buying 2005 bandit 650 for first bike, what to look out for?

[lazcook]

Hi, im new here- just passed my test yesterday for the 2nd time with only 2 minors with sean over at circuit based training! very keen to get a 2005 Suzuki Bandit GSF 650 SK5 faired version, going to look at one in a couple of days but is there anything I should be looking for wear and tear wise? Ive heard suzuki's are build to last and nothing goes wrong so should be ok?

It is nearly due its 11k service, so ill be getting it a bit cheaper I hope, it comes with a full luggage system, a datatool Cat4 and an alarm and a scotoiler. How do I checked if its been ragged etc...

any input would be great! thanks

[Wafer_Thin_Ham]

Suzuki's aren't renowned for their finish to be honest.

It's a new bike, so just check general wear and tear. Also check if the chain's lubed and adjusted, stuff like that. Shows the owner has a grasp of bike maintainence.
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[lazcook]

its got a scotoiler so chain should be sweet as its get constantly lubed. I test rode a similar bike today and it wa amzing- half fairing works really well its fast enough for me at this stage!

anyone else got any tips on how to check suspension-steering etc...?

they want 2.5k for this reckon its a good deal?

[Kickstart]

Hi

Bandit finish isn't great. Check for stone chips in the frame paint on the front of the frame and underneath at the back of the engine. No really visable without peering there though.

Check any alarm plipper work. Datatool alarms require the plipper housing to be replaced when you fit a new battery which adds to the cost (although to be fair not that hideous compared to what they could charge).

Check the chain, brake pads (and especially the rear caliper, the pins holding the pads are renowned for seizing in place), steering head bearings, clutch cable, choke cable, play in the rear linkage (put the bike on the centre stand and then feel for loose initial vertical movement in the swinging arm), etc. None of these are major problems to sort, just be aware of them.

All the best

Keith
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[Sean CBT]

How's the bike going?
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