Need advice on my next bike to buy - test soon.

[0ni]

As some people may know I currently have 2 bikes,

Bike 1 - Honda CB125 TDC '83

Bike 2 - Suzuki GSX-R 600 '00

OK now the GSX-R will be my dry spring/summer bike this year, I will start riding it once I get more confidence/ability and will also be using it for track days down the line. Putting it simply Im not going to be using this bike to commute to work...

Onto the situation:

Now I like my Honda, its a MILF of an old bike, charming little thing. The problem is that MILF is broken and worn out and generally speaking on its way out. Im currently shopping for bits for the latest fix which shall be its last, getting it into running order before it is sold.

1) MILF is getting sold
2) My test is in a weeks time
3) MILF has given me much needed practice and experience
4) Want a bigger bike.

Due to insurance and my own taste i'm wanting an unfaired 500.

So what 500 to get?

Cheers

oni

[mrchips]

Kawasaki GPZ500 - Belly ban and top fairing, group 8/9 insurance, 60bhp, good power band after 7k, looks the best of the 500s, handles alright, sounds nice
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Northern Irish? www.nibikers.com

[cc123]

Why not just keep running the Gixxer?

I know what you mean about running your bike during the winter but I've done it with mines and kept on top of cleaning it and it's not any worse off!

Do you have to use the bike as everyday transport? I'd run the Gixxer for a while. If it's really going to kill you running it through bad weather then maybe look at an ER-5 or CB500, something like that?

Good luck with your test BTW, if you pass this time I expect you and bike on our ride out!
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Old bikes >>> https://www.bikepics.com/members/cc123/

[0ni]

Is there much of an aftermarket on the er-5?

Is it true you can't start them outside of neutral?

[0ni]

Cheers cc but I work in the city centre (George House on George Square) 6pm till 12am at night. Don't fancy leaving a more "desirable" bike at that time. Plus I fancy a streetfighter-esque bike for doing silly shit on!

[Scotsman37]

[cc123]

I'd hate to work in Glasgow. If it was me I'd be on the train! An ER-5 would be ideal for commuting on, ask Instigator
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Old bikes >>> https://www.bikepics.com/members/cc123/

[Scotsman37]

[0ni]

Thanks, there is actually a motorcycle parking are right in front of the building, just off george square. Should have said it was leaving the bike in the city centre that I have issue with, not having somewhere to lock it up!

[stinkwheel]

As luck would have it, I am selling a GPZ500s just itching to be streetfightered. I was going to fit a new fairing but if you want one... A second newer but tattier one can be arranged into the bargain for a spares bike. PM me if you are interested. Much cheapness.

Add bolt on headlamp fairing of your choice here
https://www.bikechatforums.com/download.php?id=12061
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“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.

[0ni]

Pm sent!

[Scotsman37]

You can get replacement fairing kits via this link;

https://glenshiel.co.uk/acatalog/Catalog_GPZ500___all_mods___273.html


Plus, you can get any new OEM replacements for any Kawasaki via Z Power (Official Kawasaki OEM importer for the UK)

https://www.z-power.co.uk/frameset.htm


Just e-mail them with details and they will get back to you with a price.

[stinkwheel]

Oni, reply sent.

Scotsman_237 interesting link, very helpful, but a pattern replacement fairing would come to almost 1/4 of the value of the bike as it stands. It is a good runner and very clean but no oil painting
____________________
“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.

[cc123]

Still Oni, no excuses. If you pass your test I expect to see a nice red Gixxer come March the 20th!!
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Old bikes >>> https://www.bikepics.com/members/cc123/