need sport bike opinions? info?

kumma · 03-11-2004, 05:22 PM

im looking for another bike for the summer, id like a used sport bike for around 3 grand any ideas or suggestions. my harley is great fun but definatly not a great in the curves.

being average size of 6-1 and 185 what models wont fit.
went to the local cycle show and the yamaha r6 seemed to be the most comfortable, but dont necessarily want a new price tag.

ive searched but havent found any motorcycle primarliy sport bike oriented sites or forums on the level of pp. any good places? or bike suggestion? oh and just because i ride a harley doesnt mean i dont like other brands.

BlueSkyJaunte · 03-11-2004, 05:37 PM

For your price range (and physical size) a VFR is hard to beat. But I'm biased.

motion · 03-11-2004, 05:56 PM

VFRs are definitely great bikes... can you get one for $3k?

I'd stay away from the 600s... they're dinky.

BlueSkyJaunte · 03-11-2004, 08:08 PM

Granted my '86 isn't a powerhouse by any means, but I got it for under $2k.

It even has an aftermarket (Kerker) 4-1 exhaust for a real snorty sound.

Eric Coffey · 03-11-2004, 09:28 PM

For a good compromise between comfort, handling, and price, you may want to check out the Yamaha 600R. It's basically the R6's little brother, and a good choice for your first "sport" bike, especially if you like the idea of not having a sore back and/or wrists on long rides.

You should have no problem finding a late 90's or early 00's one for $3k or less.

Porsche-O-Phile · Porsche-O-Phile's Garage

The r6 is pretty fast but I've heard that's mostly because of low weight, not high power. . .

I love my Katana 750 - it doesn't have that obnoxious "I'm a wannabe racer" look to it, it's fast enough to run with the sport bikes but has an upright posture (you can ride it for long periods of time without killing your back), you can comfortably carry a passenger, it's small enough to split lanes effectively and large enough to feel solid. All around - a great bike. . .

Another I like (sorry for the Suzuki only bias, but I'm most familiar with them) is the Bandit 1200 or 1200S. Much more of a touring style than a crotch rocket but VERY powerful. I rode the 1200 recently and was smoothly and effortelessly up to 95+ without even knowing it! I had to do a double-take on the speedo to make sure.

Just be careful out there! Too many idiots!

WINTER1100S · 03-12-2004, 06:34 AM

Kumma, how bout... http://adcache.cycletrader.com/5/6/6/66386266.htm or maybe... http://adcache.cycletrader.com/5/0/2/66787402.htm The Aprilla seems to good to be true. Let us know what you decide...

lendaddy · 03-12-2004, 07:06 AM

Having ridden many, I have to say the Katana 750 is not in the same league as true sportbikes. The feel, sound, and power are just more LazyBoy than Recaro. Now if you want comfort with the look then it's an excellent choice. What do you want, performance or just a good cruiser?

kumma · 03-12-2004, 09:16 AM

I’d say im definitely leaning towards performance, strictly solo riding. I already have a more than capable 2 up crusier/tourer in the Harley.

That Aprilla sure is sweet but its got to be the wrong priced.

vash · vash's Garage

any new 600 is pushing past 100 hp. and all are lightweight. these things scream. the problem with a 600 is that you have to always play with the gears to get the thing to rip. you get a liter bike, and you can have fun with alot less shifting. for 3k, you are looking at a pre fuel injection 600 sportbike. personally i dont like the katana, way to old school technology. you want a fun ass bike, get a suzuki SV650. i think the prices are staying up for these, but they are damn fun. light, torquey, flickable. have fun shopping!

Reg · 03-12-2004, 02:48 PM

Craig. I recently saw a ad for a 1997 zx 11 kawi in Windsor with only 4000 kms for $7 Canadian which is a little over $5 but looks like a helluva bike. Email me if you'd like the number. I may still have it.

PS I just read a review of the 2004 R1 yamaha which supposedly clears 100mph in 1st gear!