Ninja 300R

[brendonjw]

http://www.kawasaki.ca/model/STREET-TOURING/1518/Ninja-300

39 ponies and 27nm weighing in at 172kg wet if im reading that properly, could be a good lams bike with a little more go than the current 250's, it also has a slipper clutch, not sure it needs it but oh well. Doesnt look too bad to me and its good to see some more sub 600cc models coming out. Looks like Honda might be putting out a CBR500 early next year too along as rumours of a CBR400R

[ducatilover]

Looks to be a nicer bike than the grossly shit current lot :yes: I'd ride one (can't look at the wannabe big bike looks when you're on it) I do think it's a wee bit heavy for a small bike though, that's only 3kg lighter than my million year old 600

[tbs]

It would make a nice little commuter.
Having ridden the 250r on the track I'd say the slipper clutch would be a welcome addition.

[cameron.new]

Don't know if anyone else has splurged on one yet but I have been crazy enough to acquire the first one in the Waikato :D

Still scared as hell riding it as I am a little rusty and haven't owned a bike in 4 years but am loving every second on her.

270858

[tnarg]

Enjoy. I think I saw one out on my ride yesterday. Nice looking bike.

[cameron.new]

It was love at first sight haha. Yea they come in the Special Edition model (the one I have) and they also have Black, and White available in NZ. They are gonna own the LAMS market I reckon.

Can't say much for performance yet as she is still being broken in...

[Hellzie]

Nice bike Cameron.new
:woohoo:

[LankyBastard]

Sweet looking machine mate! Didn't know they had arrived on our shores yet, congrats!! :Punk:

[cameron.new]

Thanks guys, she's a beauty. Still haven't named her yet though :mellow:

There are a couple around NZ but not sure on the Special Edition (Ebony/Green) colours.

There is a white one in Wellington and there could well be a back one in Auckland.

Once I break her in, I'll go show her off up in Auckland. :yes:

[Maha]

Thanks guys, she's a beauty. Still haven't named her yet though :mellow:

There are a couple around NZ but not sure on the Special Edition (Ebony/Green) colours.

There is a white one in Wellington and there could well be a back one in Auckland.

Once I break her in, I'll go show her off up in Auckland. :yes:

The green/black is the choice of colour schemes for sure.
Pays to shop around, $1000 difference in price from store to store.

[LankyBastard]

The green/black is the choice of colour schemes for sure.
Well priced also.

Thought you may be on here recruiting for November.... it'll be well run in by then :yes:

[Kermit250]

Keep in mind with weight figures that only very recently have manufacturers starting becoming a little more honest with their weight figures. So the comment about a "million year old 600" being similar weight, in real life may be quite different.

They still aren't entirely there yet however as far as honest figures :bash:

Nice bike by the way, looks the business that's for sure!

[Maha]

Sweet looking machine mate! Didn't know they had arrived on our shores yet, congrats!! :Punk:

Good point....:yes:


My bike is way cool and needs a good run up North somewhere soon :scooter:

Well, as it so happens...there is a learner friendly three day tour of Northland roads coming in November...check the link in my sig.
Or look here ----->> http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/152948-Te-Whakawi-U-Turners-Northland-Ride-(16-18-Nov)

[ducatilover]

Keep in mind with weight figures that only very recently have manufacturers starting becoming a little more honest with their weight figures. So the comment about a "million year old 600" being similar weight, in real life may be quite different.

They still aren't entirely there yet however as far as honest figures :bash:

Nice bike by the way, looks the business that's for sure!
Probably is quite accurate as I've had mine weighed :yes: 175kg without oil, coolant and petrol

[Kermit250]

Probably is quite accurate as I've had mine weighed :yes: 175kg without oil, coolant and petrol

Wow! ok I retract my statement.

That surprised me, most bikes I've weighed have been quite different to manf spec's up until about 2007-2008 ish

[ducatilover]

Wow! ok I retract my statement.

That surprised me, most bikes I've weighed have been quite different to manf spec's up until about 2007-2008 ish
My 600 was claimed to be 195 dry.
But it's not quite normal. :shifty:
I do imagine the 300R would hide its weight better though being a twin and not as fat around the belly as mine

[Glowerss]

Congrats on a fantastic looking bike. Didn't know they were on our shores yet, they were only announced a few months ago.

Be interested to see a report from somebody who owns one! If I had the coin I'd own one for sure.

[actungbaby]

Don't know if anyone else has splurged on one yet but I have been crazy enough to acquire the first one in the Waikato :D

Still scared as hell riding it as I am a little rusty and haven't owned a bike in 4 years but am loving every second on her.

Nice mate love the 25o so the 300 got to be cool

[actungbaby]

Probably is quite accurate as I've had mine weighed :yes: 175kg without oil, coolant and petrol

I took my cbx 400 had weighed at my dads work with full tank petrol oil was 440.00 lbs

that was back in the day on chch weigh bridge

I dont think weight figures from factory even included air in the tires hehe

And think fork angle matters for actuall feel i sat on cagiva 650 and felt like bloody elphant yuk

What piece of junk the vfr 800 in the same shop felt so much better compact and cagiva was a twin

[ducatilover]

That's bang on 200kg (maths in my brain), that's light!
Steering angle, riding position and C.O.G make the difference, my 600 feels heavier than it did with the factory triple clamp off set because it has a shit load more trail, and it's lost over 20kg :facepalm:

[cameron.new]

Congrats on a fantastic looking bike. Didn't know they were on our shores yet, they were only announced a few months ago.

Be interested to see a report from somebody who owns one! If I had the coin I'd own one for sure.

I'm no seasoned professional but i'll try get a a review when I can. She needs some riding time first though.

[GrayWolf]

I wonder if its just a 'modernised/tuned version of this motor?

http://www.bikez.com/motorcycles/kawasaki_gpz_305_belt_drive_reduced_effect_1988.ph p


http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/kawasaki/kawasaki_gpz305.htm

I cant see them developing a whole new engine for this, The current 250 twin can just about be traced back to the original 250 scorpion of the late 70's..

[cameron.new]

I wonder if its just a 'modernised/tuned version of this motor?

http://www.bikez.com/motorcycles/kawasaki_gpz_305_belt_drive_reduced_effect_1988.ph p


http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/kawasaki/kawasaki_gpz305.htm

I cant see them developing a whole new engine for this, The current 250 twin can just about be traced back to the original 250 scorpion of the late 70's..

From what I have been told, It's just a stroked out version of the Ninja 250r engine.

[Reubix]

Took one for a test ride and it's not bad. Not leaps and bounds over a CBR250R though and the extra 2.5k seems to be sunk into styling - it's a very sexy bike! Lemme know what that bloody 'ECO' symbol is for on the dash.

Personally I'm gonna hang around until March and see if the CBR500R gives me a tickle.

[sil3nt]

Lemme know what that bloody 'ECO' symbol is for on the dash.lights up when you are being a good little boy and getting the best MPG.

Wouldn't mind trying one of the new 300s.

[scott411]

lights up when you are being a good little boy and getting the best MPG.

Wouldn't mind trying one of the new 300s.

Hamilton MC will have the demo fleet of KAwasaki's in a couple of weeks, Motorad have them this weekend, then New Plymouth Motorcycles for a week, then to Hamilton for a week

[f2dz]

Read a couple of reviews, nothing that stellar really. I'll stick to the 250 for now.

In four or so years when their price drops I'd probably consider it, but I'd rather grab the 636 by then.

[cowboyz]

the 300R is the smartest thing kawasaki has done since the 250R.

Remodelling the EX250 to look sporty and apealing won kawasaki huge favours with the L platers... and now they have done it again with the Lams. Someone there is earning their money.

[Glowerss]

the 300R is the smartest thing kawasaki has done since the 250R.

Remodelling the EX250 to look sporty and apealing won kawasaki huge favours with the L platers... and now they have done it again with the Lams. Someone there is earning their money.

Shame they're horrendously overpriced for what they are. Nearly $10,000 brand new is ludicrous. You can buy a brand new 650ninja for that amount.

If Hondas new 500s are priced reasonably, I'd expect them to outsell the kwackas pretty heavily.

[cowboyz]

Ha!! IF Hondas are reasonably priced??? Your serious? If kwakas were so badly priced there wouldn't be a waiting list!!

[Glowerss]

Ha!! IF Hondas are reasonably priced??? Your serious? If kwakas were so badly priced there wouldn't be a waiting list!!

Always people with more money then sense. Doesn't make 10k for a learner bike, and over double what they cost in the states, a reasonably priced bike :shutup:

[cameron.new]

Shame they're horrendously overpriced for what they are. Nearly $10,000 brand new is ludicrous. You can buy a brand new 650ninja for that amount.

If Hondas new 500s are priced reasonably, I'd expect them to outsell the kwackas pretty heavily.

A brand new Ninja 650R is actually $14,400 plus ORC. And not LAMS approved.

If you want a new Learners bike and want to pay as little as possible, buy the carbed Ninja 250R on special.

[nzspokes]

A brand new Ninja 650R is actually $14,400 plus ORC. And not LAMS approved.

If you want a new Learners bike and want to pay as little as possible, buy the carbed Ninja 250R on special.

Or just go buy a 250 Hornet which is twice the bike for 3 to 4k.

You would have to have rocks in your head to buy a brand new learners bike.

[cameron.new]

The CB900F will most likely be my next bike but I reckon the hornets are very plain looking. Everyone has their reasons for buying new. If your statement was correct, would anyone be selling new bikes?

Dealers have bugger all decent used bikes these days and it's a pain in the ass to go see a bike if you live in Hamilton. Gave up after the second trip to Auckland. I personally like the fact that I have a dealer to return to, a warranty, and a hot looking bike :)

[Glowerss]

A brand new Ninja 650R is actually $14,400 plus ORC. And not LAMS approved.

If you want a new Learners bike and want to pay as little as possible, buy the carbed Ninja 250R on special.

You don't know how to shop apparently.
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-284527147.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-532676288.htm

Obviously they're not LAMS approved. But buying a 300 for 800$ less then the full monty just to ride 18months is insane.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-532071665.htm Is LAMS approved and at nearly half the price you could repair the damn thing half a dozen times before costing you as much as a ninja 300 (although it's especially unlikely as they've been making em since like bloody 1983). And you won't lose bugger all in resale value as they're pretty coveted LAMS bikes.

I'm going with spokes on this one. They could be the best LAMS bike in the world, but buying a brand new LAMS bike is nuts unless you're one of the lucky few in the world to be rolling in dosh and just looking for an excuse to spend it. Or you plan on keeping it 4 or 5 years I suppose.

[ducatilover]

If your statement was correct, would anyone be selling new bikes?


He is correct, you're just a magpie bro.

[nzspokes]

The CB900F will most likely be my next bike but I reckon the hornets are very plain looking. Everyone has their reasons for buying new. If your statement was correct, would anyone be selling new bikes?

Dealers have bugger all decent used bikes these days and it's a pain in the ass to go see a bike if you live in Hamilton. Gave up after the second trip to Auckland. I personally like the fact that I have a dealer to return to, a warranty, and a hot looking bike :)

Hornet will be more reliable, ride better, be faster and depreciate less.

[Slicksta]

Hornet will be more reliable, ride better, be faster and depreciate less.

Having ridden both perhaps I could answer those assumptions for you.

"Hornet will be more reliable"
Time will tell that is an assumption based on not much. Granted the Hornet/CBR 250s are known to be fairly solid but the EX/Ninja 250s are not known to break down constantly.

"Ride better"
Don't know where you got that from. The ninja 300 is a bunch of fun to ride I jumped on one recently just after riding a er6n and it put a smile on my face throwing it into corners it feels very stable light and manoeuvrable not saying again that the hornet falls down here just saying "rides better" is rather a blanket statement. Personally I preferred the riding characteristics of the ninja 300 as it has more torque.

"be faster"
Mate there is so little difference here that you wont notice the ninja 300 is rated at 29kw and the hornet is rated the same. Torque is listed on the hornet as 24 nm and the Ninja 300 is 27 nm. Dry weight is listed on the hornet as 151kgs and the Ninja 300 is 152kgs (eat a few less pies) Top speed on the Ninja 300 is supposed to be around 186Kph and the Hornet is 180Kph.

"depreciate less"
Here I will disagree. There is now little reason to own an old linline 4 250 with the lams laws. Perhaps the only reason a Hornet would depreciate less is because you buy it 2nd hand and 2nd hand goods are more likely to depreciate less than new ones.

Having ridden the Ninja 300 I like it so much I ordered one and I do not class myself as a N00b rider.
(altho I may cancel my order as Hamilton Motorcycle Centre do not think to let a customer know of a month delay on there order had to call and find out)

[nzspokes]

Having ridden both perhaps I could answer those assumptions for you.

"Hornet will be more reliable"
Time will tell that is an assumption based on not much. Granted the Hornet/CBR 250s are known to be fairly solid but the EX/Ninja 250s are not known to break down constantly.

"Ride better"
Don't know where you got that from. The ninja 300 is a bunch of fun to ride I jumped on one recently just after riding a er6n and it put a smile on my face throwing it into corners it feels very stable light and manoeuvrable not saying again that the hornet falls down here just saying "rides better" is rather a blanket statement. Personally I preferred the riding characteristics of the ninja 300 as it has more torque.

"be faster"
Mate there is so little difference here that you wont notice the ninja 300 is rated at 29kw and the hornet is rated the same. Torque is listed on the hornet as 24 nm and the Ninja 300 is 27 nm. Dry weight is listed on the hornet as 151kgs and the Ninja 300 is 152kgs (eat a few less pies) Top speed on the Ninja 300 is supposed to be around 186Kph and the Hornet is 180Kph.

"depreciate less"
Here I will disagree. There is now little reason to own an old linline 4 250 with the lams laws. Perhaps the only reason a Hornet would depreciate less is because you buy it 2nd hand and 2nd hand goods are more likely to depreciate less than new ones.

Having ridden the Ninja 300 I like it so much I ordered one and I do not class myself as a N00b rider.
(altho I may cancel my order as Hamilton Motorcycle Centre do not think to let a customer know of a month delay on there order had to call and find out)

Ridden a 250 Hornet? Best you do.

[Slicksta]

Having ridden both perhaps I could answer those assumptions for you /snip


Ridden a 250 Hornet? Best you do.

Yes I have as I said.

In fact the Hornet 250 didn't tempt me at but the a 2008 hornet 600 on the other hand....

[sil3nt]

Having ridden both perhaps I could answer those assumptions for you.

"Hornet will be more reliable"
Time will tell that is an assumption based on not much. Granted the Hornet/CBR 250s are known to be fairly solid but the EX/Ninja 250s are not known to break down constantly.

"Ride better"
Don't know where you got that from. The ninja 300 is a bunch of fun to ride I jumped on one recently just after riding a er6n and it put a smile on my face throwing it into corners it feels very stable light and manoeuvrable not saying again that the hornet falls down here just saying "rides better" is rather a blanket statement. Personally I preferred the riding characteristics of the ninja 300 as it has more torque.

"be faster"
Mate there is so little difference here that you wont notice the ninja 300 is rated at 29kw and the hornet is rated the same. Torque is listed on the hornet as 24 nm and the Ninja 300 is 27 nm. Dry weight is listed on the hornet as 151kgs and the Ninja 300 is 152kgs (eat a few less pies) Top speed on the Ninja 300 is supposed to be around 186Kph and the Hornet is 180Kph.

"depreciate less"
Here I will disagree. There is now little reason to own an old linline 4 250 with the lams laws. Perhaps the only reason a Hornet would depreciate less is because you buy it 2nd hand and 2nd hand goods are more likely to depreciate less than new ones.

Having ridden the Ninja 300 I like it so much I ordered one and I do not class myself as a N00b rider.
(altho I may cancel my order as Hamilton Motorcycle Centre do not think to let a customer know of a month delay on there order had to call and find out)Good post. Would be surprised if those knocking it have even seen it in the flesh let alone ridden it.

The service at Hamilton Motorcycle Centre is shit. I do my best to avoid them now. Not actually liking my chances of a test ride when they get the demo fleet next week.

[nzspokes]

Good post. Would be surprised if those knocking it have even seen it in the flesh let alone ridden it.



I have no interest in seeing one. And dont want to ride one. Zx12 would be a different story.

[sil3nt]

I have no interest in seeing one. And dont want to ride one. Zx12 would be a different story.How can you say a hornet will be more reliable, faster, better handling when you haven't even ridden the ninja? :facepalm:

Sorry maybe you were just trolling :laugh:

Would prefer the 10 over the 12 I think. 12 seems a bit of a monster.

[ducatilover]

Soooooooooo

Anyone interested in letting me have a ride on the EX300??

The Hornet will be more reliable, I bet a box on it. I have yet to see an EX/ZZR/GPZ/GPZ pass 100k on an unopened motor. I've seen several CBR/CB250s do it.

Ride better. I'll be the judge of that, I've had a hoon on a shit load of little Hornets and, for what they are, they ride extremely well (best riding small bike IMO)

Depreciate: Hornet is still fairly modern and a very proven bike, it is good, not an old heap in a skirt.

I am more than happy to take a 300R for a tootle and write what I think, if it trumps the Hornet, I'll be a happy fellow.



One would be fair to assume the 300R rides like an improved 250R (which is a budget heap), if not, I'll sing its praises all day long.


So yeah, gizz a go and I'll be happy to do a write up

[cameron.new]

You don't know how to shop apparently.
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-284527147.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-532676288.htm

Obviously they're not LAMS approved. But buying a 300 for 800$ less then the full monty just to ride 18months is insane.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-532071665.htm Is LAMS approved and at nearly half the price you could repair the damn thing half a dozen times before costing you as much as a ninja 300 (although it's especially unlikely as they've been making em since like bloody 1983). And you won't lose bugger all in resale value as they're pretty coveted LAMS bikes.

I'm going with spokes on this one. They could be the best LAMS bike in the world, but buying a brand new LAMS bike is nuts unless you're one of the lucky few in the world to be rolling in dosh and just looking for an excuse to spend it. Or you plan on keeping it 4 or 5 years I suppose.

Being a Learner licenced rider, the er6n is out of the question. I have in-fact ridden one before and apart from the extra power, I still prefer the Ninja 300 in every other way. I am not a biased idiot trying to convince you guys why I have spent 10K on the Ninja, I simply found a bike that suits me well and have no regrets.



He is correct, you're just a magpie bro.

Who is correct and who is the magpie?


Hornet will be more reliable, ride better, be faster and depreciate less.

Depreciate less, yes! More reliable, ride better and be faster, questionable.


Having ridden both perhaps I could answer those assumptions for you.

"Hornet will be more reliable"
Time will tell that is an assumption based on not much. Granted the Hornet/CBR 250s are known to be fairly solid but the EX/Ninja 250s are not known to break down constantly.

"Ride better"
Don't know where you got that from. The ninja 300 is a bunch of fun to ride I jumped on one recently just after riding a er6n and it put a smile on my face throwing it into corners it feels very stable light and manoeuvrable not saying again that the hornet falls down here just saying "rides better" is rather a blanket statement. Personally I preferred the riding characteristics of the ninja 300 as it has more torque.

"be faster"
Mate there is so little difference here that you wont notice the ninja 300 is rated at 29kw and the hornet is rated the same. Torque is listed on the hornet as 24 nm and the Ninja 300 is 27 nm. Dry weight is listed on the hornet as 151kgs and the Ninja 300 is 152kgs (eat a few less pies) Top speed on the Ninja 300 is supposed to be around 186Kph and the Hornet is 180Kph.

"depreciate less"
Here I will disagree. There is now little reason to own an old linline 4 250 with the lams laws. Perhaps the only reason a Hornet would depreciate less is because you buy it 2nd hand and 2nd hand goods are more likely to depreciate less than new ones.

Having ridden the Ninja 300 I like it so much I ordered one and I do not class myself as a N00b rider.
(altho I may cancel my order as Hamilton Motorcycle Centre do not think to let a customer know of a month delay on there order had to call and find out)

Thanks Slicksta! At least someone is on my side! I can't believe how much people here love bashing on the new members/riders. I thought this forum was all about bringing bikers together and sharing tips, experiences and opinions. Everyone has a right to their own opinion. If you dislike the Ninja 300, fine by me. I'm not going to go lock myself in my room and go have a cry about it. I haven't been on half the bikes you guys may have ridden but even if I absolutely despise a bike that one of you may have, that's my own problem to worry about. You just go enjoy it anyway and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

I'm all for this forum and love being a 2 wheel rider but if you are out to contest and bash against me just because my taste may differ from yourself or the majority, go to the welcome section and bash on someone else!


I have no interest in seeing one. And dont want to ride one. Zx12 would be a different story.

Sweet as. I have no interest in riding a ZX-12r but that's just me. If you are into them, bloody good on you..


Now I've said my bit! Who wants to go next? (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-b7rYgzzpM) :corn:

[ducatilover]

Who is correct and who is the magpie?




Not sure now...too much wine mehaps?

I'm very interested to ride the 300 however. I didn't think the 250 was worth buying over an old one (including the tacky looks...) but the added pep might make it an amusing little bike.
If it makes me smile after my little toys, it's good

[sil3nt]

The Hornet will be more reliable, I bet a box on it. I have yet to see an EX/ZZR/GPZ/GPZ pass 100k on an unopened motor. I've seen several CBR/CB250s do it.
Have a read http://faq.ninja250.org/wiki/100,000_miles_on_an_EX250

86,000 miles and only a worn camchain.

Statements like yours just seem silly to me. A bit like people not buying specific brands because their "mate had one that kept breaking" yet everyone else has no troubles at all.

If the 300 can't do 100K with only normal servicing then Kawasaki are somehow going backwards in reliability which seems a little unlikely. They sure as hell wouldn't make the same bike for 20 years if there was any issue with reliability!

[nzspokes]

How can you say a hornet will be more reliable, faster, better handling when you haven't even ridden the ninja? :facepalm:



Why would I want to ride a bike that has the capacity of one of my cylinders on my bike?

Ive ridden Hornets and they just go and go.

[ducatilover]

Have a read http://faq.ninja250.org/wiki/100,000_miles_on_an_EX250

86,000 miles and only a worn camchain.

Statements like yours just seem silly to me. A bit like people not buying specific brands because their "mate had one that kept breaking" yet everyone else has no troubles at all.

If the 300 can't do 100K with only normal servicing then Kawasaki are somehow going backwards in reliability which seems a little unlikely. They sure as hell wouldn't make the same bike for 20 years if there was any issue with reliability!
I've seen many drop valves, spit rods and bend valves after throwing tensioner wobblies.
I was saying, I have yet to see one do 100k, and well, now I have.
You might notice I'm forever recommending the GPX/ZZR because they will usually manage 80,000km with typical NZ riders on 'em. But I recommend the Hornet over one as they are nicer and in 90% of cases, more reliable.

I love my Kawasaki...

If the 300 manages those kms, good. It's still not great value just like the EX250, simply because it's new and offers nothing that older bikes don't (exception of the not so nice FI system)

[cameron.new]

Assuming that the Hornet 250 has a Te-tuned CBR250RR engine, that means that they would have cam gears right? That would make them go and go. I agree that the Hornet 250 would be a damn reliable bike.

Haha and to think I was worried about all the shit I was gonna get buying a new Hyosung :)

[nzspokes]

Assuming that the Hornet 250 has a Te-tuned CBR250RR engine, that means that they would have cam gears right? That would make them go and go. I agree that the Hornet 250 would be a damn reliable bike.

Haha and to think I was worried about all the shit I was gonna get buying a new Hyosung :)

Ive got a Hyosung 650 race bike, your point is?

[ducatilover]

Assuming that the Hornet 250 has a Te-tuned CBR250RR engine, that means that they would have cam gears right? That would make them go and go. I agree that the Hornet 250 would be a damn reliable bike.


Yup, thicker headgasket, less agressive cams, different carbs, different ignition advance curves and different exhaust. 40hp instead of 45

[GrayWolf]

Soooooooooo

Anyone interested in letting me have a ride on the EX300??

The Hornet will be more reliable, I bet a box on it. I have yet to see an EX/ZZR/GPZ/GPZ pass 100k on an unopened motor. I've seen several CBR/CB250s do it.

Ride better. I'll be the judge of that, I've had a hoon on a shit load of little Hornets and, for what they are, they ride extremely well (best riding small bike IMO)

Depreciate: Hornet is still fairly modern and a very proven bike, it is good, not an old heap in a skirt.

I am more than happy to take a 300R for a tootle and write what I think, if it trumps the Hornet, I'll be a happy fellow.



One would be fair to assume the 300R rides like an improved 250R (which is a budget heap), if not, I'll sing its praises all day long.


So yeah, gizz a go and I'll be happy to do a write up

One of the 250 Hornets BIG advantages is that it's in a frame that way out performs the engine's capabilities. So it has probably got some of the best overall handling abilities in the 250 class. I'd agree most Honda's are built extremely well, their biggest 'fault' over the years has been a lack of user (maintenance) friendliness.
The other side of this coin is, regardless of 'how good' these old hornets are, thy are 'mostly' just that OLD and the K's ARE piling on.
There HAS to come a point where these machines are no longer viable as a really reliable and serious option... With Lam's regardless of 'rose tinted' specs... and gawd help us, most of us old buggers wear them!! The options now seriously outweigh the Hornets finite abilities.. for Hornet pricing I can buy a GS500, This is going to be the 'decider' for the old 250's... the exorbitant prices they have commanded will now start to drop to realistic levels..... The Hornet and similar will soon become the 'second' cheap hack bike options for Winter riding, or 'disposable' learner bikes.

[Glowerss]

One of the 250 Hornets BIG advantages is that it's in a frame that way out performs the engine's capabilities. So it has probably got some of the best overall handling abilities in the 250 class. I'd agree most Honda's are built extremely well, their biggest 'fault' over the years has been a lack of user (maintenance) friendliness.
The other side of this coin is, regardless of 'how good' these old hornets are, thy are 'mostly' just that OLD and the K's ARE piling on.
There HAS to come a point where these machines are no longer viable as a really reliable and serious option... With Lam's regardless of 'rose tinted' specs... and gawd help us, most of us old buggers wear them!! The options now seriously outweigh the Hornets finite abilities.. for Hornet pricing I can buy a GS500, This is going to be the 'decider' for the old 250's... the exorbitant prices they have commanded will now start to drop to realistic levels..... The Hornet and similar will soon become the 'second' cheap hack bike options for Winter riding, or 'disposable' learner bikes.

Bear in mind, that the oldest Hornets you can find are 96 or 97. They were made all the way until 06 or 08. You can still find damn near new ones around for GS500 money. There are also quite a few KBers that have had their 250 hornets do well over 100k kms. Shit, Gijoes was stolen when it had over 110,000 KMs on it. I'd imagine as more of the newer hornets migrate here from Japan, they'll still be a choice learner bike for quite awhile. They certainly have more then enough oomph to get you through the 2 years on your Ls n Rs.

The other IL4 250s though, I'd agree with you. I wouldn't touch a zxr/fzr/bandit250 with a 10 foot pole. Don't know if I'd buy a CBR250 either, simply because the likelyhood it's been beaten to death is high. It took me some convincing that the Hornets would be alright as well.

Anyway, too much choice out there for a 10,000$ learner bike :nono: Need Suzuki to put GS500s back into production for a reasonable Sum.

[Slicksta]

Good post. Would be surprised if those knocking it have even seen it in the flesh let alone ridden it.

The service at Hamilton Motorcycle Centre is shit. I do my best to avoid them now. Not actually liking my chances of a test ride when they get the demo fleet next week.

You are more than welcome to take out my ninja 300 if I end up getting it. Bit of a shame about our local dealer, did they tell you they are in next week? They didn't think to inform me as I only as I have a grand deposit on one.


Soooooooooo

Anyone interested in letting me have a ride on the EX300??

The Hornet will be more reliable, I bet a box on it. I have yet to see an EX/ZZR/GPZ/GPZ pass 100k on an unopened motor. I've seen several CBR/CB250s do it.

Ride better. I'll be the judge of that, I've had a hoon on a shit load of little Hornets and, for what they are, they ride extremely well (best riding small bike IMO)

Depreciate: Hornet is still fairly modern and a very proven bike, it is good, not an old heap in a skirt.

I am more than happy to take a 300R for a tootle and write what I think, if it trumps the Hornet, I'll be a happy fellow.



One would be fair to assume the 300R rides like an improved 250R (which is a budget heap), if not, I'll sing its praises all day long.


So yeah, gizz a go and I'll be happy to do a write up

You can ride it next time mine next time you are in Hamilton (if I end up getting it). In the mean time I can ask Carver to do a write up on it.


Ive got a Hyosung 650 race bike, your point is?

Your so nice to our new members Mr nzspokes, clearly he was referring to the shit people normally give people on 250 Hyosungs.

[ducatilover]

You can ride it next time mine next time you are in Hamilton (if I end up getting it). In the mean time I can ask Carver to do a write up on it.



:niceone: I look forward to it

I wrote out a response to Graywolf, but my webternets fucked out, but, I agree with him.
The HOrnets aren't yet that long in the tooth though as mentioned just below, but the GS is great value and everyone seems to forget the ZZR400N (can be had fairly late model and is an actual proper size bike with stable handling and nice brakes)
And the GPZ500/EX5 twins, also great bikes

[sil3nt]

Bit of a shame about our local dealer, did they tell you they are in next week?The demo stock is in from the 12th of December for one week I was told.

[Edbear]

Ive got a Hyosung 650 race bike, your point is?

How does it compare to the SV? Sorry about the off-topic but I've been wondering about this for a long time.

I like the 300 and if I can ever persuade my surgeon and Mrs. I'd love to try one out. I did think about trying one secretly but my history would suggest it would all turn to custard and I'd be in real trouble... <_<

[ducatilover]

How does it compare to the SV? Sorry about the off-topic but I've been wondering about this for a long time.


It weighs more and also has budget suspension?
Good commuter and great value though

[nzspokes]

How does it compare to the SV? Sorry about the off-topic but I've been wondering about this for a long time.



Dont know much about SVs but the Hyobag is very easy to Mod and tune. Suspension for the front seems to be a simple shim stack deal, rear shock is a replace it thing. Our one was gutless but have found it had a cracked inlet manifold and ripped carb diaphragm on the same cyl. So is was running as a 325..... Thats been sorted and it seems to rev stacks better. Im halfway through gutting the muffler. Hope to have it back going over xmas. Will be a laugh. Is really just for track days.

[ducatilover]

Dont know much about SVs but the Hyobag is very easy to Mod and tune. Suspension for the front seems to be a simple shim stack deal, rear shock is a replace it thing. Our one was gutless but have found it had a cracked inlet manifold and ripped carb diaphragm on the same cyl. So is was running as a 325..... Thats been sorted and it seems to rev stacks better. Im halfway through gutting the muffler. Hope to have it back going over xmas. Will be a laugh. Is really just for track days.
I reckon it'll be fun. They had around 72hp out the box yeah? Which, being a twin, should be a giggle or three on the track (all I see is apex + full powahhhhh)

[Slicksta]

Well I got my ninja 300 today took it out to Raglan was a good bit of fun! Apparently these are now back ordered till April.

http://i48.tinypic.com/2vamuf8.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/2j30g3c.jpg

[catharsis]

Such a good looking bike!
I never rode one but seriously considered buying one before deciding to go the 2009 ninja and save some money for my next bike.
It looks beautiful man, well done. Enjoy it!

[actungbaby]

Such a good looking bike!
I never rode one but seriously considered buying one before deciding to go the 2009 ninja and save some money for my next bike.
It looks beautiful man, well done. Enjoy it!

sorry for getting on the disscusion but my dads ex 250 ninja for sale anyones intrested

2009 low kms $5000

[actungbaby]

[QUOTE=Slicksta;1130446704]Well I got my ninja 300 today took it out to Raglan was a good bit of fun! Apparently these are now back ordered till April.



wow it looks realy nice bike love the fairing hows that slipper clutch go does make down shifts smoother

[ducatilover]

Holy fuck Batman, did they at any point consider putting down the pencils when designing it?
That's an intense looking little machine

[tbs]

Nice looking bike. I'm all about smaller bikes looking as bad-ass as their bigger brothers. Should be a fun little bike in the twisties for sure.

Based on my experience on the 250 I'd waste no time in getting rid of the stock rubber and putting some Pirelli Sport Demons on instead. That's assuming they still come with the dreadful IRC Road Winners, which frankly, handle like wood. Then take it to the track and embarrass a few riders on 600s and thou's.

b.

[Bassmatt]

Thats one cool looking bike. Congrats.

[Slicksta]

Such a good looking bike!
I never rode one but seriously considered buying one before deciding to go the 2009 ninja and save some money for my next bike.
It looks beautiful man, well done. Enjoy it!

Thanks :)


[QUOTE=Slicksta;1130446704]Well I got my ninja 300 today took it out to Raglan was a good bit of fun! Apparently these are now back ordered till April.



wow it looks realy nice bike love the fairing hows that slipper clutch go does make down shifts smoother

Yeah it does seem too. Clutch is nice smooth dropping down is smooth, tried to lock it up on the way home from work its not terribly easy.


Holy fuck Batman, did they at any point consider putting down the pencils when designing it?
That's an intense looking little machine

Hahaha I like the style, does not look like a small bike in person.


Nice looking bike. I'm all about smaller bikes looking as bad-ass as their bigger brothers. Should be a fun little bike in the twisties for sure.

Based on my experience on the 250 I'd waste no time in getting rid of the stock rubber and putting some Pirelli Sport Demons on instead. That's assuming they still come with the dreadful IRC Road Winners, which frankly, handle like wood. Then take it to the track and embarrass a few riders on 600s and thou's.

b.

Way ahead of you :) before it had left the shop it had sports demons on it, I would never trust my fate to IRCs I Highsided on them once, shit tires!


Thats one cool looking bike. Congrats.

Thanks