A new Ninja or a 10-year-old Hornet?

[NOMIS]

Go for the Kwakka Ninja

boooo.......

[GrayWolf]

Have you test-ridden both? The reason I ask is, what feels the most comfortable/enjoyable for you? Its a big purchase and will be with you until you get your Full Licence.

Only 3 major differences:
1. The Ninja is a twin, where the Hornet is a 4-cyl
2. Hornet is a slightly (by not much) de-tuned CBR250RR motor
3. Hornet is a naked where the Ninja is full faired.......

I'd agree with Qkchk about what suits your needs. On long journeys, 2 up? What suits you. I've tried a few 250's and they are very different beasts from my learner days. I found the higher performance 250's are great for a 'quick blat' (Ninja? CBRR/FZR etc). I prefer 'tourers' and I found the good ole ZZR250 (same basic engine as the GPX and I'd guess the ninja is developed from it) was not as quick, but more tractable in traffic and was able to maintain highway speeds competently. I'd also venture a lot more 'cumfy' for pilot and pillion than the Ninja. Unless you really intend to keep the Ninja for years, you lose a lot of dosh when selling/trading a new bike thats not very old. Maybe the ZZR - GSX250 are worth considering?

[adam1194]

What tyres are you running? I don't remember paying that much and I only ran GPR70 SP's?

Best tyre prices in Auckland - Cycle Treads.
Botany Honda - if you ask nicely will match any price, beat it even.
Corsa Motorcycle Wreckers (Mt Welly) - Richard the owner is a distributor for one brand of tyre - think it's dunlop or something. He can offer really decent prices on that brand.

Meatface - The Hornet is a better bike. Slightly faster, nicer engine, will retain its value well. The Kwaka is a simpler engine, cheaper to run and service but only by a little bit. Since you're into meat - The Hornet's like Sirloin. The Kwaka's like Brisket. If you want Eye Fillet stuff get a CBR or ZXR. If you're partial to a decent T-Bone look at a VTR250 too.

I think saying that the kwaka is like brisket is just a little to harsh. More like rib eye! Eye fillet is for old rich people who cant chew through a proper steak! Does that mean its for old people who cant ride?