trade me at $5500 for a 1998 model with reasonable km's. They also have Honda reliability and servicing costs, and they handle pretty well (not like the newest sportbikes, but plenty good for anything you will be doing) with adjustable back suspension. They are fantastic two -up - you hardly feel her on the back.

As-and-when you get used to the power/torque (the Firestorm is mainly all about torque) you just twist a little more. You wont wheelie unless you want to. The torque available is quite frightening if you open it up in first, second or third (good for catching gaps in traffic) but its not as wild as the TL1000's. More mild mannered. They sound good with standard pipes, but awesome with aftermarket pipes. Passing cars is effortless (almost disdainful) - which makes it safer as you dont spend long times in the oncoming lane.

The looks are either love it or hate it - I think they look like a warrior chick like Red Sonja would look like if she were a bike. The unusual looks are so different that they never look out of fashion (I guess 'cause they have never been in "fashion"?).

Also the V-twin engine makes it thin - easier to filter traffic. And at about 184 kgs, its not that heavy either, and has a longish wheelbase for decent high speed stability.

Only cons -their range is short (about 160-190kms) due to a small fuel tank and highish fuel consumption (for a bike -it has the biggest carbs you will find on a bike). Although normally you need a stretch of the legs by the time the fuel runs out.

And the enormous torque does tend to chew chains and sprockets (depending on how you ride her - although its difficult to keep off the loud pedal cause its so much *fun*!).

[Ender EnZed]

The thread did mention a VFR 750 or 800 - they are also very nice controllable bikes- and nothing slow about them. Good tourers.

Yeap, I can certainly reccommend a big VFR. Same sort of purpose as an RF900 but absolutely packed full of Honda goodness.

[R-Soul]

Yeap, I can certainly reccommend a big VFR. Same sort of purpose as an RF900 but absolutely packed full of Honda goodness.

I was quite surprised when I took one for a couple of laps on a track - the VFR800 I mean- as it handled really well and was pretty quick. The Vtec engine wasn't unprdeictable at all despite having the two settings.

[varminter]

Well, today I toddled down to the local bike shop. First I took the RF900 for a run, wow, liked it but had to be easy on the wrist. Then I took out a BMW Something or the other, 650 single, like a GN on steroids, boy that gave me a sore arse. Then I tried a cruiser, M50 think it was, with VERY loud after market pipes. Bugger me (not literally) I loved it, I just can't believe it, I couldn't stop grinning, are there some special pills to take ??:gob: If the wife likes it it's sold.

[R-Soul]

Well, today I toddled down to the local bike shop. First I took the RF900 for a run, wow, liked it but had to be easy on the wrist. Then I took out a BMW Something or the other, 650 single, like a GN on steroids, boy that gave me a sore arse. Then I tried a cruiser, M50 think it was, with VERY loud after market pipes. Bugger me (not literally) I loved it, I just can't believe it, I couldn't stop grinning, are there some special pills to take ??:gob: If the wife likes it it's sold.

hehe Thats the old V-twin torque inspired grin that I was talking about.... you get a similar one from the VTR (but with a sportsbike seating position) - and it takes a long while to get used to the feeling. Its not about what the top speed is, but how quickly you can get to the legal limits.... :sweatdrop

[JohnC]

Wow,that was a change in focus.
Ride a couple more cruiser big twins,,,bigger grin again !:woohoo:

[R-Soul]

Wow,that was a change in focus.
Ride a couple more cruiser big twins,,,bigger grin again !:woohoo:

The M50 is a 800cc isn't it? The bigger engines have even more torque available. The thing is that you could probably wheelie on the M50 already, so whats the point of even more torque?

The 800cc probably also has better fuel consumption.

Other engines with similar torque and cntrollability characteristics to V-twin cruisers are the:
- Triumph speed triple 1000cc - although it combines it with higher power cause its a three cylinder (hence "triple"), and a 675 cc (Street triple) one is available too
- BMW's with "boxer" engines (also twin cylinder - but opposed twin I think)
- Yamaha R1 2009 - the firing order gives tehis bike supreme torque and high power

Maybe you should check them out too. If you like touring, the BMW's have amazing bikes like the R1100RT with boxer engines. These have supreme comfort for rider and pillion and great engines, awesome rideability and great sound. They are very heavy at about 250kg (no problem at speed, but when you stop you have to plan ahead), and servicing costs are probably a little high (but dont quote me on that cause I have not checked - BMW just being what it is makes me think so).

[varminter]

Well, this is the story so far for all those that are interested (both of you) today I went out on a Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom. Loved it, then tried a C50 cruiser, good too, although the wife said the seat was excellent the ride shook her up and down so much her teeth ached. I think on points the V-Strom wins, for me, wife liked the pillion ride too and no tooth ache.

[DarkLord]

Heh. This thread brings back memories.

I remember being a n00b on a Hyosung on my Learners and talking about getting an R1 or a Gixxer Thou as my next bike once I got my full, to make up for the gutlessness of the Hyosung.

Then, of course, I got my full and was privileged enough to be able to take a K7 Gixxer Thou for a 100k ride, during which time I quickly realized this was an astronomically large step up as the thing scared me half to death (and I was told by other bikers that the K7 is "docile" compared to other Gixxer Thou's).

I now have an '01 SV650 and it is plenty grunty enough for me. Not the most powerful bike on the planet for sure but it is more than capable of doing what I need it to do.

[Ender EnZed]

I went out on a Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom.

Haven't had anything to do with them myself but I've certainly heard good things about the V-Strom, though most seem to be the smaller 650.

Great to see someone getting out and actually riding different types of bike instead of just buying something they can't use.

[varminter]

I must make a confession here. On the second ride as I was pootling round the back of the shop to bring it back I managed to come to a complete standstill on a steep camber and drop the bloody thing, good points are there was no damage (slight scuff on the crash bars and hand covers) and the shop didn't make me pay for it, in fact was very nice about it. I'm still kicking myself but at least now the wife has decided that bike trousers would be a good idea, previously she refused to get them (yes, she has a helmet, jacket and gloves)

[R-Soul]

I must make a confession here. On the second ride as I was pootling round the back of the shop to bring it back I managed to come to a complete standstill on a steep camber and drop the bloody thing, good points are there was no damage (slight scuff on the crash bars and hand covers) and the shop didn't make me pay for it, in fact was very nice about it. I'm still kicking myself but at least now the wife has decided that bike trousers would be a good idea, previously she refused to get them (yes, she has a helmet, jacket and gloves)


Yes with the bikes witha very high seat height you have to really plan your next set of moves. for example when coming to stop sideways on a downward slope, you need to make sure your weight is to the higher side, and get your ass over asap. And if you have an imbalance, you need to get your ass off teh side to the lower side asap to stop going over.

Also DO NOT park anywhere in a dead end parking space, facing downwards, because when you can only geta couple of toes on the ground, then you cant push it backwards upa slope very easily...

Having said that, I reckon a bike like the V-strom is a good choice- you get to tour on tarmac and gravel - so you can see the less seen backroads of NZ (which is a large and scenic part of the country), and the engine is more than powerful enough for two up touring, at and past the legal limit. Easy passing of cars, good wind shielding, and cheap servicing and parts costs to boot - it has it all really.

OK it is not going to stay with a sports bike on a mission, but then very few bikes really do, and with your level of experience you would not be able to anyway. Besides, if you want to learn high speed bike control, do it on a track.

[Ender EnZed]

If you're still thiniking about the Strom give this (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=112132) a read if you haven't already.

[R-Soul]

I must make a confession here.

I must make a confession here- so have most of us had a similar experience with a high bike at some stage of our lives or another. I remember, as a teenager, taking my cousin's XT600 Tenere for a spin to the local dairy and feeling very cool on the cool bike with the attention seeking thumper engine.

And then, while getting looks from all round, dropping it on its side because I stoppoed sideways on a slope and could not get me foot down on the upper side fast enough!!
:jerry:


:doh:

[varminter]

Nice to know I'm not a minority of one in the bike dropping arena. I have had a look at the thread about The Strom, and I bought one yesterday (DL1000), get to pick it up on Saturday and ride it back from Hamilton. Yes, I'll be careful mother.

[R-Soul]

Nice to know I'm not a minority of one in the bike dropping arena. I have had a look at the thread about The Strom, and I bought one yesterday (DL1000), get to pick it up on Saturday and ride it back from Hamilton. Yes, I'll be careful mother.


errm... actually the reason I mentioned the downhill parking aspect was because of *another* incident with same bike... the best laid plans of mice and men...

*high voice* and dont forget to have something to eat before you go!

CONGRATS! I reckon you have a winner there. May you have tons of fun on ot. And I think it makes a lot more sense than an R1 or GSXR1000 or something like that - maybe they will come later...

[varminter]

*high voice* and dont forget to have something to eat before you go!

Sorry, was not having a go at you, I appreciate any feedback I can get. The mother thing is just because I've always been a 'bad boy' (actually, my mother wouldn't have given a toss)