Coming around for a cruiser

[Reubix]

Heya Team

I got f**ked over on a purchase of a 250 Rebel, shoulda read the guides on the forums here but in any case I'm flicking it off on TM and looking into something else - besides this whole LAMS thing may work in my favour.

I'm after a nice easy bike to ride for a short person (under 1.7M) that has marvellous fuel economy as I want to explore my new surroundings of the Whanganui-Manawatu region.

I have been looking into the Suzuki S40 Savage, a 2003 model here in town at a dealership with 15k on the clock for $5000. Seems like a good deal but at the same time I want easy cruising at 100KM/H and a decent sized fuel tank. And yeah, leaning towards the cruiser form as it appears to suit shorties like myself but I can be convinced otherwise.

Looking forward to hearing what you gentlemen have to say :corn:

Cheers
Reuben

[Dangsta]

The S40 is okay. I nearly got one but was a bit small. A guy responded to one of my questions by telling me to look around the bike shops and test ride whatever gave me a hard-on. You should do that, buddy.

[Virago]

Hiya,

The S40 has the worst fuel range imaginable - around 120 to 140 Km on a tank. While they're promoted as a cruiser, they're basically a "commuter" - not really designed for open road work. A single-cylinder with little power, and crappy suspension.

There's several LAMS options for V-twin cruisers, but the prices are soaring due to demand.

[James Deuce]

Don't focus on being short. Don't limit your bike options because of it. Don't pay that much for a 10 year old S40 either, that's just a rip off.

GO an sit on a whole bunch of bikes. I have a friend, James, who is 5' nothing and rides a Transalp. He doesn't worry about being short, he simply does a half dismount if he's stuck at the lights for more than 30 seconds (he can balance feet up for a reasonably long period of time) and then just leaps back on as he takes off. Short doesn't have to confine you to motorcycle of a particular style. Seat shape is as important as seat height, and in reality you only have to get one foot comfortably flat on the ground.

Try before you buy and don't spend that much on a 10 year old S40. $3500 at the most. Anything more and seller is dreaming. And you won't have a bike for the pool room.

[Reubix]

Cheers for the heads up so far, definitely learning a bit more about this business. Playing the patience card will pay off in the end!

I've re-scanned what's available and there's a few eye catchers but I'm keen to hear what models you'd recommend.

As far as sitting on a few bikes and winding up a couple of K's on a demo I'm not in the best location for that - perhaps I need to go on a shopping trip down to Wellington? I only know of 3 motorbike shops here in Palmy.

Been looking back at the 250's in particular the Magna, VTR's and there's a CBF125 around town but not too sure if I'd go there...

[Old Steve]

If you're looking at 250s again (and I believe they're easier to ride due to lower weight and low c of g) there's the Suzuki Intruder 250 and it's Korean look alike the Hyosung GV250 (both vee-twins) and the Marauder 250 (single). I'm a little challenged on the inside leg measurement and these three are easily riden by a short arse.

[Reubix]

If you're looking at 250s again (and I believe they're easier to ride due to lower weight and low c of g) there's the Suzuki Intruder 250 and it's Korean look alike the Hyosung GV250 (both vee-twins) and the Marauder 250 (single). I'm a little challenged on the inside leg measurement and these three are easily riden by a short arse.

I like all those models, but I've sat on an intruder and it's a bit fat for me, not too sure of the Hyosung range - may test ride one this weekend but not too sure if it's worth paying $5k for a 2007 model with 10k on the clock (from a shop). And finally I've heard the Marauder isn't a good cruiser as it struggles to maintain that 100KM/H cruising speed (a bit like my old Rebel). However they all boast good fuel economy from what I hear?

[Glowerss]

I like all those models, but I've sat on an intruder and it's a bit fat for me, not too sure of the Hyosung range - may test ride one this weekend but not too sure if it's worth paying $5k for a 2007 model with 10k on the clock (from a shop). And finally I've heard the Marauder isn't a good cruiser as it struggles to maintain that 100KM/H cruising speed (a bit like my old Rebel). However they all boast good fuel economy from what I hear?

I had a squiz on a buddys Kymco Venox. Basically the same thing as the Honda Magna. Kymco made em for honda, and when honda canceled production, kymco just continued making em under their own name.

I don't like cruisers on principle, but the magnas/venoxs are good little bikes. Did 120kph without much drama. Both can be had for fairly reasonable coin.

If you're not dead set on a cruiser, there is a wide range of "standard" bikes (IE sit either bolt upright or SLIGHTLY forward) that would suit your needs as well. I had a Yamaha Scorpio which was a brilliant little bike. Sat upright, very comfortable, and at 120kg all full of fluids and the like, coupled with a short set height, it would be good for a short arse.

Other bikes not of the cruiser variety to consider would be things like the Honda Hornet 250 which is another naked standard and comes very highly recommended (be sure to sit on one, however, as I'm not sure of the seat height off the top of my head).

The sub 2008 model kawasakis can be had VERY reasonably and are geared towards the slightly vertically challenged as well. I'm on a zzr250 and of a very average height. I can flatfloot it with some bend in the knee. It handles the motorway better then my 400 did, as 100-120kph sits right where the engine wants to be running. plenty of power to be had for passing or whatnot. And I'm a fat bastard at 120kg. It should handle somebody lighter much easier :drinknsin


If you're looking for an LAMS bike, there's a few things to know. First of all, that not every eligable bike is on the LAMS list. You can have them added very easily by emailing in an application to the NZTA (link is on another thread in this forum or in the general LAMS thread in the biker politics forum).

If you want to figure out if the bike you're looking at is LAMS compliant or not, the calculation is power in Kilowats Divided by manufacturers specced weight + 90kg, x1000.

IE for the s40 its 28kw/ 250kg x 1000 gives you 112 KW/tonne. Well under the 150kw mark. You could definitely find something a bit beefier if you're going to do some motorway travel. A general rule is, unless it's a heavy fucking bike, anything over sort of 50BHP or so won't make the list.

[HenryDorsetCase]

I am shorter than you, betcha. EVERY bike I have ever had has been "too tall" for me. Sure I have dropped a few over the years but only twice I can think of by having incorrect leg length. I have a 28inch inseam in motorbike boots. Its all about developing skills. Practice your slow speed stuff: cones and turns: not only is it good fun it is good for your confidence. If you want a cruiser go for it, but I wouldnt have one as my only bike.

My current bike is a Triumph STreet Triple R. you should get one of them because they are fantastic.

Not LAMS complient though.

If you want to really explore why not a DR650? or something equivalent (DR250 even).

[HenryDorsetCase]

If I was buying any 250 I would buy a Honda VT250 Spada. Great looking thing, strop along quite well and Honda. Sure it makes you gay (theres your first biker injoke...) but the reliability is worth the buttsecks

[george formby]

I am shorter than you, betcha. EVERY bike I have ever had has been "too tall" for me. Sure I have dropped a few over the years but only twice I can think of by having incorrect leg length. I have a 28inch inseam in motorbike boots. Its all about developing skills. Practice your slow speed stuff: cones and turns: not only is it good fun it is good for your confidence. If you want a cruiser go for it, but I wouldnt have one as my only bike.

My current bike is a Triumph STreet Triple R. you should get one of them because they are fantastic.

Not LAMS complient though.

If you want to really explore why not a DR650? or something equivalent (DR250 even).

I concur. The G/F has learned to ride on a trailie & has the inside leg of a Hobbit. It's currently kick start too... It was disconcerting at first for her but with plenty of practice she loves it & has gained huge confidence. She loves the versatility of it, any road is a good road including gravel.

[HenryDorsetCase]

Just last week I was doing slowspeed full lock turns in the carpark, and figure 8s when leaving work. Guy walking thru is like "WTF??"

[F5 Dave]

If I was buying any 250 I would buy a Honda VT250 Spada. Great looking thing, strop along quite well and Honda. Sure it makes you gay (theres your first biker injoke...) but the reliability is worth the buttsecks
Just the thing I was thinking. Taught a lass how to ride one & she wasn't tall & coped with it well. Will handle & go so much better than any cruiser as the steering angle isn't raked out which just handicaps a bike for the sake of trying to look like an A'mercan bike. I rode the Spada & was well impressed how fun it was.

[Reubix]

This info is looking good so far team!

I had a little test ride on a GV250 today - I was pretty impressed. Smooth sailing and a solid ride (could even take my hands off at 100KM/H and it stayed rock solid) plus the fuel tank was attractive at 16L but not too sure if it's worth the money.

I'm not concerned about going fast, just cruising for long periods of time at 100K but at the same time not struggling to get there.

There's a few Hornets around the Wellington region, may have to treck down there and recce those bikes as well as a nice SV400 Red baron has for sale.

What year/mileage is appropriate for the price in regards to the Honda's?

[HenryDorsetCase]

This info is looking good so far team!

I had a little test ride on a GV250 today - I was pretty impressed. Smooth sailing and a solid ride (could even take my hands off at 100KM/H and it stayed rock solid) plus the fuel tank was attractive at 16L but not too sure if it's worth the money.

I'm not concerned about going fast, just cruising for long periods of time at 100K but at the same time not struggling to get there.

There's a few Hornets around the Wellington region, may have to treck down there and recce those bikes as well as a nice SV400 Red baron has for sale.

What year/mileage is appropriate for the price in regards to the Honda's?

Have a wee search around this site for some feedback about Red Baron.

condition is key rather than mileage. But Honda have a reputation for quality which they earned by producing quality products.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-516981414.htm

this is the bike I was meaning. turns out it is a VTR 250

but $6k? tell 'im e's dreamin'

[F5 Dave]

That is a low mileage clean one, didn't know they were still new in '11 & no idea what they were new. Spadas have been around since the dawn of time. Shock can be an issue on higher mileage but condition is a key factor.

[Glowerss]

This info is looking good so far team!

I had a little test ride on a GV250 today - I was pretty impressed. Smooth sailing and a solid ride (could even take my hands off at 100KM/H and it stayed rock solid) plus the fuel tank was attractive at 16L but not too sure if it's worth the money.

I'm not concerned about going fast, just cruising for long periods of time at 100K but at the same time not struggling to get there.

There's a few Hornets around the Wellington region, may have to treck down there and recce those bikes as well as a nice SV400 Red baron has for sale.

What year/mileage is appropriate for the price in regards to the Honda's?

RB Wellington is worth a visit, as whitetrash on the forums works there and will see you right.

The SV400 they have is not on the LAMS list nor will it be as it is outside the power/weight ratio ( I've already previous tried to get it added and was denied).

[Gremlin]

That is a low mileage clean one, didn't know they were still new in '11 & no idea what they were new. Spadas have been around since the dawn of time. Shock can be an issue on higher mileage but condition is a key factor.
Yup, stopped probably in 2011. Was 9-10k I think brand new...

[Old Steve]

This info is looking good so far team!

I had a little test ride on a GV250 today - I was pretty impressed. Smooth sailing and a solid ride (could even take my hands off at 100KM/H and it stayed rock solid) plus the fuel tank was attractive at 16L but not too sure if it's worth the money.

I did 24,000 km on a GV250, a 2006. The chrome left something to be desired up until 2007 I think, and I fitted a ScottOiler to reduce chain maintenance. Paid $3200 for it with about 9,000 km on it about 2 1/2 years ago. I used to cruise at 115 to 120 on mine, runs out of passing power though above 100 km/hr.

Google Motorbikes, put in GV250. The first one looks reasonable, 2008, 11,000 km for $3800. Might be available for mid 3K.

Then further down (second from the bottom) there's a silver/grey 2008 one done 7000 km with a start price of $2300 on it and a buy now of $4000. That should be around mid to high 3K I think.

[wharekura]

I had a little test ride on a GV250 today - I was pretty impressed. Smooth sailing and a solid ride (could even take my hands off at 100KM/H and it stayed rock solid) plus the fuel tank was attractive at 16L but not too sure if it's worth the money.
I have a GV250 2007. I get just under 300km with a tank and its my commuter which does very well and reliable. Ive ridden mine for a year almost every day. I do rides with Laxed Out Riders which average 230kms per ride and it copes fine - its just not a fast bike with buga all ground clearance.

[hippie]

Ive got a hornet a would recomend one easily as its upright riding position with good power for what it is. im 167 cm and can have both feet on the ground easy as. dont go near the blue hornet in wellington.
These bikes are good for long trips my maiden voyage was from auckalnd to wellington in the rain and hail a long day riding but the next day was not sore one bit the only thing is it gets breezey when/if you get up over 140ish they are a decent bike with good rubber selection because of the tyre size and fairly economical i was getting 260ish ks before i hit the reserve tank on the open road.

[Reubix]

I've now test ridden a CBR250 2011, CBR125 2012, GV250 2006, and the S40 2004 650.

The cruiser style still appeals to me, looks sexy, and feels right. Apart from the GV250 and the S40 are there any more suggestions?

[James Deuce]

EN500 is the only other one I can think of.

[GrayWolf]

Heya Team

I got f**ked over on a purchase of a 250 Rebel, shoulda read the guides on the forums here but in any case I'm flicking it off on TM and looking into something else - besides this whole LAMS thing may work in my favour.

I'm after a nice easy bike to ride for a short person (under 1.7M) that has marvellous fuel economy as I want to explore my new surroundings of the Whanganui-Manawatu region.

I have been looking into the Suzuki S40 Savage, a 2003 model here in town at a dealership with 15k on the clock for $5000. Seems like a good deal but at the same time I want easy cruising at 100KM/H and a decent sized fuel tank. And yeah, leaning towards the cruiser form as it appears to suit shorties like myself but I can be convinced otherwise.

Looking forward to hearing what you gentlemen have to say :corn:

Cheers
Reuben


Hiya,

The S40 has the worst fuel range imaginable - around 120 to 140 Km on a tank. While they're promoted as a cruiser, they're basically a "commuter" - not really designed for open road work. A single-cylinder with little power, and crappy suspension.

There's several LAMS options for V-twin cruisers, but the prices are soaring due to demand.

Replies like this, bagging a bike as it's 'gutless' only really goes to show how ill informed the modern rider is. Yeh I know 'rot on ad nauseum' about the 'old days'... however to put it it this way, look up the power and top speed of the old 500/600cc singles of firms like BSA. Most were LUCKY to reach 140kph (80mph) probably accelerated slower too. Guys like my granpa and dad's age's road these 'commuter power' bikes by today's so called standards, for hundreds of miles (OK, as long as they didnt break down :innocent:)... There is too damn much of this 'gutless' mentality today unless it's over 150bhp. Ridden to it's abilities (I used to live in invergumboot, and one of the Ulysses stalwarts Max (goldwing) missus had the 'yellow peril' a S40/Savage.. and she rode that bloody thing all over the country) the S40 will do the job, it's a single lung 'plodder' 100kph cruising along enjoying the ride? Perfect!.
Dont be put off by numbnuts crowing about a bike being gutless, its their opinion, I've owned some of the fastest bikes around (in their day) last one being a ZZR1100, which is STILL a lot of bike today. My MT is as quick on the road in 'general riding' as the Zed.. it's only when the 'boys' get together for a thrash over the taka's at 120+ that a 'low power' or cruiser is going to lose out on engine performance.
If anything you see floats YOUR boat? then buy it and sod anyone else's opinion.

[scumdog]

.. There is too damn much of this 'gutless' mentality today unless it's over 150bhp. Ridden to it's abilities (I used to live in invergumboot, and one of the Ulysses stalwarts Max (goldwing) missus had the 'yellow peril' a S40/Savage.. and she rode that bloody thing all over the country) the S40 will do the job, it's a single lung 'plodder' 100kph cruising along enjoying the ride? Perfect!.
Dont be put off by numbnuts crowing about a bike being gutless, its their opinion, I've owned some of the fastest bikes around (in their day) last one being a ZZR1100, which is STILL a lot of bike today. My MT is as quick on the road in 'general riding' as the Zed.. it's only when the 'boys' get together for a thrash over the taka's at 120+ that a 'low power' or cruiser is going to lose out on engine performance.
If anything you see floats YOUR boat? then buy it and sod anyone else's opinion.

What he said!:yes:

[Virago]

Replies like this, bagging a bike as it's 'gutless' only really goes to show how ill informed the modern rider is. Yeh I know 'rot on ad nauseum' about the 'old days'... however to put it it this way, look up the power and top speed of the old 500/600cc singles of firms like BSA. Most were LUCKY to reach 140kph (80mph) probably accelerated slower too. Guys like my granpa and dad's age's road these 'commuter power' bikes by today's so called standards, for hundreds of miles (OK, as long as they didnt break down :innocent:)... There is too damn much of this 'gutless' mentality today unless it's over 150bhp. Ridden to it's abilities (I used to live in invergumboot, and one of the Ulysses stalwarts Max (goldwing) missus had the 'yellow peril' a S40/Savage.. and she rode that bloody thing all over the country) the S40 will do the job, it's a single lung 'plodder' 100kph cruising along enjoying the ride? Perfect!.
Dont be put off by numbnuts crowing about a bike being gutless, its their opinion, I've owned some of the fastest bikes around (in their day) last one being a ZZR1100, which is STILL a lot of bike today. My MT is as quick on the road in 'general riding' as the Zed.. it's only when the 'boys' get together for a thrash over the taka's at 120+ that a 'low power' or cruiser is going to lose out on engine performance.
If anything you see floats YOUR boat? then buy it and sod anyone else's opinion.

Dude - he's asked for opinions? :laugh::laugh::laugh:

Sure, the S40 will cruise nicely at 100kph. But he wants a good-size fuel tank - the S40 ain't gonna float that boat.

[mossy1200]

If I had a learners idd opt for a revere 650 honda. Really fun to ride and comfortable also.

[Reubix]

With all the fluffing around I've been doing over the past couple of weeks I've decided on two... The reasons being is that there are plenty for sale in the region so I can inspect/test ride them and they seem to tick all the boxes or at least ones that are 'each to their own'. That fucking VTR down in Levin was a sack of shit, bit of a shame but oh well.

The Hyosung GV250 - why?
Firstly I like the bike, it looks meaty and flashy and will catch a few eyes when it's parked up or on the road. All that chrome makes it look like you're driving a disco ball around town but I dig it. The engine seems pretty sound, she purrs along at 100KM/H and then has plenty of power to go a little further, plus the acceleration isn't bad at all. The tank is 16L and with a range of 300KM I'll be more than happy. The riding position is fine, except for my feet (I'd probably invest in running boards or a wee mount to rest my heels on) as it feels like they're going to slip off unless I tuck my toes under the controls. Comes with a packrack and a nice fat seat for a lazy-boy style ride. Seems to respond to me shifting my bodyweight around better than any of the other bikes I've ridden (even the CBR250R) The downside is how long it'll be before I want something else more powerful, the unknown of the reliability of Hyosung products even though some swear by 'em, and the relatively high purchase price for a 250 cruiser.

The Suzuki Savage/LS650 Boulevard - Why?
A big fuck-off single cylinder which is very easy to maintain and service, doesn't look like a flashy bike - just a bike that'll work every time. Low maintenance set up all around. Nice controls and a very tidy package. It has the grunt to cruise around at 100KM/H even with a passenger and will have a relatively low depreciation due it fitting into a very tight niche' in the market of LAMS approved cruisers over 250cc. This is the kind of bike I could potentially keep for a very long time so long-term moneywise it makes more sense. Downside is the smaller fuel tank and the lighter feel on the road making it slightly more prone to being knocked about by the wind. Also the exhaust note HURTS MY EARS due to it being so 'tinny' so there is a bit of extra money I'd have to put into it in the first instance.

In car sense:
The Hyosung GV250 is a Hyundai Santa Fe
The Suzuki Savage is a Toyota Corolla

[Reubix]

Well.... I fucked all of the above right off and bought this:

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=520768480

2007 Yamaha Scorpio with 2500K on the clock. Mint condition for $3k

It ticks all the boxes (except for the cosmetic appeal) and does a bloody good job of being a learner bike that boasts reliability, economy, and superb handling. :Punk:

[Zamiam]

Good on you. Enjoy

[Reubix]

Cheers!

And big props to HEMA (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/member.php/31726-HEMA) who sacrificed a lot of his personal time to help out a young rider. He taught me a lot of things and has been incredibly helpful and patient. Looking forward to riding with such a top bloke :drinknsin

[The Baron]

Congrats on the new ride.

And thanks for letting us follow your story.

My son has a scorpio. They have a very good motor and are hard to kill.

Ride safe and have fun.

[mossy1200]

Bit late now for you but someone might want this as a lams bike.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/cruiser/auction-521324897.htm

[Old Steve]

Congrats, hope you have lots of enjoyable kms on your new bike.

I think the Scorpio is an much underrated bike. Had one follow me back from Kawhia once, and that thing never dropped back. They're light and manouevourable, perfect learner bike and there'll always be a market for them. There's also a look of a sports bike about them, yet they're still very confortable.

[Reubix]

Two weeks after buying the Scorpio....

...I got bored and traded it in for a 2012 Honda CBR250R ;)

272228

[Glowerss]

Two weeks after buying the Scorpio....

...I got bored and traded it in for a 2012 Honda CBR250R ;)


You got bored of 21 BHP and so you traded it in on 24 BHP? :lol: Considering how much fuckin heavier the honda is, I would bet theres fuckall difference in actual power between the two.

Congrats on the bike, just be careful with the whole "I got bored and need more power" thing. Two weeks of riding it isn't like you're anywhere within the region of using the bike to its limits. Or even within 50% of it's limit :lol: I'm not sure how you'd get bored after 2 weeks of riding even, but nevermind.

Take it slow or you'll end up like grantman :rolleyes:

[Reubix]

Well I suppose bored was the wrong word to use. More like frustrated... Frustrated at being knocked about by the wind all the time, frustrated at the distinct lack of power, and at the constant remarks about my old bike being a 'Hairdryer'.

On paper you may say 'Wow, only 3 bhp difference, are you retarded?' but I'm happier on this bike in regards to performance, I was surprised to find out it was a single actually as it outperforms the Scorpio by a long shot.

But yeah, as it turns out the people on the KB forums were right in the first instance; get something you can have fun on, riding a motorbike shouldn't be a chore! :cool:

[Glowerss]

Well I suppose bored was the wrong word to use. More like frustrated... Frustrated at being knocked about by the wind all the time, frustrated at the distinct lack of power, and at the constant remarks about my old bike being a 'Hairdryer'.

On paper you may say 'Wow, only 3 bhp difference, are you retarded?' but I'm happier on this bike in regards to performance, I was surprised to find out it was a single actually as it outperforms the Scorpio by a long shot.

But yeah, as it turns out the people on the KB forums were right in the first instance; get something you can have fun on, riding a motorbike shouldn't be a chore! :cool:

Whatever makes you happy is the right answer :headbang: The CBR is definitely a nicer bike all around. Never fear, however. Give it 2 or 3 months and you'll be looking for more power all over again. :lol: