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imdying
14th August 2012, 08:51
Who is Paul Owen from Fairfax? Why is he reviewing motorcycles? Does he ever actually ride them? Do you think he has ever considered talking about the actual motorcycle in his reviews? Has there ever been a worse reviewer? Would be nice to have some motorcycle reviews instead of opinion pieces on things that are irrelevant. If you know him, or work with him, give a smack upside the head and tell him to find another job.

oneofsix
14th August 2012, 08:54
Who is Paul Owen from Fairfax? Why is he reviewing motorcycles? Does he ever actually ride them? Do you think he has ever considered talking about the actual motorcycle in his reviews? Has there ever been a worse reviewer? Would be nice to have some motorcycle reviews instead of opinion pieces on things that are irrelevant. If you know him, or work with him, give a smack upside the head and tell him to find another job.

I guess he wrote something that upset you?

:corn:

5150
14th August 2012, 08:57
I guess he wrote something that upset you?

:corn:

Might be this:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/7459257/Ducati-set-to-Monster-NZs-new-riding-regs

oneofsix
14th August 2012, 09:02
Might be this:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/7459257/Ducati-set-to-Monster-NZs-new-riding-regs

yeah that's what I was guessing. A promo for the mini-monster masked as a discussion of LAMS, well neither a discussion of LAMS nor a revenue of the mini-monster. It was probably suitable taster for a noob in their 30s thinking about a bike.
Imdying asks a fair question on the author's credentials I guess but I didn't think Fairfax ever employed reporters or people that knew their stuff, more people that can write something readable to the mass market.

nzmikey
14th August 2012, 09:12
Yeah I came to post about that & saw that you did ..... oh well never mind


Sooooo who in their right mind would pay " $17,490 " for a 38kW (51bhp) learner bike. :eek5:
I cant see you average 17 - 30yo doing that ....... you may find some mid 30yo's paying that much . but to me that seems a shit load of money for something that you prob wont keep much longer than say 18mths tops .

When I got my 1st bike I paid less than 4k it did me fine for 22,000km ( still got it but need to sell it ) .


The other side of it is the insurance ..... a Learner on a $17.5k bike that has a higher chance in either binning or dropping, it makes no sense to me .

imdying
14th August 2012, 09:12
I guess he wrote something that upset you?No, nothing in particular, it's just that he never fails to ramble about things that aren't relevant. Now a little bit of that is ok, but that's all he does. Never any particular idiosyncrasies about the bike, or what it's like to ride, or anything sort of opinion garnered from direct experience with the bike. I honestly believe he either never gets the bike to ride, or never rides them (presumably can't given the things he writes). The dude got no game.

His consistently poor article read like mine would if I were writing about horses. Sure I know they're big, hay in one end, shit out the other, but you'd be able to spot my complete lack of knowledge within the first few paragraphs, just like you can with his.

It's fodder media admittedly, but there surely must be actual motorcyclists who can string a few works together that could be doing his job?

Paul in NZ
14th August 2012, 09:22
Hes probably a decent guy trying to make a living without scaring the sponsors but I have to say I'm not a huge fan of his writing... I liken him to Simon Sweetman the music reviewer - if he hates it the chances are its pretty much what I like...

oneofsix
14th August 2012, 09:23
No, nothing in particular, it's just that he never fails to ramble about things that aren't relevant. Now a little bit of that is ok, but that's all he does. Never any particular idiosyncrasies about the bike, or what it's like to ride, or anything sort of opinion garnered from direct experience with the bike. I honestly believe he either never gets the bike to ride, or never rides them (presumably can't given the things he writes). The dude got no game.

His consistently poor article read like mine would if I were writing about horses. Sure I know they're big, hay in one end, shit out the other, but you'd be able to spot my complete lack of knowledge within the first few paragraphs, just like you can with his.

It's fodder media admittedly, but there surely must be actual motorcyclists who can string a few works together that could be doing his job?

I suspect those that can write about motorbikes are writing for the bike mags. As an article for a bored coffee drinker it is passable and hopefully anyone with a serious interest will do some more research. As a couple of people I've spoken to recently who are mildly interested in getting their 6L didn't even know the rules were changing (one already a scooter rider) the article will possible enlighten a few. As a serious bike reviewer, I'm not arguing with you about him.

imdying
14th August 2012, 09:28
You guys could be right. I'm expecting too much from mainstream media. Still, would be nice to have a motorcyclist review motorcycles thought!

willytheekid
14th August 2012, 09:31
I too hate Pauls "reviews"

There very "copy-paste", and he very rarely actually rides the bikes! (So how can he review them?)
I still read the reviews tho :facepalm: (...In the hope he might actually improve!...honest!)

BUT...just wait till crasher see's this thread :laugh: (he won't hold back)
...I can see him now
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-obEYkiID9N0/T2qsxJekoRI/AAAAAAAAAn0/ZUawk_nCSLg/s320/Funny_Pictures_5067.jpg


:laugh:

caseye
14th August 2012, 09:49
Hell I thought it was EWE Willy.
Shit I'll write their bike reviews, got to let me ride em first though, can't be done proper like if you haven't.

White trash
14th August 2012, 10:13
Another fucken well thought out pile of crap from Paul. I love this line.

"Let's hope other brands take note of the Monster 659 and tweak some new models to comply with the new learner-bike rules."

Do a bit of research dickhead. Suzuki have the following models already compliant. DR650SE, DRZ400E, Boulevard S40, AN650 Burgman and have the following on their way in restricted guise to meet the market GSX650U, SFV650U.

Hyosung have the GT650L, GT650RL and ST7 650 (the most powerful LAMS bike) on the way.

KTM have every single road legal 4 stroke that they produce under 530cc on the list.

And that's just the three brands we sell!

Fucks sake.

White trash
14th August 2012, 10:14
Sooooo who in their right mind would pay " $17,490 " for a 38kW (51bhp) learner bike. :eek5:
I cant see you average 17 - 30yo doing that ....... you may find some mid 30yo's paying that much . but to me that seems a shit load of money for something that you prob wont keep much longer than say 18mths tops .

When I got my 1st bike I paid less than 4k it did me fine for 22,000km ( still got it but need to sell it ) .


The other side of it is the insurance ..... a Learner on a $17.5k bike that has a higher chance in either binning or dropping, it makes no sense to me .

This is quite possibly the main reason Suzuki wont be bringing its LAMS legal GSXR600U to the country I reckon.

Crasherfromwayback
14th August 2012, 10:22
Paul Owen has poo on the end of his knob.

Paul in NZ
14th August 2012, 11:04
Paul Owen has poo on the end of his knob.

He roots teddy bears? Poor old bear.....

Crasherfromwayback
14th August 2012, 11:12
He roots teddy bears? Poor old bear.....

Be as useful as his write ups.

Gremlin
14th August 2012, 11:53
You guys could be right. I'm expecting too much from mainstream media. Still, would be nice to have a motorcyclist review motorcycles thought!
Stop reading main stream media silly. :weird:

Plenty of bike mags, net reviews and KB'ers even write reviews...

GrayWolf
14th August 2012, 12:24
Another fucken well thought out pile of crap from Paul. I love this line.

"Let's hope other brands take note of the Monster 659 and tweak some new models to comply with the new learner-bike rules."

Do a bit of research dickhead. Suzuki have the following models already compliant. DR650SE, DRZ400E, Boulevard S40, AN650 Burgman and have the following on their way in restricted guise to meet the market GSX650U, SFV650U.

Hyosung have the GT650L, GT650RL and ST7 650 (the most powerful LAMS bike) on the way.

KTM have every single road legal 4 stroke that they produce under 530cc on the list.

And that's just the three brands we sell!

Fucks sake.

Tell you what, Guzzi used to do the '750' as a 500 and 650cc... power for the 650 was 'identical'? to the current 750 version... I'll bet Mandello del Lario still have the tooling for the 650 barrels hanging about, and will be similar price to the Duck....... The Guzzi V7 sport or even the Breva are nice looking machines.

Paul in NZ
14th August 2012, 12:36
Tell you what, Guzzi used to do the '750' as a 500 and 650cc... power for the 650 was 'identical'? to the current 750 version... I'll bet Mandello del Lario still have the tooling for the 650 barrels hanging about, and will be similar price to the Duck....... The Guzzi V7 sport or even the Breva are nice looking machines.

Guzzi didn't make their own barrels - they were made by Gilardoni who periodically reproduce sets for older Guzzis...

Ender EnZed
14th August 2012, 12:52
KTM have every single road legal 4 stroke that they produce under 530cc on the list.


Have you had any official word on that? I'd still like to know what numbers they used to get a 530 under 150kW/T.

BoristheBiter
14th August 2012, 12:52
Stop reading main stream media silly. :weird:

Plenty of bike mags, net reviews and KB'ers even write reviews...

Mainstream media?? Stuff?? Oh what has the world come to:facepalm:

GrayWolf
14th August 2012, 12:58
Guzzi didn't make their own barrels - they were made by Gilardoni who periodically reproduce sets for older Guzzis...

my mistake :) I remembered reading the small bore motor was a 'machined, production lined' Motor, rather than the more traditional methods of Guzzi production.. so I assumed they were completely made 'in house'. Still if Gilardoni has the tooling still for the 650cc barrels? I wonder?

oneofsix
14th August 2012, 13:09
This is quite possibly the main reason Suzuki wont be bringing its LAMS legal GSXR600U to the country I reckon.

RU :scratch: I thought it was the FU, it seemed such a good name for it :shutup:

Big Dave
14th August 2012, 14:17
Tough room.

jellywrestler
14th August 2012, 14:48
Sooooo who in their right mind would pay " $17,490 " for a 38kW (51bhp) learner bike. :eek5:
quite a few I'm picking, wannabe sons of anarchy bikers who have some drug money to hide so they'll buy the 'ole lady' one, these things will gobble the smaller harleys.

mossy1200
14th August 2012, 15:10
Manufacture bikes with lead engine bash plates with the lams stamped onto the plate. Once remove plate not lams bike after finish licence is a better option. Then the bike can be resold Lams again for next guy also.

oneofsix
14th August 2012, 15:20
Manufacture bikes with lead engine bash plates with the lams stamped onto the plate. Once remove plate not lams bike after finish licence is a better option. Then the bike can be resold Lams again for next guy also.

What? Are you saying that whether or not a bike has a label plate determines if it is learner suitable or not? :scratch:

mossy1200
14th August 2012, 15:35
What? Are you saying that whether or not a bike has a label plate determines if it is learner suitable or not? :scratch:


No. Im saying manufacture a gsxr600pl ( pl= lead plate weight) as a model that is lams legal on power to weight and removal of plate takes away its lams status.

Example only on model etc.

Ender EnZed
14th August 2012, 16:10
It'd make for some interesting handling characteristics to have a 300 kg bash plate on a GSXR.

Flip
14th August 2012, 16:14
He is writing for the news paper, ie mr and mrs middle class car driver.

I didn't find anything interesting in his article but I am a biker.

I don't see the problem.

Not many bikers can read and write.

mossy1200
14th August 2012, 16:15
It'd make for some interesting handling characteristics to have an 80 kg bash plate on a GSXR.

Couldnt be any worse than a MT01.

There would be a few that are closer to the 150 though and maybe would require 20kg weight down low on the bike.

Ender EnZed
14th August 2012, 16:20
Couldnt be any worse than a MT01.

There would be a few that are closer to the 150 though and maybe would require 20kg weight down low on the bike.

You quoted me pre edit. To get a 100 hp bike lams legal you'd need more weight than a gold wing.

mossy1200
14th August 2012, 16:25
You quoted me pre edit. To get a 100 hp bike lams legal you'd need more weight than a gold wing.

bike at 200kg plus rider at 80kg ( no model eg only ) each 20kg added represents approx 7% power increase allowed to stay under lams limit if said bike was at limit prior. Maybe gsxr bad eg but maybe calculated on sv650 would require to much additional weight.

How did you get 300kg plus gsxr weight plus 10kg fuel and 80kg rider to reach lams? Isnt that a 250hp+ gsxr600.

Ender EnZed
14th August 2012, 16:27
An extra 20kg is only worth an extra 4hp. I'd much rather lose power than add ballast.

Ender EnZed
14th August 2012, 16:31
How did you get 300kg plus gsxr weight plus 10kg fuel and 80kg rider to reach lams? Isnt that a 250hp+ gsxr600.

GSXR at 170 dry plus 90 plus 300 gets 560kg being powered by 85kw is 151kw per tonne. I think.

george formby
14th August 2012, 16:40
Be as useful as his write ups.

Tinkle tinkle. That was pennies dropping. This is the bloke, er, chap who's reviews appear in the local paper, affectionately known as the 3 minute silence.

About as useful as an i-pad with a flat battery. I doubt he does his own home maintenance.

Fortunately nobody has mentioned TDR'S in the LAMs gumpf.

mossy1200
14th August 2012, 16:45
An extra 20kg is only worth an extra 4hp. I'd much rather lose power than add ballast.

400kg total weight is 60kw based on 1000kg is 150

60kw is 80hp

90kg for rider and fuel leaves 310kg less bike weight.

350kg is 52.5kw

52.5kw is 70hp

350 less 90 is 260kg

sv650 is 70hp and 175kg(claimed) so 85kg added. Your correct thats a lot of weight.

There must be bikes that are very close to the limit though. Maybe more in the cruiser range than a sv etc.

Makes you wonder how many bikes are being punished by over stating hp based on at crank and understating the weight.

nodrog
14th August 2012, 17:13
That will be why I had some knob telling me he was getting a ducati 696 for his first bike. :facepalm:

White trash
14th August 2012, 20:24
Have you had any official word on that? I'd still like to know what numbers they used to get a 530 under 150kW/T.

Right here.

http://www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/getting/docs/lams-list.pdf

Careful reading of the rules states that motorcycle must NOT be modified in from how the manufacturer presents it as LAMS legal.

Ender EnZed
14th August 2012, 21:11
Right here.

http://www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/getting/docs/lams-list.pdf

Careful reading of the rules states that motorcycle must NOT be modified in from how the manufacturer presents it as LAMS legal.

Yeah, I've read the list but I'm wondering what figures for power and weight have been used to get a 525EXC on it.

gammaguy
14th August 2012, 21:13
Guzzi didn't make their own barrels - they were made by Gilardoni who periodically reproduce sets for older Guzzis...

Who also made the cylinders for the oilhead BMW engines

gammaguy
14th August 2012, 21:15
Tinkle tinkle. That was pennies dropping. This is the bloke, er, chap who's reviews appear in the local paper, affectionately known as the 3 minute silence.

About as useful as an i-pad with a flat battery. I doubt he does his own home maintenance.

Fortunately nobody has mentioned TDR'S in the LAMs gumpf.

TDR s were designed to keep noobs in their place:yes:

jonbuoy
14th August 2012, 21:17
Why don't they just fit limiters like Europe? Surely it can only have been limited in the ECU so wouldn´t be difficult to swap it out?

SS90
15th August 2012, 09:13
I'm sure this has been covered elsewhere, but this LAMS concept while a good thing for riders, is clearly geared towards industry growth (new 2 fiddy rockets have not been available new since ages ago, so our laws regarding new licences riders where detrimental to the industry)

I can't shake the feeling that this is going to push the price of any or all of these bikes on the list sky high on the market, making buying one costly, more so than before, but in all likelyhood new bikes on the list will seem an attractive option if an old T120V with dubious history is only a sniff cheaper than a new W400. (surprised the w650 doesn't comply)
Not much of a choice if your new to bikes.

JMemonic
15th August 2012, 09:47
Two things, firstly what the thread is about

Paul Owen reviews often look as if he has simply copied selected pieces from the sales blurb, and I guess it works for him, he has an income and it would appear as though occasionally he get the change to ride some tasty hardware, not a bad life for some. We cam choose to read his reviews with the grain of salt they deserve.

Secondly what the thread has drifted in to, the Lam list


• a maximum power‐to‐weight ratio of 150 kilowatts per tonne (the power is that specified by the manufacturer and the weight is the weight specified by the manufacturer

I wonder how many bikes would actually fit if the published figures were all done to the same specifications, i.e. all fluids included and 5 litres of fuel in the tanks, with power measured at the rear wheel, using the same measuring standard?

We all know the manufacturers have played with the figures to obtain the optimal sales pitch to the weekend Rossi's sometime with dubious measuring schemes.

Oscar
15th August 2012, 09:58
Yeah, I've read the list but I'm wondering what figures for power and weight have been used to get a 525EXC on it.

KTM did make "learner spec" LC4's for Yrup - maybe it's summat like that?

5150
20th August 2012, 08:12
Nice bike, but what a cock doing the review. Paul Own should stick to cooking recepie reviews......:tugger:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/7506836/The-stunt-bike-in-BMWs-lineup

James Deuce
20th August 2012, 08:36
http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/7506836/The-stunt-bike-in-BMWs-lineup

It looks like a summary of all the things other people have said over the last three years or so.

nzmikey
20th August 2012, 08:56
:killingme again ..... I came here to find a post that relates to this knob end .

Someone need to pop a .22 round into his head between his eyes & put the poor wee fulla out of his ( & our ) misery .

willytheekid
20th August 2012, 09:13
:facepalm:

He DOSN"T ride any of them!!, we have all been wondering how this turd even has a job reviewing bikes, he clearly dosn't test ride them, or even have an opinion of his own...he just copy-pastes from other reviews (plagurisim professional)

avgas
20th August 2012, 09:24
I can't believe that the article actually put me off riding that bike. Shame it looks fantastic.

James Deuce
20th August 2012, 09:28
It's really frugal, jolly comfortable and naked, so you don't ride it everywhere at license losing pace. I'm going to have to find a test bike and write a proper review, aren't I?

willytheekid
20th August 2012, 09:39
It's really frugal, jolly comfortable and naked, so you don't ride it everywhere at license losing pace. I'm going to have to find a test bike and write a proper review, aren't I?

YES PLEASE!...some one has to do the real work (Paul Owen obviously hasn't!)
http://chzsomuchpun.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/funny-puns-please-stop-with-this.jpg

liljegren
20th August 2012, 21:22
Here's a review for ya. We rented one of these from Munich last month, went over the Alps, down to Lake Como, back thru Lichtenstein, back to Munich. It's been a dream of mine to see some of the best roads in Europe from the seat of a bike, so off we went on the 800R. I'm really pleased that we didnt chose the 1200, as the 800 was just fine on those roads.
Most of the mountain passes are single lane in places, and two-up with panniers, we were slipping the clutch in first gear around the hairpins. Stelvio must have 80 or 100 tight bends like that, and you're up at 2670m at the top. The wee Beemer was great, agile, perky enough, and geared right for the mountains. Pillion was comfy, and easy to get on and off.
We only went on the 'motorways' for about 100kms, out of 2000kms, and this is where the bike was a bit maxed out. O.k. up to 120km/h, but thats holding up the trucks in some places!
I rekn it would be a great wee bike in N.Z. as we dont really get to go quickly here much any more. Ideal around town, good visibility because you sit up straight, and fine on the gravel. Maybe abit exposed in the rain, but gears so cheap now, it hardly matters.
And anyone thinking of a trip around Europe, do it! It was bloody great, not as expensive as you might think, and endless fantastic roads, if you stay off the fast bits.
Cheers, Matt.

James Deuce
21st August 2012, 05:21
A review of the bike would be good.

nudemetalz
21st August 2012, 12:51
"..... lasts until the 10,000rpm redline...."

10,000rpm?

James Deuce
11th September 2012, 08:59
http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/7625692/This-Honda-is-not-your-normal-motorcycle

nzmikey
11th September 2012, 09:02
Story on Stuff : http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/7625692/This-Honda-is-not-your-normal-motorcycle

And for today's 20sec breakdown of the story goes something like this ............. At the start of the "Review" ( I use that term loosely )

Imagine that you're an advocate for motorcycling and have to choose a bike that most displays the sort of values that will call into question any move by politicians to ban motorised two-wheeled transport as too dangerous, too decadent, and clearly too much fun. Which bike model would you choose? For me it would have to be the bike you see on this page, the new Honda NC700S.

The middle section there is some gobshite about a 6500k rev limit &
It's therefore best to adopt a similar operating style to the driver of a diesel passenger car

& By the end of the ermmm copy/paste


Yet despite enjoying my time aboard the NC700S when carving up twisty backroads, overall it was a slightly disappointing bike.

It lacks the heritage appeal and sweet styling of homage-twins like the Moto Guzzi V7 and Triumph Bonneville that deliver similar engine characteristics, as well as the sheer thrash-ability of Honda CBR250R that delivers similarly outstanding fuel economy.


Disclosure:
Now before you flame me for doing this each week .... I do it to take the piss as I know there are a few on here who get a laugh out of his story's, I also never claim to be able to write a story to save myself, much like the rest of KB I like taking the Piss ..... As you were

nzmikey
11th September 2012, 09:04
Oh come on put some effort into your thread .... like I did :P http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/152847-It-must-be-Tuesday-amp-here-is-Mr-Paul-quot-old-bastard-quot-Owen

:lol:

oneofsix
11th September 2012, 09:05
Yet despite enjoying my time aboard the NC700S

Suggest he actually rode it :gob:

nzmikey
11th September 2012, 09:07
Suggest he actually rode it :gob:

Oh it gets MUCH better .... Keep reading

James Deuce
11th September 2012, 09:12
I'm putting in the effort commensurate with the original article. I do wonder if he just nicked the detail from Gremlin's review.

Drew
11th September 2012, 10:11
What are you two talking about? The article was perfect.

Just as boring as the subject!

ducatilover
11th September 2012, 10:21
Another fascinating and helpful review, these never cease to please such a keen motorbicyclist such as myself.

nudemetalz
11th September 2012, 11:34
I think he might..... have.....actually....ridden....this one :eek:

Yup,...6500rpm rev-limiter is quite interesting. Wish he could have told me more about it :lol:

willytheekid
11th September 2012, 11:53
I think he might..... have.....actually....ridden....this one :eek:

Yup,...6500rpm rev-limiter is quite interesting. Wish he could have told me more about it :lol:


Suggest he actually rode it :gob:

Yet despite enjoying my time aboard the NC700S when carving up twisty backroads,

:killingme
:no:No!...No he didn't! :cool:

:killingme

Paul in NZ
11th September 2012, 11:56
Yet despite enjoying my time aboard the NC700S when carving up twisty backroads,

:killingme
:no:No!...No he didn't! :cool:

:killingme


Maybe he just carves a little differently to you...... :msn-wink:

willytheekid
11th September 2012, 11:58
Maybe he just carves a little differently to you...... :msn-wink:

Yeah...I bet he does!
http://singularityhub.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/deboning-robot.jpg

Drew
11th September 2012, 20:24
Yeah...I bet he does!

Funny looking cat in that pic. Still only one option for skinning technique in it though.

Crasherfromwayback
18th December 2012, 09:16
http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8075624/Take-the-dirty-way-home-on-this-Honda

"First we had the CBR250R single, probably the New Zealand market's most affordable new sportsbike at $7995 as it brought a glimpse of Moto3-class chassis performance to our roads"

I mean seriously...

imdying
18th December 2012, 09:26
Yes, the writer is a fuck wit. Doesn't bother me though, after consistently producing nothing but shit, I no longer even bother clicking the motorcycle related articles on Stuff. I just don't waste my time.

Crasherfromwayback
18th December 2012, 09:38
. I just don't waste my time.

I do. For laughs.

Tony.OK
18th December 2012, 09:44
$12349 for WR250
$9995 for CRF250L

And he gets $3500 difference? :crazy:

\m/
18th December 2012, 09:49
$12349 for WR250
$9995 for CRF250L

And he gets $3500 difference? :crazy:
3500 appears to be a random number he pulled from his arse.

Crasherfromwayback
18th December 2012, 09:53
3500 appears to be a random number he pulled from his arse.

Like everything else he writes.

imdying
18th December 2012, 09:55
I do. For laughs.As your should, in your industry!

nudemetalz
18th December 2012, 18:51
http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8075624/Take-the-dirty-way-home-on-this-Honda

"First we had the CBR250R single, probably the New Zealand market's most affordable new sportsbike at $7995 as it brought a glimpse of Moto3-class chassis performance to our roads"

I mean seriously...

yup,..a 22hp 250 is pretty close to performance with a 48hp 250 Moto 3 Racer.....

I'd like to line up my old Suzuki NZ250 which produced close to 30hp with one of the new CBR's.....

Crasherfromwayback
18th December 2012, 19:04
yup,..a 22hp 250 is pretty close to performance with a 48hp 250 Moto 3 Racer.....

I'd like to line up my old Suzuki NZ250 which produced close to 30hp with one of the new CBR's.....

It's the chassis comparison that really had me wetting myself though.

merv
19th December 2012, 07:19
Being a Honda man myself I thought the CRF250L sounded interesting many months back but then the specs just got to me. I think my current XR250L is a nice bike at a claimed 28hp, but do think it is heavy for a 250 at 128kg so I tend to use it as my soft easy ride trail bike and use my WR250F otherwise. Holy crap though the CRF250L is 144kg - now is it apples and pears with dry weight versus wet weight? - but even the Mrs's DR650 is said to be 147kg. I am sure the new fuel injected Honda is a smooth ride but us small fellahs aren't attracted by heavyweights. So I wasn't really bothered by Paul's writing, I'd been put off already a few months back when the specs did the talking.

ducatilover
19th December 2012, 13:35
I have a red spot on my face from my palm hitting it so much

Is he related to the fuck tard who wrote the dog and lemon guide?

bikemike
19th December 2012, 20:11
He's one of the vocal minority who winge about BMW's excellent paddle indicators. Every opportunity he gets.
He here is in the article posted above.. "and the excellent self-cancelling single- control indicators." which is him in passive-agressive mode.
There is nothing excellent about such cheap fiddly tiny poxy little indicator controls.

Not a single BMW rider with paddle indicators loathes them like these superficial journos. Most everyone I know loves them.
And since BMW seem to be phasing them out, he'll have to find some other piffle to write about the next BMW.

Grrrr.

Drew
20th December 2012, 05:50
Oh yip, it's not enough to point out the morons actual mistakes, now we need to predict what he's gonna do and complain about that.

He's gonna take a piss and some spray will get on the floor. Fuckin cunt! Lets get a good mob together!

davereid
20th December 2012, 05:58
Yet despite enjoying my time aboard the NC700S when carving up twisty backroads,:killingme:no:No!...No he didn't! :cool::killingme

Yet he missed telling us the two most important things about the NC700... that it has ABS everywhere else in the world but you can't even get ABS in NZ, and its $6995 in the US or $12495 in NZ....

IMHO he spends too much time writing advertorial for his sponsor, and not enough time writing about the bike.

Drew
20th December 2012, 06:03
How many of you have made use of the comments section, on Stuff?

Kinda academic to be bitching on here, when you can tell him and his employer he's a retard.

oneofsix
20th December 2012, 06:12
How many of you have made use of the comments section, on Stuff?

Kinda academic to be bitching on here, when you can tell him and his employer he's a retard.

Shit no Drew, that would mean risking being proved wrong because he get the chance to defend himself. :crazy:

Bender
20th December 2012, 06:15
It's the chassis comparison that really had me wetting myself though.

You have to put it in context - he said "glimpse."

Here's the context - our real estate agent described a property we sold as having a "sea glimpse." What he meant was, if you stood on the dunny seat, turned your neck through 180 degrees on the side plane and 45 degrees fore-and-aft, then squinted a bit, you could almost see the beach.

Drew
20th December 2012, 06:15
Shit no Drew, that would mean risking being proved wrong because he get the chance to defend himself. :crazy:Do people worry about that? I knew there was more than just the obvious wrong with me!

oneofsix
20th December 2012, 06:24
Do people worry about that? I knew there was more than just the obvious wrong with me!

Some people have the guts to stand up and say what they think to the persons face, and accept being wrong. Others keep their mouths shut and say nothing, some of these will speak if they are certain of their facts or quietly correct the originator. Most prefer to get together with a group of "mates" and rubbish the guy that expressed the original opinion, used to be done with Mr W Kerr and co down at the local or at the BBQ but now we have KB :yes:

For some reason I just don't trust Fairfax with me sign on details and they are too big.

Drew
20th December 2012, 06:34
For some reason I just don't trust Fairfax with me sign on details and they are too big.They're trustworthy as:crazy:

imdying
20th December 2012, 08:18
How many of you have made use of the comments section, on Stuff?

Kinda academic to be bitching on here, when you can tell him and his employer he's a retard.Yeah, I think most have (seen a few familiar names amongst the list :D), but the shite still keeps on coming, so don't even bother with that any more.

Paul Owen
21st December 2012, 09:33
Allow me to take this opportunity to wish all Kiwi Biker forum participants a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2013. I'd also like to thank you for support. The bike reviews published by stuff.co.nz are originally written for the readership of the Dominion Post in Wellington and The Press in Christchurch and both papers recorded significant increases in readership during independent audits during 2012. Some of this success is no doubt due to the creators of this thread. Many thanks once again, and let's all keep the rubber side down in 2013.

Drew
21st December 2012, 09:54
Allow me to take this opportunity to wish all Kiwi Biker forum participants a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2013. I'd also like to thank you for support. The bike reviews published by stuff.co.nz are originally written for the readership of the Dominion Post in Wellington and The Press in Christchurch and both papers recorded significant increases in readership during independent audits during 2012. Some of this success is no doubt due to the creators of this thread. Many thanks once again, and let's all keep the rubber side down in 2013.

Well Fuckin hell. More power to ya for making your presence known.

You still seem to know nothing about motorcycles, or the ones you have reviewed at least.

I am happy to meet with you and have you point out the frame similarities between a cbr and a moto3 bike.

Or any other rather obvious mistakes of yours, should you not be able to locate a cbr.

Drew Mair.

Stirts
21st December 2012, 09:57
How many of you have made use of the comments section, on Stuff?

Kinda academic to be bitching on here

The comments section seems a bit redundant now :killingme

Crasherfromwayback
21st December 2012, 09:58
Good for you Paul. I would however, highly recommend you stick to reviewing and writing about cars. You don't do yourself, or the publications your motorcycle reviews appear in any favours.

Pete McDonald

baffa
21st December 2012, 10:07
In all fairness Paul's writeups are a fair bit better than a lot of the articles that appear on stuff.

There was a recent article telling people they were fools if they didnt drive an econobox, citing the amount of money they can save a year if they change to a new small engined vehicle. Not only were all their numbers wickedly wrong, they completely ignored things like depreciation, and the cost of the new vehicle. And they went on to save bikes werent that economical, giving about 6l per 100 kay. Show me a modern bike that isnt a big cruiser that uses more than that commuting.

Drew
21st December 2012, 10:21
The comments section seems a bit redundant now :killingme

I don't foresee many posts from Paul anytime soon. Since he is the only writer who insight unanimous discussion....


Everyone says he's wrong!

ducatilover
21st December 2012, 10:27
Allow me to take this opportunity to wish all Kiwi Biker forum participants a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2013. I'd also like to thank you for support. The bike reviews published by stuff.co.nz are originally written for the readership of the Dominion Post in Wellington and The Press in Christchurch and both papers recorded significant increases in readership during independent audits during 2012. Some of this success is no doubt due to the creators of this thread. Many thanks once again, and let's all keep the rubber side down in 2013.
Merry Christmas Paul, stop reviewing bikes so poorly, please write about the experiences of riding the motorcycle and the pros and cons of the bike, not wanked up stories of sweet nothings.

Good luck to you.

BoristheBiter
21st December 2012, 10:28
I don't foresee many posts from Paul anytime soon. Since he is the only writer who insight unanimous discussion....


Everyone says he's wrong!

I wonder if he post's under the pseudonym akzle then?:whistle:

ducatilover
21st December 2012, 10:29
In all fairness Paul's writeups are a fair bit better than a lot of the articles that appear on stuff.
No, it's all useless shit.

merv
21st December 2012, 10:34
I'm one that didn't say he is wrong because when I read any reviewers write up I take it with a grain of salt. The only way to decide if a bike is for you is to try it yourself and if you buy then adapt to it or adapt it to you. We are all different shapes and sizes with different expectations and preferences. Every bike I've bought always feels odd when I start with it because its different to what I last had, but you soon get used to riding it and the fun increases.

So I'm not one to bother about what any journo, or salesman for that matter, tells me. I just go and buy a bike and then set about enjoying it. I keep most things a long time so it must work for me. The only exception was my dislike of the Suzuki DR250RW I bought in 1998, I only kept that just over 5 years until I opted for the WR250F. Everything else I've just about kept forever.

White trash
21st December 2012, 10:50
Allow me to take this opportunity to wish all Kiwi Biker forum participants a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2013. I'd also like to thank you for support. The bike reviews published by stuff.co.nz are originally written for the readership of the Dominion Post in Wellington and The Press in Christchurch and both papers recorded significant increases in readership during independent audits during 2012. Some of this success is no doubt due to the creators of this thread. Many thanks once again, and let's all keep the rubber side down in 2013.

Awesome post! Good on ya Paul for joining up.

Now. What the hell do you propose to do about these god awful, uninformative, boring bloody "reviews" you're writing?

Cheers

Jimmy Mair

caspernz
21st December 2012, 11:01
Youz have got it all wrong...my bet is that the person who created that Paul Owen identity on here is one of the regular pranksters on KB.

I mean, c'mon...you buggers will fall for anything :nya:

Drew
21st December 2012, 11:05
I'm one that didn't say he is wrong because when I read any reviewers write up I take it with a grain of salt. The only way to decide if a bike is for you is to try it yourself and if you buy then adapt to it or adapt it to you. We are all different shapes and sizes with different expectations and preferences. Every bike I've bought always feels odd when I start with it because its different to what I last had, but you soon get used to riding it and the fun increases.

So I'm not one to bother about what any journo, or salesman for that matter, tells me. I just go and buy a bike and then set about enjoying it. I keep most things a long time so it must work for me. The only exception was my dislike of the Suzuki DR250RW I bought in 1998, I only kept that just over 5 years until I opted for the WR250F. Everything else I've just about kept forever.
And should someone buy a bike, on the say so of what is thought to be an able and qualified tester? With no agenda of their own, other than to report on the subject.

You are self educated, and trust what you find in a bike. Mr Owen is paid to give the facts, and he does not.

Why should we just accept it and carry on as you do? The advertisers in the media who publicise his work, are being robbed. The readers are being mislead.

None of us really care of course. We all just want an axe to grind, and this particular one is very dull, and leaning up against an idiot proof stone.

Drew
21st December 2012, 11:47
I think the thing is reviewers never get to know a bike like an owner does and their impressions will always be of the test ride only. I bought
a BMW and had 2 test rides one of the bike and the second to see if I would get the hang of using the indicators. I did buy the bike and have
got used to the indicators ok but I always click the cancel button twice if I am in heavy traffic and there is no time to look at the dash bezel.
On my Honda it is still better despite me now owning the BMW 6 years. Another critisisim of BMWs (older ones perhaps) by testers is they have
cluncky gear boxes and while I found that myself it was only really a problem when it was new and I was getting used to the new gear ratios/torque/powerband
after being on a CB750 Honda for many years.

I like reading Paul's reviews and with bikes not being as popular as they were 30 years ago we should consider ourselves lucky newspapers even
bother to offer bike reviews when they could so easily fill the space with another car review. I see the objective of the newspaper reviews is to
get those curious about a bike or car into a dealer but like many others would look up owner reviews as well as my own test ride before making
a decision.
We should consider ourselves lucky you say. A lot of us do. Lucky that we don't rely on the ramblings of a guy, who knows nothing about bikes!

Why are we lucky that a paper, publishes compete dribble about bikes? How does it help the community, for people to be mislead?

Crasherfromwayback
21st December 2012, 12:26
You still seem to know nothing about motorcycles, or the ones you have reviewed at least.

Drew Mair.


The comments section seems a bit redundant now :killingme

No no. He's answered you on the site too Drew.

White trash
21st December 2012, 13:03
Dear Paul,

Please read this---> http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/8107797/V10-Viper-not-for-the-faint-hearted

Now THAT makes me want to buy a Viper

This -----> http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8075624/Take-the-dirty-way-home-on-this-Honda

makes me want to shoot a Honda....

caspernz
21st December 2012, 13:37
So you would prefer only car reviews in newspapers then? If you are after real technical reviews why dont you spend $10 and buy a mag like Kiwi Biker.
The fact his reviews have been running so long must mean there is a "Market" interest in them and bikes are indirectly sold as a result of them.
Perhaps a distributor whoes bikes he has reviewed could come on here to confirm or deny his reviews have contributed towards sales.
At the very least you can not deny they make us aware when new model bikes appear on the NZ Market.

On the whole it hardly matters. Circle of concern and circle of influence comes to mind :eek5:

Drew
21st December 2012, 13:54
So you would prefer only car reviews in newspapers then? If you are after real technical reviews why dont you spend $10 and buy a mag like Kiwi Biker.
The fact his reviews have been running so long must mean there is a "Market" interest in them and bikes are indirectly sold as a result of them.
Perhaps a distributor whoes bikes he has reviewed could come on here to confirm or deny his reviews have contributed towards sales.
At the very least you can not deny they make us aware when new model bikes appear on the NZ Market.OK, lets get hold of a distributor, and ask if they would like that advertising of their product. Misinformation I mean. Ya know, the shit Mr Owen talks.

Oh good, a new product is available, I'll go see it. Oh hang on, it doesn't meet my requirements at all, why the fuck am I here? Oh yeah, that Owen cunt.

If the reviews are shit, why do we want them in the paper. Forget shit writing, the reviews don't actually seem to be about his encounters with the bikes at all!

Ya just can't win with some people.

Drew
21st December 2012, 14:03
No no. He's answered you on the site too Drew.As have I mate.

I note he ignored your comment though, so I stole your quote and asked what he was thinking.

Crasherfromwayback
21st December 2012, 14:11
I note he ignored your comment though,

Obviously doesn't like me.

Kickaha
21st December 2012, 20:04
Obviously doesn't like me.

Thats one good point for him then

Berries
21st December 2012, 21:37
Youz have got it all wrong...my bet is that the person who created that Paul Owen identity on here is one of the regular pranksters on KB.
Ha ha. I was actually going to create an account tonight to wind a few people up.

I'll just stick to this instead.

ducatilover
21st December 2012, 23:11
Obviously doesn't like me.
Has he had your coffee? I've heard grumblings...

ellipsis
21st December 2012, 23:29
...as long as he has pictures...of red hondas...

Paul Owen
22nd December 2012, 08:51
Drew, you appear to think that a bike review should be written to sell bikes. That it should instantly make you want to go out and buy one. That's not my motivation when I write. Nor is it the money, because there are better-paid workers to be found at fast-food restaurant counters. Nah, I do it because I love bikes, and I enjoy writing about them while giving the fairest and most honest assessment of them that I can within the limited amount of space I've been given. There isn't a subject in the world that I'd rather write about. It's been this way since my first bike review appeared in Australasian Dirt Bike magazine in the early 1980s. Some appear to think that I'm a car reviewer who has recently started writing about bikes. The reality is that I've previously been a Kiwi Rider feature writer/columnist, had stories published in Two Wheels and Cycle World, and a bike reviewer for various newspapers since the late 1980s. I didn't begin writing about cars until 1993.
Another motivation to write about bikes is that I know that most people enjoy reading the reviews. I'm proud that Fairfax devotes expensive editorial space to the subject based on the feedback they receive from readers. Over my career, these reviews contributed to my winning of six Qantas Media awards for feature writing. They also encouraged Aaron Slight's selection of me as the author of his book.
Which brings me to the question about what motivates you Drew? Most people can read an opinion piece like a bike review, disagree with that opinion, and move on. You appear determined to conduct a witch-hunt with the help of a few mates that could affect Fairfax's enthusiasm to publish motorcycle stories. That 'achievement' wouldn't just hurt me, it would also affect all the people who tell me that they look forward to reading the reviews each week, and would dull the profile of the motorcycle industry in this country.

Drew
22nd December 2012, 09:04
Drew, you appear to think that a bike review should be written to sell bikes. That it should instantly make you want to go out and buy one. That's not my motivation when I write. Nor is it the money, because there are better-paid workers to be found at fast-food restaurant counters. Nah, I do it because I love bikes, and I enjoy writing about them while giving the fairest and most honest assessment of them that I can within the limited amount of space I've been given. There isn't a subject in the world that I'd rather write about. It's been this way since my first bike review appeared in Australasian Dirt Bike magazine in the early 1980s. Some appear to think that I'm a car reviewer who has recently started writing about bikes. The reality is that I've previously been a Kiwi Rider feature writer/columnist, had stories published in Two Wheels and Cycle World, and a bike reviewer for various newspapers since the late 1980s. I didn't begin writing about cars until 1993.
Another motivation to write about bikes is that I know that most people enjoy reading the reviews. I'm proud that Fairfax devotes expensive editorial space to the subject based on the feedback they receive from readers. Over my career, these reviews contributed to my winning of six Qantas Media awards for feature writing. They also encouraged Aaron Slight's selection of me as the author of his book.
Which brings me to the question about what motivates you Drew? Most people can read an opinion piece like a bike review, disagree with that opinion, and move on. You appear determined to conduct a witch-hunt with the help of a few mates that could affect Fairfax's enthusiasm to publish motorcycle stories. That 'achievement' wouldn't just hurt me, it would also affect all the people who tell me that they look forward to reading the reviews each week, and would dull the profile of the motorcycle industry in this country.I applaud that you enter into conversation. Your motivation seems as good as it could be too.

But the content is poorly fact checked, and it bothers me. That is my motivation. I do not have any mates, and for the most part the people on here have no time for my lack of self control, or rudeness.

Your writing history certainly looks impressive laid out as you have, and I certainly cannot claim to have any accolade at all, but I don't think that weighs one way or another on this discussion.

This is not an attack, scroll through the pages of dribble I've typed on here, you'll see what an attack looks like. What I wrote in the comments section on Stuff is a plea, for you to please give us an entertaining read, acurately describing the subject.

I'm sure you wont give a fuck, but I do respect that you are here, and on Stuff, replying to me at all.

davereid
22nd December 2012, 09:07
I'm sure you wont give a fuck, but I do respect that you are here, and on Stuff, replying to me at all.

Pretty clearly he does give a fuck, that's why he is here !

Drew
22nd December 2012, 09:12
Pretty clearly he does give a fuck, that's why he is here !
I imagine Mr Owen's motivation, is somewhat due to the fact that I have questioned the validity of his employment. Anyone would defend themselves in his shoes, and the respect of a detractor would mean nothing to them.

ducatilover
22nd December 2012, 13:49
Paul, when you review a bike, you write about the riding experience. A motorcycle review is about the bike, not some impossibly boring wafflings of somebody who knows little about the bike on hand (the MOTO3 comments and other such silly ramblings)

I like things in reviews that tell me, how it rides (you know, that thing what where you get on it and stuff) not how you feel about the economic history of the company or some other useless knob gobbling shit.

I'll say it once more: The review is about the bike, not pure verbose puss and inconsequential mumbling about purely uninteresting and unrelated junk.

Here is a constructive critics plan for you:
Ride motorcycle as much as possible, in as many places as you can.
Take notes on how said motorcycle rides and the good and bad points.
Transfer these notes to an articulate and brilliant review on how the bike behaves and how it is/isn't good value
Print paper, post on Stuff.
Recieve thanks from bikers who are now interested in the motorcycle and its competitors, because you sparked their interest.

Please take this on board, merry fucking Christmas :Punk:

MD
22nd December 2012, 17:54
Girls put you handbags down. Retract the claws.

I for one appreciate that at least one person with some media input mentions Motorbikes! We get nothing but negative press all the time. At least Paul makes the effort to remind motoring readers that bike do in fact exist AND ARE FUN

I check out Stuff lots for news, the boring stuff we need to know, and it's great to see a mota-sickle pop up in the thingy side bars

I hope the Editors of Stuff don't see this thread by actual Riders. They will probably decide, f#&% these motorbikes, if they don't want to read about bikes then to hell with it. Lets rerun the Mondeo review for the 12th time.

Any publicity is good publicity as they say.

Berries
22nd December 2012, 18:16
We get nothing but negative press all the time.


Any publicity is good publicity as they say.
Make your mind up.

MD
22nd December 2012, 19:06
Make your mind up.

Ouch! I give you credit for spotting the errors of my slightly intoxicated postings. Well done Mr Berries I admire your work. I had to laugh at myself for that one. As you were, time for a refill.

BMWST?
22nd December 2012, 19:26
i dont think Mr Owens peices are really aimed at "serious motorcyclists i think they are aimed at petrol heads in general who are the only ones who read the motoring liftout articles

Dave-
22nd December 2012, 23:46
Untold respect to Paul for wading in on this, that's a thick skinned journo.

Paul I would like honestly like to know where the moto 3 line about the cbr came from, cause according to information on the Internet it's factually wrong, unless you know something we don't?

jasonu
23rd December 2012, 05:19
Untold respect to Paul for wading in on this, that's a thick skinned journo.

Paul I would like honestly like to know where the moto 3 line about the cbr came from, cause according to anyone who has been within 10 miles of an actual motorcycle it's factually wrong, unless you know something we don't?

There, fixed...

paturoa
30th December 2012, 18:50
Latest online now http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8125213/The-Best-Bikes-of-2012

What is the assembled view of the esteemed KB's journos on this one.

davereid
30th December 2012, 19:00
Latest online now http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8125213/The-Best-Bikes-of-2012

What is the assembled view of the esteemed KB's journos on this one.

He has got scooter of the year nailed.

The PCX150 is an incredible scooter.

And he didn't need do dodge the pricing too hard as they are only 20% more expensive in NZ than overseas.

He rated it at 192 mpg, which makes it about as frugal as it gets.

Unlike the NC700 review in which he missed the crucial points that its $6995US or $12495NZ and we get that wonderful price as Honda NZ pull the ABS off to save money.

pritch
30th December 2012, 19:21
and we get that wonderful price as Honda NZ pull the ABS off to save money.

I do note though that the Honda pamphlets appear to indicate ABS is fitted?
Any lawyers on KB? (The qualified type, not the specialist bush lawyer KB type.)

actungbaby
30th December 2012, 19:32
http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8075624/Take-the-dirty-way-home-on-this-Honda

"First we had the CBR250R single, probably the New Zealand market's most affordable new sportsbike at $7995 as it brought a glimpse of Moto3-class chassis performance to our roads"

I mean seriously...

yes he not that bad least its getting good vibes out there i prefer his style to those that

Try use the same boyish humour to there reviews aghhh

Those crf,s do look nice though

nerrrd
30th December 2012, 19:34
Unlike the NC700 review in which he missed the crucial points that its $6995US or $12495NZ and we get that wonderful price as Honda NZ pull the ABS off to save money.

I've done a fair amount of research on the NC700X and I'm pretty sure the $6995US price version doesn't have ABS in the states; from what I've read the only way to get ABS there is to buy the $8995US DCT version.

The UK reviews always mention it as standard, though.

actungbaby
30th December 2012, 19:39
Girls put you handbags down. Retract the claws.

I for one appreciate that at least one person with some media input mentions Motorbikes! We get nothing but negative press all the time. At least Paul makes the effort to remind motoring readers that bike do in fact exist AND ARE FUN

I check out Stuff lots for news, the boring stuff we need to know, and it's great to see a mota-sickle pop up in the thingy side bars

I hope the Editors of Stuff don't see this thread by actual Riders. They will probably decide, f#&% these motorbikes, if they don't want to read about bikes then to hell with it. Lets rerun the Mondeo review for the 12th time.

Any publicity is good publicity as they say.

Right on its like the video game reviews in the tv guide i just happy they are there
I mean if gets 5 people to that dont ride bikes to think hmm and go to dealer then great.

davereid
30th December 2012, 19:41
I've done a fair amount of research on the NC700X and I'm pretty sure the $6995US price version doesn't have ABS in the states; from what I've read the only way to get ABS there is to buy the $8995US DCT version.

The UK reviews always mention it as standard, though.

Yep $6995 is MRSP without ABS. MRSP is MAX price... up to you if you pay that

Drew
30th December 2012, 19:45
Don't see anything wrong with the write up. I don't agree but he's ridden more of the bikes than I have.

He certainly has an affliction for trying to liken road bikes to GP though doesn't he?

Akzle
30th December 2012, 19:50
Any lawyers on KB? (The qualified type, not the specialist bush lawyer KB type.)

i'm a.....
//wait. you saw that coming.

actungbaby
30th December 2012, 19:52
Allow me to take this opportunity to wish all Kiwi Biker forum participants a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2013. I'd also like to thank you for support. The bike reviews published by stuff.co.nz are originally written for the readership of the Dominion Post in Wellington and The Press in Christchurch and both papers recorded significant increases in readership during independent audits during 2012. Some of this success is no doubt due to the creators of this thread. Many thanks once again, and let's all keep the rubber side down in 2013.

Thanks paul keep up the writing mate, i think you get basics right point out alot stuff the so

called expert writers forget what the bike like to ride ... all the best for 2013 buddy

actungbaby
30th December 2012, 19:58
Latest online now http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8125213/The-Best-Bikes-of-2012

What is the assembled view of the esteemed KB's journos on this one.

Think hes right the money with his picks all good bikes

Just finsished reading 2 wheels bike the year pretty much same picks

sil3nt
30th December 2012, 22:04
I guess price wasn't a criteria in the best learner commuter category. Why a learner would want to commute on a $17,500 motorcycle is beyond me....

Interesting choice of the F3 over the Daytona. Well more interesting in that the Daytona isn't mentioned or given joint honours given every other review I have read places them so close together.

Drew
31st December 2012, 05:32
I guess price wasn't a criteria in the best learner commuter category. Why a learner would want to commute on a $17,500 motorcycle is beyond me....

Interesting choice of the F3 over the Daytona. Well more interesting in that the Daytona isn't mentioned or given joint honours given every other review I have read places them so close together.

I don't understand the Ducati either. But I have a special chip on my shoulder when it comes to that brand, so it just looks like more sour grapes.

The Triumph has been around for a long time now. Maybe it doesn't look good to compare a brand new bike, to a 3 year old one, (or however long ago it was they had a revamp).

DMNTD
31st December 2012, 06:01
I guess price wasn't a criteria in the best learner commuter category. Why a learner would want to commute on a $17,500 motorcycle is beyond me.....

Plenty many learners are in the age group that can afford a $17k bike without any stress what so ever therefore it would be like some young fella buying a cheap VTR250 or similar to learn on.

White trash
10th January 2013, 20:41
Paul, you sneaky old bugger. Have you been taking our comments on board?

I think this 200 Duke test (http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8146205/The-Indian-Duke-of-Mattighofen) is probably your best yet. Great review.

Hitcher
10th January 2013, 21:32
I think this 200 Duke test (http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8146205/The-Indian-Duke-of-Mattighofen) is probably your best yet. Great review.

Although it appears he has a bit of learning to do about tyres and what they do.

onearmedbandit
10th January 2013, 22:24
Although it appears he has a bit of learning to do about tyres and what they do.

Why do you say that?

White trash
11th January 2013, 06:05
Why do you say that?

Probably because despite them being built in India, I found the tyres to be fine in either wet or dry conditions. I'd also hazard a guess that I punt the Duke a little harder than most of it's target market.

Crasherfromwayback
11th January 2013, 06:34
Paul, you sneaky old bugger. Have you been taking our comments on board?

I think this 200 Duke test (http://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/bikes/8146205/The-Indian-Duke-of-Mattighofen) is probably your best yet. Great review.

Got anything to do with the fact you sell them?

White trash
11th January 2013, 07:04
Nah mate, more to do with the fact he actually rode the fucken thing! I don't actually believe it myself.

onearmedbandit
11th January 2013, 09:44
Probably because despite them being built in India, I found the tyres to be fine in either wet or dry conditions. I'd also hazard a guess that I punt the Duke a little harder than most of it's target market.

I couldn't see what Hitcher was referring to regarding Paul not being aware of 'what tyres are and what they do'.