Is there such a thing as a sports bike that's comfortable for touring?

[bosslady]

Can't afford me a new bike for quite some time but no harm in researching or asking questions I guess? I like the look of sports bikes but I feel that I will be using it predominantly for touring. Would want to be getting a good amount of ks out of a tank and for the times where I am stuck in Auckland traffic for 1-2 hours (going slower than 1st gear for a lot of that time!) and don't want to lane split, it would need to not shit itself and overheat. I am thinking I will want another bike other than Ginny before I get my full, she's not too bad for the touring we've done so far. But is there such a thing? I would be wanting to get up to a minimum top speed of 140km ish with a fully laden bike I.e. my fat arse, bags and all that. Must be LAMS approved :)

[Katman]

You're welcome to try out the 400 Katana next time you're in town.

[bosslady]

You're welcome to try out the 400 Katana next time you're in town.

When I crash it do I have to pay to fix it? lol. I am in your area on Thursday night until Sunday but the thought of riding a bike that isn't mine is nerve wrecking lol

[Drew]

Sure is. K1/2 Gixxer thou is one of the most comfortable bikes I've ever toured on.

Both islands, twisties or boring bits. Just fantastic.

[sil3nt]

VFR 800
RF 900
Anything ZZR (250, 400, 600, 1000)
I hear even the ZX7R and ZX9R and quite comfortable.

I am guessing you want LAMs approval though so:

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-568926542.htm

[Katman]

When I crash it do I have to pay to fix it? lol.

The simple answer to that is, don't crash it.

In an environment where you have no pressure from other traffic I can't see any reason for it to end badly.

[bosslady]

Sure is. K1/2 Gixxer thou is one of the most comfortable bikes I've ever toured on.

Both islands, twisties or boring bits. Just fantastic.

what's that? sounds like something out of my licence restrictions and skill level lol

[Scouse]

Yes
1/ Speed Triple
2/ KTM RC8
3/ Kawasaki ZRX1200R
4/ I dont know where you would put your bags on the first two though

[bosslady]

VFR 800
RF 900
Anything ZZR (250, 400, 600, 1000)
I hear even the ZX7R and ZX9R and quite comfortable.

I am guessing you want LAMs approval though so:

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-568926542.htm

Is that old though? no problems with over heating? What would be the top speed for a bike like that?

[Milts]

I've been wondering the same thing - after selling my street triple I'd like to track down a sports bike which is somwhat comfortable and can take pillions.

It seems to me the sacrifice from making a full on superbike and adding a comfortable pillion seat and reasonable ride position can't be that huge, but they seem hard to find.

From what I've looked up, I now have my eyes on a ZX9R or a 2002/2003 Honda Fireblade. Some of the later Honda CBR600Fs seem nice as well. Would be very interested to hear people's thoughts on this.

[FJRider]

There are some that are called Sport tourers ... but most tend to be more Sport Cruisers ...

Sport tourers tend to have more sporty riding position. Not always the full "Racing crouch" position ... but sustained for a days riding ... can be hard on the body. (if you are not used to it)

A good tourer should have a screen/fairing to keep weather and wind off your body. Both of which can make a day ride a real chore in adverse conditions. And have the ability to carry gear. Lots of gear (read weight).

[The End]

what's that? sounds like something out of my licence restrictions and skill level lol


K1/2 refers to the year (ie: 2001/2002) GSXR 1000.

[McFatty1000]

Something like gpz500 might work too, comfortable to ride but still reasonably sporty. Age may be an issue though

[FJRider]

Is that old though? no problems with over heating? What would be the top speed for a bike like that?

Water/oil cooled bikes are (should be) quite reliable. If they've spent their lives at the top end of the rev range ... they may not be so ...

The ZX400 would be looking at 200 km's + I would think ...

[FJRider]

Something like gpz500 might work too, comfortable to ride but still reasonably sporty. Age may be an issue though

Not on the LAMs list ... apparently ...

[sil3nt]

Is that old though? no problems with over heating? What would be the top speed for a bike like that?Top speed for most 400s is a hair over 200kph.

They will easily do 140. Most 250s will easily do 140!

[bosslady]

Top speed for most 400s is a hair over 200kph.

They will easily do 140. Most 250s will easily do 140!

Best you have a word to my Ginny then, she refuses to go above 120, 140 only happened once!

[sil3nt]

Best you have a word to my Ginny then, she refuses to go above 120, 140 only happened once!I meant proper 250s.

[bosslady]

I meant proper 250s.

I won't tell Ginny you said that ;)

[FJRider]

Best you have a word to my Ginny then, she refuses to go above 120, 140 only happened once!

Downhill, tail wind and sail up ... ????

[Drew]

what's that? sounds like something out of my licence restrictions and skill level lolYou'll learn real quick...If ya live.


I've been wondering the same thing - after selling my street triple I'd like to track down a sports bike which is somwhat comfortable and can take pillions.

It seems to me the sacrifice from making a full on superbike and adding a comfortable pillion seat and reasonable ride position can't be that huge, but they seem hard to find.

From what I've looked up, I now have my eyes on a ZX9R or a 2002/2003 Honda Fireblade. Some of the later Honda CBR600Fs seem nice as well. Would be very interested to hear people's thoughts on this.The ZX9 is capable-ish, but heavy and not great. I've toured on one of those too.

The Blade is heavier on the wrists to sit on for longer periods.


K1/2 refers to the year (ie: 2001/2002) GSXR 1000.'E's onto it.

[pete-blen]

Downhill, tail wind and sail up ... ????

LOL....
in fact they do alright considering they are the first genaration DR250 motor of the early 80s

[tigertim20]

Can't afford me a new bike for quite some time but no harm in researching or asking questions I guess? I like the look of sports bikes but I feel that I will be using it predominantly for touring. Would want to be getting a good amount of ks out of a tank and for the times where I am stuck in Auckland traffic for 1-2 hours (going slower than 1st gear for a lot of that time!) and don't want to lane split, it would need to not shit itself and overheat. I am thinking I will want another bike other than Ginny before I get my full, she's not too bad for the touring we've done so far. But is there such a thing? I would be wanting to get up to a minimum top speed of 140km ish with a fully laden bike I.e. my fat arse, bags and all that. Must be LAMS approved :)
I didnt read the lams approved bit until the last minute - but plenty of sportsbikes are comfy! I have a K4 gsxr 1000 that is comfy as doing 700km day after day for 3-4 days on end. Also the F series CBR 600's are really comfortable too. Ive done a fair bit of long distance stuff on my R1 as well and found that to be quite comfortable. all of the above will more than satisfy your top speed requirements!:lol:

[cheshirecat]

This guy (http://www.sjaaklucassen.nl/) tours around the world on his R1 and there is an American or is he a Canadian, who's been around the word twice on an R1. Reckons you get round faster.

[caspernz]

Boring as this thought might be...run the GN until you've got your full licence and then your choices open up nicely. Oh and by then you'll no doubt have saved a few pennies to spend on a new toy?

That whole new or next bike thingee is even a dilemma for us guys who've been riding for years...I'm suffering that torment right now, and I've got my pennies in the bank to spend on the next bike...:facepalm:

[bosslady]

Boring as this thought might be...run the GN until you've got your full licence and then your choices open up nicely. Oh and by then you'll no doubt have saved a few pennies to spend on a new toy?

That whole new or next bike thingee is even a dilemma for us guys who've been riding for years...I'm suffering that torment right now, and I've got my pennies in the bank to spend on the next bike...:facepalm:

I feel like I should be having a step between what I have now and whatever my full licence, if and when I get it, will allow. Surely almost anything's going to be a great leap from what I have now? Maybe you're right maybe I should wait but my full is 18+ months away?

[Tigadee]

and for the times where I am stuck in Auckland traffic for 1-2 hours (going slower than 1st gear for a lot of that time!) and don't want to lane split, it would need to not shit itself and overheat.

I do encourage you to be open to lane-splitting, especially watch this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNGD9AAIfFU&feature=player_embedded). It's not healthy for you or your bike to sit in start-stop traffic or jams.


But is there such a thing? I would be wanting to get up to a minimum top speed of 140km ish with a fully laden bike I.e. my fat arse, bags and all that. Must be LAMS approved.

This may be helpful for you to figure some models which may be comfortable for you.
http://cycle-ergo.com/

IMHO, I think something with standard bars [instead of clip-ons like the RF900 or VFR800 sports tourers] will be more comfortable for both touring and in-town riding. The Sports bike crouch is not friendly on the wrists and back for stop-start town riding. [In fact a cruiser is great for in-town riding, I personally feel, except that for groceries you mostly only have pannier bags for storage options, though some may have a top box but kinda ugly.]


Surely almost anything's going to be a great leap from what I have now?

Yes. :lol: But also work on improving your skills and riding confidence first.

[bosslady]

I do encourage you to be open to lane-splitting, especially watch this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNGD9AAIfFU&feature=player_embedded). It's not healthy for you or your bike to sit in start-stop traffic or jams.



This may be helpful for you to figure some models which may be comfortable for you.
http://cycle-ergo.com/

IMHO, I think something with standard bars [instead of clip-ons like the RF900 or VFR800 sports tourers] will be more comfortable for both touring and in-town riding. The Sports bike crouch is not friendly on the wrists and back for stop-start town riding. [In fact a cruiser is great for in-town riding, I personally feel, except that for groceries you mostly only have pannier bags for storage options, though some may have a top box but kinda ugly.]



Yes. :lol: But also work on improving your skills and riding confidence first.

I'm a bit frightened of lane splitting, was open to it before, then I clipped a car, I may have still been a little open to it if for not all the abuse in that thread and someone wishing a car would cripple me. Lane splitting just seems very scary... I do wish I could do it though... twice in the past week I've taken an extra 1 - 1 1/2 hours to get where I'm going.

[tigertim20]

The Sports bike crouch is not friendly on the wrists and back for stop-start town riding..

Have you ridden sports bikes long distance or for a commute over an extended period of time? I ask because half the people that make that statement are simply regurgitating what they have read elsewhere to the same effect, but havent actually had significant experience on sportbikes in those circumstances themselves. (not jumping down your throat, just asking)
Any bike requires a feeling out process, to get used to its ergonomics, quirks etc, whether its a cruiser, dual purpose or sportsbike, after that feeling out process and you are used to how they feel to ride, they can be totally comfortable!

[Glowerss]

I feel like I should be having a step between what I have now and whatever my full licence, if and when I get it, will allow. Surely almost anything's going to be a great leap from what I have now? Maybe you're right maybe I should wait but my full is 18+ months away?

Depending on what kind of bike you go for, most bikes will be upwards of 2-3x more powerful then even the mostestest powerfullest of the LAMS bikes. A "step up" bike won't really prepare you for some of the sheer lunacy that some of the bikes out there can offer.

That being said, you'll probably end up with a bike other then your ginny simply because 2 years on a ginny is a long time :lol: A step up bike won't necessarily help when it comes time for your full, but it will make the wait a fair bit nicer :banana:

If you're looking for lams bikes that are more sportyish/touringish (nothing really will be thats LAMS approved but nevermind) things like Kwacka ZZR400/ER5, Suzuki GS500 are fairly good.

RVF400s and FZR400s are more "sport" then anything else, and far quicker then anything else on lams, but you'd have to sit on em to see if they're comfortable for you or not.

[bosslady]

I must say my arse and lower back don't get as sore after riding for ages on my gn like it did when I first started riding

[ducatilover]

Sport touring on LAMS? Yup, can be done
ZZR400, two models you can get, a K model (pre '93) and the N model, post '93. They're a ZZR600 with a smaller motor, they're comfy and the N models are still new enough

RF400, good little bikes too, or the Katana Katman mentioned because they look fucking bad-ass

GS500, goes without saying
ER-5, EX5, EX400 etc Kawasakis are also comfy bikes.
XJR400 Yamahahahahahaha are a cool unit too

Heaps of choice out there

[sinfull]

I would be wanting to get up to a minimum top speed of 140km ish with a fully laden bike I.e. my fat arse, bags and all that. Must be LAMS approved :)


You're welcome to try out the 400 Katana next time you're in town.
Whoaaaaaaaaa !
Double standards much !

[bosslady]

Whoaaaaaaaaa !
Double standards much !

I don't understand

[sinfull]

I don't understand

Sorry for quoting you then !

[Tigadee]

Have you ridden sports bikes long distance or for a commute over an extended period of time?

:baby: I was more referring in-town [start-stop traffic and no lane-splitting], not long distance or over extended period of time... I've sat on a few sports and can't fit comfortably on them so can't imagine being on one in heavy city traffic [which is what OP mentioned as one criteria, the other being touring for which any bike can do].


I'm a bit frightened of lane splitting, was open to it before, then I clipped a car, I may have still been a little open to it if for not all the abuse in that thread and someone wishing a car would cripple me. Lane splitting just seems very scary... I do wish I could do it though... twice in the past week I've taken an extra 1 - 1 1/2 hours to get where I'm going.

You probably attempted it too soon, I only started doing it round about the time I'd gotten my Restricted. Londoners learn to do it from Day One, but then they have an instructor too.

Come to SASS more and work on the slow-speed skills, and then you can split confidently.

[FJRider]

:baby: I was more referring in-town [start-stop traffic and no lane-splitting], not long distance or over extended period of time... I've sat on a few sports and can't fit comfortably on them so can't imagine being on one in heavy city traffic [which is what OP mentioned as one criteria, the other being touring for which any bike can do].

Sports/Tourers (loaded to the hilt or not) ... are not city sane. They are a total pain in the wrists ...

Under 10 km/hr they are just hard work.

[ducatilover]

Sports/Tourers (loaded to the hilt or not) ... are not city sane. They are a total pain in the wrists ...

Under 10 km/hr they are just hard work.

My ZZR600 was excellent in town. Only thing that was dumb was a slightly manly clutch.

[FJRider]

I must say my arse and lower back don't get as sore after riding for ages on my gn like it did when I first started riding

It's called being Ride-fit. It takes a while to get there ... 6000 km's on an L plate does wonders ...

I think your NOOB days are numbered ...

[bosslady]

It's called being Ride-fit. It takes a while to get there ... 6000 km's on an L plate does wonders ...

I think your NOOB days are numbered ...

nah not even... only just beginning :)

[FJRider]

nah not even... only just beginning :)

Keep looking at the 400 to 600 cc bikes on Trademe. The dreams do become reality ... but you have to dream a little first.

[tigertim20]

:baby: I was more referring in-town [start-stop traffic and no lane-splitting], not long distance or over extended period of time... I've sat on a few sports and can't fit comfortably on them so can't imagine being on one in heavy city traffic [which is what OP mentioned as one criteria, the other being touring for which any bike can do].



.

ah, you need to use one daily for a week or two then!, you may be surprised! I commute on an R1 and a GSXR 1000, both quite comfy, and with pack racks on I can do a weeks grocery shopping on the way home for me and the wife quite easily!

[Tigadee]

ah, you need to use one daily for a week or two then!, you may be surprised! I commute on an R1 and a GSXR 1000, both quite comfy, and with pack racks on I can do a weeks grocery shopping on the way home for me and the wife quite easily!

:laugh: You sure you're not a motorcycle salesman?

Maybe I need to try litre sports bikes, you're saying? Will do, some day...


...but you have to dream a little first.

Just not while ridng! :nono: LOL

[tigertim20]

haha maybe Ive missed my calling . .
I think everyone should try litre sports bikes at least once!

then, I think people should try every style of bike at least once, you dunno what you're missing till you've tried them all

[Milts]

The ZX9 is capable-ish, but heavy and not great. I've toured on one of those too.

The Blade is heavier on the wrists to sit on for longer periods.

Yeah I'd heard the ZX9s are a little on the heavy side, and the fireblade does seem quite sporty. Most reviewers seem to think it has more pillion space/comfort than most other true sports bikes though?

I can imagine the ZZR600's would be a nice comfy mostly-sporty bike, but not exactly madly sports oriented. More tourer. Whereas something like this looks nice and a bit sportier... http://encarsglobe.com/photo/im/honda-cbr-600-f-r/11/

[Grant`]

Hyo 650 or kawasaki er6 both have lams approved versions. Get the screen and semi sport riding position well more soo on hyo.. Fairly cheap for a new bike and good for touring on and economical on gas and tyres etc.

[sugilite]

Ahem, with lams in mind, this looks pretty darn good, semi sports, comfy, pack rack, yadda yadda, could be a bit pricey for what it is, but pretty good all the same...1992 ZZR400, ZX400 K1
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-568926542.htm

[Winston001]

The question you ask has many many answers and at the end of the day you need a motorcycle which you feel safe on. A bike which is light and agile enough for commuting, and comfortable on long distances when you want to go. Something in the 400 - 600cc range.

Larger sports bikes are a pain in the proverbial around town. Heavy to manoevre through stalled traffic and in and out of parking. Yes I know, some of us do it daily and get used to it - maybe you could too.

Much as I love sports bikes they are specialised machines: designed for speed and performance. Many are fine for 700km trips and will carry luggage, just be aware that a sports bike requires complete focus. Its part of the risk and part of the fun.

The most popular type of larger motorcycle these days is the dual sport motard type bike such as the Suzuki 650 Vstrom. BMW have revived their sales world wide with such machines.

[ducatilover]

Ahem, with lams in mind, this looks pretty darn good, semi sports, comfy, pack rack, yadda yadda, could be a bit pricey for what it is, but pretty good all the same...1992 ZZR400, ZX400 K1
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-568926542.htm

They're a nice bike. Prices have gone haywire on them now, I paid $800 for mine:lol:

[SPman]

Sure is. K1/2 Gixxer thou is one of the most comfortable bikes I've ever toured on.

Both islands, twisties or boring bits. Just fantastic.
The K4 was fine as well - 1600km long weekends were a doddle
YZF750 Yamaha was fine, as was the ZX9R.

[GrayWolf]

Can't afford me a new bike for quite some time but no harm in researching or asking questions I guess? I like the look of sports bikes but I feel that I will be using it predominantly for touring. Would want to be getting a good amount of ks out of a tank and for the times where I am stuck in Auckland traffic for 1-2 hours (going slower than 1st gear for a lot of that time!) and don't want to lane split, it would need to not shit itself and overheat. I am thinking I will want another bike other than Ginny before I get my full, she's not too bad for the touring we've done so far. But is there such a thing? I would be wanting to get up to a minimum top speed of 140km ish with a fully laden bike I.e. my fat arse, bags and all that. Must be LAMS approved :)

Not being funny, if the frame size is OK for you? Try a later model GS500 with the factory fairing, it's LAM's legal, not overly heavy, mild power delivery,, Will top the imperial ton comfortably = cruise at 100-110k's all day. Has a well proven engine, plenty of them out there.......
The Suzook 500 twins over the decades have served a lot of people well for a regular bike (commuter/tourer)

[bluninja]

I found he ZX9R C1 to be a really comfortable touring bike as was the ZZR600. Both were my daily commute, the ZX9R also toured me from the UK to Monza in Italy got thrashed at Monza race track and then ridden home agin. My wide preferred the zzr600 for pillion comfort.

The SV650S, though not an out and out sports bikes will commute well, carry loads of luggage and is quite fun through the twisties and on the race track.

[Banditbandit]

Sports/Tourers (loaded to the hilt or not) ... are not city sane. They are a total pain in the wrists ...

Under 10 km/hr they are just hard work.

HUH ?? My sports-tourer Bandits are not like that at all

Bosslady - Have a look at the LAMS version of the 650 Bandit .. I love Bandits long distance, commuting - anything .. one of the most versatile bikes around (as long as you don't try it off-road)

http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRsB3YU2Cr-TgH0krA5PoTXAR1tdJ-uXq8Y-TdwhEUzJb0sAw_CT0hj5WWQ

I've seen 200klicks plus on the spedo of my 650 .. so a LAMS version should still get to 140 licks ...

These are comfortable bikes long distance, excellent around town - and just plain FUN

[\m/]

I've seen 200klicks plus on the spedo of my 650 .. so a LAMS version should still get to 140 licks ...
I'd expect 180+ from the LAMS 650, I've seen 170 on my old 250 Bandit down the back straight of Taupo, would have done more but had to slow for the next corner.

[Ender EnZed]

I'd expect 180+ from the LAMS 650, I've seen 170 on my old 250 Bandit down the back straight of Taupo, would have done more but had to slow for the next corner.

Don't forget that most speedometers are very optimistic. 170km/h actual speed is well fast for any 4 stroke 250.

[Glowerss]

HUH ?? My sports-tourer Bandits are not like that at all

Bosslady - Have a look at the LAMS version of the 650 Bandit .. I love Bandits long distance, commuting - anything .. one of the most versatile bikes around (as long as you don't try it off-road)

I've seen 200klicks plus on the spedo of my 650 .. so a LAMS version should still get to 140 licks ...

These are comfortable bikes long distance, excellent around town - and just plain FUN

I wouldn't advise one of those (aside from the fact the LAMS version is like 16k and the normal version you can find new for 10 :tugger: ). Those GSX650Fs (or the FUs for lams :lol:) are farking some 216kg completely dry and some 241kg wet. Heavy fuckin whale of a thing.

There are lots of good LAMS bikes out there without having to resort to bikes that are super expensive and not suited to task

[ducatilover]

Don't forget that most speedometers are very optimistic. 170km/h actual speed is well fast for any 4 stroke 250.

Yup, my Spada pulled just over 170 indicated and was a dyno 165 in standard form. Not too bad actually, was a dyno 180something that it did eventually

Closed private racetracks of course


Sent from a bottle nosed dolphin's dining room

[Maha]

I wouldn't advise one of those (aside from the fact the LAMS version is like 16k and the normal version you can find new for 10 :tugger: ). Those GSX650Fs (or the FUs for lams :lol:) are farking some 216kg completely dry and some 241kg wet. Heavy fuckin whale of a thing.

There are lots of good LAMS bikes out there without having to resort to bikes that are super expensive and not suited to task

Heres one thats been lowered..http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-545738736.htm

[Banditbandit]

Don't forget that most speedometers are very optimistic. 170km/h actual speed is well fast for any 4 stroke 250.

Yeah .. Suzies tend to be 10% over ... so 170 klicks on the clock is actually 153 ...

[Banditbandit]

I wouldn't advise one of those (aside from the fact the LAMS version is like 16k and the normal version you can find new for 10 :tugger: ). Those GSX650Fs (or the FUs for lams :lol:) are farking some 216kg completely dry and some 241kg wet. Heavy fuckin whale of a thing.

Have you ridden one ??? I wil concede theLAMS one is expensive ... but none of mine feel like a "heavy fuckin whale of a thing".

[ducatilover]

Have you ridden one ??? I wil concede theLAMS one is expensive ... but none of mine feel like a "heavy fuckin whale of a thing".

I have.
Nice beige bike, do everything nicely and I agree on long distance, they're fuckin comfy.
I'd prefer something a wee bit more flickable myself


Sent from the future

[Glowerss]

Have you ridden one ??? I wil concede theLAMS one is expensive ... but none of mine feel like a "heavy fuckin whale of a thing".

Yeah, I had a go on one of the LAMS approved ones when they came out. It's sort of OK once you get moving, it carriers its weight well once you're moving. But low speed stuff I wouldn't want to live with it as a daily commuter or whatever.

Could just be I'm used to far lighter bikes, none of my bikes have been over sort of the 190kg wet mark.

The 650 shares basically all of the same structure/frame ect as the 1250, but with far less power behind it. A lot people who have ridden the unrestricted 650 complained that it didn't feel particularly quick because of that fact. The LAMS version is further restricted down from that.

Thing had much more torque then my 250, but it didn't really feel like it.

I'll be the first to admit, however, that this is all touchy feely stuff and your mileage may vary :cool:

[EJK]

ZX10 is good for long distance touring (with a crampbuster).

Forget about taking any luggage however.

[Coldrider]

I found he ZX9R C1 to be a really comfortable touring bike as was the ZZR600. Both were my daily commute, the ZX9R also toured me from the UK to Monza in Italy got thrashed at Monza race track and then ridden home agin. My wide preferred the zzr600 for pillion comfort.

The SV650S, though not an out and out sports bikes will commute well, carry loads of luggage and is quite fun through the twisties and on the race track.+1 for the ZX9R C1, done 8 or 9 Brass's from central north island, a burt or two, many times 1000k days, and a couple of trips to the local dairy, oh, and i still have it parked next to my blade.

[Mully Clown]

I've heard people talk about the Hyosung GT250R as being a learner bike suitable touring (400k tank). Though I'm not sure whether it's wise to buy a 250 with new LAMS laws in place. Or a Hyosung in general.

[bosslady]

Not being funny, if the frame size is OK for you? Try a later model GS500 with the factory fairing, it's LAM's legal, not overly heavy, mild power delivery,, Will top the imperial ton comfortably = cruise at 100-110k's all day. Has a well proven engine, plenty of them out there.......
The Suzook 500 twins over the decades have served a lot of people well for a regular bike (commuter/tourer)
How do you mean? the frame of the bike I have now?

[FJRider]

How do you mean? the frame of the bike I have now?

He means frame/ seat height ... I think. Some bikes are a bit tall without a few modifications to lower them.

Tippy-toe when you are stopped is not a good feeling if you aren't used to it.

[FJRider]

Though I'm not sure whether it's wise to buy a 250 with new LAMS laws in place. Or a Hyosung in general.

Replacing a 250 with another 250 does seem silly to me. Newer/faster/more power ... still a 250 ..

[bosslady]

He means frame/ seat height ... I think. Some bikes are a bit tall without a few modifications to lower them.

Tippy-toe when you are stopped is not a good feeling if you aren't used to it.
Oh I don't know, no problem with the Ginny but that's normal. 173cm tall I think, longish legs and big feet lol so maybe my choices aren't as limited as they are for some women but I've not sat on many bikes so I don't know

[FJRider]

Oh I don't know, no problem with the Ginny but that's normal. 173cm tall I think, longish legs and big feet lol so maybe my choices aren't as limited as they are for some women but I've not sat on many bikes so I don't know

I'd offer to measure you inside leg to check ... but it's a bit difficult from here ... :scratch:

However ... it always pays to chuck a leg over a bike of the same model .. you are thinking of getting. Just to make sure ... :niceone:

[CRM]

Sports bikes are over-rated :bleh:. Unless you want to do track days and get speeding tickets and spend heaps on tyres and chains and gas and repairs. No fun to ride slow at all.

What I'm really trying to say is if you are going touring get something thats more upright, gets better mileage has a comfy seat, has a bit more weight (can be a good thing in wind) and has some decent protection from the elements. :rolleyes:

Something like that that is LAMS and a reasonable price?
This Honda NTV with a screen added: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-567615310.htm
BMW Scarver - decent seat height: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-567176574.htm
Another nice beemer set up for distance: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-570485346.htm
Lots of Pegasos around at present - similar to the beemer but maybe higher seat than the scarver: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-565013898.htm
Another Honda - 400 Bros these are great solid little bikes - needs a screen though: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-569186591.htm
This 650 Bros looks like a deal: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-561084394.htm
And has been mentioned a GS500F - this one with full fairing: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-561025896.htm nice :niceone:

That's the kind of thing I'd be looking at...

[Tigadee]

The Honda Bros 400 is a great bike! I almost bought one (if only the owner could have waited two days for me to get the money together!) but it was snapped up the next day after it got listed! I test rode it and it was a pleasure to ride - surprisingly comfortable and plenty of oomph. That one had cafe racer pipes too and sounded awesome!

If you decide to get one, Bosslady, you won't regret it!

[Banditbandit]

I have.
Nice beige bike, do everything nicely and I agree on long distance, they're fuckin comfy.
I'd prefer something a wee bit more flickable myself



Beige huh ??? MY first reaction was annoyance ... but I can see why you would think that ... for me the 650 is the most fun daily commute bike I've every had ... it's also the first four I've every owned - previously had singles and twins only ... (So I don't have any comparison with other fours) If you are a real sports bike rider (and real applies to rider not bike) then yes, the 650 would feel slow ... and beige ..

When I got it I lived 55 ks from town - so I needed reliable transport - (too far to a mechanic if somethign doesn't work) ... and it just runs ... starts every day - runs no hassles .. anything else is a bonus ... and there is quite a lot of bonus with the 650 ... the 55k trip (on a twisty Hawke's Bay back-country road) to town took my 28 minutes ... (and many rear tyres chewed to hell after 3000 ks ...)



Yeah, I had a go on one of the LAMS approved ones when they came out. It's sort of OK once you get moving, it carriers its weight well once you're moving. But low speed stuff I wouldn't want to live with it as a daily commuter or whatever.

Yeah - a LAMS version is likely to be under powered ... Mine is a daily commute bike .. but then, it's not the LAMS version ... But I have also heard similar comments from others ... the thing is to keep the revs up ... around town I would never be more than third gear ... more usually second ... the trick is to balance them on the throttle - and you need revs to do that .. they do counter-steer well .. but having the higher revs in corners is more important ... and they pull out of corners well if you open the throttle and power out - quickly pulls the bike upright ... It took me a few ks to work out how to ride a Bandit - but wen I got it I found them stunning bikes ..


Could just be I'm used to far lighter bikes, none of my bikes have been over sort of the 190kg wet mark.

The 650 shares basically all of the same structure/frame ect as the 1250, but with far less power behind it. A lot people who have ridden the unrestricted 650 complained that it didn't feel particularly quick because of that fact. The LAMS version is further restricted down from that.

I have a carbed and oil-cooled 650 and the injected liquid-cooled 1250 ... they are different bikes ... even if they look the same ... peak horsepower on the 650 is at 9,500 revs .. which is the red line on the 1250 .. you do need to get the revs up on the 650 to really make it boogie ... under 6,000 revs it is quite slow ... In top gear at 9,500 revs (peak horsepower) the bike is doing around 175-180klicks ... so if you open the throttle it takes off like a missle ... at 100klicks I bang it down two gears to pass other vehicles ... and leave it in fourth till about 140 klicks ... even then it's a long way off the red line ... I once used the red line in second gear ... the car I was passing went backwards so fast and the corner came up so fast ... the moment was a blurr until I back off the throttle ..

The 1250 is much more low down power ... and of course has more power on tap ... All the 1250 owners I know are serious long-distance riders ... its what the bikes are best at ... but they are fun and will upset many sports bike riders ... who don't think Bandits are as fast as they actually are ... and the sweet spot is around 180 klicks ... where they will sit and purr all day ... (or at least until the popo see you ...) don't even think about cruising at 100 klicks in top ... the bike just does not like it ...



Thing had much more torque then my 250, but it didn't really feel like it.

I've heard this from other people too - the bikes are quite deceptive ... the lack of sound and the lack of vibrations is part of that .. I chased an SV1000 across the Napier-Taupo road with my 650 - he was doing around 190-200 klicks and when we got to Taupo he was surprised I was only on a 650 - he thought it was a 1200 (and he was pissed that I kept up so easily - but that was more about his riding ability - or lack of it - than mine ... ) You also have to use the revs ... otherwise the 650s just plod ...


I'll be the first to admit, however, that this is all touchy feely stuff and your mileage may vary :cool:

:yes: Each to his own ... I'd recommend the Bandits or the TNAB as Hitcher calls the new versions .. to anyone ... once you've got the hang of them they are just fucking fun ...

[ducatilover]

Beige huh ??? MY first reaction was annoyance ... but I can see why you would think that ... for me the 650 is the most fun daily commute bike I've every had ... it's also the first four I've every owned - previously had singles and twins only ... (So I don't have any comparison with other fours) If you are a real sports bike rider (and real applies to rider not bike) then yes, the 650 would feel slow ... and beige ..

When I got it I lived 55 ks from town - so I needed reliable transport - (too far to a mechanic if somethign doesn't work) ... and it just runs ... starts every day - runs no hassles .. anything else is a bonus ... and there is quite a lot of bonus with the 650 ... the 55k trip (on a twisty Hawke's Bay back-country road) to town took my 28 minutes ... (and many rear tyres chewed to hell after 3000 ks ...)


Remember beige isn't always bad :niceone: my CB400 was far more beige than a Bandit to ride, but was the best bike I've owned.
I would recommend the Bandit to anyone looking at doing proper distances, or somebody who doesn't want the sportier edge of a Hornet. They are a fucking good bike and second hand B6s and B12s are very, very good value.
I'd own one as a commuter, and long trips bike.

[silver_duck]

Is there such a thing as a sports bike that's comfortable for touring?

Yes,

It's called a Ducati ST (Sport Tourer) - and it even comes with it's own luggage system.

But you'll have to wait until you have a full license.

[pritch]

Tippy-toe when you are stopped is not a good feeling if you aren't used to it.

Not that good when the ground gets rough even if you are used to it.

Haven't read the whole thread yet but the various manufacturers are having a serious tilt at the Asian market. Something like the new
Honda CBR500R might fit Bosslady's needs. It looks sporty but has hiigh bars so shouldn't be a pain in the wrist. At about $10,500(?) it's not too big a pain in the wallet either?

[FJRider]

At about $10,500(?) it's not too big a pain in the wallet either?

Easy to say ... but it might be a big pain for some though ...

[bosslady]

So I tried the katana 400 (thanks katman you're such a prick!! ;-) ) and I didn't do anywhere near as bad as I thought I would, quite happy with myself actually! Definitely don't dislike the riding style and I guess with time and experience you'd find a way for your wrists to.not hurt so damn much? Now I'm annoyed to know what I'm missing though cause I won't me.able.to.get another bike for 1-2 years. Guts! Nevermind I can still research, look and.dream lol

[PrincessBandit]

There are some that are called Sport tourers ... but most tend to be more Sport Cruisers ...

Sport tourers tend to have more sporty riding position. Not always the full "Racing crouch" position ... but sustained for a days riding ... can be hard on the body. (if you are not used to it)

A good tourer should have a screen/fairing to keep weather and wind off your body. Both of which can make a day ride a real chore in adverse conditions. And have the ability to carry gear. Lots of gear (read weight).

Bandit FTW

You're welcome to try out the 400 Katana next time you're in town.

Great size but my backside found the saddle pretty hard on the run to Wanganui and back...only probably because I hadn't ridden anything but the bandit for so long.


Boring as this thought might be...run the GN until you've got your full licence and then your choices open up nicely. Oh and by then you'll no doubt have saved a few pennies to spend on a new toy?

That whole new or next bike thingee is even a dilemma for us guys who've been riding for years...I'm suffering that torment right now, and I've got my pennies in the bank to spend on the next bike...:facepalm:

'Tis what I did, to avoid the whole expensive constant "upgrading" in cc over time.


I'm a bit frightened of lane splitting, was open to it before, then I clipped a car, I may have still been a little open to it if for not all the abuse in that thread and someone wishing a car would cripple me. Lane splitting just seems very scary... I do wish I could do it though... twice in the past week I've taken an extra 1 - 1 1/2 hours to get where I'm going.

You will know when the time is right for you. Don't feel pressured to do it any sooner than that. There is absolutely nothing wrong with staying in a queue if you don't feel comfortable to split. Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't when I could. I don't give a rats arse what other riders think when they zip past and I'm still in a lane.


Sports/Tourers (loaded to the hilt or not) ... are not city sane. They are a total pain in the wrists ...

Under 10 km/hr they are just hard work.

Yeah nah yeah nah


HUH ?? My sports-tourer Bandits are not like that at all

Bosslady - Have a look at the LAMS version of the 650 Bandit .. I love Bandits long distance, commuting - anything .. one of the most versatile bikes around (as long as you don't try it off-road)

http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRsB3YU2Cr-TgH0krA5PoTXAR1tdJ-uXq8Y-TdwhEUzJb0sAw_CT0hj5WWQ

I've seen 200klicks plus on the spedo of my 650 .. so a LAMS version should still get to 140 licks ...

These are comfortable bikes long distance, excellent around town - and just plain FUN

Bandit FTW!!!!!!! Having said that my son had a Suzuki GS 500 and it was pretty cool. They look smart and handle nicely.

[nerrrd]

So I tried the katana 400 (thanks katman you're such a prick!! ;-) ) and I didn't do anywhere near as bad as I thought I would, quite happy with myself actually! Definitely don't dislike the riding style and I guess with time and experience you'd find a way for your wrists to.not hurt so damn much? Now I'm annoyed to know what I'm missing though cause I won't me.able.to.get another bike for 1-2 years. Guts! Nevermind I can still research, look and.dream lol

In the words of Obi Wan, "That's good. You've taken your first step into a larger world."

As far as the wrists thing goes, I think you're supposed to grip the tank with your knees and support your upper body with your "core"...other people have muscles there apparently.

And it's good to have plenty of time to try lots of different options, instead of possibly rushing in and buying something you might regret. It's a hard road finding the perfect motorcycle...

[Madness]

173cm tall I think, longish legs and big feet

This thread needs moar pics.

[Tigadee]

Definitely don't dislike the riding style and I guess with time and experience you'd find a way for your wrists to.not hurt so damn much?

How long were you on it riding?

[bluninja]

So I tried the katana 400 (thanks katman you're such a prick!! ;-) ) and I didn't do anywhere near as bad as I thought I would, quite happy with myself actually! Definitely don't dislike the riding style and I guess with time and experience you'd find a way for your wrists to.not hurt so damn much? Now I'm annoyed to know what I'm missing though cause I won't me.able.to.get another bike for 1-2 years. Guts! Nevermind I can still research, look and.dream lol

Go faster! the wind pressure against your chest takes some of the weight off your wrists :LOL: Dreaming is good....I'n dreaming of a ZX14R in blue :)

[Ocean1]

I guess with time and experience you'd find a way for your wrists to.not hurt so damn much?

Yup, change bars for some slightly higher ones, spend a bit of time rolling them back or fwd and experimenting so that the weight on your wrists is comfortable. Bear in mind that you're used to a cruiser, arguably the opposite to a sports bike as far as load on the hands is concerned. Don't forget wrist pressure is going to be less at cruising speeds too.

[bosslady]

In the words of Obi Wan, "That's good. You've taken your first step into a larger world."

As far as the wrists thing goes, I think you're supposed to grip the tank with your knees and support your upper body with your "core"...other people have muscles there apparently.

And it's good to have plenty of time to try lots of different options, instead of possibly rushing in and buying something you might regret. It's a hard road finding the perfect motorcycle...

Core aye, needa strengthen that shit up then!


This thread needs moar pics.

Not worth the nightmares...


How long were you on it riding?

I'm honestly not sure. Not long. Maybe 15 mins max? I don't know, Grashopper she would know she went too.

[bosslady]

Yup, change bars for some slightly higher ones, spend a bit of time rolling them back or fwd and experimenting so that the weight on your wrists is comfortable. Bear in mind that you're used to a cruiser, arguably the opposite to a sports bike as far as load on the hands is concerned. Don't forget wrist pressure is going to be less at cruising speeds too.

it was just the throttle hand not the other one, weird? but man compared to the Ginny it sure did make me work to take corners that were hardly worth calling corners!

[bluninja]

I'm honestly not sure. Not long. Maybe 15 mins max? I don't know, Grashopper she would know she went too.

Wow sore wrists after less than 15 minutes :sweatdrop

BTW does the Katana make your bum look big? (compared to the Ginnie of course)

[bosslady]

Wow sore wrists after less than 15 minutes :sweatdrop

BTW does the Katana make your bum look big? (compared to the Ginnie of course)

Hey I've come from a Ginny where there's no weight whatsoever on the bars so nyah nyah :P I think it was fifteen minutes it could have been longer or shorter than that I was sad when it ended! And I'm not sure. I'd say ask Katman but he was in front. Ask grashopper?

[bluninja]

Hey I've come from a Ginny where there's no weight whatsoever on the bars so nyah nyah :P I think it was fifteen minutes it could have been longer or shorter than that I was sad when it ended! And I'm not sure. I'd say ask Katman but he was in front. Ask grashopper?

I'm sure Grasshopper was looking at the road and not your derriere :cool: I know what you mean about feeling sad when you get off a bike that makes your current bike seem not as exciting as it was before you rode something better.

[bosslady]

I'm sure Grasshopper was looking at the road and not your derriere :cool: I know what you mean about feeling sad when you get off a bike that makes your current bike seem not as exciting as it was before you rode something better.

Yup. Was pretty sweet. Think I was only going 90-100kmh but usually at that speed I'm ringing the fuck out of my bike but on that one I'm pretty sure I was only in 3rd gear, possibly should have been in 4th gear (?) but I wasn't too sure and figured if I wasn't red lining it that was probably ok!

[Katman]

possibly should have been in 4th gear

Maybe even 6th. :whistle:

[Madness]

Not worth the nightmares...

True. Thanks for your concern.

[Grashopper]

I'm honestly not sure. Not long. Maybe 15 mins max? I don't know, Grashopper she would know she went too.

Hehe, time is flying when you're out having fun. :) Was 45km and about 30 min on the bike for each of us.

Really nice power output, but the bike is about 50 kg heavier that the GN and that feels like a lot when you come from such a nimble and agile little bike (and the dry weight of the katana is about 3 times of bosslady's or my weight).

[Grashopper]

Maybe even 6th. :whistle:

Was that before or after it started leaking? Did you find a good mechanic to have that looked at? :whistle:

Anyway, with that bike you probably only need 6th for anything higher than 200kph. Do you ever get out of 2nd gear in town?

[Katman]

Was that before or after it started leaking?

That's probably why it started leaking. :crazy:


Did you find a good mechanic to have that looked at? :whistle:

I'll start ringing around tomorrow.


Anyway, with that bike you probably only need 6th for anything higher than 200kph. Do you ever get out of 2nd gear in town?

At 100kph you'd usually use top gear for cruising and maybe drop down a gear or two when overtaking.

[bosslady]

Maybe even 6th. :whistle:

Really? get up to 5th gear on my bike for that speed


Hehe, time is flying when you're out having fun. :) Was 45km and about 30 min on the bike for each of us.

Really nice power output, but the bike is about 50 kg heavier that the GN and that feels like a lot when you come from such a nimble and agile little bike (and the dry weight of the katana is about 3 times of bosslady's or my weight).

Gee was it? But how did my butt look?


That's probably why it started leaking. :crazy:



I'll start ringing around tomorrow.



At 100kph you'd usually use top gear for cruising and maybe drop down a gear or two when overtaking.

I'm sure I was only in 3rd gear and it was sitting at about 9000rpm red lined somewhere about 12000rpm so it's my fault it started leaking? I had it in 2nd gear when we finally slowed down and it almost stalled when I tried to turn into that road until I gave it a lot of gas.

Now I feel stink...

[Katman]

I'm sure I was only in 3rd gear and it was sitting at about 9000rpm red lined somewhere about 12000rpm so it's my fault it started leaking? I had it in 2nd gear when we finally slowed down and it almost stalled when I tried to turn into that road until I gave it a lot of gas.

Now I feel stink...

Yeah, it was probably pulling a few too many revs with not enough air flow through the radiator and overheated slightly.

Don't feel stink.

You'll know when I want you to feel stink about something.

[bosslady]

Well I didn't know... my bike sits at 6k red lines at 8.5k. Very different to my bike.

[Grashopper]

Gee was it? But how did my butt look?


Focussing only on the important part of your post: I have no clue. Was too busy comparing your GN with mine and admiring how easy your windshield made sitting at 100kph+. And how smooth it was. And how funny those high handlebars felt. We're you in front of me? Can't remember.

[Katman]

Well I didn't know... my bike sits at 6k red lines at 8.5k. Very different to my bike.

No worries. Take it out again next time you're down.

You'll find it a whole lot more relaxing experience riding the bike at more relaxed revs.

[Edbear]

Bandit FTW

Great size but my backside found the saddle pretty hard on the run to Wanganui and back...only probably because I hadn't ridden anything but the bandit for so long.

'Tis what I did, to avoid the whole expensive constant "upgrading" in cc over time.

You will know when the time is right for you. Don't feel pressured to do it any sooner than that. There is absolutely nothing wrong with staying in a queue if you don't feel comfortable to split. Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't when I could. I don't give a rats arse what other riders think when they zip past and I'm still in a lane.

Yeah nah yeah nah

Bandit FTW!!!!!!! Having said that my son had a Suzuki GS 500 and it was pretty cool. They look smart and handle nicely.

Both bikes are great for most needs! The 650 will be smoother and would be my choice as once on your full you can derestrict it.


it was just the throttle hand not the other one, weird? but man compared to the Ginny it sure did make me work to take corners that were hardly worth calling corners!

Same issue I had with my old GSX-F600. High frequency vibes from the engine affect the throttle grip more as it is looser due to being able to move. Heavier bar-end weights can help.

[Banditbandit]

Think I was only going 90-100kmh !

You're never goign to know what a bike is really like at such a low speed ...



Really nice power output, but the bike is about 50 kg heavier that the GN and that feels like a lot when you come from such a nimble and agile little bike (and the dry weight of the katana is about 3 times of bosslady's or my weight).

A what ???? Nimble and agile??? It's a crusier style FFS ... I'm sorry - I have ridden an GN and I thought it was a piece of shit ...




Gee was it? But how did my butt look?


FFS ... When will women stop asking men such a patsy question !!! The honest answer is "BIG" .. the only answer women want to hear is "nice ..."

Your butt looked big ... that's spelt B.I.G.

[Tigadee]

...the only answer women want to hear is "nice".

Your butt looked big ...

"...but nice"? :laugh:

[Grashopper]

Your butt looked big ... that's spelt B.I.G.




A what ???? Nimble and agile??? It's a crusier style FFS ... I'm sorry - I have ridden an GN and I thought it was a piece of shit ...


Must have been a B.I.G. person riding it :lol:

[Banditbandit]

Must have been a B.I.G. person riding it :lol:

Bwhahahaha .. at the time I was commuting on a Honda CB250RS .. now there was a nimble agile bike ..

http://www.vintagebike.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/gallery/honda/1980-honda-cb250rs-1-760x570.jpg

These were a stunning learner bike ... there is nothing to match these now ...

[Maha]

- I have ridden an GN and I thought it was a piece of shit ...



Those that have owned one will most likely look back on them with fond memories. I started on one, it was great bike for what I wanted at the time, brand new out of the crate and all mine.
I will however, conceed that yes, to get on one now and ride could be a very bad experience, but that is because I have been riding vastly different bike since those GN days..
Same could said about a Raleigh 20.

[Retep5]

(More 2 cents) I think a sports bike will never be as comfortable compared to a touring bike. But it really comes down to what you feel is comfortable since it's kinda of personal preference to what comfort is. In November I'll be looking at doing the big jump to a GSXR1000 k6 - k8 from a 250cc. 1000cc is not really a touring bike but you can get panniers for them. Also by the sounds of it not the worst comfort for both pillion and rider in the sportsbike category. Though I've been lucky enough to have a few short rides on a few powerful bikes zx10r and Hayabusa gen 1. In short try to have a sit or ride on people's bikes if they will let you and you feel comfortable enough to do it. Waiting 18 months is a really long boring time so jumping to are higher powered bike than the GN250 is worth it.