Thinking about selling the TS

[Matariki]

Yeah... as much as I don't want to, I feel that I should be looking into a motorcycle that is more road friendly and easier to maintain. I haven't ridden the TS much since getting it a year and a half ago and its a shame to see it just sitting there. My knees are not in the best of conditions, and I find that the TS vibrates too much on the road and the kick start can be awkward to use at times. :no: :( :cry:

I guess I don't feel as comfortable riding it as I should be. I'm thinking about saving up for a Yamaha SRV or a Honda GB instead. I don't know if this is normal or not, but I really feel guilty about letting the TS go.

[FJRider]

Yeah... as much as I don't want to, I feel ...

Yep ... totally understandable feelings ... and those feeling last right up to when you take your first ride on YOUR new (to you) bike. And the usual general feeling afterwards is often "Why didn't I do it sooner ??"

The TS taught you much. But it can only teach you so much ... move on. You wont regret it.

[Milts]

The honda GB's have to be some of the nicest looking road bikes around. Easy decision.

Would probably be awesome for the wairarapa roads too.

[Matariki]

Yep ... totally understandable feelings ... and those feeling last right up to when you take your first ride on YOUR new (to you) bike. And the usual general feeling afterwards is often "Why didn't I do it sooner ??"

The TS taught you much. But it can only teach you so much ... move on. You wont regret it.

There are some mechanical issues that need sorting out on it before it moves on (idle speed issues). I bought the TS for $1999, spent $500 on it for mechanics to have new tires fitted, having the indicators fixed, new battery installed, having side panels professionally repaired and reinforced etc. I also replaced the oil, gearbox oil, spark plug, headlight bulb, cleaned out the tank etc. and I haven't got my money's worth out of it.

I wouldn't know how much I should sell it for on trade me. I will have it looked at by either a mechanic (or a very nice KB member) to see if the issue can be fixed with the idle speed, I'll also have its WOF and REGO redone before selling.

[Matariki]

The honda GB's have to be some of the nicest looking road bikes around. Easy decision.

Would probably be awesome for the wairarapa roads too.

Thanks, that enforces my decision to go for the GB. Any tips for what model of GB I should be looking at? I prefer bikes under 500 cc (as I find them easier to ride - I'm still a learner). Are they easy for the novice to maintain?

[Rhys]

a bit of a write up on the SRV

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/10939-Info-on-Yamaha-SRV250cc-for-anyone-thinking-of-buying-one-to-learn-on

I've not heard anything bad about the GB's

[FJRider]

Thanks, that enforces my decision to go for the GB. Any tips for what model of GB I should be looking at? I prefer bikes under 500 cc (as I find them easier to ride - I'm still a learner). Are they easy for the novice to maintain?

Both the 400 & 500 wont vary in weight much. Actual dimensions are the same. And horsepower difference (even compared to the TS) not difficult to cope with. The GB's are simple bikes. And a common and popular ride by KB'rs ... Accurate maintenance advice would be plentiful and rapid.

My choice would be the 500. But (local) availability and price may dictate otherwise.

Either would be a good step up from the TS.

[FJRider]

and I haven't got my money's worth out of it.

I wouldn't know how much I should sell it for on trade me. I will have it looked at by either a mechanic (or a very nice KB member) to see if the issue can be fixed with the idle speed, I'll also have its WOF and REGO redone before selling.

Getting your money spent back from bikes can be difficult. But the price you paid would be a good starting point for a little road legal dual purpose (commuter ??) bike. And far better than a little automatic scooter.

Time to start trolling Trademe ...

[Matariki]

What's the riding position like for the GB, is it easy on the back (like a cruiser) or is it more like a sports bike?

[Akzle]

i <3 TS185ER. i am SO slutted that mine got stolen. how much do you want? (ten bucks and a bag of chips?)

[Akzle]

What's the riding position like for the GB, is it easy on the back (like a cruiser) or is it more like a sports bike?

definitely more cruiser aligned. power delivery isn't scary but it is there. i would go 500, just IMHO.

i find the upright riding possy a PITA for distance, but i've never been a cruiser fan...

only thing diffrent, really, is they're four toker, four valve..

[Matariki]

i <3 TS185ER. i am SO slutted that mine got stolen. how much do you want? (ten bucks and a bag of chips?)

$1999 and a bag of chips and I will call it a deal (although, you would have to take it as it is). :msn-wink:

[awa355]

The honda GB's have to be some of the nicest looking road bikes around. Easy decision.

Would probably be awesome for the wairarapa roads too.


While it is running okay. I had one, lovely bike on the corners, The 'cafe' look was everything I wanted in a motorbike, so much so, I trade down from a 2008 to the '88 GB500. I loved it but they are getting on a bit in years now and most have been hacked about a bit. Electrics can play up and parts fairly hard to source ( dont bother going near a Honda dealer).

[Rhys]

$1999 and a bag of chips and I will call it a deal (although, you would have to take it as it is). :msn-wink:

What flavor are the chips ?

[Akzle]

$1999 and a bag of chips and I will call it a deal (although, you would have to take it as it is). :msn-wink:

what asides from the idle issue?

last one i bought was fairly mint and only paid 1800. not that i'm hussling ya.


yet.

[Matariki]

What flavor are the chips ?

Ready salted, kettle chips.

[Matariki]

what asides from the idle issue?

last one i bought was fairly mint and only paid 1800. not that i'm hussling ya.


yet.

Otherwise besides that, its fine (I will get it looked at before selling). Aesthetically it could do with a little bit of TLC. It has less than 5000km on the clock, so its ideal for the collector who is looking for a later model that still maintains its original, classic Suzuki TS look. I'll even throw in the Haynes Suzuki TS Manual that I bought when I purchased the bike.

Sorry, but I'm not willing to go any lower than what I originally paid for it (its a bargin at the price it is already in comparison to the others I have seen on trademe). After I get it looked at by a mechanic and complete the aesthetic touch ups, I'll probably be looking at around (at least) $2300 for it. If you're interested, you're more than welcome to come down and look at it. I'll even help organize the shipping if you want shipping (although you'll have to pay for it).

[Matariki]

I thought I would write a list of things that I need in a motorcycle:

Budget: $3000 - $4000

CC range: 250cc - 500cc

Style of riding I do: 90% Road, 10% Farm Roads (not all the roads where I live are sealed).

What I'm looking for: A motorcycle that is economical, provides comfortable handling for the novice rider, a neutral riding position and easy(ish) for the novice to maintain mechanically.

Aesthetics: I'm a huge fan of the classic/vintage look, cafe racer being my favorite. I'm not so much of a fan of the blocky look or overly bright color palettes.

[FJRider]

Been to Nelson recently ... ??? Feel a road trip coming on .. ??

This would do you well for quite a while. It would be my pick of all the bikes listed currently on Trademe (within your criteria) at the moment. New(ish) condition but 20 years old and low mileage. Doesn't "need work" ... and will do easily all you want it to.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-586497725.htm

Maybe ..

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-584149099.htm

[Matariki]

Been to Nelson recently ... ??? Feel a road trip coming on .. ??

This would do you well for quite a while. It would be my pick of all the bikes listed currently on Trademe (within your criteria) at the moment. New(ish) condition but 20 years old and low mileage. Doesn't "need work" ... and will do easily all you want it to.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-586497725.htm

I saw that, beautiful bike. Definitely something I could picture myself easily riding. My goal at the moment is to save up at least $3000, but first I need to sell off the TS.

[FJRider]

No rush girl ... timing is important. It does not pay to over stretch the budget to early on purchase. No point in owning a road legal bike ... and not being able to afford to ride it.

Keep saving and keep looking ... it will happen.

[Matariki]

No rush girl ... timing is important. It does not pay to over stretch the budget to early on purchase. No point in owning a road legal bike ... and not being able to afford to ride it.

Keep saving and keep looking ... it will happen.

Totally :niceone:

Good things comes to those that wait, as they say.

[Akzle]

Otherwise besides that, its fine (I will get it looked at before selling). Aesthetically it could do with a little bit of TLC. It has less than 5000km on the clock, so its ideal for the collector who is looking for a later model that still maintains its original, classic Suzuki TS look. I'll even throw in the Haynes Suzuki TS Manual that I bought when I purchased the bike.

Sorry, but I'm not willing to go any lower than what I originally paid for it (its a bargin at the price it is already in comparison to the others I have seen on trademe). After I get it looked at by a mechanic and complete the aesthetic touch ups, I'll probably be looking at around (at least) $2300 for it. If you're interested, you're more than welcome to come down and look at it. I'll even help organize the shipping if you want shipping (although you'll have to pay for it).
i still have the manual from the last one i owned <_<
2k$ you reckon... and beggar it i was just down raglan... coulda come over too.

i'd be shipping it myself... while sitting on it...


I thought I would write a list of things that I need in a motorcycle:

Budget: $3000 - $4000

CC range: 250cc - 500cc

Style of riding I do: 90% Road, 10% Farm Roads (not all the roads where I live are sealed).

What I'm looking for: A motorcycle that is economical, provides comfortable handling for the novice rider, a neutral riding position and easy(ish) for the novice to maintain mechanically.

Aesthetics: I'm a huge fan of the classic/vintage look, cafe racer being my favorite. I'm not so much of a fan of the blocky look or overly bright color palettes.

might i suggest upping your CCs to 600, as that's where the rego costs flip over (if you pay such things) and gives you that bit more choice.

sounds like you're after a twin or single... economy is relative.
will it be mainly a "tootle to the shops" or is it going to be a commuter? just to ride gently on sundays? or something to throw at the road every chance you get?

riding position... cafe racer does not have. the GB isn't a bad option, noither that ZR. the list is probably very, very long of suitable models. your best bet will be test rides.

i also feel you should upgrade your status/ mental place from "novice" to something better than novice, saddle time and practice, and plenty of em. training if you're that way inclined...

-edit-
greytown is not where i thought you were.

[FJRider]

your best bet will be test rides.

i also feel you should upgrade your status/ mental place from "novice" to something better than novice, saddle time and practice, and plenty of em. training if you're that way inclined...


Making sensible comments and giving good advice is not like you ... :scratch:




-edit-
greytown is not where i thought you were.

Greytown is where it's always been. You not from round here .. ??? :shifty:

[Matariki]

might i suggest upping your CCs to 600, as that's where the rego costs flip over (if you pay such things) and gives you that bit more choice.

sounds like you're after a twin or single... economy is relative.
will it be mainly a "tootle to the shops" or is it going to be a commuter? just to ride gently on sundays? or something to throw at the road every chance you get?

riding position... cafe racer does not have. the GB isn't a bad option, noither that ZR. the list is probably very, very long of suitable models. your best bet will be test rides.

i also feel you should upgrade your status/ mental place from "novice" to something better than novice, saddle time and practice, and plenty of em. training if you're that way inclined...

-edit-
greytown is not where i thought you were.

Commuting around the Wairarapa and Wellington region. Yep, I will be needing to do test rides before deciding on a model of bike, I'm not sure though how to go about doing that.

[FJRider]

Yep, I will be needing to do test rides before deciding on a model of bike, I'm not sure though how to go about doing that.

It usually involves ... using all your powers of persuasion ... and learning a few more.

Invariably it results in having a bike that you never thought you would like. But the price was right and after a few weeks/years ... it aint so bad.

[Akzle]

Greytown is where it's always been. You not from round here .. ??? :shifty:
no. what the f*ck kind of hicks live south of the waikato?

Yep, I will be needing to do test rides before deciding on a model of bike, I'm not sure though how to go about doing that.
any dealership worth their nuts/ wanting to make a sale will let you, although i'm stil unsure of your riding ability.. and the old "you break it, you buy it" will apply.

so don't break one unless you like it.

as far as private sales, trademe etc, it will depend on the seller,
you may have better luck hussling a fellow KBer to test ride their sweet sweet ride.

[FJRider]

no. what the f*ck kind of hicks live south of the waikato?

Three quarters of the national population ..

Perhaps we know more than you do ...

[Matariki]

Does anybody know when the best time is to purchase a motorcycle off trademe is? There isn't much on there at the moment.
Also, what would be a good step up from the GN250? (The GN250 was my first road bike)

[Akzle]

Three quarters of the national population ..

Perhaps we know more than you do ...
given that a quarter are supposedly in auckland... and i'm not alone up here, and there were people in the waikato... i think your statistic is flawed. but. i get it.. news travels slow.

Does anybody know when the best time is to purchase a motorcycle off trademe is? There isn't much on there at the moment.
Also, what would be a good step up from the GN250? (The GN250 was my first road bike)

seeeeeeeeeeeriously???????

you've been here long enough to know better than that, surely.

[FJRider]

Does anybody know when the best time is to purchase a motorcycle off trademe is? There isn't much on there at the moment.
Also, what would be a good step up from the GN250? (The GN250 was my first road bike)

Winter time ... everybody gearing up for their new summer rides ...

This is worth looking at. They have good reports from anybody that owns or rides them ..

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-587613451.htm

[Glowerss]

Does anybody know when the best time is to purchase a motorcycle off trademe is? There isn't much on there at the moment.
Also, what would be a good step up from the GN250? (The GN250 was my first road bike)

From personal experience, the best time to buy a bike was a few months ago. Seems like late fall/ over winter there's farkall for sale and it's all way overpriced. Start of summer there's more for sale but people think cuz it's start of summer their bike should be worth a mint :laugh:

Middle of summer seems like there's the most bikes for sale as people realize they aren't using em, and cuz the best riding weather is half over people seem inclined to let bikes go for a reasonable price.

But deals crop up all year round. Just gotta check trademe every few days, and make sure you watchlist various bikes you may or may not be interested in to see how much they go for and how long it takes em to sell.

[Matariki]

I hope you guys look down on me or anything for saying this, but I've decided to sell the TS for a SUV (or at least to help raise the funds for one). I don't have my own 4 wheeled vehicle, and I'm still struggling the PTSD that was from the result of a head on collision with a mobility van (it almost killed me) 2 years back (RIP GN250). :no: :bye:

I will ride again hopefully sometime in the near future once I have built up confidence driving on the road.

[nerrrd]

I hope you guys look down on me or anything for saying this, but I've decided to sell the TS for a SUV (or at least to help raise the funds for one). I don't have my own 4 wheeled vehicle, and I'm still struggling the PTSD that was from the result of a head on collision with a mobility van (it almost killed me) 2 years back (RIP GN250). :no: :bye:

I will ride again hopefully sometime in the near future once I have built up confidence driving on the road.

Hey good luck, no shame in doing what's the right thing for you. Hope you find your way back onto 2 wheels when you're ready :).

[FJRider]

Hey good luck, no shame in doing what's the right thing for you. Hope you find your way back onto 2 wheels when you're ready :).

I agree ... and ignore any that do.

[Matariki]

I know these aren't motorcycles (nothing is as good or as fun as riding on 2 wheels) but I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on the following cars (this will be my first car - I can't believe I'm asking a motorcycle forum for advice for a car... :facepalm:):

I'm ideally looking for something that is economical, comfortable for the novice to drive, easy to maintain and can handle off road conditions (under 3000cc). Here are the ones I'm currently looking at;

Toyota Rav4
Toyota Hilux

Suzuki Escudo
Suzuki Vitara

Nissan Terrano
Nissan Mistral
Nissan Pathfinder
Nissan Navara

Honda CRV

[Matariki]

Hey good luck, no shame in doing what's the right thing for you. Hope you find your way back onto 2 wheels when you're ready :).


I agree ... and ignore any that do.

Thanks guys :)

[FJRider]

I know these aren't motorcycles ...

Start a new thread (off topic rant & rave) before the Mods move it ...

[Akzle]

I know these aren't motorcycles (nothing is as good or as fun as riding on 2 wheels) but I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on the following cars (this will be my first car - I can't believe I'm asking a motorcycle forum for advice for a car... :facepalm:):

I'm ideally looking for something that is economical, comfortable for the novice to drive, easy to maintain and can handle off road conditions (under 3000cc). Here are the ones I'm currently looking at;

Toyota Rav4
Toyota Hilux

Suzuki Escudo
Suzuki Vitara

Nissan Terrano
Nissan Mistral
Nissan Pathfinder
Nissan Navara

Honda CRV

scudo, vitara for you, terrano if you want a tractor, navara if ute. Avoid honda. And noone should own a rav4.
Ever.

[Matariki]

Hey guys, just letting you know that the Suzuki TS 185 is now up for sale (I'm not sure If i'm allowed to advertise it here or not). Newer photos and a video will be coming soon, when it stops raining. It has a current WOF, registration is on hold until September. Its in a good tidy, road worthy, riding condition. It has under 20,000km on the clock. And I had serviced by a professional mechanic just recently. I'm looking for around $2300 for it, that also includes the Suzuki TS Haynes manual (which I'm throwing in for free as a part of the purchase). I haven't placed it on trademe yet, I thought you guys should have first look at it.

You're welcome to come view it. My days off at the moment are Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Send me a PM if you're interested. I have also posted an ad for it here that you can look at too - http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/159776-Suzuki-TS-ER-185?p=1130579811#post1130579811

[milktown]

Thanks, that enforces my decision to go for the GB. Any tips for what model of GB I should be looking at? I prefer bikes under 500 cc (as I find them easier to ride - I'm still a learner). Are they easy for the novice to maintain?


iv owned many bikes between 150cc and 750cc. i have to say in all honesty, my 1988 gb400 is the most enjoyable bike i have ever owned. it is by far NOT the fastest by any means but what it lacks in sheer power it makes up for in handling, economy, ease of use, looks and an overall pleasing exhaust note. its no modern track bike but the stock suspension, breaks and ground clearance make it loads of fun on any twisty you can find. thats all with stock set up too. put a few aftermarket upgrades and im sure youd be able to get a knee down. its also a very easy bike to ride. smooth as silk trans and a tight throttle. being a thumper its got nice amount of peppy torque and is quite smooth for a single. i put a 40 tooth on mine for a bit more pull around town.

top speed 142.5kph (gps)
fuel economy city 23-24 kpl
fuel economy motorway holding about 90kph is 24-25kpl
fuel economy fast motorway 110 to 120kph drops to about 21kpl
acceleration is about as fast as most mid sized cars maybe a TINY bit quicker.

starter motor does tend to crap out on these but they are pretty easy to kick start. my starter still works but when i do feel like kicking it to life it always fires up first go. they dont "burn" oil but they do use a bit so make sure u keep it topped up.

i cannot stress enough how much this little bike puts a smile on my face every single day i ride it(as my 96 cb750 sits lonely in the corner). its just got "it"
did i mention they look pretty damn purdy... if ur into old chicks ;)