600cc supersports first impressions

[Black Bandit]

OH MY GOD
How do you keep your licence on one of these? (Mine just arrived in the post this morning) This is what 100+ RWHP feels like? Then I must have more! I went to try out a couple of larger bikes today, looking for a step up from my Bandit. I'm not a journalist or some track superstar, these are merely the ramblings of an enthuisiast ... so take them with a pinch of salt if you disagree.

EDIT: Further bikes tested later in this thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=1109528&postcount=34)

2007 Honda CBR600 RR
Wow, this bike is really eager to get to business! The throttle from closed to fully open felt something like only 60 degrees, lightning fast response. It felt like a very well sorted bike but I found the clutch to be very clunky around slow suburban traffic - probably will bed-in over time and will be much better at higher speeds. I didn't ever get the bike much out of 2nd or 3rd gear. Sounds authoritive though and did get quite a few head turns.:yes:

Lasting impression - boy what a clunky clutch, my foot hurts.

2007 Suzuki GSX-R600
Hmm. Comfy (relatively). I took this one onto the motorway and the grin started getting bigger immediately. The power delivery felt more exciting on this bike. Strong pull from lower down and then a second rush of power after 10000rpm. Loved the sound of the ram-air induction and stumpy exhaust. Who nicked the fuel gauge? Good clear gear indicator.

Lasting impression - whether idling at the traffic lights, blipping the throttle or wailing like a banshee along the motorway I loved the sound.:love:

2007 Kawasaki ZX-6R
The engine sounds real smooth, feels real silky too with nice even power delivery and the exhaust sound track is rather chunky and "grown up". There's a strange amount of free-play in the throttle grip initially but it didn't affect the ride. Quite liked the look of this bike, good narrow seat for short arses like me. Come-to-bed eyes. Horrible tail section though, the rear light cluster needs some help. Felt really quick and flickable, changing direction faster than I anticipated. Somebody nicked off with the fuel gauge on this one too. Gear indicator less clear than the GSXR.

Lasting impression - silky smooth engine and slick gear box.

Overall I'm thoroughly impressed with these bikes. Any would do really. I had a sit on a 2007 Yamaha R6 but have discounted this bike as the seat is too wide which makes it really uncomfortable for me to touch the ground. Surprisingly the few 1000cc bikes I sat on (R1, ZX-10R) felt more comfortable than their 600 counterparts so maybe I should ... :shutup:
Yeah right, tame while stationary but 600 is way more than enough at this stage.

I still want to test a Kwaka 636 to compare it with the ZX-6R and although the 748 is an aging bike it's so damn sexy and seductive. I need to take the Honda out again before I make my final decision. I may stump up the balls to give the 675 a test although I suspect this will be too tall. Feel I should give some of the older models a go also. Ah well, fun for next week. Sexy time.

When I eventually climbed back onto the Bandit it felt like a comedy bike, amazing what you can live with if you don't know any better. :killingme I nearly ran into the curb when I turned cause the rapid tip in caught me off guard.

[slinky]

im nearing to doing what you just did. but not till ive got the money!! lol, else il end up taking a loan as soon as i sit on one.

want to get me a brand new 6 hundi...(i think)

have my eyes on the cbr, but will try the others.

[McJim]

Nice write up - short, honest and to the point (a bit like you in fact :rofl:).

Hondas are renowned for clunky gearboxes.
Real bikes don't have fuel guages (it's extra weight you don't need).
I tried a ZX636 in race trim with ohlins suspension on Pukekohe for a day - lovely bike but as you say - miss that copper on the bridge and you're walking home.
Try a post 2001 Ducati 900ss - not quite the same power as the inline 4 supersports BUT you get bags of torque, 10,000km service interval and there's the sound...mmmmmm...try one and then buy a Jap screamer but at least try one.

[inlinefour]

OH MY GOD
How do you keep your licence on one of these? (Mine just arrived in the post this morning) This is what 100+ RWHP feels like? Then I must have more! I went to try out a couple of larger bikes today, looking for a step up from my Bandit. I'm not a journalist or some track superstar, these are merely the ramblings of an enthuisiast ... so take them with a pinch of salt if you disagree.

2007 Honda CBR600 RR
Wow, this bike is really eager to get to business! The throttle from closed to fully open felt something like only 60 degrees, lightning fast response. It felt like a very well sorted bike but I found the clutch to be very clunky around slow suburban traffic - probably will bed-in over time and will be much better at higher speeds. I didn't ever get the bike much out of 2nd or 3rd gear. Sounds authoritive though and did get quite a few head turns.:yes:

Lasting impression - boy what a clunky clutch, my foot hurts.

2007 Suzuki GSX-R600
Hmm. Comfy (relatively). I took this one onto the motorway and the grin started getting bigger immediately. The power delivery felt more exciting on this bike. Strong pull from lower down and then a second rush of power after 10000rpm. Loved the sound of the ram-air induction and stumpy exhaust. Who nicked the fuel gauge? Good clear gear indicator.

Lasting impression - whether idling at the traffic lights, blipping the throttle or wailing like a banshee along the motorway I loved the sound.:love:

2007 Kawasaki ZX-6R
The engine sounds real smooth, feels real silky too with nice even power delivery and the exhaust sound track is rather chunky and "grown up". There's a strange amount of free-play in the throttle grip initially but it didn't affect the ride. Quite liked the look of this bike, good narrow seat for short arses like me. Come-to-bed eyes. Horrible tail section though, the rear light cluster needs some help. Felt really quick and flickable, changing direction faster than I anticipated. Somebody nicked off with the fuel gauge on this one too. Gear indicator less clear than the GSXR.

Lasting impression - silky smooth engine and slick gear box.

Overall I'm thoroughly impressed with these bikes. Any would do really. I had a sit on a 2007 Yahama R6 but have discounted this bike as the seat is too wide which makes it really uncomfortable for me to touch the ground. Surprisingly the few 1000cc bikes I sat on (R1, ZX-10R) felt more comfortable than their 600 counterparts so maybe I should ... :shutup:
Yeah right, tame while stationary but 600 is way more than enough at this stage.

I still want to test a Kwaka 636 to compare it with the ZX-6R and although the 748 is an aging bike it's so damn sexy and seductive. I need to take the Honda out again before I make my final decision. I may stump up the balls to give the 675 a test although I suspect this will be too tall. Feel I should give some of the older models a go also. Ah well, fun for next week. Sexy time.

When I eventually climbed back onto the Bandit it felt like a comedy bike, amazing what you can live with if you don't know any better. :killingme I nearly ran into the curb when I turned cause the rapid tip in caught me off guard.

I had the 2005 CBR600RR and how I kept my licience was really in God's hands. I tried all the 2005 600cc, 750cc and 1000cc bikes and brought brand new what was right for me. likewise any decient KBer will tell you to decide yourself rather than tell you what they think you should be getting. Sadly about 3 weeks ago I had to part with the CBR as I am now a paraplegic and can no longer ride it. Shit happens and life goes on... :whocares:

[Black Bandit]

Nice write up - short, honest and to the point (a bit like you in fact :rofl:).

Oi, quiet in the back there! Cheeky bugger. :laugh:

Yeah, keen to give a Duc a go but seriously worried about the cash it could bleed.

[Black Bandit]

I tried all the 2005 600cc, 750cc and 1000cc bikes and brought brand new what was right for me.

Seriously? That's a lot of test riding. To be honest I have all but discounted anything larger than 600cc ATM. And judging by the "get-up-and-go" ability of the bikes I tested today, I'd say capacity restriction is recommended.

[limbimtimwim]

Who nicked the fuel gauge? On the GSXR you do kind of have a fuel gauge. The fuel warning light blinks when you have some fuel left. The light comes on solid when you are running really low. I have done about 40km with the light blinking on my 750 riding very very gently. Of course you always have the trip meter as well.

Ride the Yamaha R6 as well, it's a great bike.

Edit: Oh yeah, buy my GSXR :)

[inlinefour]

Seriously? That's a lot of test riding. To be honest I have all but discounted anything larger than 600cc ATM. And judging by the "get-up-and-go" ability of the bikes I tested today, I'd say capacity restriction is recommended.

Was not very often that I rung out the CBR and I suspect thst there are alot of riders with genitalia issues who own big bikes but cannot ride them very well... :shit:

[MD]

I still want to test a Kwaka 636 to compare it with the ZX-6R

Make sure you do. There are some bargain 06 model 600s and 636s around.
I took the 07 ZX6R for a reasonable blat and gladly handed the keys back. As a road bike it is no match for the 636. Track use may be a different story.

It sounds like you want a bike for road use. In which case probably the GSXR or CBR are the best choices ...or the 06 636. AMCNews magazine review from the 07 Masterbike track test included a sidebar on their pick for road use - they picked the GSXR
Happy hunting and remember what inlinefour said - buy what does it for you.

[boomer]

The best bit is trying 'em all out and deciding... tis like dating.. you ride some not bad 'ens..some real shockers you're glad that you went round there place and one that'll make your widgy tingle :crazy:

[McJim]

Oi, quiet in the back there! Cheeky bugger. :laugh:

Yeah, keen to give a Duc a go but seriously worried about the cash it could bleed.

The SS range are not the ones that bleed you. Beware the older 4 valve per cyclinder Ducatis (851, 888, 748, 916, 996) - that's where the rumours originate...unfortunately that's where the power lives too - good ol' desmodue engines are pretty tough and haven't changed much since 1981.

I did a calculation as I was thinking about getting a CBR600 before I got the Ducati.

km per litre - CBR - 16 - Ducati - 23
service interval - CBR - 6,000km - Ducati - 10,000km

So given an annual mileage of 20,000km the Ducati was the cheaper option. I've had to replace a few bits on the Ducati due to wear and tear and was surprised at how cheap they were from Haldanes.

By all means don't get a Ducati, but don't be a sheep and use maintenance costs to justify the decision. That's just a fallacy now.

[Devil]

In the same vein as McJim...

I suggest you try some bikes that have torque, particularly in the low and mid range. When you come from a 250 and try a sports 600 you wont have picked up what they're missing, because it's still more than the 250.

In the real world, day to day, torque is king and makes things oh so enjoyable!

For a comparison, go try an SV1000. It still has a similar max HP as the 600's (well slightly less these days), but has heaps more midrange. Then get back on the 600...

On the track however, can't argue with the late model 6's...

Try everything first! Even ones you hadn't previously considered.

edit: Why does he say this despite riding a 600? The Speed Four has a real world torque curve with real world gear ratios yet is still a weapon on the track (in someone elses hands *ahem*)

[Morcs]

Seriously? That's a lot of test riding. To be honest I have all but discounted anything larger than 600cc ATM. And judging by the "get-up-and-go" ability of the bikes I tested today, I'd say capacity restriction is recommended.

Test ride a 400. Find somewhere that has a mint one (more than willing to help)

Mine is sat in the garage if you want to take it for a run, they are awesomely great fun. I used to prefer my vfr to the zx10... and thats saying something. Plus i too came off a bandit 250 onto a 400 and it was a good step.

[skelstar]

Great review! Love the 'come-to-bed-eyes' comment LOL!

Make sure what you buy is the bike you think about the most, not the bike that people write [favourably] about the most.

[90s]

This is a pretty sad comment, but all these bikes are good, so get the one that works for you ... and part of that might be to get the best-looking. If you get the prettiest bike you'll have hours of pleasure in the garage just looking at it.
And it'll take ages before its suspension begins to sag, its paint tarnish and it wants to be ridden less. Then it'll be time for those hussy 1000s, with their enhanced capacities ...

[Black Bandit]

Test ride a 400. Find somewhere that has a mint one (more than willing to help)

Thanks for the offer mate but I've tried a few a couple of months back (same model in fact). Yes they are a hoot to ride but I'm looking for something more. :apumpin:

Course if you needed it looking after for a while ... :wait:
And don't worry, you'd still whip me round any old road. :spanking:

[2_SL0]

Make sure you do. There are some bargain 06 model 600s and 636s around.
I took the 07 ZX6R for a reasonable blat and gladly handed the keys back. As a road bike it is no match for the 636. Track use may be a different story.

It sounds like you want a bike for road use. In which case probably the GSXR or CBR are the best choices ...or the 06 636. AMCNews magazine review from the 07 Masterbike track test included a sidebar on their pick for road use - they picked the GSXR
Happy hunting and remember what inlinefour said - buy what does it for you.


Hmmm, I beg to differ, the 636 was a fine machine great road bike, great power delivery. But the new ZX6R is a excellent twisty road machine. Power is more usable, front more planted, a generally more stable bike, road or track.
Personally for me it has a more usable power band and a better suspension setup.

[NinjaBoy]

Hmmm, I beg to differ, the 636 was a fine machine great road bike, great power delivery. But the new ZX6R is a excellent twisty road machine. Power is more usable, front more planted, a generally more stable bike, road or track.
Personally for me it has a more usable power band and a better suspension setup.

Hmmmm...while the New ZX6R is good on the road it is most at home on the track. Standard suspension is stiffer and more adjustable, but the seat is plank and the bars are lower. I was able to hop on the bike on the first trackday and get the same or better laptime than on the 636. However I do miss the extra torque and power from the extra 36cc of the 636.

In comparison the 636 has softer standard suspension settings, slightly higher bars and softer seat. The extra torque makes 2-up a breeze without the need for changing down in corners. The Pillion seat while still small is the widest I've seen on a sportsbike and OK for short 1 hour stints.
After 5000km over 7 days in the South Island this year, I was amazed at the lack of stiff back or neck. Also handles snow, sleet, hail and rain/wind really well http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=46309&highlight=jandal+tour

[Kinje]

Great write up.

I rode quite a few V-twin 1000's, then decided I didn't really want one, then rode a CBR600RR and fell in love. Rode a few other 600's then came back to the one I bought.

Yep, short service interval- I've had mine two months and its booked in for another service already :shit: :rockon:

Enjoy the test riding :D

[Roj]

The SS range are not the ones that bleed you. Beware the older 4 valve per cyclinder Ducatis (851, 888, 748, 916, 996) - that's where the rumours originate...unfortunately that's where the power lives too - good ol' desmodue engines are pretty tough and haven't changed much since 1981.



My brother in law has a 888 strada, really nice bike but it has been expensive to maintain, he told me a story a while back, riding the long straight just before arriving at my place not long after he first got it, got to the corner at the end and thought the suspension was a bit wrong cause it was hard work getting round the corner, then he realised the 160 on the clock was MPH, not KPH:gob:

[The Stranger]

Is a gear indicator or fuel guage beneficial?

Even on bikes with a fuel guage I always set the trip meter and use this to work out my fill stops.

Never had a bike with a gear indicator, how does it help?
Don't ya just select the gear for the revs (or torque) and the work you are doing anyway?

I only raise it because personally I wouldn't even let these factors enter in to my decision to buy or not.

[Albino]

Guage - handy on bikes with electronic trip / clock / odo's. You can ride around displaying the time and still have an idea of when to fill up.

Gear Indicator - First is first, if you can't tell that you're in first gear then u have a problem. Otherwise change when you need to. Only really useful when cruising to prevent the clutch-in, foot down, no change scenario when you're not quite sure...

Neither are reasons not to buy a good bike though imho.

[Sparky Bills]

Buy a Honda:innocent: !!!!!
My 07 Blade is for sale too:innocent:

[limbimtimwim]

Gear Indicator - First is first, if you can't tell that you're in first gear then u have a problem. Otherwise change when you need to. Only really useful when cruising to prevent the clutch-in, foot down, no change scenario when you're not quite sure..The funny thing is, when you get off a bike (Ie, a Suzuki) with one and onto a bike that does not you miss the gear indicator!

[R6_kid]

Test ride a 400. Find somewhere that has a mint one (more than willing to help)

Mine is sat in the garage if you want to take it for a run, they are awesomely great fun. I used to prefer my vfr to the zx10... and thats saying something. Plus i too came off a bandit 250 onto a 400 and it was a good step.

But you can't ride, so a ZX10R is going to be too much for you anyway... you proved that yourself :dodge:


Like Devil said, have a try of something torquey. I've ridden a VTR1000, GSXR1000k3, 99 R6, WR450 motard and used to ride a GF250 (old school bandit)... i too got on the R6 for my first test ride, did a 200kmh wheelie out of control off a bridge and decided i had to have it. I personally didn't like the GSXR600k1 i rode, but that wasn't really a good day for me to be riding anyway.

The VTR was real cruisy compared to my R6, the R6 compelled me to 'go fast' when i could, chopping through the gears as i went. The VTR could do the same but was a lot more relaxed about it, didnt have to change gears, just pickup and go. The GSXR1000k3 scared me at 200kmh, but the R6 didnt at 265... the WR450 puts the same grin on my face as the first time i got my knee down, every time i ride it. And that doesn't have to be at illegal speeds either!

The modern 600's are essentially race bikes with road gear. They are crazy in some respects, and demand a lot of respect. Don't get stuck at the 'ohh wow, power!' stage, have a look around first and find out what pushes your buttons the best - for me its the WR450 by a long shot, but it's not mine!

[Black Bandit]

Is a gear indicator or fuel guage beneficial?
I only raise it because personally I wouldn't even let these factors enter in to my decision to buy or not.

Not saying it's an issue or a factor that will sway my decision, just noted the differences between these 600s.

At the Honda dealer they just turned the key to find out how much fuel was in the tank but at the Suzuki and Kwaka dealer they had to turn the bike off, remove the key, open the fuel cap, sway the bike to slosh the fuel around and finally they were in a position to establish whether there was enough. The Kwaka didn't so I had to wait longer while it was taken to the petrol station. :wait:

The thing is, I noticed some of the extra bling on these bikes that my current bike does not have. Even my Bandit has a fuel gauge, so it was some what interesting that the "upgrades" don't. Never had a gear indicator before so it was rather novel to peer down and see exactly which gear I was in (no sorry I can't count past 1 .. 2 .. 3 .. 4 ....... what comes next?)

With so little between the bikes in this class it's the little details you notice to draw a divide between the manufacturers and contribute to your overall impression.

[Leong]

OH MY GOD
How do you keep your licence on one of these?

Don't do what I did........ http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=685935&postcount=1



2007 Honda CBR600 RR
Wow, this bike is really eager to get to business! The throttle from closed to fully open felt something like only 60 degrees, lightning fast response. It felt like a very well sorted bike but I found the clutch to be very clunky around slow suburban traffic - probably will bed-in over time and will be much better at higher speeds. I didn't ever get the bike much out of 2nd or 3rd gear. Sounds authoritive though and did get quite a few head turns.:yes:

Lasting impression - boy what a clunky clutch, my foot hurts.

Didn't notice the clunky gearbox/clutch myself - I had a much longer test ride http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?p=993495#post993495 and the CBR is a great all rounder. That extra tank range and better fuel economy is a bonus. I would definitely consider it if buying now... (and if I could get over the looks)




2007 Suzuki GSX-R600
Loved the sound of the ram-air induction and stumpy exhaust. Who nicked the fuel gauge? Good clear gear indicator.

Lasting impression - whether idling at the traffic lights, blipping the throttle or wailing like a banshee along the motorway I loved the sound.:love:

The ram air induction sounds even better with a DNA air filter, and stumpy exhaust and black cat can be improved too.....

You really need to take these bikes out for longer than you've appeared to. They're all good bikes, but with slightly different focus, so it's a case of which suite you best/ what's important to you. Of course you should go see the guys at Botany Honda so you can take the CBR out to Clevedon etc!!!


On the GSXR you do kind of have a fuel gauge. The fuel warning light blinks when you have some fuel left. The light comes on solid when you are running really low. I have done about 40km with the light blinking on my 750 riding very very gently. Of course you always have the trip meter as well.


Yep, 3 litres left when fuel light starts blinking, one left when it stays on. So I travelled 40km between fuel light blinking and staying on, so in theory should have another 20km at the same pace. Filled up after 10km (280km total) and it took 15.5l, ie may have had another 1 litre left instead of the 0.5 litre I was expecting. The GSXR also has a "distance travelled on reserve" display which can be useful!

[Leong]

Is a gear indicator or fuel guage beneficial?
Never had a bike with a gear indicator, how does it help?
Don't ya just select the gear for the revs (or torque) and the work you are doing anyway?


Don't use it on the road much, but very handy at the track to make sure you've changed down to the right gear. You don't realise you're in the wrong gear until you put the power on again, and usually that will be too late. For instance, if you're in traffic, you sometimes don't get into fifth on the back straight at Taupo, so if you go thru your usual routine of changing down two gears at the end of the straight, then one in the S coming onto the front straight, you end up in 1st instead of 2nd and may get passed by your mate when you have that extra gear change on the front straight. So for this reason alone.... a gear position indicator is essential!! :dodge:


With so little between the bikes in this class it's the little details you notice to draw a divide between the manufacturers and contribute to your overall impression.
Agreed

[boomer]

i don't know whether its because its a new toy or not but out in the sticks and in town i use the gear indicator all the time, could be because of all the torque in any gear.. you twist it pulls.. you look down and it says 5th... umm.. that aint right for 50k an hour !

i'm lovin it

[Sanx]

I think the differences between the current crop of 600s can be summed up pretty easily.

[Black Bandit]

Don't do what I did........ http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=685935&postcount=1

OK, should be able to last longer than a couple of hours :shutup:.


You really need to take these bikes out for longer than you've appeared to.

Easier said than done mate. I must look like a crim or sumin <_< - I get the third degree from some of these dealers. Have to sign forms an everything, then they plot out the route you're allowed to take (claiming that the insurance is only covered for that route) and expect you back in 15 min! :Pokey:
Can't get no respect when you ride in on a two-fiddy :innocent:.

[Korea]

Edit: Oh yeah, buy my GSXR :)

Buy a Honda:innocent: !!!!!
My 07 Blade is for sale too:innocent:
Seems like everyone's selling at the mo' - where were you last month!


Was not very often that I rung out the CBR and I suspect thst there are alot of riders with genitalia issues who own big bikes but cannot ride them very well... :shit:
Hey~! I'll get there eventually - and there's nothing wrong with my genitalia either for that matter.


Hmmm, I beg to differ, the 636 was a fine machine great road bike, great power delivery. But the new ZX6R is a excellent twisty road machine. Power is more usable, front more planted, a generally more stable bike, road or track.
Personally for me it has a more usable power band and a better suspension setup.
Amen to that brother. I tried the 6R and it felt better and better the more you leaned it. Plenty for the road but power felt a little limp IMHO

Great write up ~ if we were completely honest, any of the modern 600cc sprotbikes would be plenty for most of us.

[Jantar]

I think the differences between the current crop of 600s can be summed up pretty easily.
Absolutely correct, except for one small detail. Someone slipped a photo of a Harley above the Suzuki label.

[Black Bandit]

So today I had the day off and I simply *had* to wonder down to the shops in spite of the wintery weather and check out a few more bikes. Life's really tough sometimes. It's dangerous going to these places you know, I ended up buying ............................. a backprotector (You thought it was a bike didn't you)! :innocent:

2006 Suzuki SV650 S
At the suggestion of a couple of fellow riders I decided to give a twin engine a try. More torque = More fun, right? Well to be honest, it couldn't be further from the truth. :no: The engine felt lazy, slow to react and then as the revs rose and you're expecting the power to come on strong ... nothing happens. So you change gear and try again ... same story. Almost pulled my arms from their sockets as I let the clutch out a bit too quickly one time but otherwise uneventful. Didn't think much of the vacuum cleaner style exhaust can either (it's really huge).

Lasting impression - slow, lazy engine. Dare I say it, this bike was the most dull and boring bike I have tested. :zzzz:

2005 Kawasaki Z 750
This one came out of left field. Never on my radar screen at all. I didn't even know what it was when the dealer suggested I give it a try (but apparently it's all the rage in Europe). So rather cautiously I ventured out on the largest bike I have ridden to date (on damp roads). It was ... quite brilliant. Happy to let me feather the throttle or twist in anger (twisted in anger gently mind you). With a 750cc inline 4 this thing can really boogy! The ride position was comfortable, upright with big flat f*** off motorcross style bars and very easy to maneuver.

Lasting impression - I remain impressed but this bike is larger than I intended and it's not really the look I'm after. :cool:

2005 Kawasaki ZX-6R
As I noted in an earlier post, I wanted to try the 636cc engine to compare with the 2007 ZX-6R. I was fortunate to ride this bike and then the 2007 ZX-6R back to back today. The engine without a doubt pulls harder on the 636. I did however find the ride height slightly worse than the new model which led to a rather embarrassing incident in a carpark. I found myself in a tight spot unable to turn, so I stopped to push the bike backwards (while sitting on top) to get back out of the carpark. Well, with only the tips of my toes touching the ground I was going nowhere :o. I had to get off and carefully pull the bike backward until I was in a better position. I'm not saying that I could have done much better on the new ZX-6R, however when you are short of leg like me, every millimeter counts and with the narrower seat on the new model it just feels better!

Lasting impression - this bike has a "stronger" engine than the new model but it felt a little edgy, like it wasn't sure it wanted an amateur like me riding it. I preferred the new ZX-6R.

2007 Triumph Daytona 675
What can I say about this bike that hasn't already been said? This is the master bike (for the 600 class) two years runnning. The sound of the engine is superb. A whistley, raspy noise - pure bliss. The design is the stuff of little boys posters :drool:. I was blown away by the pull of the engine - this is a bike that could get me into trouble, fast :sweatdrop. Unfortunately the bike has an extreme riding position, and by the end of the ride my wrists were starting to ache. Commuting on a 675 is going to be a problem. It's also a healthy wodge of cash more expensive than the jappas, classified as an exotic insurance could be higher and servicing costs also on the high side (speculation mind you).

Lasting impression - if I wanted a bike purely for track use or weekend blats, this would be my number one choice.

So my focal beam has narrowed somewhat. I have ruled out twins. Riding bikes for me is a visceral experience so it has to be full on and exciting, the SV just wasn't. I keep returning to the Kwaka ZX-6R. It really is a great machine, inspiring confidence and will make for a good step up. The only thing "lacking" is a sound track. If the Kwaka sounded like the Triumph or GSX-R it could be my perfect motorcycle.

I can't help feeling that I'm missing something about the twin though, I mean people rave about these things. Maybe I didn't ride it properly? The let down was epic.

Still not entirely decided then, but it is getting very close. Starting to decide on the colour now, I'm amazed how much that issue is affecting my decision.

[NinjaBoy]

Go on... you know you want one ... get the Ninja..

While the stock exhaust is quiet, it can be easily solved with a slip-on.. I had a titanium RS-5 which sounded the business.


Also Red is better...

[Devil]

I can't help feeling that I'm missing something about the twin though, I mean people rave about these things. Maybe I didn't ride it properly? The let down was epic.

Thats cos we said ride the 1000 twin. Thats the one that has similar HP to the 600 4's, but more torque.

The 650 is just anaemic after the 600's...

SV650 is about 70-75hp
GSXR600 is closer to 115hp
SV1000 is around 110hp

[675trippy]

has anybody heard of triumph. The 675 is a nice, capable, bike that handles anything thrown at it. Positive feedback and confidence inspiring machine but i am biased i spose.

[Black Bandit]

Thats cos we said ride the 1000 twin. Thats the one that has similar HP to the 600 4's, but more torque.

My bad, I guess I've a mental block on the thou's. At this stage I just don't want to go there.
The saying goes:
All bikes can kill you, but it's the Thou's that want to kill you.
Perhaps next time, but it's not worth considering as a first step up ... is it?:scratch:


has anybody heard of triumph. The 675 is a nice, capable, bike that handles anything thrown at it. Positive feedback and confidence inspiring machine but i am biased i spose.

Did you even read the thread before you posted? WTF?:spudwhat:

[Devil]

Keep the idea of a 1000cc 4 cyl out of your head, but bikes like the SV1000 are a whole different kettle of fish.

The SV1000 is very friendly. It's not going to bite unless you tell it to.
It's a perfectly fine step up if you have any kind of self control. It's not the size of the engine, its the nut behind the bars...

[K6K]

If you get the GSXR600 K6/K7 you will be at least thinking about the 750 sooner or later! it is a couple of grand more...but so is a exhaust system and other go fast bits. As for the lack of fuel gauge...if the fuel light is flashing you have approx 3 liters left...if it is on and not blinking there is 1 liter or less left.

[skelstar]

Keep the idea of a 1000cc 4 cyl out of your head...
Theres a few (nearly) litre bikes that are of a more friendly state-of-tune of course.

[Black Bandit]

The SV1000 is very friendly. It's not going to bite unless you tell it to.

LOL Big friendly giant. :rolleyes:


It's not the size of the engine, its the nut behind the bars...

:yes: That's what I'm worried about. :lol:


If you get the GSXR600 K6/K7 you will be at least thinking about the 750 sooner or later!

Yeah the guy who traded the Z 750 bought a one. Not yet for me though, small steps.

[Sanx]

And think about the VTR1000 too. More low-down grunt than the SV, but the suspension is a little archaic.

[Devil]

Theres a few (nearly) litre bikes that are of a more friendly state-of-tune of course.

Yeah, but not in the shape he's looking for!

[McJim]

Odd - is this just litrephobia?

As Devil says the SV1000 is pretty much like a 600 supersport with comparable HP. FFS 2005 ZX6R is like 125hp+ compared to the SV1000 110hp. If you're prepared to have a go at a 2005 ZX6R why afraid of the SV thou?

Advantages of a big twin are lower fuel consumption (the power gets delivered at lower revs = fewer explosions = better economy) and the extra torque.

Did you try a 900SS Ducati yet?

[Black Bandit]

Odd - is this just litrephobia?

Did you try a 900SS Ducati yet?

Litrephobia is one way of putting it I guess. Once you get these larger bikes you also have to contend with increased weight. I dunno, I guess if I were to draw a parallel to cages:

The large twins are akin to say, a big V8 Ford. Loads of power, spades of torque but a bit of blunt instrument. The supersports are akin to say, a Honda S2000. Sharp, precise like a scalpel. They carry an air of lightness and finesse.


And no, haven't tried a Duc yet.

[imdying]

Don't be a girl! Think of the weight of the heaps of crap they had in the eighties and nineties! An SV1000 weights about 40kg less than a GSXR1100 :lol:

[McJim]

Ah well, time will tell eh?

I still don't understand why so many bikers (and it does seem to be the majority) want to go so far over the speed limit.

My little 600 will do about 190kph and I have no intention of going that fast on public roads.

I got a ZX636 up to 240kph at Pukekohe and it scared the bejesus out of me. I guess going at that speed is what persuaded me to get a Ducati 600ss instead of the 900ss.

Have fun trying and I look forward to your next installment of reviews.

[boomer]

Litrephobia is one way of putting it I guess. Once you get these larger bikes you also have to contend with increased weight. I dunno, I guess if I were to draw a parallel to cages:

The large twins are akin to say, a big V8 Ford. Loads of power, spades of torque but a bit of blunt instrument.
The supersports are akin to say, a Honda S2000. Sharp, precise like a scalpel. They carry an air of lightness and finess.
And no, haven't tried a Duc yet.

It's not like a scalpel in my hands:no:

[imdying]

I still don't understand why so many bikers (and it does seem to be the majority) want to go so far over the speed limit.Track day potential.

I got a ZX636 up to 240kph at Pukekohe and it scared the bejesus out of me. I guess going at that speed is what persuaded me to get a Ducati 600ss instead of the 900ss.You should spend more time at that speed on the open road to help you get used to it :lol:

[Sanx]

The supersports are akin to say, a Honda S2000. Sharp, precise like a scalpel. They carry an air of lightness and finess.

And like a surgical scalpel (and like the S2000, as it happens) when you push it that fraction too far, it can bloody hurt.

[Pumba]

Go on try the SV I can tell you want to:yes:

Whaen I was testing bikes the biggest thing I found was that the 600 were to small for me and the SV just fitted me better, it certinly has no more power than the 600 I tested (and the stats prove this).


Also following a GSXR 600 around Taupo proved that the twin is slower cause I wasnt able to get past it at any stage, but that could be my riding (read slow)

[N4CR]

try the litre bikes. don't be scared of them, they are pretty damn smooth stock. go onto a nice warm fuzzy cbr1000 and then try the r1. then the gix/zx10 which have the nastier power delivery of the four. you'll find the gix with more mid than the rest and then the zx10 which is the top end monster. basically a 600 combined with a sv thou in torque and a slightly 2t ish top end as such.... great fun :)

don't be scared cus if they bite so much no one would ride them, don't be a dork on them (you'll **** yaself riding them for the first few hours anyway) and they won't kill you. get off a litre bike onto a 600 and it'll feel slow. power you will get used to very quickly, so probably not the best metric to buy a bike on. usability however, is one that is suitable.

svthou is highly reccomended, i think they are great bikes and i'd probably go for one of them over a 600. gas wise they use a full tank in about 200k for the k6.

zx6r 07 is a nice bike. brakes are wonderful and it has a nice sort of... flip coming out of a corner when you start to straighen/gas it up. seems like it does it for you really. power wise it's annoying for me (litre rider) cus it's nothing no torque then all the power is up top then you have to change gear.. that's how 600's are though. it goes pretty good and gears are not too long. it seems pretty balanced and not like it's going to throw you off... it begs for more and more lean round corners which i like!


can't get no respect when you ride in on a two-fiddy :innocent:.

and when you test ride quite a few bikes formally they often make you fill out a form. when you just rock up randomly not really wanting to and they know you they'll throw the keys at you and tell you to piss off for a while on one.. just takes time :)

it's probably the usual scared thing that you'll loop a bike comign straight off a 250 or just gas it too much on corners.. it probably does happen hence why they do it!

[imdying]

There's a guy in the AMA who gave a whole heap of 1098s and 999s a hiding on his SV1000 last week (or maybe the week before). He's as fast as they come, but it proves a point...

[crshbndct]

gsxr 750 ftw

youll never need to upgrade

[crshbndct]

Litrephobia is one way of putting it I guess. Once you get these larger bikes you also have to contend with increased weight. I dunno, I guess if I were to draw a parallel to cages:

The large twins are akin to say, a big V8 Ford. Loads of power, spades of torque but a bit of blunt instrument. The supersports are akin to say, a Honda S2000. Sharp, precise like a scalpel. They carry an air of lightness and finesse.


And no, haven't tried a Duc yet.


only supersports arent considerably slower than a twin.

[Cr1MiNaL]

umm I think u already know what u want.

[Zapf]

The large twins are akin to say, a big V8 Ford. Loads of power, spades of torque but a bit of blunt instrument. The supersports are akin to say, a Honda S2000. Sharp, precise like a scalpel. They carry an air of lightness and finesse.


And no, haven't tried a Duc yet.

Well, you can hardly call a KTM Superduke or Duc 999/1098 or RSV's a blunt instrument.

Like wise there are I4's that are blunt too.

[liviy]

Love the write ups and the comments... :yes:


I'm almost in the market for my upgrade and from everything I've read & heard the 2 main contenders seem to be


CBR 600RR07
Daytona 675 07


Both write ups seem to cover one of these bikes...has anyone had a straight comparison? Test ridden them both?

I'll be taking them both for a ride when I can but am interested in your guys thoughts.

Thanks :)

[Black Bandit]

Love the write ups and the comments... :yes:


CBR 600RR07
Daytona 675 07


Both write ups seem to cover one of these bikes...has anyone had a straight comparison? Test ridden them both?



Rode em both, liked em both. However, neither were right for me.:oi-grr:

[ruphus]

gsxr 750 ftw

youll never need to upgrade

I'll second that. :yes:

Why buy a 600? When you throw another $1500 into mods, and then your still not be anywhere near the 750 powerwise.

The 750 is the best of both worlds. Light and nimble like a 600 with abit more power but not as much as the thou.

[2_SL0]

I'll second that. :yes:

Why buy a 600? When you throw another $1500 into mods, and then your still not be anywhere near the 750 powerwise.

The 750 is the best of both worlds. Light and nimble like a 600 with abit more power but not as much as the thou.

Yeah, one problem.
Its made by Suzuki. :chase:

[SlowHand]

Yeah, one problem.
Its made by Suzuki. :chase:

I'd hate them too, if Suzuki don't make the rear subframe strong enough to support my healthy figure. Keep sunday free.

[madmatt]

I have a 636 06, muzzys pipe, ohlins front and rear, powercom, dbbbl, sliders, crg levers,euro turn at front, intergrated indicators break at rear, she sits on 121.5 at the rear wheel, ...:gob: shit i missed out the nos kit :yes: 20 hp shot gets me 140.1 ..... great bike and i have brought out the best in it with a little love and a lot of cash :brick: top speed with out nos at flying 1/4 265.28 kph, I now have a new front sproket 1 up and with the nos will hope to get 290 out of her :yes: look out for the dalefield road sprints in sep..
you dont need the power of a 1000 on our roads, and if you only do a track day or so a year and road 99% then a 6 is great, { in terms of sports bikes }
says one.




MM

[Zapf]

true, but ridden at the same speed the 750 or 1000 will last a lot longer and also have better resale value.

[boomer]

true, but ridden at the same speed the 750 or 1000 will last a lot longer and also have better resale value.

and more economical on juice.

buy a thou.. then you're never left wondering and you can use the wrist to choose how you ride....DONE!

[Morcs]

The weight is nothing to worry about with a 1000cc - 600's on the other hand are quite scarily light, whearas even a new thou feels nice and solid. big 1200's etc... (the bandit comes to mind) are damn heavy and thats when weight can be an issue...

Id definately recommened buying a 1000 twin, I know my next bike will be one... mmm RC51...

[delusionz]

Ninja 250 -> Ninja 636 -> Ninja ZX10R for me :D

[Black Bandit]

The deal has been done, the papers signed. Go here next thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=53265) to find out which one I got. :msn-wink:

Oh, just realised you can tell by looking at my profile. :innocent: Ah well, it's a good read anyway. :rolleyes:

[HRT]

Old thread I know, but just went for a ride today on a new CBR600RR, 07 VTR1000 and an 07 VFR800 after getting my full last week. I too am curious how you people with such bikes manage to keep your licence. THe faster you seem to go, the more they love it.

CBR feels like a toy, a wonderful fun little toy that wants to kill you. Wicked in the cornering department and savage in a straight line. Felt alright around town, everything nice and toght.

VTR somewhat less refined for want of a better word. Loved the torque, didn't love the lack of steering, though that may have been because I jumped straight off the CBR and onto the VTR.

VFR... loved it. Its torquey and revvy, sports and touring, plus it was the most comfortable or the 3. Will cruise along happily at whatever speed you like and feels very stable. Could very well see myself on one, though price tags are a little scary.

Might have to try a few more bigger bikes. Haven't been down to the Suzuki shop for a poke around but think I'll stick with the Hondas anyway

[SVboy]

Dont limit your scope-check out the GSXR 600k7. I luuuurve mine! And it has a slipper clutch and the Honda aint![love the Honda too-but Suzuki=sexytime and is lots cheaper too!]