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AiTM

Banned
Buying new for your second bike.

Ap4nV(2).gif


Buy a used bike for your second, if you don't like it, flip it back on Craigslist and try something else.

No I meant go to the dealer just to sit on some. I am def buying used.
 
I don't think the MultiStrudel 620 sold very well. No dry clutch, less power, less resellable parts, lowers resale price, ect.

Hmm, maybe. Prices are still quite high for those here in Holland though. Almost 5000 euro's, don't know what they went for new.


And just to add to the debate, Ducati riders call Japanese bikes "sewing machines" cause they're quiet and "soulless".


Yeah, they do. A true petrolhead wouldn't say something that stupid, but sadly, a lot of motorcyclists are narrow-minded hicks.
 
The current Multistrada is very nice, but yes, holy shit it's expensive. I'm not one to usually consider it an issue, but it is FUCKING tall. Sitting on it I was on tippy toes on both sides...so taller than a fucking R6. For a bike of that heft, that is goddamn tall. *shrugs*
 
Last track day of the year this weekend...kind of bums me out, but it'll give me some time to mess around with my bike and hopefully paint it.

Most recent pic of me at the track a few weeks ago:
iklvOxwYF2VIb.JPG


Is most of GAF's bikes sitting in storage? I love riding in the winter in Houston.
 

Mighty

Member
I'm on the west coast (SF) so still riding strong all year long! Just gotta stay warm is all.

I also just upgraded from an '01 Ninja 250 to an '05 FZ6 which has been giving me extra motivation to get out and ride. I've even been doing a bit of riding with the GF on the new bike (she definitely likes it). I'm relatively new to two up riding though, and for whatever reason she keeps sliding forward on the bike after riding around a bit. Any of you guys have experience/advice for how to keep your passengers from sliding forward all the time?
 
I'm on the west coast (SF) so still riding strong all year long! Just gotta stay warm is all.

I also just upgraded from an '01 Ninja 250 to an '05 FZ6 which has been giving me extra motivation to get out and ride. I've even been doing a bit of riding with the GF on the new bike (she definitely likes it). I'm relatively new to two up riding though, and for whatever reason she keeps sliding forward on the bike after riding around a bit. Any of you guys have experience/advice for how to keep your passengers from sliding forward all the time?

Instead of only holding on to you, she should be able to learn to brace herself against the fuel tank whenever you apply the brakes. That usually keeps my passengers from sliding forward.
 
Versys went up on the stand with the tender running mid November. I have a one piece suit but I can only take so many dark/cold riding days in CT.
 
Indeed it is now more or less butt cold around these parts. I'm in for a fun time when I move my bike when I move in a little over a month. May have to haul it if roads are not clean.
 
Man, that looks like so much fun. Been playing with the idea of getting something like that as well. Not that I've got any money, mind you :p.

As for suggestions. Yamaha's got the XT600E, don't know if it's any good. Never ridden these kinds of bikes.
 

Damaged

Member
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=qmaLVZjZ5z8

Thought I'd post this video up. I really been wanting a motard lately, but was thinking about just grabbing a 50cc one to dick around with. Seems like the Honda's have been around the longest and have the best aftermarket support, any suggestions?

For a supermotard a good day to day option is a Suzuki DRZ400, light enough and has some decent punch. The XT660 is too heavy in my opinion so give you the full moto experience.

Had a DRZ a few years ago and they are a good intro into supermotos, currently got a KTM 640 and an Aprilia 750 twin
 

ChiTownBuffalo

Either I made up lies about the Boston Bomber or I fell for someone else's crap. Either way, I have absolutely no credibility and you should never pay any attention to anything I say, no matter what the context. Perm me if I claim to be an insider
Had a similar question about motard bikes.

Kinda of interested in getting one, mainly for just riding around the city. Make more sense than me getting my very first motorcycle (FZR600) all over again.
 

Damaged

Member
Had a similar question about motard bikes.

Kinda of interested in getting one, mainly for just riding around the city. Make more sense than me getting my very first motorcycle (FZR600) all over again.

The main problem with proper supermotard's is the fact that most are based on bikes with a service schedule measured in hours (honda crf450 / yam yzf450 / ktm 520exc), the other's tend to be using old heavy engines (Yam xt660 / Honda fmx 650).

Id say have a look at the KTM 690 or a Husky 510 for a compromise that will still need some TLC. Something like the Suzuki DRZ400 or the Aprilia Dorsoduro 750 are a more road bike based route and make good daily runners (I can personally vouch for the Factory Dorsoduro as im doing 90 miles a day on mine) though the seat on the DRZ400 will limit your time in the saddle
 
The main problem with proper supermotard's is the fact that most are based on bikes with a service schedule measured in hours (honda crf450 / yam yzf450 / ktm 520exc), the other's tend to be using old heavy engines (Yam xt660 / Honda fmx 650).


Hmm, that is a problem.
 

ChiTownBuffalo

Either I made up lies about the Boston Bomber or I fell for someone else's crap. Either way, I have absolutely no credibility and you should never pay any attention to anything I say, no matter what the context. Perm me if I claim to be an insider
The main problem with proper supermotard's is the fact that most are based on bikes with a service schedule measured in hours (honda crf450 / yam yzf450 / ktm 520exc), the other's tend to be using old heavy engines (Yam xt660 / Honda fmx 650).

Id say have a look at the KTM 690 or a Husky 510 for a compromise that will still need some TLC. Something like the Suzuki DRZ400 or the Aprilia Dorsoduro 750 are a more road bike based route and make good daily runners (I can personally vouch for the Factory Dorsoduro as im doing 90 miles a day on mine) though the seat on the DRZ400 will limit your time in the saddle

I want something more on the road biek based route. So will check out the Aprilla.
 

Damaged

Member
I want something more on the road biek based route. So will check out the Aprilla.

Its a great bike and it will get to 18,000 miles before it needs looking at after its first service. The bike is based on the shiver but with a slightly modified tune on the engine and different suspension / riding position.

The only downside of it (and all motards) is the small fuel tank, you will get about 100 miles before you need to fill up. If you can afford it I'd say look at the factory as the suspension is allot nicer (plus the carbon fibre looks stunning)
 

noah111

Still Alive
Is it wrong that for years I have always thought this thread was for people in wheelchairs, and never ever clicked on it to check?

I was curious as to why it's usually on the front/second page so I looked at the OP, ready to feel sorry for someone. Wow, mind fucking blown, complete opposite of what I thought this thread was about.
 
Is it wrong that for years I have always thought this thread was for people in wheelchairs, and never ever clicked on it to check?

I was curious as to why it's usually on the front/second page so I looked at the OP, ready to feel sorry for someone. Wow, mind fucking blown, complete opposite of what I thought this thread was about.


Well... you're not always wrong. Though we're doing fine at the moment.
 
For a supermotard a good day to day option is a Suzuki DRZ400, light enough and has some decent punch. The XT660 is too heavy in my opinion so give you the full moto experience.

Had a DRZ a few years ago and they are a good intro into supermotos, currently got a KTM 640 and an Aprilia 750 twin
What if I'm not looking for a day option? I just want something to mess around with in a parking lot or something. That's why I was considering a 50 since they can be had under $1000. Have any recommendations on something smaller?

Sentry: But...wheelchairs have 4 wheels...D:
 

Damaged

Member
What if I'm not looking for a day option? I just want something to mess around with in a parking lot or something. That's why I was considering a 50 since they can be had under $1000. Have any recommendations on something smaller?

Sentry: But...wheelchairs have 4 wheels...D:

Okay if your looking for something small I'd say a 125 two stroke mx bike (like a crf 125 honda) would do a decent job as a moto if you got the right wheels and rubber on it. Anything smaller and there isn't really going to be enough power to really call it a supermotard
 

ChiTownBuffalo

Either I made up lies about the Boston Bomber or I fell for someone else's crap. Either way, I have absolutely no credibility and you should never pay any attention to anything I say, no matter what the context. Perm me if I claim to be an insider
Hmm. I wonder how expensive Aprilla upkeep is?

Something makes me feel as if I'm going to get screwed on parts and service.
 

Damaged

Member
Hmm. I wonder how expensive Aprilla upkeep is?

Something makes me feel as if I'm going to get screwed on parts and service.

I'm in the uk and its not too bad, like I say the first service was after running in (about 200 miles) and then you don't touch it till 18,000. I think parts supply can be a little iffy but the price should be okay. The shiver is a fairly common bike so second hand engine parts and electrics should be easy to get
 
Yeah, they do. A true petrolhead wouldn't say something that stupid, but sadly, a lot of motorcyclists are narrow-minded hicks.

Japanese motorcycles are bland and don't have many distinguishing features between them.
Ride them blindfolded and you can't tell a Suzuki from a Kawasaki. The big four have a single style. Utilitarian, efficient, ugly.

Companies like Honda had a lot more style in the 90s.

I don't care what you say, "true petrolheads" know Japanese bikes lack a certain something.
Italian and German, even American bikes have a lot of character. With rare exception, modern Japanese bikes don't have a lot of character.

It's not hating, I like Japanese bikes, but they don't do everything for me.

It's like comparing a Nissan GTR to a 458 Italia. The Nissan might be faster around a track, but it doesn't push your emotions like a Ferrari. That's not to say you can't form a bond with a Japanese bike, I've owned many, but there is another intangible quality of bike ownership out there, and Japan doesn't sell it.

I hope Big Red brings back contingencies for motorcycle road racing clubs.
Also they need a halo V-4 WSBK homologation model.

The economy has stagnated the Japanese motorcycle industry. Sales have dropped like a rock. While European brands have seen growth.
 

ChiTownBuffalo

Either I made up lies about the Boston Bomber or I fell for someone else's crap. Either way, I have absolutely no credibility and you should never pay any attention to anything I say, no matter what the context. Perm me if I claim to be an insider
I'm in the uk and its not too bad, like I say the first service was after running in (about 200 miles) and then you don't touch it till 18,000. I think parts supply can be a little iffy but the price should be okay. The shiver is a fairly common bike so second hand engine parts and electrics should be easy to get

Yeah, I'm more worried about parts supply. Because, well, Italy.
 
Is it wrong that for years I have always thought this thread was for people in wheelchairs, and never ever clicked on it to check?

I was curious as to why it's usually on the front/second page so I looked at the OP, ready to feel sorry for someone. Wow, mind fucking blown, complete opposite of what I thought this thread was about.

You are I think the third person to ask this. WTF people. They have four wheels!

Yeah, I'm more worried about parts supply. Because, well, Italy.

If you have an official dealer near you, parts should not be an issue.

I've been contemplating this bad boy. Anyone have any experience with the Vmax?

1332284637332284637313322846373322846373.jpg

Absolute beasts. Never ridden one, but the current generation with some aftermarket pipes (not straight of course) sounds absolutely incredible.
 
Yep, that V4 is glorious.



Japanese motorcycles are bland and don't have many distinguishing features between them.
Ride them blindfolded and you can't tell a Suzuki from a Kawasaki. The big four have a single style. Utilitarian, efficient, ugly.

Companies like Honda had a lot more style in the 90s.

I don't care what you say, "true petrolheads" know Japanese bikes lack a certain something.
Italian and German, even American bikes have a lot of character. With rare exception, modern Japanese bikes don't have a lot of character.

It's not hating, I like Japanese bikes, but they don't do everything for me.

It's like comparing a Nissan GTR to a 458 Italia. The Nissan might be faster around a track, but it doesn't push your emotions like a Ferrari. That's not to say you can't form a bond with a Japanese bike, I've owned many, but there is another intangible quality of bike ownership out there, and Japan doesn't sell it.



I'm not sure how to reply to this. I own a Ducati, so there's that. But I'm also a fan Japanese bikes. Yeah some of the current models can be a tad bland, but there's enough history there. It's true that Ducati's styling is unmatched and the L-Twin engine is loads of fun. But I'm not about to dismiss all Japanese bikes as lacking soul or character. I feel that's just inaccurate.

The Yamaha RD500, the YZF750R, the R7, the R1, the Vmax. The Honda RC30, the VTR-SP1/2. Suzuki GSXR-1100W. Kawasaki Z900 and the H2's.

Lots of cool stuff.
 
Here is my little precious :) Got my licence last november and bought my little pony in April which is my first bike. Rode it all summer and absolutely loving it. Sits in storage now til end of Feb. Spring can't come soon enough :)

S5001440.jpg


S5001448.jpg
 

ChiTownBuffalo

Either I made up lies about the Boston Bomber or I fell for someone else's crap. Either way, I have absolutely no credibility and you should never pay any attention to anything I say, no matter what the context. Perm me if I claim to be an insider
I think I would prefer the Aprilla Shiver just for the tank capcity. I know that sounds like a silly reason to make me go one way of the other. But it is.

I however, will get a cool motard helmet.

2010_Airoh_S4_Motorcycle_Helmet.jpg
 

Damaged

Member
I think I would prefer the Aprilla Shiver just for the tank capcity. I know that sounds like a silly reason to make me go one way of the other. But it is.

I however, will get a cool motard helmet.

2010_Airoh_S4_Motorcycle_Helmet.jpg

Lol, that is the exact helmet I have now :) very comfy but the vent on the front cant be closed. Got electrical tape covering it at the mo to stop the rain and sleet coming in :)

The Shiver is a great bike, give it a test drive though as I found the seating position was a bit hard on the knees. The best thing about the Shiver / Dorsoduro is the fly by wire throttle, you can switch between three modes (Rain / Touring / Sport) which change the response of the throttle (Rain limits the power too which is handy when its really nasty out)
 
Has anyone heard anything about the comfort level on that Vmax? I would like to go on long trips with it.


Probably not perfect or anything, but given the relatively 'normal' riding position it shouldn't be too bad.

Found this:

Although the three-section saddle is fine for short trips or daily use, the crowned shape gets to most riders after a few hours of steady riding. This and unimpressive range are the only factors that limit the V-Max as a traveling machine for a solo rider.

Read more: http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/roadtests/1999_yamaha_vmax/index.html#ixzz1h627G6dT

Though that concerns a '99 model. Things are probably better now. And it'll probably never be as bad as my 998 was :D.

Moreover, a 'few hours of steady riding' is still pretty good in my book.
 

daw840

Member
Probably not perfect or anything, but given the relatively 'normal' riding position it shouldn't be too bad.

Found this:



Though that concerns a '99 model. Things are probably better now. And it'll probably never be as bad as my 998 was :D.

Moreover, a 'few hours of steady riding' is still pretty good in my book.

Hmm, I wonder what the range on one of those is nowadays.
 
Okay if your looking for something small I'd say a 125 two stroke mx bike (like a crf 125 honda) would do a decent job as a moto if you got the right wheels and rubber on it. Anything smaller and there isn't really going to be enough power to really call it a supermotard
Thanks ill keep that in mind. I did fins a 2006 Honda crf450 for sale for $2200 and I'm tempted but wondering if I should really spend the money. What's it mean by low hours?
 

daw840

Member
http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/2011/yamaha/v_max/specifications/05/fuel_economy.html

That source says about 12km per 1 liter of fuel.

Not that great, but it makes sense for a huge V4 like that.

Hmm, I is a dumb american so I will have to wait to get home to see what that means in real numbers. haha.

I am more concerned about fuel tank capacity though, I could really care less what kind of MPG it gets. I don't ride a MC to save on gas! I have however ridden a bike that needs a refill every 80 miles or so and that fucking sucks.

At this point it's between that Vmax and a new Victory Highball. I will ride both to see.

122-1106-01-o+2012-victory-high-ball+.jpg
 
The Vmax will do just under 110 / 120 miles on a tank. You'll have to merely feather the throttle then though :p.


As for the Victory bike, get a normal handlebar and I'm on board.

Like this? More comfortable, looks way better.

victory-high-ball-201lc0uw.jpg
 

daw840

Member
The Vmax will do just under 110 / 120 miles on a tank. You'll have to merely feather the throttle then though :p.


As for the Victory bike, get a normal handlebar and I'm on board.

Like this? More comfortable, looks way better.

victory-high-ball-201lc0uw.jpg

I thought the same thing, but I rode my buddies Harley Cross Bones which is almost identical in regards to the handlebars. I have to say, they were super comfy. You could ride a long way with one hand laid up on the bars.

edit: I unfortunately can't see that pic here at work. :(
 
Sweet, got a new jacket for Christmas!! Of course the photo does not do the eye blistering brightness of the yellow! Much brighter than my Olympia hi-viz vest.
It is Tourmaster Epic 3/4 jacket.

epicjacket.jpg
 
I thought the same thing, but I rode my buddies Harley Cross Bones which is almost identical in regards to the handlebars. I have to say, they were super comfy. You could ride a long way with one hand laid up on the bars.

edit: I unfortunately can't see that pic here at work. :(


Hmm, yeah it's a Victory bike with low(er) handlebars. Wouldn't have though that such height would be comfortable as well. Still prefer the lower ones in terms of looks, but then it's just a matter of taste. It's an awesome bike either way.
 

Damaged

Member
Thanks ill keep that in mind. I did fins a 2006 Honda crf450 for sale for $2200 and I'm tempted but wondering if I should really spend the money. What's it mean by low hours?

Low hours is like how you would say low mileage for a dirt bike. Because you have to service a full on moto in hourly usage stages its a common way to sell them. You may not even have any clocks on the bike apart from a timer lol.

The worst I have seen was an aprilia 550 Race moto that needed new pistons every 60 hours :s


@Flo - That husky looks amazing, should be great fun :)
 
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