When to Upgrade?

[klassified187]

I was reading another guys thread and everyone was warning him against getting a liter bike.. I'm probably a year or two away from an upgrade myself but eventually I will want to so I would like to know some things to keep in mind. So without hijacking his thread I decided to pose my questions here:

When do you think a rider is ready to upgrade from a 600 to a liter bike?
Are there any suggestions or tips for a rider making that transition?
Is it worth it for the casual rider (i.e. mountains and commuter rides, no track) ?

[louie3]

PERSONALLY, just my opinion, i dont see a need for a liter bike on the roads. whether it be around town or in the mountains. there are other 1000cc + bikes that are suited better for the road, but if you are talkin supersports, then i dont see the need.

but really it is up to the rider, if you can ride a bigger bike with the same confidence you have on your current bike, then by all means go for it. i dont think theres a specific amount of time you need to move up, everyones different. if you know the ins and outs of your current bike, like the back of your hand, thats a good sign.

[BlueLghtning]

I was reading another guys thread and everyone was warning him against getting a liter bike.. I'm probably a year or two away from an upgrade myself but eventually I will want to so I would like to know some things to keep in mind. So without hijacking his thread I decided to pose my questions here:

When do you think a rider is ready to upgrade from a 600 to a liter bike?
Are there any suggestions or tips for a rider making that transition?
Is it worth it for the casual rider (i.e. mountains and commuter rides, no track) ?

Let me ask you some questions? Why do you expect to get from the liter bike, you don't already get from the 600?
Why do you think an upgrade is necessary? Just because there is a step up from a 600?
One of the things I notice is that you are on a YFZ600R which although a 600cc sportbike, its definitely not in the same league as the R6, CBR600RR, ZX6, GSXR600. You might be better off just making the transition from the YZF to a mare aggressive 600cc sport bike.

Although Liter bikes are fun and I've enjoyed the thrill of owning one, I honestly think they are pretty much over kill for what most people need. Some guys have the talent and control to go with them, others get over their head and loose all common sense.

A lot of people (unless they are just really talented), are usually faster around a standard track on a 600. There are obviously exceptions to both the people and tracks. Some tracks like RA, definitely see an advantage to a liter bike due to the long straight, but smaller tracks, the advantage can be the smaller bike.

[NiceGuysFinishLast]

If you have to ask if you're ready to upgrade to a liter, and you can't give a better reason than "It's bigger/Faster/Prettier/I'm a big guy" then you don't need to upgrade :D :lol: :lol:

I did almost 30K miles in 3 years on my GS500, and another 12K in a year and a half on my SV, and quite honestly, I don't even want an inline 4 600cc supersport. It's more bike than I need, and more likely to get me in trouble. I'm one of the lucky few who are smart enough to realize that it's way more fun to ride a slow bike fast than to ride a fast bike slow.

[chance]

I was reading another guys thread and everyone was warning him against getting a liter bike.. I'm probably a year or two away from an upgrade myself but eventually I will want to so I would like to know some things to keep in mind. So without hijacking his thread I decided to pose my questions here:

When do you think a rider is ready to upgrade from a 600 to a liter bike?
Are there any suggestions or tips for a rider making that transition?
Is it worth it for the casual rider (i.e. mountains and commuter rides, no track) ?

I dont consider going from a smaller displacement motor to a larger one an upgrade really at all. Its just a change.

I like the torque that larger motors produce. My z1000 was built for riding the streets. It has lower gearing and higher torque than the zx9r that the motor was designed from. 600's and smaller bikes need a lot of revs to get up and go. that doesnt mean that they are slow by any means. New 600s being made today have almost as much peak HP as my z1000, but how they make the power is completely different and it feels completely different.

[Moorespeedr]

I'm effectively a newb, so my opinion is based purely on logic.

It depends entirely on the rider.

I am sure I upgraded sooner than I needed to (does anyone actually "need to"). I didn't have my gsxr750 for more than a few months before trading it and getting my 1krr. I picked up a busa before that and rode it a bit....just enough to know it wasn't at all what I wanted (nothing against the busa, I just like something a little more svelte). I will tell you that it is much easier to learn to match lean angle and throttle in a turn on a 600/750 than on a liter bike. The power difference can be a little intimidating while trying to learn.

I have plenty of opinion about this, but as a self admitted newbie, I will just subscribe to the thread and see what everybody thinks.

[ramm]

I dont consider going from a smaller displacement motor to a larger one an upgrade really at all. Its just a change.


^^ This.

[zerogspacecow]

I also think your next step should be a true 600cc sporty, then a liter bike from there if you want it (I doubt I'll get to the point where I feel like I need a 1000cc sporty).

As far as when to upgrade, that's really just a matter of preference. I'd say if you have more than 10k miles under your belt, and you're very comfortable on your current bike, then you could probably handle a liter bike. Then again, I've never ridden a liter bike, so I could be wrong.

Anyway, like many other, I don't really see the point of a liter bike. I LOVE riding fast, which is why I got my 636. But, I am no where close to the point where I can out ride my bike's capabilities. I'm pretty positive I'll never get to the point where I feel I need to go more than the top speed (~168mph), and I'm almost certain I'll never feel the need for more power while in the twisties. The only thing I would want it more torque and a more comfortable power band. But, I don't think a liter bike is the way to do that. I'll probably just end up getting a Daytona 675, or some sort of twin (like an 848 or even an SV).

[Georgiacbr]

Only reason why Im going to upgrade
Is the engine on the 1000cc requires
Less shifting and better suited for the conditions.ridden
An r1 and going to a 600cc ss there were some different factors.
Another reason for my change is I want
Abs brakes and traction control. These features are more safety inclined but
There designed to work .

[SlimDizzleATL]

Jamison, sounds like you are in the same boat as me. I kept my Katana for about 9 months then "upgraded" (yes, even though my R6 is 600, its an upgrade) to a supersport. All you have to do is be confident, get used to the bike, and respect it. You can have TONS of fun on a 600ss without having to get a deathtrap (1000 bike). Im still a noob, but my next bike will be a 750. Who know when that will be because I love my R6. But to answer your question, get one when you feel your riding level can handle it.

Hope this helps.

[Bacon]

Why do you expect to get from the liter bike, you don't already get from the 600?

When I started reading this thread, this exact question came into my mind and then I read your post.

600cc bikes are plenty. An "upgrade" to something else usually involves finding another bike that is more comfortable to ride on, easier to ride, and other factors. My next bike will be a Hayabusa only because my stature when riding on one makes it more comfortable on longer trips. My ZX6R is plenty for riding around and does what it needs to do.

Aside from all the other responses, you need to ride a couple of the liter bikes to determine which one suits YOU and make your selection from there.

[cjbez07]

Only reason why Im going to upgrade
Is the engine on the 1000cc requires
Less shifting and better suited for the conditions.ridden
An r1 and going to a 600cc ss there were some different factors.
Another reason for my change is I want
Abs brakes and traction control. These features are more safety inclined but
There designed to work .

Really??? ABS brakes and traction control??? the way i look at it if u cant ride a bike without it then dont ride at all.. lol.. not to be a dick or anything man just saying..

my opinion.. i got a zx6r and love it.. i know ill never need more on the road bc.. i live close to the mountains and enjoy opening up coming out a corner and not have to worrie about the back end coming out to much.. as mentiond 1k bikes are not really needed but its a personal choice you would have to make.. if u want a 1k get it.. know your own limits.. its all personal .. if u need it or not? i doubt u will ever need it on the streets..so look at this whats will it be worth it for u.. insurance, risk, etc. the choice is yours ..

Jaco

[dep411]

my first bike was a litter bike.. don't listen to anyone do wut you wanna do

[Bacon]

my first bike was a litter bike.. don't listen to anyone do wut you wanna do

:nono: Bad advice is bad. Nothing wrong with asking a bunch of people what they thought before jumping into something they may or may not be able to handle.

[ROCKER]

Upgrading as you call it, won't make you a better rider or any faster. The skillz are the cool factor. Whatever you ride, ride the socks off it.

[zerogspacecow]

my first bike was a litter bike.. don't listen to anyone do wut you wanna do

Dude, just because you didn't kill yourself that doesn't make it a good idea. Of course anyone can do what they want, but a liter bike for a first bike just isn't an intelligent decision.

[SlimDizzleATL]

my first bike was a litter bike.. don't listen to anyone do wut you wanna do

Way to NOT contribute to the thread. That wasnt even his question.

[Derrick]

Keep your bike till you can ride the shit out of it. By that time, you'll know the answers to all your questions and possibly not even want a liter bike.

[Georgiacbr]

Really??? ABS brakes and traction control??? the way i look at it if u cant ride a bike without it then dont ride at all.. lol.. not to be a dick or anything man just saying..

my opinion.. i got a zx6r and love it.. i know ill never need more on the road bc.. i live close to the mountains and enjoy opening up coming out a corner and not have to worrie about the back end coming out to much.. as mentiond 1k bikes are not really needed but its a personal choice you would have to make.. if u want a 1k get it.. know your own limits.. its all personal .. if u need it or not? i doubt u will ever need it on the streets..so look at this whats will it be worth it for u.. insurance, risk, etc. the choice is yours ..

Jaco

Different features for different folks dude.I know what your saying tho and your not being a dick on your viewpoints. This is my viewpoint I rather
Pay for safety features up front vs not having them at all. We will
See these feature standard in the near future tho.

With that stated about engines some like having a v8 others like v6 and some have 4 banger. Same applies to bike engines choices range from a 250cc all the way up.

[dep411]

Dude, just because you didn't kill yourself that doesn't make it a good idea. Of course anyone can do what they want, but a liter bike for a first bike just isn't an intelligent decision.

better believe it. But a litter bike was the only bike i can fit those uber cool neons lights, and park in front of a star bucks and get chicks.


Way to NOT contribute to the thread. That wasnt even his question.
yea i missed the boat on this one huh

[dep411]

Keep your bike till you can ride the shit out of it. By that time, you'll know the answers to all your questions and possibly not even want a liter bike.

this is the man i would listen to

[SlimDizzleATL]

better believe it. But a litter bike was the only bike i can fit those uber cool neons lights, and park in front of a star bucks and get chicks.


yea i missed the boat on this one huh

Astute observation bro. If he was going to "do what he wanted to do" he wouldnt be on the forum asking now would he?

[wbeck257]

upgrade when you think the cops are catching up to you...

[TroyBoy30]

whenever you want

[SlowMotion]

Really??? ABS brakes and traction control??? the way i look at it if u cant ride a bike without it then dont ride at all.. lol.. not to be a dick or anything man just saying..

Seriously!?! Well hate to break it to you Jacoff but you do sound like a dick, just sayin... Honestly, both of those items are preferences. Just because you want them doesn't mean you shouldn't ride at all. Also, did you ever thing that there is a reason why pretty much all modern cars have ABS? Oh wait, because it WORKS! In a panic situation, locking up and tucking the front is one less thing to worry about on a motorcycle.


Moderator note: if you continue to address other members in this way, you will be banned. Get it?

[cjbez07]

Seriously!?! Well hate to break it to you Jacoff but you do sound like a dick, just sayin... Honestly, both of those items are preferences. Just because you want them doesn't mean you shouldn't ride at all. Also, did you ever thing that there is a reason why pretty much all modern cars have ABS? Oh wait, because it WORKS! In a panic situation, locking up and tucking the front is one less thing to worry about on a motorcycle.

haha thanks always wanted to be a dick...i can see ABS working wonderfull in Cars.. but once again in order to get the cars full capability ud normaly turn all that stuff off.. im sure some people would love having ABS on there bikes and all that.. but what can i say.. everything on this forum are opinions and if u take them that serious then sounds like a personal problem...

that being said.. all i say on here is my opinion and as adults should be able to take it with out offense.. and as off the name calling on Jacoff..i would say.. good one.. havnt heard that one in about 10 years.. lol

[Georgiacbr]

haha thanks always wanted to be a dick...i can see ABS working wonderfull in Cars.. but once again in order to get the cars full capability ud normaly turn all that stuff off.. im sure some people would love having ABS on there bikes and all that.. but what can i say.. everything on this forum are opinions and if u take them that serious then sounds like a personal problem...

that being said.. all i say on here is my opinion and as adults should be able to take it with out offense.. and as off the name calling on Jacoff..i would say.. good one.. havnt heard that one in about 10 years.. lol

Being that I know you I don't take any insults to injury esp coming from here (LOL). Like i stated it's your opinion and hell thank's for your direct logic .

[speedracer]

I was in the same boat last year. I had a ninja 650r and road the tires off that thing and i loved it. but watching the people i was riding with riding their 600 ss i saw a great difference. also i commuted everyday 40 miles one way so the upright seating position was great. but i really wanted to try a true 600. so when i got a job only 7 miles from my house i decied to trade for a 600rr. also i had been riding the 650r for 2yrs. i love my 600rr but if i still had my commute i wouldnt have traded. i use my bike for commuting and riding in the mountains. i wanted the 600 ss but i've never done a track day, and everyone i know says that's one of the best ways to improve your riding if your riding a 600. i'm going to do at least one track day this year and hopefully more because i'd really like to ride my 600rr like it should be ridden. as said before it's really up to you, only you know your limits and abilities.

[SlowMotion]

haha thanks always wanted to be a dick...i can see ABS working wonderfull in Cars.. but once again in order to get the cars full capability ud normaly turn all that stuff off.. im sure some people would love having ABS on there bikes and all that.. but what can i say.. everything on this forum are opinions and if u take them that serious then sounds like a personal problem...

that being said.. all i say on here is my opinion and as adults should be able to take it with out offense.. and as off the name calling on Jacoff..i would say.. good one.. havnt heard that one in about 10 years.. lol

Not taking it personally at all. Just think that saying don't ride if you want ABS is stupid. I definitely understand your point about having full control of what the bike is doing. That is great for the track when you are pushing the limits in a controlled environment. However, for street riding when you are dealing with an emergency stopping situation the ABS is beneficial. It has even been proven to help with accident avoidance. On the street where this could mean collision with a car vs. stopping in time, I'll take the ABS. Now with that said, I would like to see an option to turn the ABS off. I think some bikes (like the BMW S100rr) even allow you to do that. Same thing with traction control.

[Georgiacbr]

Not taking it personally at all. Just think that saying don't ride if you want ABS is stupid. I definitely understand your point about having full control of what the bike is doing. That is great for the track when you are pushing the limits in a controlled environment. However, for street riding when you are dealing with an emergency stopping situation the ABS is beneficial. It has even been proven to help with accident avoidance. On the street where this could mean collision with a car vs. stopping in time, I'll take the ABS. Now with that said, I would like to see an option to turn the ABS off. I think some bikes (like the BMW S100rr) even allow you to do that. Same thing with traction control.


Thanks and you see what i'm looking at . My cousin has the Bmw s1000rr and I liked his Abs feature/trac control (VSC)and yes there is a Off switch. It's a sweet bike with lot's of feature for that price point.

[cjbez07]

Not taking it personally at all. Just think that saying don't ride if you want ABS is stupid. I definitely understand your point about having full control of what the bike is doing. That is great for the track when you are pushing the limits in a controlled environment. However, for street riding when you are dealing with an emergency stopping situation the ABS is beneficial. It has even been proven to help with accident avoidance. On the street where this could mean collision with a car vs. stopping in time, I'll take the ABS. Now with that said, I would like to see an option to turn the ABS off. I think some bikes (like the BMW S100rr) even allow you to do that. Same thing with traction control.


Thanks and you see what i'm looking at . My cousin has the Bmw s1000rr and I liked his Abs feature/trac control (VSC)and yes there is a Off switch. It's a sweet bike with lot's of feature for that price point.



glad to see your all on the same page... :up:...

Klassifide sorry if this came out to be some what of a thread jack.. back to your questions.. hope you make the right choice and ill even let you take my bike out sometime to give u the feel of a 07 zx6r ...

[Chad Dupree]

Just FYI, traction control will NOT keep you from highsiding. Don't let it lead you into a false sense of security. You can't just roll into a turn a wack the throttle at the apex and expect the TC to keep you from highsiding. I also think if you need TC on the street, you might just be pushing alittle hard on the street.

[Georgiacbr]

Just FYI, traction control will NOT keep you from highsiding. Don't let it lead you into a false sense of security. You can't just roll into a turn a wack the throttle at the apex and expect the TC to keep you from highsiding. I also think if you need TC on the street, you might just be pushing alittle hard on the street.

Who mentioned street riding? Mountain riding is the majority of the type riding I do. Your right on the fault security traction control provides but it's there if you need it. These safety feature doesn't make you a skilled rider there just enhancement i'm very aware on that.

[Chad Dupree]

Who mentioned street riding? Mountain riding is the majority of the type riding I do. Your right on the fault security traction control provides but it's there if you need it. These safety feature doesn't make you a skilled rider there just enhancement i'm very aware on that.



Last time I checked, Mountain riding WAS street riding.


On a side note, I understand what your saying about the TC. I think it would be most useful in the rain.......

[Eagalicious]

What the above folks have said. Don't do it because you think that it is cool. I had a friend at work who never road before and started on a "Busa" because some ladies were going gaga over a friends "Busa" when they were standing by his bike.
His exact words were. "I wanna get a BUSA." Our freind tried to talk him out of it, but he said he wanted one because he wanted to be cool. Part of the "Bro" Club. Well he got one and 2 months later, rear ended a car, totalled the bike, broke his collar bone and road rash like a Mutha. He doesn't ride anymore. I know you have road experience, I am just saying don't do it for the cool factor. Good luck on your decision.
John

[chance]

Go get a 250 two stroker dirt bike, or a 450 four stroke and learn to ride the piss out of it. That will prepare you for anything on the street (cept dumbasses in cars, nothing prepares you for them)

*Not saying this is for everyone! Dont Take It That Way. Just my experience* I rode a 250cc two stroke for probably 3 or 4 years before convincing the parents into letting me get a street bike. I did tons of research on different bikes and settled with the z1000 that I still have now. Its a bit tame in stock form compared to SS literbikes, but has got a lot of power none the less. I was very comfortable riding it from day 1. And by comfortable I mean im not scared of the bike, but I respect what it can do, and use my right wrist accordingly. Its about self control on the big bikes. Yea I have spun up the rear a few times, and even pulled a small wheelie coming out of a tight 1st gear turn, but I love the way the power hits.

But all in all, im just trying to say that riding dirt on a big bore bike will really shape you as a rider, and give you skills that WILL save your life.

[Georgiacbr]

Zack,

Has a point i wished I had a dirt bike to mess around as a kid growing up. I started up on a powerful bike for my first bike tho and made some errors too. You surely would benefit from the overall dynamics on a dirt bike and understand the handling better then move on to something else. About being comfortable on a sport-bike let's face reality folk's these bikes are not meant to be comfortable there designed for trips around the track in tight confined areas but some are better then others. The naked bikes like the new Z1000 and Street-fighter (type s) are more upright and better suited to be comfortable (I've ridden both). About asking for advice there are some good bit's of information pertained on this thread your just going to have to read into the logic most have expressed here.Good luck none of us can tell you what to buy. We have all made errors in the buying process as most have pointed out tho.

Cheers Eric

[louie3]

i think you should get a vespa. :lol:

[chance]

Zack,

Has a point i wished I had a dirt bike to mess around as a kid growing up. I started up on a powerful bike for my first bike tho and made some errors too. You surely would benefit from the overall dynamics on a dirt bike and understand the handling better then move on to something else. About being comfortable on a sport-bike let's face reality folk's these bikes are not meant to be comfortable there designed for trips around the track in tight confined areas but some are better then others. The naked bikes like the new Z1000 and Street-fighter (type s) are more upright and better suited to be comfortable (I've ridden both). About asking for advice there are some good bit's of information pertained on this thread your just going to have to read into the logic most have expressed here.Good luck none of us can tell you what to buy. We have all made errors in the buying process as most have pointed out tho.

Cheers Eric

by comfortable I meant "mentally" comfortable, not physically comfortable. Physical comfort is subjective. I hate the ergos of a harley, but many love it. I also know people that like the full SS ergos, and others that dont.

[zerogspacecow]

by comfortable I meant "mentally" comfortable, not physically comfortable. Physical comfort is subjective. I hate the ergos of a harley, but many love it. I also know people that like the full SS ergos, and others that dont.

People that like the SS ergos? I think they're called "masochists."

[chance]

People that like the SS ergos? I think they're called "masochists."

hahahahhahahahaaaa!

Hey Cameron, I saw your bike in the deck a few weeks back. Slick looking ride. We should meet up and ride when the weather turns a bit nicer.

[klassified187]

I appreciate all the comments here.. There is definitely some good info here! Most of the guys that I talk to that have been riding for years all say a 600 ss is all you need so I think I am going to listen. The only thing that I find myself upset about with my current bike is the acceleration.. To make a long story short I used to drive a G35 coupe (cage of course) and I hit a deer and it was totalled. Now I have a mazda 6 and I hate the difference in exceleration. With my bike I get the same feeling about the acceleration.. once i get going its fun and all but I just want a little more zip.. I agree with BlueLightning and think I probably just need to move up to a 600 ss but every one I have sat on makes me feel like Im in an airplane bathroom trying to take a dump lol its just completely uncomfortable.. And I have heard all the suggestions about bikes I should try for more comfort but I am in love with the look of the sportbikes. Its vain but its also my money and I think I should buy something I can stand to look at right? All the comments here reaffirm what I was already thinking about liter bikes and if I decide to get one it wont be anytime soon. However I have been looking at the 750s and even sat on a few. I think that may be my next bike and I doubt I go any higher in power than that unless i move to a cruiser or something. Its great to see that most ppl here are pretty concerned about safety and less concerned about what I WANT. I appreciate yall giving it to me straight. I think thats the best way to receive advice and i welcome any opinions that you have to offer.

Jaco I may have to take you up on that offer to take your bike for a spin.. SlimmDizzle when you get that 750 let me know how you like it. I think I got atleast another year or so before I take that leap of getting another bike no matter what I decide to buy.

[Derrick]

I love my 750! The next bike I get will be a newer 750. Same chassis as a 600 with more grunt, but not as much power or torque as a liter. You might also want to consider a Triumph 675.

[chance]

I still think that I would kill myself on a 450 single way faster than I would on my current bike. Just because I would be trying to more dumb things with it lol.

But if you want fast acceleration, look at ninja 636's and gsxr750's. they have a little more torque than other 600's

[zerogspacecow]

hahahahhahahahaaaa!

Hey Cameron, I saw your bike in the deck a few weeks back. Slick looking ride. We should meet up and ride when the weather turns a bit nicer.

Thanks! Send me a PM sometime and we'll go ride.

[zerogspacecow]

I appreciate all the comments here.. There is definitely some good info here! Most of the guys that I talk to that have been riding for years all say a 600 ss is all you need so I think I am going to listen. The only thing that I find myself upset about with my current bike is the acceleration.. To make a long story short I used to drive a G35 coupe (cage of course) and I hit a deer and it was totalled. Now I have a mazda 6 and I hate the difference in exceleration. With my bike I get the same feeling about the acceleration.. once i get going its fun and all but I just want a little more zip.. I agree with BlueLightning and think I probably just need to move up to a 600 ss but every one I have sat on makes me feel like Im in an airplane bathroom trying to take a dump lol its just completely uncomfortable.. And I have heard all the suggestions about bikes I should try for more comfort but I am in love with the look of the sportbikes. Its vain but its also my money and I think I should buy something I can stand to look at right? All the comments here reaffirm what I was already thinking about liter bikes and if I decide to get one it wont be anytime soon. However I have been looking at the 750s and even sat on a few. I think that may be my next bike and I doubt I go any higher in power than that unless i move to a cruiser or something. Its great to see that most ppl here are pretty concerned about safety and less concerned about what I WANT. I appreciate yall giving it to me straight. I think thats the best way to receive advice and i welcome any opinions that you have to offer.

Jaco I may have to take you up on that offer to take your bike for a spin.. SlimmDizzle when you get that 750 let me know how you like it. I think I got atleast another year or so before I take that leap of getting another bike no matter what I decide to buy.

A Gixxer 750 would probably be a good choice. I think you'll be fine if you've been ridding the FZR for a while.

[csarge001]

My two cents worth...
Go to one of the cornering schools (Ed Bargy -more race oriented, California Superbike School, Kevin Schwantz, etc.) Any of these schools will make you a better rider and increase your confidence (this confidence thing is real important as you step up in power.) These courses are conducted on a track under controlled conditions and they are safe. These schools (and other) have bikes that you can rent and see if a supersport of superbike is for you.
Personally, I have been humiliated in corners by a good rider on a 250 (Aprillia RS250) and my track bike is a GSX-R 1000. Straight line acceleration can get your heart pumping, but over time it is not as much fun IMO as turn 5 at Barber.
The fact that you are asking for help and listening to the advice indicates that you are probably going to make a good decision.
Good luck with whatever you decide.

[NiceGuysFinishLast]

Get you a 675. More grunt than the 600, less terrifying (IMO) than the 750.

[Georgiacbr]

My two cents worth...
Go to one of the cornering schools (Ed Bargy -more race oriented, California Superbike School, Kevin Schwantz, etc.) Any of these schools will make you a better rider and increase your confidence (this confidence thing is real important as you step up in power.) These courses are conducted on a track under controlled conditions and they are safe. These schools (and other) have bikes that you can rent and see if a supersport of superbike is for you.
Personally, I have been humiliated in corners by a good rider on a 250 (Aprillia RS250) and my track bike is a GSX-R 1000. Straight line acceleration can get your heart pumping, but over time it is not as much fun IMO as turn 5 at Barber.
The fact that you are asking for help and listening to the advice indicates that you are probably going to make a good decision.
Good luck with whatever you decide.

X2 best peice of advice..

[cjbez07]

if acceleration is what u want u can always do some sproket work....just saying..it will kill your top end but it might give u that little "grunt".. all honesty u cant go wrong with the Daytona 675, kawi 636, or gsxr 750.. all great bikes and all has put out a nice name for them selves.. Good luck with everything..

im heading out for SC this week again should be back next week or the week after.. but one weekend if you want we can meet up go ride and we can swap bikes if you want.. its not the fastest out there but it is a ss bike and just give u a feel of what they feel like.. and all honesty some of the bikes are more comfy than others but the speeds between the bikes are so close that unless u are a really great rider the differences between the models will almost be un noticable.. good luck with all man..

Jaco

[SlowMotion]

if acceleration is what u want u can always do some sproket work....just saying..it will kill your top end but it might give u that little "grunt"..

Exactly what I was thinking. The sprockets were changed out on the 636 that I had a couple years back. That thing pulled strong off the line. The biggest factor to consider before changing the sprockets though is what type of riding you do the most. If you do a lot of interstate riding then keep the stock gearing. If you are mainly backroads/mountain riding then I say go with the sprocket change.

[cjbez07]

Exactly what I was thinking. The sprockets were changed out on the 636 that I had a couple years back. That thing pulled strong off the line. The biggest factor to consider before changing the sprockets though is what type of riding you do the most. If you do a lot of interstate riding then keep the stock gearing. If you are mainly backroads/mountain riding then I say go with the sprocket change.

:up:

[zerogspacecow]

Exactly what I was thinking. The sprockets were changed out on the 636 that I had a couple years back. That thing pulled strong off the line. The biggest factor to consider before changing the sprockets though is what type of riding you do the most. If you do a lot of interstate riding then keep the stock gearing. If you are mainly backroads/mountain riding then I say go with the sprocket change.

My 636 was up three in the rear (that sounds dirty...) when I got it, and I just switched back to stock gearing.

There was a pretty huge difference. It pulled a lot harder with the larger rear sprocket. It would easily power-wheelie in first.

Now it's a lot smoother, but acceleration definitely took a hit.

I'll probably end up going back to +3 at some point. I do enjoy being able to cruise down the highway at (relatively) low RPMs though.

[SlowMotion]

My 636 was up three in the rear (that sounds dirty...) when I got it, and I just switched back to stock gearing.

There was a pretty huge difference. It pulled a lot harder with the larger rear sprocket. It would easily power-wheelie in first.

Now it's a lot smoother, but acceleration definitely took a hit.

I'll probably end up going back to +3 at some point. I do enjoy being able to cruise down the highway at (relatively) low RPMs though.

I believe mine was -1 in the front and +2 in the rear. Oh how I miss that bike when playing in the mountains. However, 99% of my riding is commuting/around town and the 636 ergos killed me. If I could have 2 bikes it would be my Sprint ST for commuting and a 636 as a mountain/track whore.

[Sanchez]

Supersports suck for commuting. They're uncomfortable, they have no decent luggage, and they're too high strung to have any fun with. You can't use the power because you're already speeding your ass off by the time you get the RPMs up into the fun zone. Riding a supersport in traffic is pure frustration.

I have a GSX-R 750 and a Buell Ulysses, and I'll take the Buell all day every day for anything except tracking riding. It doesn't have nearly the top end power, but it has twice as much torque so it feels stronger in regular riding.

Personally, I'd look for a Monster, Tuono, FZ1 or other "standard" bike. Not as much top end power as a supersport liter bike, but lots of low end torque and a nice, upright riding position.

[Gamecock]

Supersports suck for commuting. They're uncomfortable, they have no decent luggage, and they're too high strung to have any fun with. You can't use the power because you're already speeding your ass off by the time you get the RPMs up into the fun zone. Riding a supersport in traffic is pure frustration.

I have a GSX-R 750 and a Buell Ulysses, and I'll take the Buell all day every day for anything except tracking riding. It doesn't have nearly the top end power, but it has twice as much torque so it feels stronger in regular riding.

Personally, I'd look for a Monster, Tuono, FZ1 or other "standard" bike. Not as much top end power as a supersport liter bike, but lots of low end torque and a nice, upright riding position.

Which is why I have VFR now. The saddle bags kick ass and an extra top case for longer trips/more stuff is awesome. 30 seconds and its all off and I'm in sportbike mode.

Previosuly I had the FZ1 (2001) and loved and could ride the living piss out of it. But I just wanted to get something different after 4 years, so went with a VFR. With young kids, 2 dogs, wife, and a mortgage a step down in power was in the cards for me.....for now.

[SlowMotion]

Which is why I have VFR now. The saddle bags kick ass and an extra top case for longer trips/more stuff is awesome. 30 seconds and its all off and I'm in sportbike mode.

Previosuly I had the FZ1 (2001) and loved and could ride the living piss out of it. But I just wanted to get something different after 4 years, so went with a VFR. With young kids, 2 dogs, wife, and a mortgage a step down in power was in the cards for me.....for now.

Glad you are still loving her on my ex. LOL

You got the love the low end torque of the V4 and the comfort for 400+ mile days... If you ever decide you want some more power then try the Sprint ST. That is what I picked up after selling the 650r...(that relationship lasted <1,000 miles). I missed the handling, power, and all around comfort of the VFR. Decided to give the Sprint a try. That Triple motor has a nice strong linear pull with a significant power advantage over the VFR. Only complaint is the headlights are majorly lacking compared to the VFR.

[Ride4Life]

The only thing that I find myself upset about with my current bike is the acceleration.

Is that compared to other bikes or your ex G35?
I know the feeling though... the cat jogs until about 8k rpm.


I agree with BlueLightning and think I probably just need to move up to a 600 ss but every one I have sat on makes me feel like Im in an airplane bathroom trying to take a dump lol its just completely uncomfortable.. And I have heard all the suggestions about bikes I should try for more comfort but I am in love with the look of the sportbikes.

Admit it now!!! The cat is comfy (spoiled you) and it looks good (though dated)....
and those are the exact reasons I got one. Never once did I consider power/speed specs.
I just asked "What sportbike is comfy for a daily 90+ mile commute and won't kill me if I accidently
twist the throttle too far?" .... lol...sorry...I'm preaching to the choir......

Did you try the R6s ?? It was the only SS i thought I could tolerate coming from the cat.

[klassified187]

Is that compared to other bikes or your ex G35?
I know the feeling though... the cat jogs until about 8k rpm.



Admit it now!!! The cat is comfy (spoiled you) and it looks good (though dated)....
and those are the exact reasons I got one. Never once did I consider power/speed specs.
I just asked "What sportbike is comfy for a daily 90+ mile commute and won't kill me if I accidently
twist the throttle too far?" .... lol...sorry...I'm preaching to the choir......

Did you try the R6s ?? It was the only SS i thought I could tolerate coming from the cat.

Other bikes... lol the G35 was fast and comfy :up: The R6, CBR600, zx-6, etc are very uncomfortable but I like how light they are and they have more acceleration than the cat. None of the sportbikes I have sat on are truly comfortable but some are more comfortable than others.

I am at the point where I intentionally twist my throttle as far as my wrist will allow and I still dont get the acceleration I want.. Not trying to do a wheelie but I would like the ability lol

[Nikk777]

lol...i got a 600, a 1000, and a 1300 but I want a 250 to go race with now to make me faster.... go figure! Bought a ttr125 to help make me faster too! You can wreck any size bike, I know this too well!!! Get what you enjoy, have fun on, and can ride sensibly without endangering yourself or others. That's why I sold the PW80 and bought the 1000....I about killed myself on that dang 80!!! Twice!

[Eagalicious]

The only thing that I find myself upset about with my current bike is the acceleration.. To make a long story short I used to drive a G35 coupe (cage of course) and I hit a deer and it was totalled. Now I have a mazda 6 and I hate the difference in exceleration. With my bike I get the same feeling about the acceleration.. once i get going its fun and all but I just want a little more zip..
Just change gears at "redline" Twist that baby till she "redlines" then shift. :D

I agree with BlueLightning and think I probably just need to move up to a 600 ss but every one I have sat on makes me feel like Im in an airplane bathroom trying to take a dump lol its just completely uncomfortable.. And I have heard all the suggestions about bikes I should try for more comfort but I am in love with the look of the sportbikes. Its vain but its also my money and I think I should buy something I can stand to look at right?
Buy the bike that you like bud and if it is the position of the handle bars that make it uncomfortable, just buy some "Clip-on" risers and adjust it to your comfort. :up:

[Gamecock]

Glad you are still loving her on my ex. LOL

You got the love the low end torque of the V4 and the comfort for 400+ mile days... If you ever decide you want some more power then try the Sprint ST. That is what I picked up after selling the 650r...(that relationship lasted <1,000 miles). I missed the handling, power, and all around comfort of the VFR. Decided to give the Sprint a try. That Triple motor has a nice strong linear pull with a significant power advantage over the VFR. Only complaint is the headlights are majorly lacking compared to the VFR.

My next bike will be something like a Concours, FJR, BMW hopefully.......and also have a trackbike or something for some houliganism!

[Gamecock]

Glad you are still loving her on my ex. LOL

You got the love the low end torque of the V4 and the comfort for 400+ mile days... If you ever decide you want some more power then try the Sprint ST. That is what I picked up after selling the 650r...(that relationship lasted <1,000 miles). I missed the handling, power, and all around comfort of the VFR. Decided to give the Sprint a try. That Triple motor has a nice strong linear pull with a significant power advantage over the VFR. Only complaint is the headlights are majorly lacking compared to the VFR.

I do miss the power of my 1000, but only occasionally. Its not like the VFR is slow, its just extra shifting sometimes to get to it. I will keep her for quite awhile and hope to get a PCIII sometime soon and smooth out the throttle (on/off) and the VTEC kick at 7K. Suspension upgrades will be on the big list along with exhaust (want the Leo Vince CF Conicals). I don't mind putting 2K into a bike if I'm planning on it keeping it. I'm pretty sure I will for quite awhile regardless if I buy another bike along the way. VFR's are classics.

[Dan43]

I don't see any reason to move up to a liter bike on the street.

[Gamecock]

I don't see any reason to move up to a liter bike on the street.

That is a broad brush. If you mean Supersport (ZX-10, Gixxer 1000, R1, CBR1000RR) I tend to agree with you.