Resend my activation email : Register : Log in 
BCF: Bike Chat Forums


Good 2nd 'big' bike

Reply to topic
Bike Chat Forums Index -> General Bike Chat Goto page 1, 2, 3  Next
View previous topic : View next topic  
Author Message

Fireclown
Derestricted Danger



Joined: 02 Mar 2018
Karma :

PostPosted: 00:54 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Good 2nd 'big' bike Reply with quote

Right... my first post in the forum.
I've had my first 'big' bike - a 1996 CB500 - since about 2003. I never meant to hold on to it for this long, but it's been good fun and hardly missed a beat, having mainly been used for the 20 mile commute to work, with the occasional longer blast across country. If Honda hadn't made such a forgiving, easy and reliable bike I would have moved on years ago.
But... now is the time! I need a change. I need more power, better brakes (this CB5's got a drum on the rear) and better headlight. My budget is £2000 max. I feel myself narrowing down to FZS600 Fazer (probably c.2002/3) or Honda CB600F Hornet. Maybe Kawazaki z750. Probably less so the Suzuki SV650. I'm also not averse to the likes of the ER6N or Versys. I've read enough to put me off the Bandit. I want naked or, at the most, bikini-clad. I'm not particularly into supermoto styling. I'm 5'8''. I wan't something reliable and with a reasonable finish (I've owned two Hondas bikes and two Honda cars so have probably been spoiled in that regard).
I'm sure there are plenty of you guys who have thoughts, suggestions and experience.. if so I'd appreciate hearing them!
Hmm.. shall I just get a Fazer!!??
Cheers
Steve
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Howling Terror
Super Spammer



Joined: 05 Dec 2008
Karma :

PostPosted: 01:01 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Go big or go home. Smile

...and a drum brake on the CB500 is ample.

...oh and Welcome. Thumbs Up
____________________
Diabolical homemade music Bandcamp and Soundcloud
Singer songwriter, Artist and allround good bloke Listen to Andrew Susan Johnston here
The Harry Turner Project
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Visit poster's website You must be logged in to rate posts

Fireclown
Derestricted Danger



Joined: 02 Mar 2018
Karma :

PostPosted: 01:12 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Howling Terror wrote:
Go big or go home. Smile

...and a drum brake on the CB500 is ample.

...oh and Welcome. Thumbs Up


Ok.. Suzuki GSX1400 it is then Smile
Cheers
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

P.
Red Rocket



Joined: 14 Feb 2008
Karma :

PostPosted: 01:31 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Why not, it's a big engine.

Could just buy a sports for mega lols
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail You must be logged in to rate posts

temeluchus
World Chat Champion



Joined: 01 Oct 2008
Karma :

PostPosted: 06:30 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Fireclown wrote:

Ok.. Suzuki GSX1400 it is then Smile
Cheers

Why not?

Provided you arent a soy addled midget, the muscle bikes would be a nice upgrade from the CB500. The GSX14, XJR1300 etc are all big and friendly and easy to ride. Less of a jump than getting on a sports 600 Thinking
____________________
Some shite cruiser. Now with guns and FREEDOM!
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Visit poster's website You must be logged in to rate posts

ThatDippyTwat
World Chat Champion



Joined: 07 Aug 2016
Karma :

PostPosted: 08:50 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

temeluchus wrote:
Fireclown wrote:

Ok.. Suzuki GSX1400 it is then Smile
Cheers

Why not?

Provided you arent a soy addled midget, the muscle bikes would be a nice upgrade from the CB500. The GSX14, XJR1300 etc are all big and friendly and easy to ride. Less of a jump than getting on a sports 600 Thinking


XJ1200, CB1300 and ZRX1100/1200 as well, though your budget may be a problem. with the Honda's and Kwak's, they keep their value really well.

As said, don't let the capacity put you off, they're not hard to ride, just remember the extra weight at the first few junctions.
____________________
'98 VFR800 (touring) - '12 VFR800 Crosrunner (Commuting) - '01 KDX220 (Big Green Antisocial Machine)
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Holdawayt
Trackday Trickster



Joined: 27 Jul 2015
Karma :

PostPosted: 10:41 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Welcome to the forum.

My first "big bike" after passing my test was a Mk1 Hornet 600. It had been kept indoors so it looked pretty much brand new but even commuter bikes still look great after a wash. They're bombproof bikes, I only ever had an issue with a brake caliper seizing up.
Plenty of power for a naked 600, made far more fun with a +3 rear sprocket. I have a progress thread on here somewhere but I think Photobucketofshit has killed all the images.

Couldn't recommend one more.

Tom.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Fireclown
Derestricted Danger



Joined: 02 Mar 2018
Karma :

PostPosted: 10:45 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Interesting responses! I hadn't really been thinking of anything larger than a 750, not because I don't think I couldn't handle the larger capacity but mainly due to practicality. It's to be used mainly for the commute on a daily basis, all weathers, and has to be easy to get in and out of the back gate, which ain't that wide. And I'm no midget but 5'8'' and fairly short in the leg. But I may widen my search as you've all gone and set me thinking. Thanks.. my brain needs to do more work!
Back to the original post though, FZS600 or Hornet? I'm not really looking for someone to tell me which is better coz I know they both have their pluses and minuses, but more to get a feel what people prefer to live with. And if there are any other suggestions feel free to continue expanding my horizons!
Cheers
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Rogerborg
nimbA



Joined: 26 Oct 2010
Karma :

PostPosted: 11:05 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

What else have you ridden? Personally I can't get on with IL4s, and chasing the revs while you run out of road. But it is a very personal opinion, there's no right or wrong answer I'm right though.
____________________
Biking is 1/20th as dangerous as horse riding.
GONE: HN125-8, LF-250B, GPz 305, GPZ 500S, Burgman 400 // RIDING: F650GS (800 twin), Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 500 AVL, Ninja 250R because racebike
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

TheMadRatter
Scooby Slapper



Joined: 26 Dec 2017
Karma :

PostPosted: 11:16 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

My first 'big bike' was a Goldwing... It was 2004 and the restriction rules were simpler.

I'd personally recommend the post 2004 FZ6. Had one for coming up 5 years, wrote it off, bought it back and put it back on the road for less than £500 all in. 6 gears help it on the motorway, but to be honest, I rarely got above 4k revs around town. They've got plenty enough torque too, I used to go to rallies with the missus, kit, and a trailer.

Having ridden both the Hornet and 3 era's of Fazer, I've got to recommend the Fazer on handling, feel, and comfort. Plus the looks - mono-shock, underseat exhaust, bikini fairing (or not on the FZ6S) and Givi touring packs are cheap enough for it too.

But that's just me Razz

If you've got your license, go and test ride some (if you're old enough) or find someone local with one of the bikes to go and have a quick ride on in a car park sorta thing.
____________________
TheMadRatter | Lurch .:. Afghan Heroes ✓, RTWR ?,Rainpal ?
CM125 X|GZ125 X|Cagiva Elefant X|GL1200 ✓|Aprilia Classic X|GSX400T X|Kymco Hipster ✓|Kymco Zing X|XV535 X|VL750P X|FZ6 ✓|FJ1100 X|Desperado ✓|Countless Chinese imports ✓|Rialto Trike ✓|Countless forgotten rides
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Fireclown
Derestricted Danger



Joined: 02 Mar 2018
Karma :

PostPosted: 11:50 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Not ridden anything else other than my CB500 for the past 16 years or so. Before that it was all 125s - Suzuki, Honda Yamaha.
My first half-century has just passed me by so age isn't a factor for test-riding.
I keep reading that the FZ6 is not liked as much as the old FZS600. Or is it just that no one likes changing something they are comfortable with?
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Polarbear
Super Spammer



Joined: 24 Feb 2007
Karma :

PostPosted: 12:06 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

+1 for a big lazy engine rather than a screaming 600.

Obviously depending on your usage and whether your budget includes selling the 500.

If you are commuting on it rather than keeping the 500 and having the bigger bike as a toy, yes, a 600 is better just for the reduced consumables cost. (muscle bikes can eat tyres)

My missus had an ER6-N which she loved but I found it a bit bland. I have a feeling you might not find it much of a jump from your 500.

Fazers are the ubiquitous 600's. The do anything and everything bike. We have an old insurance write off as our hack. It's had a hard life but never missed a beat, can't fault it. The old ones have the worst headlights in the world mind. a candle would be better!
____________________
Triumph Trophy Launch Edition
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail You must be logged in to rate posts

TheMadRatter
Scooby Slapper



Joined: 26 Dec 2017
Karma :

PostPosted: 12:17 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Fireclown wrote:
I keep reading that the FZ6 is not liked as much as the old FZS600. Or is it just that no one likes changing something they are comfortable with?


I found the <03 model to be top heavy but felt slightly more powerful at the top end. Mechanically - I've had no issues with the 04 at all - just the consumables and what needed replacing after the accident.

My missus owned the <03 fazer with the tube frame and said she preferred the newer one.

It's all personal opinion though - best I can suggest is try to get a ride on one. Mine's not standard any more but if you're near Nottingham, feel free to pop over.
____________________
TheMadRatter | Lurch .:. Afghan Heroes ✓, RTWR ?,Rainpal ?
CM125 X|GZ125 X|Cagiva Elefant X|GL1200 ✓|Aprilia Classic X|GSX400T X|Kymco Hipster ✓|Kymco Zing X|XV535 X|VL750P X|FZ6 ✓|FJ1100 X|Desperado ✓|Countless Chinese imports ✓|Rialto Trike ✓|Countless forgotten rides
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

notabikeranym...
Formerly known as
meef



Joined: 02 Apr 2014
Karma :

PostPosted: 20:05 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

r6
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

redeem ouzzer
World Chat Champion



Joined: 06 Oct 2015
Karma :

PostPosted: 20:25 - 07 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Biggest engine possible if you use it for commuting.

That is all.
____________________
Be a REAL MAN!
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Fireclown
Derestricted Danger



Joined: 02 Mar 2018
Karma :

PostPosted: 00:56 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

TheMadRatter wrote:
Fireclown wrote:
I keep reading that the FZ6 is not liked as much as the old FZS600. Or is it just that no one likes changing something they are comfortable with?


I found the <03 model to be top heavy but felt slightly more powerful at the top end. Mechanically - I've had no issues with the 04 at all - just the consumables and what needed replacing after the accident.

My missus owned the <03 fazer with the tube frame and said she preferred the newer one.

It's all personal opinion though - best I can suggest is try to get a ride on one. Mine's not standard any more but if you're near Nottingham, feel free to pop over.

Thanks, appreciate the offer. I'm in Cardiff though and unlikely to be in your neck of the woods any time soon.
Cheers for the information.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Fireclown
Derestricted Danger



Joined: 02 Mar 2018
Karma :

PostPosted: 08:24 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

I'm enjoying finding myself thinking along new lines, thanks to the thoughts in this thread. Like i said, before now I hadn't really seriously thought of going big - partly it's that I simply want a change and a bit more power. But a larger lazy engine does appeal to me. Any suggestions close to my budget? I guess i could wait a little longer and save for something, but for now it's £2000 or a divorce.
I don't want a fully faired sports bike - naked is more my thing. Or i guess i could consider something like a TDM900, off the top of my head. But i love the look of the GSX1400 ..pity it's way outside my budget. Anything come to mind?
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Fireclown
Derestricted Danger



Joined: 02 Mar 2018
Karma :

PostPosted: 08:33 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

I do like the lightness and flick-ability of a good mid-size though.. Would be concerned about something being too heavy - would i lose much of that? I guess it depends on the model..
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

bacon
World Chat Champion



Joined: 09 Jan 2009
Karma :

PostPosted: 09:32 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Naked sv1000? Bandit 1200? Don't be put off by the Bandit, the big 1200 is meant to be a great bike
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Polarbear
Super Spammer



Joined: 24 Feb 2007
Karma :

PostPosted: 09:48 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

The 1200/1250 Bandit is a cracking bike for the money.

An older XJR is possible for 2-2500 if you are willing to travel.
____________________
Triumph Trophy Launch Edition
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail You must be logged in to rate posts

kgm
World Chat Champion



Joined: 04 Jun 2015
Karma :

PostPosted: 10:36 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

CBF1000 might suit.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

derillius24
Trackday Trickster



Joined: 08 Aug 2010
Karma :

PostPosted: 11:01 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

I owned a 2010 Z750 for a couple of years and just couldn't get on with it. It's rear shock was appalling, anything spirited ended up in knots pretty quickly. The brakes were mediocre and the engine was completely gutless until above 7-8k, which wasn't easy to get to all the time as it was so slow to spin up.

Wouldn't recommend.
____________________
CG125, CBF250, DRZ400-SM, Z750, Street Triple R, Tuono V4R
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail You must be logged in to rate posts

........
Borekit Bruiser



Joined: 01 May 2017
Karma :

PostPosted: 11:19 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

What about a CB1300? That would seem like an appropriate bike after your current one.

There was a nice one for sale near to me last year when I was doing my DAS. When my instructor asked me what kind of bike I was looking for I mentioned I'd seen this (partly in jest) and he immediately said that it would be a great bike for me. Presumably it would be even more appropriate for someone who's been riding for as long as you.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

DJP
Crazy Courier



Joined: 11 Dec 2011
Karma :

PostPosted: 14:35 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Bandit 1200 / 1250
____________________
Suzuki Bandit 1250
https://deejayp999.atwebpages.com/index.html
That's http not https
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Fireclown
Derestricted Danger



Joined: 02 Mar 2018
Karma :

PostPosted: 15:21 - 08 Mar 2018    Post subject: Reply with quote

Wouldn't the Bandit 1200/1250 a bit big for my 5'8'' frame?
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts
Old Thread Alert!

The last post was made 6 years, 21 days ago. Instead of replying here, would creating a new thread be more useful?
  Display posts from previous:   
This page may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a visitor clicks through and makes a purchase. By clicking on an affiliate link, you accept that third-party cookies will be set.

Post new topic   Reply to topic    Bike Chat Forums Index -> General Bike Chat All times are GMT + 1 Hour
Goto page 1, 2, 3  Next
Page 1 of 3

 
You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum
You cannot attach files in this forum
You cannot download files in this forum

Read the Terms of Use! - Powered by phpBB © phpBB Group
 

Debug Mode: ON - Server: birks (www) - Page Generation Time: 0.10 Sec - Server Load: 0.29 - MySQL Queries: 17 - Page Size: 132.53 Kb