Considering replacement bike

[Katier]

Hi Folks,

Currently riding a Bandit 600S on a T which has served me very well for a year since passing my test ( DAS so full power ). Seen a few comments that they are considered a bit dull and being honest, they probably are and certainly have noticed the weight as being an issue.

So considering selling it and getting a replacement. The Budget for the replacement would be based purely on what ever I get for the Bandit. So expecting something in the 95-00 range of age.

I use her for commuting as well as longer distance runs ( been to Manc's, twice, Yorkshire and will be going to London from Birmingham on her), enjoy letting her rip around country lanes but also have to be able to load a bit of luggage on her. Currently using soft throw over bags and a magnetic tank bag. Prefer the idea of hard luggage though.

Engine size I'm guessing at least 500-600 as smaller I'm assuming would be a bit under powered when loaded up.

Anyway, the reason for the post is to ask for suggestions for a replacement and the best way to sell the Bandit?

Thanks all

[G]

Best bet is to see if you can get a few test rides to see what you like.

If you want something a bit 'sharper' that doesn't lose out to the Bandit in any way really, I'd have a look at a G/J model ZX6R.

Don't worry too much about engine size, it's power that matters for 'when loaded up' - however people have gone around the world on a c90, so it's more down to the performance you want.
If you're looking for a 600cc+ sports bike the performance is going to be a decent bit better than your Bandit regardless.
I've done plenty of miles seriously loaded up on my KTM 690 - despite the '690' it makes similar peak power to the RS250 I used to own, as it's a 4 stroke single.

[evoboy]

Another naked bike? One with fairings?...

Ive never found the weight a problem on the bandits ( often ride a 650S) and always find it more of a laugh to ride than my zx6r. ( much more forgiving and laid back).

I guess the alternative to the bandit is the hornet, it is lighter but the engine, imo, just doesnt have the grunt of the bandit...

Have to admit ive had no issues with my zx6r for over 20k miles ( owned it just over a year now and it has over 50k on the clocks now), its been all over the country on back lanes and motorways, fully laiden 2up with luggage and slung around track. It defo is a good allrounder for the money they go for now...
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Suzuki GT250 x7------- Fazer 600------CB250RS------Aprilia Rally 70----- Bandit 600

APT Motorcycles

[barnhatter]

How about a triumph Street Triple, light with very good reviews. If you go to a dealer they will let you test ride one, see what its like.

[Katier]

Fairing would be nice, especially on those longer runs.

I do like Triumphs, brit bike and all that

[G]

[Katier]

Just got back from my local bike shop as I needed to pick up a couple of bits, figured I'd ask their opinion. Suggestion there was that the ZX6R might be a touch too sporty in it's seating position for regular commuting. They suggested looking at a CBR600F.

[G]

G/J/A model ZX6Rs are quite similar to the CBR600F in riding position I'd say. The B/C and later models have a lot more sporty position.
It does depend on what you like - I commuted on a similar age zx9r for a year and liked it, but mine actually had rear sets to make it more sporty.
I now commute on a GSXR which I chose as it is the last extreme riding position of the more modern sports bike amongst other reasons.

[TheDonUK]

I agree with G, The models G/J/A of ZX6R are great for an every day bike that can keep up with anything really, bar a thou ridden by a very good rider...

The Tokico 6 Pots on the front can be spongy if they are not cleaned and maintained.

I had a Bandit, then i got a Hornet, which is basically the same thing but lighter with less of a tank range, and it sounds more wheezy.

I think the ZX6R's are better than the CBR6F's, but then the whole honda build quality might be for you...
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[Current Bikes - GSXR-750 K5 & C90-97 ] [Previous Bikes: Runner 125, YBR 125, GS500, Bandit 600, Hornet 600, ZX6R-99, C90-99, R1-99, XT600E-04, GSXR-750 K4, CRF250L '16]

[Katier]

Sounds like a choice between the two then. Not sure if I'd manage to test ride either which is a pain ( cos I'm looking at 10 yr old bikes not new ones - any suggestions on that angle would be appreciated ). Now to tidy the bandit up a bit so it's got the best chance of selling for most money

[Robby]

A secondhand bike shop should let you take one out for a test ride.

You wouldn't feel a massive difference between a bandit 6 and sports 6 when pootling, it's only in the higher part of the rev range that the higher power becomes apparrent. Faired bikes feel slower too, fairings are efficient.

[Katier]