Taking a power downgrade?

[Mike.Gayner]

I recently sold my Speed Triple solely because I want to try something totally different. Problem is I'm worried about taking a big downgrade in power, and whether I'll really regret this decision. I'm looking at getting onto something significantly lighter, like a Duke 690 or a supermoto like the KTM 690 SMC, Husky 701 or even a more raw supermoto like a 500EXC or WR250X with road wheels.

Has anyone here got experience in moving onto a much lower power bike? Any comments/suggestions?

For a bit of background, one of the main reasons I'm changing is because I've got an 8-month baby boy now, so I'm doing less full-day and multi-day rides, and I don't expect to be taking my wife as pillion for the next few years. I likely won't be doing any more track riding. So I've got an opportunity to get a bike that's focused on solo riding, and would like something I can have fun with on shorter rides and slower speeds.

[Blackbird]

I went from a Blackbird to a Street Triple. The reasons are probably a bit different from yours in that I'm older and wanted a lighter bike with better ergonomics. Even so, I'll happily admit that at the time I worried that stepping down in horsepower was maybe a bit unmanly. Or as my wife put it less delicately - suffering from little willy syndrome. In reality, I couldn't have been more wrong. The superior handling more than made up for the lower horsepower and in fact, the power to weight ratio wasn't a lot different. I found that my outlook shifted from enjoying riding fast to riding well. It was also helped by retiring and moving permanently to the Coromandel where absolute horsepower is pretty much irrelevant. I'm sure you'll enjoy a motard-type bike in the twisties just as much if not more than the Speed Triple. Fitness for purpose and all that good stuff.

[bastardsquad]

Fitness for purpose. I've just downgraded from a CB1300 to a Ninja 300. The 300 is gutless in comparison , but it's just as fast/faster through the Auckland traffic for commuting because it fits through narrow gaps easily. It won't however be of use for 'fun' at weekends like the 1300 was. Spec the machine on it's primary purpose and you'll be OK. Moar power is always moar fun tho.

[HenryDorsetCase]

I have a Street Triple as a road bike (though I use it for everything - track days, touring, communting) and thought I would get a Yamaha SR400 as a "cool" commuter/town bike. I liked the bike but hated the lack of power. The kicker was getting dragged off at the lights by a fat bitch in a shitty old Ford Coon.

So I sold it. The big issue is that if you are riding in traffic you need sufficient power and sufficient pep - if you filter to the front of a queue you want to be able to get to where there is clear air around you which is safer than being surrounded by cunts who are trying to kill you.

I rode a HD Street 500 earlier this year for a couple months and I really rate it as a commuter/town bike.

[SVboy]

As long as you realize the smaller bike will be fun in different ways you will love a motard. I love my fat slow DRZ400sm for its handling and speed through twisties-quite different to my Busa! The Tards are less fun on open straight roads but chuck in some corners, kerbs, roundabouts and even commuting and they are so much fun. Will require a mindshift.

[FJRider]

Many take pleasure in riding a slow bike fast ... and take pleasure in showing up riders on their "fast" bikes ... :laugh:

[rastuscat]

I'm riding my R1200RT for work. I have been for many years. Does everything, comfortable, tours well.

I'm lusting after an F800ST, as I've had 2 in the past, and miss them both. There's one on TM at the mo, so tempting.

[release_the_bees]

I went from an SV1000 to an R3 and it's bags of fun. I took it around the Coromandel yesterday, it was an absolute blast.

As others have noted, smaller bikes are fun in their own way. They're great in the twisties, and it's fun being able to accelerate hard out of corners without risking loss of licence.

Sent from my SM-G900I using Tapatalk

[rastuscat]

As long as the bike has a lot of low down torque you should not find it too bad. The only problem that I have found with going to a lighter bike is you can get blown around more in side winds.


Rarely do we agree, but here in Canterbury, lighter is worse in the incessant summer winds.

[Racing Dave]

I'm riding my R1200RT for work. I have been for many years. Does everything, comfortable, tours well.

I'm lusting after an F800ST, as I've had 2 in the past, and miss them both. There's one on TM at the mo, so tempting.

Similar to RC, I normally ride my R1200GS, but a couple of years ago I hired an F800GT (not too far from RC's desired ST) in Scotland and spent a couple of weeks two-up touring on what has now become known as the North Coast 500.

Relatively light, relatively comfortable, just enough power. We had a great time and didn't wish for a bigger (heavier, more powerful) bike.

That said, earlier this year we hired an R1200GS Rallye, also in Scotland, and then spent three weeks touring in the mountains in Europe. Longer days, higher speeds - that, too, was the right bike for that purpose.

As stated above, the right bike for the right reason is the one for you.

[pritch]

I haven't done what you are contemplating but have been considering it for years. (And years.) I have also talked to some who did it: one, GSXR750 to KTM Duke, and another who switched from a series of big Duc sprotbikes to a Husqvarna motard. They both sought out different roads on their new bike. It won't take you long to figure out that the motorway is not the natural home of the bikes you mention.

Also my worry, it might pay to allow a bit more space for overtakes until you get used to the different power characteristics?

[Scubbo]

went from a RF900 to a xtz125 --- only miss doing 200kph+ on the roads every now and then when my brain has fallen out other than that, the xtz has taken me more places, a lot cheaper and I can throw it off a cliff and will just start up and take me home :cool: (there is a lot to be said for a bike you have no fear of dropping, can go some wicked places)

[george formby]

It won't take you long to figure out that the motorway is not the natural home of the bikes you mention.

Also my worry, it might pay to allow a bit more space for overtakes until you get used to the different power characteristics?

Yup, limited HP means careful planning for overtakes.

Which means higher corner speeds, higher revs and bigger grins. I'm surrounded by deliciously twisty roads and love riding my G/F's 230cc 2t. It's light, very, goes like a cut cat and encourages questionable riding behaviour. Literally a pain in the ass on the main highways but potentially uncatchable in the twisties. Smaller bikes are soooo much fun on the right roads!

I have another, quicker, 2t in the shed I was going to put on the road as a Motard but have decided against it. I want to be a better rider not a bigger asshole and the wee bikes really impact my behaviour. :nono:

Must work on my discipline.

[Gremlin]

My bikes have been ZZR250 - ZX7R - ZX10R - 990SM - R1200GSA. I've never dropped capacity, but HP yes.

After the ZX10R I needed a change to prevent more trouble. Test rode a 690SM, too ring ding for me (I'm 6'3 105kg). The 990 didn't have me wishing for something faster as I needed to slow down, but it was a different kind of naughty being a total hooligan toy. Mate had a 690SM, rode the 990 and pretty much came back :gob:

The 990SM actually started the shift to adventure riding, and wasn't well suited, so got the GSA, which is awesome, but I never commute on it (it would be like taking a superbike to a go cart track). Fitness for purpose and all that, and I've found 100-120HP is my sweet spot. Much more and I'd get into trouble, less and I might get bored.

Bear in mind that the same power can be delivered differently. The 990SM was around 115? crank, CB900 is around that, GSA probably similar. All have delivered power very differently, giving different rides.

edit: I've ridden a fair few singles now, and haven't liked a single one, so it may explain why I've barely considered them. If do you like em, then keep them as an option?

[george formby]

I recently sold my Speed Triple solely because I want to try something totally different. Problem is I'm worried about taking a big downgrade in power, and whether I'll really regret this decision. I'm looking at getting onto something significantly lighter, like a Duke 690 or a supermoto like the KTM 690 SMC, Husky 701 or even a more raw supermoto like a 500EXC or WR250X with road wheels.

Has anyone here got experience in moving onto a much lower power bike? Any comments/suggestions?

For a bit of background, one of the main reasons I'm changing is because I've got an 8-month baby boy now, so I'm doing less full-day and multi-day rides, and I don't expect to be taking my wife as pillion for the next few years. I likely won't be doing any more track riding. So I've got an opportunity to get a bike that's focused on solo riding, and would like something I can have fun with on shorter rides and slower speeds.

I reckon my first post was not particularly helpful, my wee bikes are quite frenetic and you have to really focus on your riding to keep your momentum up which can give me the red mist. 20 years ago (the age of my bikes) 45hp / 135kg would get past a lot of cars. Not now.

I guess the question is, and you hint at it. What kind of riding do you really enjoy?
The SM's and my 2t's have quite a narrow focus, they want corners and throttle. If you want something a bit more practical and comfortable, the middleweight twins are great bikes. More comfort, better range, fewer sharp edges / more refined, but still really good fun.
Summit to think about, anyhoo.

[T.W.R]

Just get the wee brother of what you had :msn-wink: makes sense, it's more of a riders bike and has enough capability if you do decide to escape for more than a day & far more durable than a motard based machine

[babysteps]

My Duke 200 beat a Ducati 900SS from the Lyttleton Tunnel Roundabout to the Governors Bay Pub. He has to buy the first round every time.....

[HenryDorsetCase]

maybe the perfect compromise is that new KTM - the 800cc twin one? Long as its not too fucking tall. (for me....)

[babysteps]

I'd by that 800 in a heartbeat if it's half as good as the reviews

[JimO]

i remember years ago i had a Z1r and a mate was looking at getting a kawasaki 400 and asked me to take it for a test ride, first corner i nearly dropped it as it was so light compared to the thou

[Hads]

Could always go 2 stroke for some large difference in style, like a ktm 300 exc, no good for longer rides as they drink fuel and oil, however are loads of fun with that powerband.

[Jonathan]

My KLE500 is half the power of my previous fat old GPX750. The biggest difference I noticed, as others have mentioned, is the effect of wind. I tour with it, and just over a month ago I was riding about 700km with an awful crosswind and it was exhausting trying to keep in my lane. Something I never had a problem with on my sports bike.

The trade off is worth it for me, though, because now on a dual sport I can take my bike into places I would never attempt on my GPX, and I can enjoy the forests and nature.

[F5 Dave]

I got sick of big heavy bikes. Also with young kids wants doing long rides, just day rides, although just did 6 days in SI no problems. I had a 1050 but Tiger flavour. I liked the fact that you didnt feel like you had to go fast like some previous bikes to have fun.
Worried that I'd miss the grunt though.
But the 675 Street has been great. Surprised by the midrange and less weight makes up for it. So much better to ride.
New models came out as 765. Wondered if I'd now feel shortchanged. Then I realised the reasons I like the 675 haven't changed. Suits my riding.
Although some days I wonder if I should have got the Daytona. But that's probably only 10% of the time and I didn't want to have a reason to go faster on the road.

[R650R]

I had the two options at once, then lost the big ponies when I started pulling the GSXR to bits.

Supermoto would be awesome but hey mate, I'm only running 80/20 tyres 21/17 combo an the DR and with a lighter bike you'd be amazed its plenty grip on tarmac. Especially after you've been sliding around on gravel roads and sandy beaches. Go the adventure route on the 690 or 701, gives more options and you can always convert easy later to road/tubeless tyre setup etc and go full supermoto style.

I've really gotten used to the DR, love it and its 20kg fatter and good 20hp down on the 690/701 option. The only time I truly want that big power back is passing slow feckers on the big hilly passing lanes on taupo road loaded up with gear. Rest of time you can still smoke people with momentum and road network knowledge.

Also on a small bike/adventure look... you don't LOOK fast, police comms is going to laugh if someone *555 you and says a DR650 farm bike just overtook at about 140(theoretically) and dissappered into distance.....
Plus playing on backroads you look like a local or farmer not a streetracer.

Also getting in and out of shed, park ANYWHERE and easy turning circle etc is great.

Just do it you wont regret.

[Navy Boy]

I can attest to the fun that DR650/KLR650 type machines are. The old adage of 'It's better to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow' comes to mind.

Bikes like the 701 Husky will always be good fun to ride, regardless of whatever else you ride or how you ride it. You only live once so go for it. I doubt you'll feel shortchanged. :clap:

[george formby]

Excellent points R650R.

I recently rode an 800 twin and it felt like a toy, I really enjoyed it. At some point I will "upgrade" my big bike for a....... 700 twin. When Yamaha finally starts selling the model I want.

Having said that, being aware that I'm not getting younger, I fancy owning my first sprotbike. GSXR750....

Don't listen to me, I have bike swings.

[rastuscat]

On the up side.

I'm keeping the R1200RT.

And I've just bought that F800ST as well.

Damn you for starting this thread.

[eldog]

On the up side.

I'm keeping the R1200RT.

And I've just bought that F800ST as well.

Damn you for starting this thread.

would be interested in your thoughts on your new ride after a couple of months:Punk:

[F5 Dave]

On the up side.

I'm keeping the R1200RT.

And I've just bought that F800ST as well.

Damn you for starting this thread.

When was the last time you rode a bike less than 200kg wet?
Motorbikes can be fun too.

[rastuscat]

would be interested in your thoughts on your new ride after a couple of months:Punk:

I've had 2 of these previously. Regretted selling each. Hence my purchase.

[ellipsis]

...i 'ave a sporty...where do i go from here...

[rastuscat]

...i 'ave a sporty...where do i go from here...

The only way is up.

[Moi]

...i 'ave a sporty...where do i go from here...

https://i.pinimg.com/736x/58/04/91/5804916e42f69ce5e5f024b23720123b--puch-moped-maxis.jpg

[ellipsis]

really cool little highway cruiser

...I have some old 2t 50's on the property somewhere...they was always gunna be mo ride...that's the benchmark for me , thank fuck...thank you...rastus, git fucked, I don't need your pragmatic posts to unnerve my plans of expanding my motorcycling horizons...

[Grumph]

.. I don't need your pragmatic posts to unnerve my plans of expanding my motorcycling horizons...

What ? outside Banks Peninsular ?

[ellipsis]

What ? outside Banks Peninsular ?


...who needs more...

[rastuscat]

...who needs more...

Some is good. More is better.

[Mike.Gayner]

Many excellent responses....it does seem like the biggest barrier to moving to a smaller bike is mental.

I'm really just looking for something really fun within legal speeds in the short window before I have to go back to a pillion-friendly bike. That's why I'm interested in supermoto, especially as it's so different to anything else I've ridden.

I'm pretty drunk right now, and if the shop were open I'm pretty sure I'd lock in the Husky 701 right now...let's see how I feel in the morning. Still, it's a lot of money ($15k ish) for a very basic bike.

[Mike.Gayner]

In reference to some of the posts above, I still feel a bit torn.


suffering from little willy syndrome.

That's a genuine issue - both due to my tiny dick and due to my mental barrier. But I'll never know for sure until I get onto a smaller bike.


Many take pleasure in riding a slow bike fast

My problem with that old gem is, you know what's even more fun that riding a fast bike slow or a slow bike fast? Riding a fast bike fast. Though coming within 5 points of losing my license has me re-assessing my priorities.

[T.W.R]

My problem with that old gem is, you know what's even more fun that riding a fast bike slow or a slow bike fast? Riding a fast bike fast. Though coming within 5 points of losing my license has me re-assessing my priorities.

Another twist on that is that a big bike will keep doing it all with ease whereas a small bike wont, and do you respect the machine you're riding or treat it with contempt?
Every angle has it's virtues but until you've actually done a lot of kms on bikes of all capacities the thrill of wringing the neck of something small looses it's appeal pretty quickly...any A/hole can get on a bike and ride it's but to actually get on a bike, understand it, feel what it's actually doing is a step further that a lot fail to reach.
Like operating machinery....plenty out there are drivers but very very few are operators :msn-wink:

[Graystone]

Many excellent responses....it does seem like the biggest barrier to moving to a smaller bike is mental.

I'm really just looking for something really fun within legal speeds in the short window before I have to go back to a pillion-friendly bike. That's why I'm interested in supermoto, especially as it's so different to anything else I've ridden.

I'm pretty drunk right now, and if the shop were open I'm pretty sure I'd lock in the Husky 701 right now...let's see how I feel in the morning. Still, it's a lot of money ($15k ish) for a very basic bike.

Lighter is good, but I wouldn't go supermoto if you plan to spend any significant time on straight open roads, it's just the wrong ergos and aeros for that. S3 is already fairly light but going to an R6 or R3 (or similar depending on taste; or lack of in the case of zuks/kwaks) would be lighter and still good allrounders.

[F5 Dave]

Many excellent responses....it does seem like the biggest barrier to moving to a smaller bike is mental.

I'm really just looking for something really fun within legal speeds in the short window before I have to go back to a pillion-friendly bike. That's why I'm interested in supermoto, especially as it's so different to anything else I've ridden.

I'm pretty drunk right now, and if the shop were open I'm pretty sure I'd lock in the Husky 701 right now...let's see how I feel in the morning. Still, it's a lot of money ($15k ish) for a very basic bike.
Enjoy it while you can.
The being drunk that is. . .
Hell's teeth. 15k?!?? Go 2nd hand, esp if its going to be a short term move.

Your life has changed. But as long as you can insist the missus goes out to see her friends and clothes shopping or whatever she'll stay sane. Of course that counters with you going riding every Sunday. He he.

[Mike.Gayner]

Your life has changed. But as long as you can insist the missus goes out to see her friends and clothes shopping or whatever she'll stay sane. Of course that counters with you going riding every Sunday. He he.

Yeah we've got a pretty good understanding with that stuff. I'm lucky.

Plus I really like spending Saturdays with the little man while my wife sees her mum or mates for the day. So the quid pro quo is easy for me.

[F5 Dave]

Clever man.

[Mike.Gayner]

Hell's teeth. 15k?!?? Go 2nd hand, esp if its going to be a short term move.

Unfortunately the used market on these particular bikes (SMC-R 690 and Husky 701) is small, and it's tough to find a quality used bike in the North Island at a reasonable price.

[Moi]

Have you looked at the SWM models?

...perhaps a SM 650 R (https://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-1481870400.htm?rsqid=68688ed00eac4e2388f67998fec2c fcd)?

[pritch]

.plenty out there are drivers but very very few are operators :msn-wink:

I'd be a bit nervous about being described as an "operator". I can remember when "owner operator" was an insult. As in, he owns it he operates it. :tugger:

[T.W.R]

I'd be a bit nervous about being described as an "operator". I can remember when "owner operator" was an insult. As in, he owns it he operates it. :tugger:

Ha true but most that use that analogy need tweezers & a magnifying glass themselves

But in the realms where machinery cost hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars the distinction soon comes apparent when some halfwits get behind the controls. Same with bikes, deep pockets of the fashionista doesn't make them any better than the person on the 20 yr old + bike. As a german fighter ace from the WWI said it isn't the box it's the man in the box that makes the difference :yes:

[Mike.Gayner]

Have you looked at the SWM models?

...perhaps a SM 650 R (https://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-1481870400.htm?rsqid=68688ed00eac4e2388f67998fec2c fcd)?

I really don't know anything about these bikes at all.

[Moi]

I really don't know anything about these bikes at all.

Neither did I until I did the old ask Mr Google...

Italian, uses Husky engine, designed for Italian secondary roads rather than autostrada.

Have a look here:

SMW Motorcycles (http://www.swm-motorcycles.it/en/)

SWM in Australia (https://www.swmmotorcycles.com.au/)

Good old Wiki (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SWM_(motorcycles))

plus Woodman in the Nelson region seems to be riding one, if his profile is up-to-date.

I've been curious because the dual sport version would do what I want and a bit more than the present elderly fully-fared 650 tourer I ride. I'm too frugal to buy a new one, though I suspect that being Italian there'll be many who will dismiss it immediately - you haven't lived until you've owned an Italian says a friend... - and that within the year they'll be discounted to clear stock. Probably not what you want to hear!

Cheers

[BMWGSER]

I'm riding my R1200RT for work. I have been for many years. Does everything, comfortable, tours well.

I'm lusting after an F800ST, as I've had 2 in the past, and miss them both. There's one on TM at the mo, so tempting.

Try a 800 GS , I liked mine till it got traded in for a KTM

[rastuscat]

Have you looked at the SWM models?

...perhaps a SM 650 R (https://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-1481870400.htm?rsqid=68688ed00eac4e2388f67998fec2c fcd)?

I've looked at lots of models. Heidi Klum was a favourite.

[Moi]

I've looked at lots of models. Heidi Klum was a favourite.

"Was" being the operative word...

https://the-hollywood-gossip-res.cloudinary.com/iu/s--aOtZXUFC--/c_scale,f_auto,h_928,q_auto,w_696/v1445877043/slides/2245/a-gorgeous-granny

[Mike.Gayner]

Picking up my new bike on Saturday, will reveal it some time during the weekend. But going from over 120hp to under 70 is making me nervous, considering I'm doing so without so much as a test ride...

[F5 Dave]

Taking leads from HDC huh?
Fortune favours the brave.

Sometimes.

[george formby]

Picking up my new bike on Saturday, will reveal it some time during the weekend. But going from over 120hp to under 70 is making me nervous, considering I'm doing so without so much as a test ride...

Corners, when you expose yourself, tell us about cornering...:yes:

[T.W.R]

Corners, when you expose yourself, tell us about cornering...:yes:

If he exposes himself on a corner he'll cause a crash :whistle:

[pritch]

BIKE magazine did a test of the Aprilia RS125. The thing is an absolute scalpel, but it scared the guy. Basically once you wind the momentum up you need to keep it up - beyond the limits of normal discretion. Some of his overtaking manoeuvres bothered him. Anything, so long as he kept the speed up. He thought it was great but not for him.

That's an extreme example but it's sort of what I alluded to when I mentioned overtaking distances.

Let's know how you get on. Have fun.

[F5 Dave]

Heck I had an RG50 road bike to commute on if you want to talk keeping momentum at all costs. I took it to the cold kiwi 6 times from Wellington despite having a litre bike or some such to hand.
Rode a mates RS125 Apr. Neat bike.

[rastuscat]

I've bought that F800ST thst this thread caused me to. Waiting for Biketranz to pick up from Tauranga and deliver to me.

It's gonna be a long couple of weeks.

[Mike.Gayner]

So I ended up with the Husqvarna 701. So far I'm enjoying this bike, and it really doesn't feel like a power downgrade at all. Still nervous that I spent so much on such a basic bike though.

333919

[F5 Dave]

Aww giz a go mista :devil2:

[Scubbo]

wow nice that will be a fun ride!!!! jealous!!!!!!!

[george formby]

Same power as me, er, big bike but about 90kg lighter. :sweatdrop

I would get into trouble.

Looking forward to reading your comments after some seat time. Enjoy!

[pritch]

Coooooool!

[tzrbrett]

I was in pretty much the same position as you... came from a fairly worked gsxr1000 down to a xb9s buell lightning, i found the buell slow and boring and within a few weeks had swapped to a s4 monster. caf raced it and am enjoying every minute.

The Ducati isnt as fast as the gixxer by any stretch but with no fairings an open faced helmet and a wicked sound track it still feels really fast. (with the open face helmet it forces me to keep it under 160 because of the wind)

hope that helps

[F5 Dave]

Is that a 3MA in pic?

Why would you wear an open face helmet? The chance of smashing your face into something gruesome is pretty high in even a minor tumble on the road. I've seen some pretty fucked up full face helmets and your face is pretty soft in comparison.

[rastuscat]

Loving the F800ST. Great bike for work.

Guy I bought it from described it as very tidy I'd call it a shit box. I'm 3 weeks into sorting it out . It just needed some TLC.

Loving my big bike still, but also loving losing 100 kg.

[Mike.Gayner]

Guy I bought it from described it as very tidy I'd call it a shit box. I'm 3 weeks into sorting it out . It just needed some TLC.

Funny how different people have different perspectives on "tidy". I take extremely thorough care of my bikes, and when selling I describe every known imperfection. I've seen people describing some pretty rough bikes as "mint", which literally means "like new".

Nonetheless, it usually doesn't take too much work to sort out that cosmetic stuff. The bike I bought has obviously spent some time in the sun, and despite being near-new it needs a bit of attention. But the nature of this type of bike means I may just not bother.

For those wanting a follow-up, I have absolutely no regrets about selling my 120hp Speed Triple for this 65hp Husky. It's exactly what I wanted, and absolutely doesn't feel like it lacks any power (OK it doesn't go 120km/h to 180km/h in the blink of an eye, but still).

I've already done so much on this bike that I would never have done on the Speed Triple.

334885 334886

[Voltaire]

Loving the F800ST. Great bike for work.

Guy I bought it from described it as very tidy I'd call it a shit box. I'm 3 weeks into sorting it out . It just needed some TLC.

Loving my big bike still, but also loving losing 100 kg.

That's a lot of donuts...:rolleyes:

[rastuscat]

That's a lot of donuts...:rolleyes:

The one around my waist is the one that concerns me most.

[F5 Dave]

Funny how different people have different perspectives on "tidy". I take extremely thorough care of my bikes, and when selling I describe every known imperfection. I've seen people describing some pretty rough bikes as "mint", which literally means "like new".

Nonetheless, it usually doesn't take too much work to sort out that cosmetic stuff. The bike I bought has obviously spent some time in the sun, and despite being near-new it needs a bit of attention. But the nature of this type of bike means I may just not bother.

For those wanting a follow-up, I have absolutely no regrets about selling my 120hp Speed Triple for this 65hp Husky. It's exactly what I wanted, and absolutely doesn't feel like it lacks any power (OK it doesn't go 120km/h to 180km/h in the blink of an eye, but still).

I've already done so much on this bike that I would never have done on the Speed Triple.

334885 334886
Is that a parrot on your shoulder?

[Mike.Gayner]

Yes. Or a Gopro on my helmet. Either one.

[MD]

Wish you had gone for the SWM Superdual. I want to hear from an owner, with a few months use under their belt, what they're like. Motorad in Wgtn have one in the showroom and it looks tempting.

What I have now, the MT09 is a good value (ok, it was cheap) light bike that's good for all round use.

That Husky you got doesn't look road legal?

[Mike.Gayner]

Wish you had gone for the SWM Superdual. I want to hear from an owner, with a few months use under their belt, what they're like. Motorad in Wgtn have one in the showroom and it looks tempting.

What I have now, the MT09 is a good value (ok, it was cheap) light bike that's good for all round use.

That Husky you got doesn't look road legal?

I'd like to hear as well, but this was too good a bike to pass up.

The MT-09 is a great value bike, but a bit different from what I wanted. Weight was a factor, and even this 147kg Husky was borderline too heavy.

The Husky is totally road legal, with a WOF until next year.