z1000

[NinjaNanna]

I've just finished test riding a Z1000 (2003, 16,000km) the bike is mint and I like it, but I can't ride it!!!!!

The problem is the steering, at low speeds, ie round town, when trying to take corners it almost rips the bars out of your hand and wants to got full lock.

The thing doesn't respond at all to my attempts at counter steering. It sort of gets easier to ride over 100km/hr.

Would incorrect suspension settings (for my weight) cause this much grief, or is it more likely that my riding style is just not suited to this style of bike?

My current ride is a ZX9r

[Morcs]

The upright style of bars give far more leverage. You conciously counter steer less, and compared to a zx9, the steering geometry will be completely different, as well as lighter.

Suspension settings can make it feel 'heavier' if you so wish.

[ArcherWC]

did you check front tyre pressure, it would do that if it was low

[Grumpy]

did you check front tyre pressure, it would do that if it was low

That's what I would suspect as well. The Z isn't a sharp handler compared to a sports bike but what you describe is certainly out of character.

[NinjaNanna]

I had a bike shop check the bike over on Monday, they test rode it as well so I shouldn't think the tyre presure would be down.

But I admit that I didn't check it.

[Skunk]

Sure doesn't sound like mine was. Real nice at any speed, the wide bars make it easier the slower it got - unlike the 9R would be.

[James Deuce]

I had a bike shop check the bike over on Monday, they test rode it as well so I shouldn't think the tyre presure would be down.

But I admit that I didn't check it.

I've ridden bikes out of the shop and been completely horrified at how they've handled, so the trusty tyre pressure gauge has come out and I've found some tyres as low as 12psi.

The Z750 and Z1000 are really similar in terms of geometry and weight and I'm quite happy with the low speed handling of mine.

[Pumba]

Hmmm, doesnt sound quite right. Will admit I never tested and older model but the newer model was nothing like that. I wouldnt expect the suspension settings to make that much difference.

Could be a loose stearing head bearing?