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Vidaeus posted:My question isn't about buying a whole bike, but it's related and I didnt' want to make a new thread for it. I'd just go with whatever you can find in 140/70 that's cheap, most any modern tire will do fine for your needs. I looked up what tires were available in 140/70 on Motorcycle Superstore and couldn't find much, but I was looking up tires I was familiar with like Pilot Roads and such.
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Nov 23, 2010 02:19
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FuzzyWuzzyBear posted:The Gladius is a solid bike and really the thing that's arguable about it is its appearance. If you like how it looks then go for it. That said, you can always find a used bike that is reasonable if you are patient. Problem with the appearance? Like, having to run over all the women who throw themselves in front of it due to the irresistible panty-dropping attraction? Maybe my sensibilities are broken but I think the gladius is outrageously sexy.
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Nov 23, 2010 02:35
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FormatAmerica posted:Based off the SV650 with upgraded parts all around. Sitting on it today made me feel funny in the pants. Opinions before I pull the trigger next week?
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Nov 23, 2010 03:04
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Vidaeus posted:My question isn't about buying a whole bike, but it's related and I didnt' want to make a new thread for it. I've got Bridgestone BT45s on my VTR at the moment and they're pretty good tyres. Lots of grip, great in the wet, and I'd have got at least 10000km out of the rear if a rivet hadn't found its way through the tread. Alternate comedy option: Bridgestone BT90.
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Nov 23, 2010 03:22
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Endless Mike posted:If you're financing, you'll probably get a better rate if you finance most/all of it and pay off what you intended to pay cash for, anyway, since below a certain amount it becomes a personal loan which tend to have enormously high rates. I'm almost 100% sure Suzuki financing has a minimum amount that has to be financed, anyway.
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Nov 23, 2010 03:40
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Buying my first ever bike, this state limits me to 250cc in my first year and I don't really want to spend more than about three or four grand. There's a couple of Honda VTR250s going locally for that price range, but my biker friend says they're really tiny. Also I'm kind of keen on a dual sport so I can go off-roading, I'm definitely going camping in January and I may or may not do quite a bit of touring next year.
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Nov 23, 2010 06:56
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freebooter posted:Buying my first ever bike, this state limits me to 250cc in my first year and I don't really want to spend more than about three or four grand. There's a couple of Honda VTR250s going locally for that price range, but my biker friend says they're really tiny. Also I'm kind of keen on a dual sport so I can go off-roading, I'm definitely going camping in January and I may or may not do quite a bit of touring next year. Here's my VTR250 next to my STR675:  Click here for the full 1024x768 image. The VTR's got a lower seat, but it's not a "tiny" bike by any means. Quite a few other bikers I've talked to have thought that it was a 600 (alternatively, a Ducati). If you're looking for something "bigger", why not a Hyosung GT250F? Build quality issues aside, it's effectively a 650 frame with a 250 engine inside. Shouting Melon fucked around with this message at 07:33 on Nov 23, 2010 |
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Nov 23, 2010 07:24
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FormatAmerica posted:
OMG agreed. So sexy
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Nov 23, 2010 08:17
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FormatAmerica posted:Problem with the appearance? Like, having to run over all the women who throw themselves in front of it due to the irresistible panty-dropping attraction? As a woman, I'm not quite so concerned with the panty-dropping, but the gladius is actually a pretty nice looking bike. Especially in that grey and red color scheme. Comedy option: are there any bikes that come with bright pink as a factory paint option?
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Nov 23, 2010 08:43
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http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/09/yamaha-reveals-2009-r6-and-fz6r/ the lil fz6r has pink bits.
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Nov 23, 2010 08:45
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FormatAmerica posted:Problem with the appearance? Like, having to run over all the women who throw themselves in front of it due to the irresistible panty-dropping attraction? I agree and I think the blue/white one is the most drool worthy. It's probably going to be my second bike. Not everything has to be black, black, black, with black trim and black bit's.
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Nov 23, 2010 14:19
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AA is for Quitters posted:As a woman, I'm not quite so concerned with the panty-dropping, but the gladius is actually a pretty nice looking bike. Especially in that grey and red color scheme. AA - Triumph did a Speed Triple in pink a few years back. Good luck finding one that's survived though. e: Vidaeus - 140/70 18? Pirelli Sport Demon, Avon Roadrider. In case you need to ask, BT090s will make it almost impossible to fall off, but aren't what you're looking for. ee: Here you go http://www.flickr.com/photos/richspk/2807519110/ Saga fucked around with this message at 15:44 on Nov 23, 2010 |
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Nov 23, 2010 15:37
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What do you guys think about a honda hawk for commuting, and weekend trips. I know it's got a good rap as a track bike, but I'm going to have to be a little more practical with it for little while. Here's the one I was looking at http://orlando.craigslist.org/mcy/2075048963.html
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Nov 23, 2010 19:26
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Leroy Diplowski posted:What do you guys think about a honda hawk for commuting, and weekend trips. I know it's got a good rap as a track bike, but I'm going to have to be a little more practical with it for little while. It's a great all arounder. Heavier than an SV, lower powered, and older, but the precursor to it, and a hell of a fun bike to ride. I'd try and find an SV, considering Gen 1s are available for that price if you can find a deal, but if they're not in your area, then it's a great bike.
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Nov 23, 2010 19:30
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Z3n posted:It's a great all arounder. Heavier than an SV, lower powered, and older, but the precursor to it, and a hell of a fun bike to ride. I'd try and find an SV, considering Gen 1s are available for that price if you can find a deal, but if they're not in your area, then it's a great bike. SV s are around, but I just don't like 'em. Something about the way they look or feel or something. I liked riding my brother's ex500 better than my friend's SV.
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Nov 23, 2010 19:40
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Leroy Diplowski posted:SV s are around, but I just don't like 'em. Something about the way they look or feel or something. I liked riding my brother's ex500 better than my friend's SV. Make sure that you don't have the same complaint about the hawk then, if it's the Vtwin engine that you don't like about the SV. Otherwise, that's a perfectly legit reason to not want an SV. 
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Nov 23, 2010 21:05
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Leroy Diplowski posted:SV s are around, but I just don't like 'em. Something about the way they look or feel or something. I liked riding my brother's ex500 better than my friend's SV. How about an EX500 then? Or am I missing something? It's perfect for what you say you want to do, and cheaper (surely?).
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Nov 23, 2010 21:16
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I offered this guy a cool $10. http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/mcy/2076967175.html
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Nov 24, 2010 03:39
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Leroy Diplowski posted:SV s are around, but I just don't like 'em. Something about the way they look or feel or something. I liked riding my brother's ex500 better than my friend's SV. How about a Suzuki Bandit? Good-natured, easy to handle power, very reliable mechanicals and a choice of standard and sport riding positions. Just don't get a 1200/1250 
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Nov 24, 2010 14:37
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AA is for Quitters posted:
It'll be a different story for you on the Gladius, though. You'll DEFINITELY notice the bumps with that Also, when you're dressed like a Power Ranger on a Gladius, you'll still get panties (however misguidedly dropped) caught in the chain, on the kickstand, on the turnsignals, and on the mirrors. I save them and use them for keeping the chain clean. Some of the skimpier ones are great for cleaning that little space between the links. 
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Nov 24, 2010 19:34
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$5.5k out the door, MSRP @ $6.8k. I feel like I got a hell of a deal. Waiting on credit approval (drat you holiday weekend!), wrapping it up and driving home on Monday.  \/\/\/: http://www.delandmotorsports.com/ Super nice general manager, great buying experience so far. I simply asked them what the best was that they could offer and we settled on that price after a bit of talking. FormatAmerica fucked around with this message at 01:59 on Nov 27, 2010 |
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Nov 27, 2010 01:19
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Congrats man! That is a hell of a deal. Those pics sure do make it look good. Does the dealer where you bought it have a website by any chance? Edit: Forgot to mention, take a look at your interest rate and all the fine print in that line of credit. I know it somewhat goes without saying but some of the ways a dealer will get you back on a good deal is to make sure any money they lose on a deal they make back in financing. BaKESAL3 fucked around with this message at 21:02 on Nov 27, 2010 |
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Nov 27, 2010 01:42
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Looking for a first bike. Found this http://stlouis.craigslist.org/mcy/2079695524.html guy said bike has 22k miles and crabs were rebuilt at 17k. Does it sound reasonable?
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Nov 28, 2010 23:11
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Russian Bear posted:Looking for a first bike. Found this http://stlouis.craigslist.org/mcy/2079695524.html guy said bike has 22k miles and crabs were rebuilt at 17k. Does it sound reasonable? If it comes with the stock wooden mallet then its a great deal. Looks like a ~2000 MY bike, so its about 10ish years old at this point. That's not terribly high mileage, and if its seen regular maintenance it should be fine. Check when the valves were last adjusted, ask if he knows if the cam chain tensioner has ever been replaced, and check stuff like the date on the tires (if they're more than 4-5 years old, or dry-rotting, they'll need to be replaced), the chain, the brake fluid, etc. Seat's also torn up in that shot a little, and it looks like its been dropped at least once as the front signal isn't stock (can't tell if its just artifacting, or if its also got the telltale rash on the outermost corner of the front fairing as well). I'd say that's a fine starting point, but try to talk him down a bit. Oh and before you get your hopes up, a Ninja 250 is never going to be a "really classy bike."
sirbeefalot fucked around with this message at 23:43 on Nov 28, 2010 |
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Nov 28, 2010 23:35
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edit: disregard. Whoops.
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Nov 28, 2010 23:40
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Probably Hates You posted:Congrats man! That is a hell of a deal. Those pics sure do make it look good. Does the dealer where you bought it have a website by any chance? I'll make sure to cover the fine print, but I'm not too worried about the interest rate. I have perfect credit...just not much of it so the loan is really a credit-building choice- planning on paying the bike off in 6 to 8 months. Tomorrow afternoon I should be driving my new baby home
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Nov 28, 2010 23:42
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sirbeefalot posted:good info Hah oops typo. He said the bike is a 98 and ya i know she won't be a looker, but i'm ok with that.
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Nov 29, 2010 00:02
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I've got a 1985 Honda CB450SC and I'm looking to move up to something just a little more powerful and (more importantly) reliable. I'm going to be using the bike as a daily commuter to work (just a 5 mile commute) and I would feel more comfortable not messing around with something so old. A friend of mine's coworker is selling his 2003 Honda 599. Asking price is $3200, with the following specs: quote:45mpg, ~25k miles, amazingly maintained, records included just had inspection C ($1300), which made it ride like new kbb value $3660. one scrape on the tank. matte black paint. various new parts: new clutch/brake/rotors/k&n filter/jump stand included. The price seems to be about inline with other models I saw for sale on the Honda 599 forums.
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Dec 1, 2010 20:29
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Agrias120 posted:I've got a 1985 Honda CB450SC and I'm looking to move up to something just a little more powerful and (more importantly) reliable. I'm going to be using the bike as a daily commuter to work (just a 5 mile commute) and I would feel more comfortable not messing around with something so old. I've seen 599's for down around $3000 in the SF Bay Area, but location can make a big difference in pricing. $3200 seems a little high for a 2003, but I've heard they're great bikes, and you could probably talk him down to 3k, bein' a friend of a friend and all. edit: Check out the "Ridin' in the rain in Maine" thread, that guy did a good long trip on his 599, he might be able to tell you more about day to day handling, etc.
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Dec 1, 2010 20:32
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benwards posted:I've seen 599's for down around $3000 in the SF Bay Area, but location can make a big difference in pricing. $3200 seems a little high for a 2003, but I've heard they're great bikes, and you could probably talk him down to 3k, bein' a friend of a friend and all. Sorry; I should have included location. The bike is for sale in the Washington, D.C. area.
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Dec 1, 2010 20:34
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benwards posted:edit: Check out the "Ridin' in the rain in Maine" thread, that guy did a good long trip on his 599, he might be able to tell you more about day to day handling, etc. That would be me. I also did a much longer ride through the rockies; you can read about it here : http://warhams.dangerbearing.com/Colorado/ I've also taken my bike on the track and ridden it pretty hard, so I'd say I'm pretty familiar with the bikes handling. I have almost no complaints. It was my daily rider for about two years, in addition to all the fun stuff I did. But I'll start with the downsides : There are times when a windshield or handguards would come in handy; mostly when it's cold. Every now and then, there's some buffeting and turbulence, but those are easily dealt with by a proper helmet. Storage is a DIY affair; my stuff on the longer trips is held on by bungees, ropes, and straps. The gas tank can be a bit on the short side; sometimes I've had the gas light come on at 120 miles. That's probably not an issue for day to day riding, but for long trips through sparsely populated areas, it can become a problem. I'm 6'1, and sometimes I wish I had more room for my legs. If you're going to be riding two up a lot, you'll need a better seat, the stock one is too slippery, and it's angled so the passenger is constantly being flung into your back under braking. Now the good stuff : Right off the bat, the bike is fast, comfortable, and easy to ride. Throw a slightly bigger sprocket on it, and you've got a rocket ship. On the track, I can easily keep up with mid-level riders on full blown sportbikes. There are a lot of upgrades available, but I've left mine mostly stock because it's a perfect balance for what I need. For day to and long distance riding, it's comfortable enough to stay on it all day, but it has the power and performance to be lots of fun when you're in the mood for that. On public roads, this bike has loads more performance than you'll ever safely use, but it won't kill your back and wrists on long rides. I would have no problem recommending this as a 2nd bike for someone who's been riding a while. It's also incredibly reliable, and I haven't had any major service issues in 13,000 miles. Mine is carbureted, which means I can do pretty much all the work on it myself.
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Dec 2, 2010 00:24
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Agrias120 posted:I've got a 1985 Honda CB450SC and I'm looking to move up to something just a little more powerful and (more importantly) reliable. I'm going to be using the bike as a daily commuter to work (just a 5 mile commute) and I would feel more comfortable not messing around with something so old. About the only thing you need to pay attention to is whether the camchain tensioner is toast. You would think if he's just been suckered out of $1300, his stealership would have noticed that sort of thing, but you never know with dealers. They're excellent commuters, and you can buy any number of aftermarket screens to give you a bit more wind protection (you'll still need bar muffs and/or heated grips if you're going to be riding in winter, though. Honda apparently have a warehouse full of absolutely terrible shocks designed for linkageless rear ends left over from 1971, because they put the same thing on the 599 that they stuck on my 1988 CBR400RR. Where it was also poo poo. It's not an issue commuting, as long as the shock still works, but they definitely benefit from an aftermarket shock. In hot weather on a twisty road, it's like riding a pogo stick. But that's probably just like your CB450, so you may not notice the difference.
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Dec 2, 2010 09:38
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Saga posted:About the only thing you need to pay attention to is whether the camchain tensioner is toast. You would think if he's just been suckered out of $1300, his stealership would have noticed that sort of thing, but you never know with dealers. Last time I checked, unfortunately, aftermarket rear shocks didn't exist. I think I saw some guys on a 599 forums who did a big enough group buy to get a custom batch made at a reasonable price, but I've yet to find a drop in replacement. The front forks, however, are a perfect fit with the forks from an F4i, and those are available on eBay for about $150. I am considering doing that upgrade this winter.
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Dec 2, 2010 12:49
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AA is for Quitters posted:Comedy option: are there any bikes that come with bright pink as a factory paint option? 
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Dec 2, 2010 14:55
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Pagan posted:Last time I checked, unfortunately, aftermarket rear shocks didn't exist. I think I saw some guys on a 599 forums who did a big enough group buy to get a custom batch made at a reasonable price, but I've yet to find a drop in replacement. Are you saying that Honda USA had the rear end geometry specially altered for the "599"? If you say so I'll believe you, but AFAIK a 599 = a CB600F Hornet. And there are 1,001 rear shock options for the Hornet. Ohlins alone has 3. IIRC they should also be available from Wilbers, Hyperpro, EMC, Hagon, Maxton Engineering and Nitron in various flavours/$$$.
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Dec 2, 2010 18:34
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Thanks for all of the awesome responses. I'm going to go check out the bike in a few weeks, and depending on how it feels, I'll probably get it. I'm a little bit worried that I seem to be doubling my bhp going from the CB450 to the 599, but I guess you gotta become a big boy sometime  . It helps that I'm pretty conservative/not heavy on the throttle.
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Dec 2, 2010 19:08
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Since "biekwiki" in the OP is down, and "bikewiki" seems to be for bicycles, can anyone tell me what I should definitely be checking when buying a second-hand bike? So far I've though of: - Service history - Kilometres - Registration and insurance What else? This will be my first bike.
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Dec 3, 2010 05:39
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Agrias120 posted:Thanks for all of the awesome responses. I'm going to go check out the bike in a few weeks, and depending on how it feels, I'll probably get it. I'm a little bit worried that I seem to be doubling my bhp going from the CB450 to the 599, but I guess you gotta become a big boy sometime I have the later version of the "599"/Hornet (very similar chassis, but in aluminium), but one of the great things about it is its versatility. If you don't go crazy with the throttle, it's happy just to cruise along in a relaxed manner. But if you want to take it to a track day, like Pagan says, or just attack a few corners, it does a decent impression of a CBR600F3 (with a tired shock). One of the things I like about the Hornet is that it's the only bike I've ever ridden where I don't feel desperately antsy about riding slowly and start freaking out about squaring off my rear tyre, wasting perfectly decent corners etc. When you have lovely weather like we do in the UK, it's nice to ride to work in freezing icy cold not feeling like you have to be a hero, or if you're tired or sick, just to be able to cruise gently along chilling out. Re: that shock - it turns out truth is stranger than fiction. The Nitron "sport" series shock for my '07 Hornet is actually the same unit Nitron spec for the NC29. So the stock shock sitting in my garage really IS something Honda had sitting around from the days of the late-80s iterations of the CBR400RR. Holy loving poo poo. http://www.nitron.jp/mc/index.php
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Dec 3, 2010 10:53
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freebooter posted:Since "biekwiki" in the OP is down, and "bikewiki" seems to be for bicycles, can anyone tell me what I should definitely be checking when buying a second-hand bike? So far I've though of: This is a good place to start: http://www.clarity.net/~adam/buying-bike.html Be warned that is it extremely thorough.
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Dec 3, 2010 12:28
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Saga posted:Are you saying that Honda USA had the rear end geometry specially altered for the "599"? If you say so I'll believe you, but AFAIK a 599 = a CB600F Hornet. And there are 1,001 rear shock options for the Hornet. That would be good news, actually. But every time I've looked, people online act like it's a big deal. I've also never been too serious about upgrading mine. I've got a dedicated track bike, and I figured I'd rather keep my 599 (which yes, is the exact same thing as a CB600F) stock. It's comfortable, and after enough time on the track to reach it's limits, I know I will never ever ride anywhere close to that on a public road.
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Dec 3, 2010 13:28
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