Rockstar21

iTrader: (1)

had a cruise this weekend in new orleans with some friends and out of towners.

this was about an hour before we left and missing give or take 30 scoots.

<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/62620128" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe> <p><a href="http://vimeo.com/62620128">Walk around</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/hurricanematteo">Matthew Gray</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>

and a quick video i snapped going down Bourbon
(it plays right side up)
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/62692678" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe> <p><a href="http://vimeo.com/62692678">Downtown</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/hurricanematteo">Matthew Gray</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>

also, here is my scooter thus far. (purple and white)
so far, just a dropped seat frame, drag handle bars, and floorboard removed with some paint on the wheels and rad. cover. and i removed my stock tailight/blinker bracket and moved the lights under my seat.

im stretching it soon with a 8" fatty on the rear.

Sly Raskal

iTrader: (1)

I live in a region of Southern California that frequently gets into the 80°+ range for many months of the year, 90° for nearly all of the summer months, and in some cases, above 100°. In the winter months we rarely see temps below freezing, and even if we did, my bike is garaged. If the temps are expected to go over 100° or below 40°, I doubt I would ride in those conditions. Hell, even 90° weather is scaring me and it's not even summer yet.

That being said, based on the oil viscosity chart provided in the Ninja 300 owner's manual (shown below), it seems like 20W-40 or 20W-50 would be better suited for the 300 than any other oil viscosity. Is my reasoning on this sound? Or is there something that I should be factoring into my decision that I am not when it comes to deciding the proper oil viscosity? Would you run 20W-40 or 20W-50 based on the conditions I have described or would you stick with the standard 10W-40?


Thanks.

Sly Raskal

iTrader: (1)

Sorry, I missed your post. Yup, the moto bug has bitten me hard. As far as the safety gear goes, I didn't want to go cheap on any of that stuff, but it really helped that I got great discounts on that stuff. haven't gotten around to installing the mods yet, but hoping to soon. I'm still on the fence about frame sliders, haven't made a final decision about them. Also, I've joined two Kawi forums and have been reading a lot about others experiences thus far about the bike and about riding in general.

As for riding, well I've got 86 miles on the odometer thus far. Mostly from riding around the neighborhood on roads that see very little traffic so that I can break-in the motor. Today was the first day that I really went out to the 'streets' and drove with traffic and stuff. Amazing how just within 86 miles your confidence and skill level can change. Although I'm well aware of the areas that I really need to practice on, low speed turning and properly utilizing both brakes. I'm still planning on taking the MSF course again with a buddy of mine. Need to look at the dates the class will be offered to find one that suits the two of us.

Here's my initial review of the bike thus far. Overall, I'm very pleased with the bike, but I understand that for most that doesn't mean much since it's my first bike and I have nothing to compare it against. Honestly though, this truly is a great all around bike. Due to it's size, it's really easy for me to handle and because of it's low weight, it's very peppy because of it's motor size and it's pretty torquey on the low end. Riding stance is very comfortable; however, I got the bike up to 60 mph on an open stretch of road for the first time today and the wind deflection from the windshield just isn't enough even at that speed or perhaps I'm just not used to it yet. I'm a little over 5' 9" and I can have both feet flat on the ground even when I'm sitting on the bike which is a huge plus IMO. The bike really is a looker. I can't tell you how many times I'm riding along or at a stop light and I catch people just staring, or maybe that's just the way it is for motorcyclists in general, I don't know. Caught a few girls staring too.

After I've ridden the bike a bit more and had a chance to do some service work on her, I'll post up another review, hopefully in more detail and with better pictures. I'm playing it really safe and going to do a few oil changes during the break-in period. One at 100 miles, another at 300mi, and the last at 600mi. During each period, going to be increasing the amount of rpms I'm applying. So far I've gotten it up to about 7K rpms on a couple occasions while engine braking immediately afterwards. I hope that I'm breaking in the motor right.


Thanks again for the kind words and my plans are to try to be safe as I can be. In the 86 miles I've put on, I've already had to experience the poor attitudes of other drivers on the road. Been tailgated numerous times already. Can't do anything about it other than put more distance between the car ahead of me and myself. The thing I keep telling myself is just stay cool.

juniorbean

iTrader: (5)

^ You'll learn that you need to ride like everyone is trying to kill you. I only rode my bike for pleasure, but when using it to commute I have to imagine it will be 10x worse.

Just keep your head on a swivel and you'll be good

AirForceFX

Fellow Two-Wheeled Acuraziners,

I think "Car Talk" is the most appropriate location for my question.

Crossing 2K miles on the odometer of my 600RR here soon. Looking to swap into a Naked/Streetfighter, but honestly have no idea where to start.

I've looked at the 696/796 Duo, and love them, but want a broad search before I start committing. There has to be more of a market than that! I see a few of them roll around Shreveport and I fall all over myself in love-sickness.

Primarily looking Cruise Comfort/Agility/Styling > Power. After about 18 months on my CBR, I'm tired of leaning forward.

Suggestions? Thanks!

Oh, and here's "Maya" (the 600) with "Eva" (WDP TL-S) in the background, albeit washed out.

SimonCL-S6

I'm actually going from a CBR to a HORNET. Same engine, just more comfortable. 600cc also.

SHYUperman

iTrader: (1)

Are you looking to buy new or used?

Depending on your budget here are some suggestions:

Higher range: Honda CB1000r, Ducati Streetfighter 848, Triumph Speed Triple, Triumph Street Triple, Yamaha FZ1N (beautiful if you do the euro naked conversion).

Mid range: Yamaha FZ8, FZ6, Honda CB500F

Older Bikes: Honda Hornet, SV650N, SV1000N, Kawi ER6N

juniorbean

iTrader: (5)

FYR, merged your thread into the huge motorcycle thread we have. I suggest you read through it as well... ton of info!

As for suggestions... I'm partial to the Triumph Street Triple or Ducati Monster. That said, I loved my Aprilia Tuono and am starting to think I should have kept it now that I'm looking to go back to a naked bike.

CGTSX2004

iTrader: (1)

You missed the Kawi Z1000 in the higher range, but this is a pretty good list to start from.

I would also add the MV Agusta Brutale, Aprilia Tuono (which juniorbean mentioned), and the KTM 690 Duke, BMW F800r, Husqvarna Strada, and the Ducati Monster range.

Lots to pick from these days.

00TL-P3.2

To add another BMW to this list. The R1200r is nice as well.

juniorbean

iTrader: (5)

How could I forget the Brutale? Sat on one this weekend... may have to add that to the list. Not sure though as I'm thinking I may stay in the 600cc range. We'll see.

But yeah... definitely add the MV to that list. Sweet bike...

AirForceFX

Are those available in the US? I saw that the "Hornet" name is associated with the U.K.

Great list! Thanks!

Ah, thank you. My experience should have lend me the wherewithal to search for a bike thread.

Thanks for the suggestions!

Thanks for the adds! Great suggestions.

That's a nice one, a little too big and dual-sport for me though.

I saw the only MV dealer is in Pennsylvania. Damn. Gorgeous machine, but likely a little too razors edge for me.

I was most impressed upon by the Triumph Street Triple R. There is a dealer about an hour drive from me, might go check it out this weekend and fill you guys in!

Truly appreciate the immediate feedback and suggestions guys!

SimonCL-S6

Hmmm you are right, the Hornet is for UK, it is called CB600F in the states

00TL-P3.2

The R1200r is a "naked style, the R1200GS & R1200GSA are the dual sport/adventure style.

R1200r


R1200GSA

AirForceFX

Ahhhhhhhh. Syntax! I see what you mean now. Not bad, not bad.

Sly Raskal

iTrader: (1)

Finally got around to doing my first oil change on the 300 yesterday. While I was at it, also installed the PIAA Arrow Star White and PIAA Plasma Ion Yellow headlight bulbs I previously posted about, along with some yellow city light bulbs. I wouldn't say it was a huge improvement in lighting, but the light is whiter and very close to an HID kit in color temperature which I'm hoping will improve visibility. The yellow city lights turned out much better than I expected they would.

Went for a few rides this weekend totaling about 87 miles with the last ride being a 40 mile round trip visit to a moto shop to pick up a set of Alpinestars SMX-1 riding boots.




Bike now has 229 miles and I'm starting to push her a little harder both in speed and rpms. Been getting much better at braking, also have been practicing hard braking. Turning and awareness of speed leading into turns still needs a lot of work, but I know I'll get there.

iSeeYouTwo

Hey guys, I posted this in the wrong thread:

What's a good beginners bike? I've been looking at YZF-R6's and GSXR 600's, but I want other options/opinions from more knowledgeable sources like you guys. My budget is about $7000, but would prefer to stay below that.

My buddy had a 2006 Raven Edition R6 for sale last summer for $3000 in MINT condition because he was moving to FL. So pissed I didn't have the money at the time and had just purchased my TSX!

00TL-P3.2

I wouldn't consider an R6 or any GSXR to be a "beginner's bike"
I'd look for something like a new Ninja 300, used Ninja 250 or 500 to learn on if you've never ridden before.

iSeeYouTwo

I've completed the MSF Basic RiderCourse and the on-bike riding skills test at Streetwise Cycle School in Boston and have ridden (sp?) my buddies R6 plenty of times for long periods of time before he sold it. I wouldn't say I have tons of experience, but I know more than just the basics... and I don't want to spend a substantial amount of cash on a 250 or 300 and then get bored with it too fast -- then have to go through the hassle of selling it and getting something else. What are some nice 500's? And is there a substantial difference between a 500 and a 600?

knight rider

iTrader: (1)

"Beginner bike" has been debated forever, and there are valid arguments on both sides. I won't go into that argument. I understand your argument about the 250 and 300cc bikes. Again, that is a point that has been argued before as well. You do raise a good question about the difference between a CBR500 and a CBR600. I have never ridden a 500, and I'm curious about that myself. Technically, the CBR500 is really a 471cc bike, while the 600 is a 599cc bike, so it's not as close a comparison as you think. Will 128cc's make a difference in your riding experience? I'm not sure. I do think that it will depend on your body weight, riding style and your comfort level. It appears that you are already slightly comfortable with a 600. If so, I think the 128cc's difference might matter. With that being said, I think the 250 and 300 are out too.

I've been riding for about 10 years now. First on a 2001 CBR600F4i and now on a 2007 ZX-6R. I've ridden 1000s and 750cc bikes, and for me the 600 fits my riding style more. I've also ridden other 600s. All of the Japanese bikes are very similar (year to year). For me, I picked the Ninja because it was more comfortable when I sat on it, and the windscreen was a little higher than the R6. These things mattered to me. I go on long, spirited rides through the twisties. Perhaps these things are something you might consider in your decision as well.

As for power and reliability, if you are going to get a Japanese bike, just pick one. I doubt that you could tell the difference, for you riding ability. Also, what matters (at least to me) is if I like the look of the bike. When I got my Ninja I did not like the style of the Gixxer. If they all are cool looking to you then this might not be a factor. Just saying.

And last but not least. Price. You should be able to get a decent pre-owned bike 600 for $7000. For the money, try to go for the newer bike. So if it is down to two or three bikes you are looking at, go for the newer one. I would say go for the one with the less miles, but odometers can be tampered. I've seen this before.

Good luck with your decision.

Sly Raskal

iTrader: (1)

Busy at work and don't have the time to give to lengthy of a reply, but just wanted to mention that don't read into the displacement numbers too much.

A 600 F4I is very different from a 600 R6. Some have been telling me that my Ninja 300 can behave better than some 600cc bikes.

I would focus more on what your needs are and go from there. eg. do you need something more for commuting or for recreation, or a little of both? Do you want a cruiser, sport or other type of bike? I would recommend staying away from a supersport if you are somewhat new to the biking world, but that's just me.

There are a lot of guys on this forum with great advice about motorcycles so hoping they chime in on it, but please read the previous 36 pages, you may find your answer in there already.

iSeeYouTwo

Thanks for the prompt replies fellas - I appreciate your input, lots of good info!

I would most likely be using this bike more for recreation (very few long trips), but I would also like to commute to and from work with it during the spring/summer (in Boston ~10 mile round trip) so I definitely want a bike that is not only sporty looking, but that is also comfortable as well, as you both mentioned. I definitely prefer the styling of the R6 over the Gixxer. Now that you've mentioned the CBR, it looks rather similar to the R6's styling, so I'll probably add that to my list and rule out the Gixxer. The only reason why I included the GSXR in my search is because they're a lot more popular in my area and can be had rather cheap and in great condition. But to be completely fair, I have not searched for CBR's yet, so I'll look into them!

Thanks again gentleman, and I will be sure to look through this thread a bit more thoroughly -- as I only skimmed through the first couple of pages before asking any questions.

CGTSX2004

iTrader: (1)

You are forgetting to account for engine architecture. A 600cc inline-4 is going to make quite a bit more power, but in a very peaky powerband compared with a 650cc twin, which will have a fairly flat powerband. Sure the 650 has 50cc more displacement, but will typically be down in hp compared to that 600 cc inline-4.

CGTSX2004

iTrader: (1)

If you want something that is comfortable for commuting but still stylish, you might want to look into something like the Ninja 650R. You will be down on power and suspension adjustment, but you gain quite a bit of comfort and low end torque for around town riding. That said, with the right skills, you'll be able to keep up with most riders in the twisty stuff and it will make you a better rider for when you ride the full on super sport bikes.

Of the traditional super sport bikes, I have heard that the GSX-R 600 is the most comfortable because it has the most relaxed rider triangle. I have not ridden the various super sports back to back on the same day so it is hard to say for sure.

Just remember that if you can only own one bike, you will likely have to make some compromises, or modifications. You can always put Helibars or risers on a super sport to relax the riding position some more for daily commute purposes, but factor that into your costs when you are looking.

endo022

iTrader: (1)

Take a look at the Triumph Daytona 675. It's not because I own one myself but it truly is a great bike. The power band is distributed across all RPM range..not just the at the higher range due to the 3 cylinder engine.

The used ones are price comparably with the GSXR and CBRs.
One warning point though...any of the previous generations before the 2013 model...beware of the heat output from the mid pipe from the open subframe near the seats...it can get toasty...especially on a hot summer day. The proper gear will help alleviate that problem though

Moog-Type-S

Nice boots!

iSeeYouTwo

Any pictures of yours? I really like the black/gold combo as well as the white/black, it's a great looking bike! I'm surprised I have never heard of the brand.

I'm freaking loving this YZF-R6S though, and it's local to me!

http://www.cycletrader.com/listing/2...-R6S-109806757


Any of you guys know much about it?

endo022

iTrader: (1)

I have some pictures posted up in earlier pages (page 4) on this thread. It's Black and Gold

iSeeYouTwo

You have great taste my friend! The bike looks great! And that red/white/gold R6 on pg 3 is so f*cking HOT too!

juniorbean

iTrader: (5)

^ I've posted in this topic many times about "beginner" bikes... so definitely feel free to search the thread.

Short answer, I wouldn't recommend either of the bikes you originally posted to start out with. You may have ridden a buddy's a few times and taken the class, but that doesn't mean you know how to ride. You can get into a lot of trouble very easily on bikes like that... especially when you get put into situations you've never been in before. And, as you are a new rider, most situations will be new ones for you.

Getting a bike that big tends to make people ride to not crash, instead of learning to ride properly. Get a smaller/less powerful bike, learn to ride the right way, then upgrade. Those bikes aren't going anywhere... you can upgrade to them a year down the road. When I had my Ninja 250 (learned on for a little over a year) I could outride people in the twisties on larger bikes. Why? B/C I learned to ride properly while they were riding nervously as to not make a mistake.

If you must get a 650, I would echo the suggestions above (Ninja 650r or Triumph 675 Daytona or Street Triple). I would also throw the SV650 into the mix.

Good luck

1StGenCL

Don't get a lowered bike, kills the handling and such in my opinion.

As mentioned before, I bought an R6 during college as my first bike and put a ton of miles on it with no problems. Yes, part was luck but I was careful and always respected it and had no problems.

juniorbean

iTrader: (5)

This. So much this. Not just an opinion, but fact. Once you alter a bike's suspension, you completely change the steering geometry. Lowered bikes may look cool... but they ride like crap. Bikes are not like cars... they're not meant to be lowered and stretched. The only one's who do that are show bikes or those who like to go fast in a straight line. If you're really riding your bike the way it was meant to be ridden.. don't lower/stretch it... ever.

juniorbean

iTrader: (5)

125cc Street legal pit bike with some hooligan built in. Sign me up!! Although $3k seems steep... I'm sure in a year or so they'll be cheaper on eBay/CL...

http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/624/16...irst-Look.aspx

00TL-P3.2

Little typo in the ad, I think. peak torque at 55,000 rpm
Looks like fun though.

juniorbean

iTrader: (5)

^ LOL, yeah. I fixed it above, but can't fix their article. 55k would be sick!!

Sly Raskal

iTrader: (1)

This may have been posted elsewhere, but deserves to be posted here...

<object width="960" height="720"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/FTDA_VUlRnM?hl=en_US&amp;version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/FTDA_VUlRnM?hl=en_US&amp;version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="960" height="720" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>

Moog-Type-S

Great vid..

I would highly suggest watching it with the sound OFF!

Sly Raskal

iTrader: (1)

Oops. Forgot to mention the thing about the sound. Yea turn off your speakers.

juniorbean

iTrader: (5)

Wow.. that was hilarious!! :lol:

They should have had Benny Hill music in the background!

Sly Raskal

iTrader: (1)

That would be the icing on the cake.