First time buyer - gn vs bandit vs hornet

[Thaeos]

Hi guys first time post.

I'm looking to get my first bike, it will be used primarily for going to and from work during the week and maybe a bit of a ride on the weekends.

The first bike I came across which seemed to fit the bill was the Suzuki GN250. I like the looks and it seems I can get a later model one for about $2600, or an earlier one for about $2000 or less. I've read good things about them, apart from newer ones made in China rusting when the Japanese ones don't.

My next option is a GSF250 Bandit, which I confess I absolutely love the look of. To me that is a damn sexy looking bike... Anyway from looking on trademe and stuff it seems I can get a 94/96 one in good condition from $4000 - $6000.

The next bike I'm considering is a Honda CB250 Hornet. I prefer the look of the Bandit but I've read about the Hornet having a smoother power progression (or something). Prices for this seem to be about 5-6 grand.

Now I don't really know anything about motorbikes. My experience is limited to a few rides on a motorcross bike on a beach and in some forest, I've never touched one on the road. I would probably be wanting to use the bike for about 2 years, not just for getting my full licence.

I would like to know what the opinions are of the experienced bikers on here - do these prices seem right (to me the prices for the Bandit and Hornet seem a bit expensive, but I have no experience with bikes), what you think will be the better option etc.

I'm leaning towards the Bandit or Hornet, but that means I would have to wait longer so I can get the money! Right now my budget is about $3000. The GN250 would be the cheapest option and would probably meet my needs well, but I just love the look of the Bandit... lol.

Also, I wonder if anyone has any of these bikes that they would like to sell.

I'm new to all this so any advice is welcome, I'm hoping to go on rides and stuff with other people eventually and this seems like the place to start.

Cheers.

[Reido]

remember to add in the price for a full set of gear, [/safety nazi]

[Radar]

If you are really short of $$, go for the GN but you will eventually probably find it too small and underpowered.

Go for a Bandit or Hornet if you can afford it. Headwinds and hills will not slow you down like on the GN.

Some bikers prefer 2 cylinder bikes over the 4's. If possible, test ride a twin cylinder - you may be surprised. Personally I think the Ninjas and Hyosung GTR's are the best 250's available but like I said, some prefer 4 cylinders.

[NighthawkNZ]

remember to add in the price for a full set of gear, [/safety nazi]

Yup People tend to forget about that...

Both bikes will fit your needs, however depending on your style of riding you may grow out of the GN pretty quick, and if you do go for a GN get an earlier japaness model, not the Chinese model (If it has spokes its japaness, if it has alloy mags its chinese) I have toured and seen many others tour on the GN yes a little under powered, but simply use them gears and keep revs up and it will get you there...

However I personally would go for than Bandit or the Hornet, and thats just me

[xwhatsit]

(If it has spokes its japaness, if it has alloy mags its chinese)
Not correct, but he's right, an earlier one (even pre-2000) is much better than the newer ones which have poor QC.

Go for the GN; especially if you get an earlier one, they hold their value very well. Get the bike now and some gear, later on if you feel you want to upgrade you can flick it on for the same price you bought it and get another 250, but you'll have experience not to drop it doing a u-turn and won't damage the bike you really like.

[slimjim]

also too...what riding style do you wish...the little gn are more of a wee cruiser and don't really like to be pushed hard out..

[Meekey_Mouse]

Hey, sorry I'm rushing off as I gotta be at an appointment by 9 but...

If you're wanting the bike to ride for about 2 years... NOT the gn, they are good reliable bikes, but most people get bored after a couple of months.

Can't say on the hornet as I've never ridden one but I've only ever heard good things about them, although they are a lil' pricey IMO.

Have ridden a bandit 250 from Napier to Taupo and it was a brilliant little bike! The power was smooth and predictable although it did have the usual GSX thing of having a little bit more power at 10,000RPM, which just means you can have a lil bit of fun and get up hills easier :yes: Over all, even after stepping off a 600cc onto the 250cc, I thoroughly enjoyed the bandit and would highly recommend it :clap:

[Jantar]

I would suggest a GN while on your learner's licence, but move up to the Bandit or Hornet afetr that first 6 months. The GN will hold its value and be less likely to suffer damage if you drop it. It will also give you time while learning to decide which of the slight more fun bikes will suit your style.

Good to see you looking for a suitable bike before rushing out and buying the first thing with bling. :)

[CookMySock]

The GN250 would be the cheapest option and would probably meet my needs wellYou will get sick of the GN really quick. The bandit is totally a blast to ride in comparison.

Like Jantar says, you might be better off with a cheap-as-possible GN while you get your feet planted, and then to the bandit, but seriously that will happen in just a few weeks I think, and you DEFINITELY need to be on the bandit for the summer! It's a pity you can't borrow a GN for a few weeks.

Summer+Bandit=the sweeeet life, but you need full safety gear for that.

Welcome to KB, and to motorcycling. You have an awesome adventure in front of you.

Steve

[FROSTY]

Come over and see me--try on a couple of options

[kiwifruit]

$500 1980 XR100 / 200 or similar + paddock. Then (after a few months) a CB250 or something neutral in riding position, $1500ish

welcome to the site :)

[howdamnhard]

Go for the GN; especially if you get an earlier one, they hold their value very well. Get the bike now and some gear, later on if you feel you want to upgrade you can flick it on for the same price you bought it and get another 250, but you'll have experience not to drop it doing a u-turn and won't damage the bike you really like.

What he said,no point spending lots of bucks on a bike your likely yo drop.Save your pennies for your bigger bike.

[Thaeos]

Wow, quite a few responses already I see. Thanks all for your input so far. I have a jacket but nothing else, from looking around it seems it'll cost me about $500 - $1000 to give me some protection that will actually work. Does that seem right? I know that higher price does not necessarily mean better protection when it comes to gear.

I like the idea of a getting a cheaper GN for about 6 months or however long and then trading up to the Bandit.

As for my riding style it will be for getting to and from work mostly, but on the weekends just having a good ride ... I'm not looking to do any street racing.

[stevewederell]

If you only have 3K go for GN, the others are smack on the money in that you will get bored of power or lack of. In saying that I loved mine!!

Have you considered a VTR? Mate of mine has one and loves it. Also a naked sports like the Bandit and Hornet. Don't know what they go for though, just another one to add to the mix.

I jumped from my GN to 600 Hornet but doesn't feel like too big of a jump and it wasn't too pricy. Make sure you have good gear though, doesn't matter what you fall off, your skin will fall off just as easy!

Happy riding and welcome to the madhouse:2thumbsup

[NOMIS]

GET A GN.





pfft hell no that was the funny part of my post. Nah well gn good if your learning because to be honest its piss poor in power and easy to ride.

the bandit and hornet similar but hornet for me nicer, and so very very modable, check mine out if you want to see moda that can be done lots of products out there for them to, Ill be honest I didnt like the factory look of a hornet ( i did for my price range at the time ) Hence why I changed things over time.

They go like clappers and people underestimate them over and over which is interesting.

Hey Im riding a Honda jade atm thanks to Wild West Honda and I cant go on aout how nice it is to ride bars need changing but thats it going for $4250 if you want it let me know and Ill give you there number . its advertised On trade me at the moment. MEAN MACHINE I love it. Only done 12000k and seriously man it is one hell of a nice bike immaculate. very easy learner bike.

[DarkLord]

Hey, sorry I'm rushing off as I gotta be at an appointment by 9 but...

If you're wanting the bike to ride for about 2 years... NOT the gn, they are good reliable bikes, but most people get bored after a couple of months.

Can't say on the hornet as I've never ridden one but I've only ever heard good things about them, although they are a lil' pricey IMO.

Have ridden a bandit 250 from Napier to Taupo and it was a brilliant little bike! The power was smooth and predictable although it did have the usual GSX thing of having a little bit more power at 10,000RPM, which just means you can have a lil bit of fun and get up hills easier :yes: Over all, even after stepping off a 600cc onto the 250cc, I thoroughly enjoyed the bandit and would highly recommend it :clap:

Hey Meekey,

You're bikeless? whatever happened to the GSX-R 600? Taupo to the North Shore is a reeeeally nice ride too on a good day! I was down that way a few weeks back spending time with some friends down that way, I think some of them know you?

[discotex]

Come over and see me--try on a couple of options

+1 for that. See what you find comfortable.

Personally I'd go for a twin or IL4 over the GN unless you're happy to own two learner bikers.

[Thaeos]

This the one? http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-185047353.htm

It looks/sounds good, probably the best price I've seen, just a bit out of my range ($3000) for the next month or so!

[rphenix]

This the one? http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-185047353.htm

It looks/sounds good, probably the best price I've seen, just a bit out of my range ($3000) for the next month or so!

It looks in good condition that's for sure, and beats the GN hands down.

[NOMIS]

It looks in good condition that's for sure, and beats the GN hands down.

Can you post it up on here i cant get into trademe from work computer

[vindy500]

how about a older gpx, much more fun than a gn for similar prices

[Thaeos]

Can you post it up on here i cant get into trademe from work computer

1996 Honda Jade
250cc
12,353km
$4425 ONO

So what's the difference between a Jade and a Hornet? They look very similar.

[NOMIS]

1996 Honda Jade
250cc
12,353km
$4425 ONO

So what's the difference between a Jade and a Hornet? They look very similar.

No diffence thats the bike i currnetly riding They let me borrow it while there fising mine, If you want I can get them to contact you, its mint.

there slight diffences the Hornet it the updated version this bike is worth the money.. I love it. only thing it has realy narrow bars , I got my old hornet ones you can put on sell em cheap to you. there slightly wider.

[NOMIS]

Oh and the seat postiont is slightly differn't, goes bloody wel man .. sheesh I should get a percentage for trying to sell this bike for them. nah I just really love this bike aye its just awesome:yes:

If i was in your position id get this , bullet proof bike mate. and its got braided brake lines lol , oh and its lighter than a hornet 141 kg I think???

[Thaeos]

If I had a bit more cash I would be very keen on that Jade, but I'm moving into a new flat this week and I need to get some gear as well ... so it's out of my price range for a month or two. Right now just getting a GN for about 2000 - $2500 and selling it on after a few months is appealing.

Are the newer GN's really that bad? I mean a 1988 vs 2006 one ... if it's well looked after wouldn't I be safer to get a later model one?

[rodimus]

Get a Yamaha Scorpio, they are quite suprisingly well balanced all round. Disc Brake is great too.

[CookMySock]

I have a jacket but nothing else, from looking around it seems it'll cost me about $500 - $1000 to give me some protection that will actually work.You really need some proper bike pants, boots, and gloves of course, unless you like the idea of toes and fingers and skin going missing, but you dont need to spend megabucks.

Most of the cheaper gear on trademe will be fine for now, as long as it fits you properly. Don't try to be a god on the open road in cheapo gear though, coz you will lose skin - just hum around and get used to it all. Post links to gear you want to buy and we'll check it over for you, and if you're lucky, someone else with the same gear will comment.

Steve

[Little Miss Trouble]

Get a Yamaha Scorpio, they are quite suprisingly well balanced all round. Disc Brake is great too.

+1. There don't seem to be any going 2nd hand on TM at the moment but I've heard nothing but good things about them, might be one to keep an eye out for.
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-185831516.htm

[xwhatsit]

Are the newer GN's really that bad? I mean a 1988 vs 2006 one ... if it's well looked after wouldn't I be safer to get a later model one?
From seeing real-life examples, no, it would seem you'd be better off with the 1988 one. Sounds weird, but the original ones were made in Japan to a very high spec. Production moved to China, but was still decent enough quality, but as it's stopped being sold in various parts of the world, quality has declined to a point where a brand new one has rust and chrome peeling off within a month or two, speedo drives are notorious for failing, reg/recs going and taking the battery with them, head gaskets, all manner of trouble.

Often a 2006 model will look older than an 80s model.

[NOMIS]

If I had a bit more cash I would be very keen on that Jade, but I'm moving into a new flat this week and I need to get some gear as well ... so it's out of my price range for a month or two. Right now just getting a GN for about 2000 - $2500 and selling it on after a few months is appealing.

Are the newer GN's really that bad? I mean a 1988 vs 2006 one ... if it's well looked after wouldn't I be safer to get a later model one?

Im sure wild west would do you a deal on payment. Give them a ring tell them Simon told you to.. ask for Don. No harm in asking

[KelvinAng]

They go like clappers and people underestimate them over and over which is interesting.

The 250 Hornets look big. Run real fast. A lot of fun! But for me, it's also a lot of frustration. The throttle is a bit too touchy. She doesn't like 10km/hr start-stop traffic. Maybe it's just me...

[Thaeos]

Hi guys, I've just been going over some gear on trademe. I'll most likely sell my current jacket as it's a bit big and I have no idea about it's safety, I bought it ages ago for a different reason.

Anyway heres some links to what I'm thinking of getting:
Gloves (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Helmets-clothing-footwear/Gloves/auction-186075556.htm)
Helmet (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Helmets-clothing-footwear/Helmets/auction-186051201.htm)
Pants (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Helmets-clothing-footwear/Leathers-jackets/auction-186101513.htm)
The pants in this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Helmets-clothing-footwear/Other/auction-186353900.htm) auction seem like they have the most protection but I can't find anything like them sold individually on trademe.
Boots (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Helmets-clothing-footwear/Boots/auction-186075578.htm)
Jacket (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Helmets-clothing-footwear/Leathers-jackets/photos/a-186413992/p-77849600.htm)

Or I found this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Helmets-clothing-footwear/Leathers-jackets/auction-185917430.htm) pack.

AND. I would also get something like this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Helmets-clothing-footwear/Leathers-jackets/auction-186145030.htm).

So I'm taking the advice on here and asking around. Anyone had any experience with any of this gear?

[gijoe1313]

PM sent about the lil'ol'hornet! :yes: And yessir, I like 'em, I like 'em a lot! :yes:

[CookMySock]

nothin wrong with that starter pack. The jacket and pants will be a little warm for the summer, but will be really good winter commuting gear.

Steve

[Thaeos]

Okay, after adding up the prices and stuff I'm going to go with that starter pack. And thanks for that info gijoe!

[howdamnhard]

Regarding the boots,my pair leak and the sole became detached( I reglued them on).Having said that theyn did a good job of protecting my ankle in a bin in which the bike landed on it.The jacket started leaking after a year,regardless of what I washed and treated it with.

[Thaeos]

Hmm, I could always sell the boots from the pack then. I've read about how soles that are just glued on won't count for shit in a slide ...

To everyone who's replied, thanks for the help and info and stuff. NOMIS, that Jade does look nice and sounds like a sweet deal, but I've decided that I'm going to get a early GN afterall, and in 3 - 6 months I'll move to a Hornet. Only experience I've ever had on a bike was today actually, getting my basic handling skills thing done so I can get a learners licence, so the GN is very appealing.

Seeing as I know nothing about them and don't know anyone who does, If I find any prospective bikes on trademe or whatever would anyone be keen to come and check them out with me?

[gijoe1313]

If you ever need someone to go out and kick tyres and check up on lil'ol'hornets, I'm only a PM away! :msn-wink:

[SARGE]

GN..dont drop your load on a bike youre only gonna have till you get your fulls.. save up and get a nice hornet 600

[Thaeos]

Hmm, I've changed my mind. After reading these forums and other places a bit I think it's definitely worth spending the money on some quality gear. To me safety is paramount ... so I'm thinking of going for some Quasimoto gear. Any other leather brands recommended?

[imw-hornet]

Yep , dont be shy when it comes t your kit ,, and have to agree with the master (GiJoe),,,,, go and have a look at the Hornets with him and enjoy :)