If you could only own one bike for the next decade...

Lil_Green_Demon · November 16th, 2011, 03:52 PM

What would it be and why?

I have to think this through for my answer.

SSR · November 16th, 2011, 03:56 PM

I've had my Ninja for 3 years, but I've started wanting to get a bit more powerful bike that's still comfortable (that is, not full race position). The new 2012 650 Ninja (now that they've gotten rid of that ugly arse bannana seat) looks to be that bike for me.

So if I had to ride a bike for a decade, my vote is for the 2012 Ninja 650.

akima · November 16th, 2011, 04:13 PM

I think it would have to be my Ninjette.

It has good fuel economy and look at the current trend of fuel prices I think that counts for quite a bit.
It's an all round bike that is good for long journey's, city riding, countryside-twisty riding and track riding.
I could spend my first 10 years riding on it and be excelling as a rider for the entire duration.
Low maintenance costs compared to bigger engine bikes, which apparently go through tires and chains much quicker.
Reliable: I expect she will last 10+ years.
Moddable: there's no shortage of things I can change and add to the bike over the years.
Pretty! I think I could get up every day for 10 years and still find her styling quite delightful

FrugalNinja250 · November 16th, 2011, 04:18 PM

My pre-gen. Already have nice supply of parts, parts bikes, and spares. Familiar with mechanicals, have tools, and it's already paid for.

kyrider · November 16th, 2011, 05:14 PM

Maybe a new gen or a 636.

alex.s · November 16th, 2011, 05:23 PM

something simple that is reliable. something light. something with more than enough power for 2 people on the street. something that isnt't horribly uncomfortable.

if i had to pick only a single bike for the next decade... it would be a kick-start 400cc single-cyl 4-stroke dirt bike ... one with an aluminum twin-downtube deltabox frame. with extended range gas tank, lights and street tires. i would want fully adjustable conventional forks though... dont want to bend up my frame if im going to be keeping it for a decade.

i guess i would settle on a yz400f

Lil_Green_Demon · November 16th, 2011, 07:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SSR

I've had my Ninja for 3 years, but I've started wanting to get a bit more powerful bike that's still comfortable (that is, not full race position). The new 2012 650 Ninja (now that they've gotten rid of that ugly arse bannana seat) looks to be that bike for me.

So if I had to ride a bike for a decade, my vote is for the 2012 Ninja 650.

Agreed. The 2012 Ninja 650R definitely is a sexy beast. I think I would choose it, too.

road_rascal · November 16th, 2011, 07:59 PM

Tough decision. Since I do a lot of touring and long distance riding I would have to pick the latest Goldwing or an FJR1300.

Jiggles · November 16th, 2011, 08:00 PM

Own: Ninja 250r

Rent: All other bikes known to man

Major_Paine · November 16th, 2011, 08:03 PM

i have this fondness for my cbr... but the ninja is fun in the twisties. dammit.

ill go with cbr simply because the torque lets me get away from some sticky situations.

if its ANY bike, id try to get a vyrus 986 m2 (street model) or an mv augusta f3. both sexy italian bikes

Heed · November 16th, 2011, 08:46 PM

Something beginner friendly so I don't kill myself.

Johnnyscoots · November 16th, 2011, 09:28 PM

Vulcan 2000. Or Diavel. Or Rocket III Roadster. Or Bonneville. Or FI Ninjette. Or TU250X with clip ons. Or Royal Enfield Bullet Military. Or Yammy WR250X with the Athena Big Bore kit and GYTR pipe...The list may never stop...

Johnny

"A" · November 16th, 2011, 10:02 PM

Jiggles · November 16th, 2011, 10:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by "A"

That's a boat

cbdallas · November 17th, 2011, 06:49 AM

650R. I loved that bike, and would own another one in a heartbeat, but the bike I have now is more fiscally responsible. Maybe someday.

reaubideux · November 17th, 2011, 07:24 AM

Assuming I'd be able to add the farkles and performance mods I'd want, either a 796 Monster or 2011 Street Triple R. (don't like the new headlights on the 2012 Triumph) Leaning more towards the Triumph as I love the sound of the inline 3 more than the Duc.

Reason: I love the raw naked looks of both bikes, the Ducati is ridiculously comfortable and light, and I'm too old to really consider a SS for 10 years and don't think my back could handle the aggressive seating of a SS in 10 years. Also, feel free to chastise me, but I really would prefer more power. I like my 250, but most of my riding is commuting on the highway and it's fine for cruising speed but the get-up-and-go'ness is severely lacking once at cruising speed.

tazz · November 17th, 2011, 07:31 AM

Sc*ew logic I want triumph daytona 675 SE limited edition (Black and Gold)

cliff0529 · November 17th, 2011, 08:14 AM

Triumph Tiger 800XC or BMW F800GS

Both would do just about anything you'd want them to. Twisties, dual sporting or touring, they'd be great all around bikes.

akima · November 17th, 2011, 11:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alex.s

something simple that is reliable. something light. something with more than enough power for 2 people on the street. something that isnt't horribly uncomfortable.

if i had to pick only a single bike for the next decade... it would be a kick-start 400cc single-cyl 4-stroke dirt bike ... one with an aluminum twin-downtube deltabox frame. with extended range gas tank, lights and street tires. i would want fully adjustable conventional forks though... dont want to bend up my frame if im going to be keeping it for a decade.

i guess i would settle on a yz400f

I don't really understand all that but it sounds really appealing to me for some reason.

Do you care to give an explanation for some of your preferences? Like: why single-cylinder? What's so great about this "aluminum twin-downtube deltabox frame"? What's this about some forks bending up your frame?

alex.s · November 17th, 2011, 12:42 PM

aluminum because its light and oxidizes slower than steel. delta box because it surrounds the engine which makes it less likely to allow the engine to be damaged, and gives good head stability without putting a ton of stress on the engine. single because its half the number of things to break. upside down forks have thicker uppers so that they are stiffer, but if you hit a curb going too fast or something, instead of bending your forks which can be replaced for $200, you bend your triples, steering tube and frame, and with that potentially a lot more stuff. which is a lot more than $200. i want a kick start because if you have a kick start, you dont have a battery that can die and leave you forced to pushstart your bike. you still need lights so you still have a stator but its not essential for running the bike. forgot to mention carbed which can be repaired on the side of the road unlike efi

akima · November 17th, 2011, 12:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alex.s

aluminum because its light and oxidizes slower than steel. delta box because it surrounds the engine which makes it less likely to allow the engine to be damaged, and gives good head stability without putting a ton of stress on the engine. single because its half the number of things to break. upside down forks have thicker uppers so that they are stiffer, but if you hit a curb going too fast or something, instead of bending your forks which can be replaced for $200, you bend your triples, steering tube and frame, and with that potentially a lot more stuff. which is a lot more than $200. i want a kick start because if you have a kick start, you dont have a battery that can die and leave you forced to pushstart your bike. you still need lights so you still have a stator but its not essential for running the bike. forgot to mention carbed which can be repaired on the side of the road unlike efi

I get the impression you think your next 10 years will be spent during a zombie apocalypse

blink · November 17th, 2011, 01:21 PM

well it takes owning a few bikes before deciding...

alex.s · November 17th, 2011, 02:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by akima

I get the impression you think your next 10 years will be spent during a zombie apocalypse

based on the way people drive, i feel like i'm already there.

Reddoak · November 17th, 2011, 06:14 PM

A 2012 ER-6n. Which they don't offer in the US (damn it) so I'd keep the current bike.

I like my bike, it's comfortable enough for me to want to ride it, fast enough to enjoy it, and cheap enough to afford it.

DarC · November 18th, 2011, 12:31 AM

I have my decade bike.....

Tony B · November 18th, 2011, 12:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alex.s

i want a kick start because if you have a kick start, you dont have a battery that can die and leave you forced to pushstart your bike. you still need lights so you still have a stator but its not essential for running the bike.

I don't know about the bike you're talking about there, but many Jap bikes have an ignition system that requires a battery even with the kick start. I had an XS250, and without a charged battery in the ignition circuit, they simply don't start. I'm sure someone who is better qualified can explain it, something to do with the battery 'exciting' or magnetising the field coil.

I totally agree on the single cylinder thing

DarC · November 18th, 2011, 12:59 AM

They use a magneto ignition that generates it's own "excitement" when it kicks over and then with each engine revolution thereafter. No battery needed

Very common on 2-strokes although it can be applied to any motor. Think lawnmower....

Tony B · November 18th, 2011, 01:14 AM

Oh, me, yes, this is what I'd ride, I have vowed never to get rid of her, so it's no contest really. (And magneto ignition, so no battery or ignition circuits whatsoever).

Tony B · November 18th, 2011, 02:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DarC

They use a magneto ignition that generates it's own "excitement" when it kicks over and then with each engine revolution thereafter. No battery needed

Very common on 2-strokes although it can be applied to any motor. Think lawnmower....

You are referring to the YZ400f that Alex was talking about, yes?

akima · November 18th, 2011, 02:08 AM

Tony: That red bike is really beautiful. Why is it in the corner of a dirty garage though? You should have it on display in your house!

Tony B · November 18th, 2011, 02:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by akima

Tony: That red bike is really beautiful. Why is it in the corner of a dirty garage though? You should have it on display in your house!

Ha, it's been in my garden for the last six months with a tarpaulin over it, I must get her back on the road soon .........

oh, and I don't think me wife would like it in the house - shame !

akima · November 18th, 2011, 02:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tony B

Ha, it's been in my garden for the last six months with a tarpaulin over it, I must get her back on the road soon .........

oh, and I don't think me wife would like it in the house - shame !

Ah ok... and good morning

Tony B · November 18th, 2011, 02:31 AM

Morning to you too !

Pure Lunacy · November 18th, 2011, 05:12 AM

Old school for me, '82-'83 Kawasaki KZ1000R, or know as the Eddie Lawson Replica (ELR).

bonbon76 · November 18th, 2011, 07:00 AM

All White R6

gives me goose bumps just looking at one...

Kevin2109 · November 18th, 2011, 10:40 AM

Ive got to say my 636, I love this thing to death!

GeorgeRYoung · November 18th, 2011, 11:30 AM

Going on 8 years with a C10 Concours, and it's till comfy and fun. But, I added an EX250 recently.

CC Cowboy · November 18th, 2011, 01:27 PM

Super-Glide Sport. It does everything well. Handles like a 250, accellerates like a 1000, cruises like a 1500, and stops like a 600.

It also looks great, girl love it, and you don't have to wear a helmet (or any gear, except gloves) to ride it.

DarC · November 18th, 2011, 09:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tony B

You are referring to the YZ400f that Alex was talking about, yes?

Not exactly, that bike uses a typical ignition circuit that uses the magneto (and TPS?)for timing. Otherwise it just kick starts without a battery (the initial revolutions fire up the stator and provide charge). I guess I could have been a little clearer

and paid attention

The healights however will probably need a beefy stator and/or an add on battery.

November 16th, 2011, 03:52 PM	#1
Lil_Green_Demon Winging It In Life Name: Umar Location: SoCal Join Date: Aug 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 250R; 2011 250R (sold) Posts: A lot.	If you could only own one bike for the next decade... What would it be and why? I have to think this through for my answer. __________________________________________________ 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R (Bought - Apr 22, 2011; Sold - Feb 17, 2015) 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 250R (Bought - May 01, 2017; Current)

November 16th, 2011, 03:56 PM	#2
SSR ninjette.org guru Name: Jonathan Location: Ottawa, Ontario Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250 Posts: 398	I've had my Ninja for 3 years, but I've started wanting to get a bit more powerful bike that's still comfortable (that is, not full race position). The new 2012 650 Ninja (now that they've gotten rid of that ugly arse bannana seat) looks to be that bike for me. So if I had to ride a bike for a decade, my vote is for the 2012 Ninja 650. __________________________________________________ From here...to everywhere!

November 16th, 2011, 04:13 PM	#3
akima Nooblet Name: Akima Location: England Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250R FI Posts: A lot. Blog Entries: 5 MOTM - Oct '13	I think it would have to be my Ninjette. It has good fuel economy and look at the current trend of fuel prices I think that counts for quite a bit. It's an all round bike that is good for long journey's, city riding, countryside-twisty riding and track riding. I could spend my first 10 years riding on it and be excelling as a rider for the entire duration. Low maintenance costs compared to bigger engine bikes, which apparently go through tires and chains much quicker. Reliable: I expect she will last 10+ years. Moddable: there's no shortage of things I can change and add to the bike over the years. Pretty! I think I could get up every day for 10 years and still find her styling quite delightful

November 16th, 2011, 05:23 PM	#6
alex.s wat Name: wat Location: tustin/long beach Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): wat Posts: Too much. Blog Entries: 5 MOTM - Oct '12, Feb '14	something simple that is reliable. something light. something with more than enough power for 2 people on the street. something that isnt't horribly uncomfortable. if i had to pick only a single bike for the next decade... it would be a kick-start 400cc single-cyl 4-stroke dirt bike ... one with an aluminum twin-downtube deltabox frame. with extended range gas tank, lights and street tires. i would want fully adjustable conventional forks though... dont want to bend up my frame if im going to be keeping it for a decade. i guess i would settle on a yz400f __________________________________________________

November 16th, 2011, 08:00 PM	#9
Jiggles Jigglin' your Jiglets Name: Sean Location: San Jose, Ca Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2009 K1300S, 2013 Ninja 300, 2011 Ninja 250R, Faster than Unregistered's ninjette Posts: Too much. Blog Entries: 1 MOTM - Apr '13	Own: Ninja 250r Rent: All other bikes known to man __________________________________________________ If the Ninja 250 doesn't have enough power for you, then you don't know how to ride it. AFM #676 Supersports are for n00bs

November 16th, 2011, 04:18 PM	#4
FrugalNinja250 ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Frugal Location: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) Join Date: Mar 2010 Motorcycle(s): Several Posts: A lot.	My pre-gen. Already have nice supply of parts, parts bikes, and spares. Familiar with mechanicals, have tools, and it's already paid for.

November 16th, 2011, 05:14 PM	#5
kyrider ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Bobbert Location: Russell Springs, KY Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2006 Ninja 250R Posts: A lot.	Maybe a new gen or a 636.

November 16th, 2011, 07:59 PM	#8
road_rascal ninjette.org member Name: ___ Location: ___ Join Date: Jul 2010 Motorcycle(s): ___ Posts: 160	Tough decision. Since I do a lot of touring and long distance riding I would have to pick the latest Goldwing or an FJR1300.

November 16th, 2011, 08:03 PM	#10
Major_Paine ninjette.org member Name: Ernie Location: LA area Join Date: Sep 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2004 ninja 250 (in progress), 2009 cbr600rr Posts: 122	i have this fondness for my cbr... but the ninja is fun in the twisties. dammit. ill go with cbr simply because the torque lets me get away from some sticky situations. if its ANY bike, id try to get a vyrus 986 m2 (street model) or an mv augusta f3. both sexy italian bikes

November 16th, 2011, 08:46 PM	#11
Heed ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: John Location: Illinois Join Date: Aug 2011 Motorcycle(s): None yet, yet. Posts: A lot.	Something beginner friendly so I don't kill myself.

November 16th, 2011, 09:28 PM	#12
Johnnyscoots Over 40 Ninjette Owner Name: John Location: Denver, Pa Join Date: May 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Kawasaki VN900C (Black), 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R (Red/Two Bros. Slip on, 41 Tooth Rear Sprocket) Posts: 77	Vulcan 2000. Or Diavel. Or Rocket III Roadster. Or Bonneville. Or FI Ninjette. Or TU250X with clip ons. Or Royal Enfield Bullet Military. Or Yammy WR250X with the Athena Big Bore kit and GYTR pipe...The list may never stop... Johnny __________________________________________________ So Long, and Thanks for All The Fish! Vulcan 900 Custom: Cafe windscreen, OEM backrest and Lockable side cases!!!

November 16th, 2011, 10:02 PM	#13
"A" vampire Name: A Location: IT Join Date: Feb 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2 many 2 list Posts: A lot.

November 17th, 2011, 06:49 AM	#15
cbdallas ninjette.org guru Name: Charlie Location: Wylie, TX Join Date: Nov 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Ninja 650R Posts: 317	650R. I loved that bike, and would own another one in a heartbeat, but the bike I have now is more fiscally responsible. Maybe someday.

November 17th, 2011, 07:24 AM	#16
reaubideux Perpetual Newb Name: Jason Location: Imperial, MO Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 MIB Ninja 250R [sold]; 2006 CBR600RR [sold]; 2013 Triumph Street Triple R Posts: 782	Assuming I'd be able to add the farkles and performance mods I'd want, either a 796 Monster or 2011 Street Triple R. (don't like the new headlights on the 2012 Triumph) Leaning more towards the Triumph as I love the sound of the inline 3 more than the Duc. Reason: I love the raw naked looks of both bikes, the Ducati is ridiculously comfortable and light, and I'm too old to really consider a SS for 10 years and don't think my back could handle the aggressive seating of a SS in 10 years. Also, feel free to chastise me, but I really would prefer more power. I like my 250, but most of my riding is commuting on the highway and it's fine for cruising speed but the get-up-and-go'ness is severely lacking once at cruising speed.

November 17th, 2011, 07:31 AM	#17
tazz ninjette.org member Name: Gaurav Location: Bombay(Mumbai),India Join Date: Sep 2011 Motorcycle(s): (2011)Ninja 250r,(2008)Yamaha yzf-R15 Posts: 70	Sc*ew logic I want triumph daytona 675 SE limited edition (Black and Gold)

November 17th, 2011, 08:14 AM	#18
cliff0529 ninjette.org member Name: Cliff Location: Georgia Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 1999 BMW K1200LT, 2001 Aprilia Falco, 2008 Ninja 250R and a whole slew of dirtbikes! Posts: 64	Triumph Tiger 800XC or BMW F800GS Both would do just about anything you'd want them to. Twisties, dual sporting or touring, they'd be great all around bikes. __________________________________________________ Georgia Fast Lane

November 17th, 2011, 12:42 PM	#20
alex.s wat Name: wat Location: tustin/long beach Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): wat Posts: Too much. Blog Entries: 5 MOTM - Oct '12, Feb '14	aluminum because its light and oxidizes slower than steel. delta box because it surrounds the engine which makes it less likely to allow the engine to be damaged, and gives good head stability without putting a ton of stress on the engine. single because its half the number of things to break. upside down forks have thicker uppers so that they are stiffer, but if you hit a curb going too fast or something, instead of bending your forks which can be replaced for $200, you bend your triples, steering tube and frame, and with that potentially a lot more stuff. which is a lot more than $200. i want a kick start because if you have a kick start, you dont have a battery that can die and leave you forced to pushstart your bike. you still need lights so you still have a stator but its not essential for running the bike. forgot to mention carbed which can be repaired on the side of the road unlike efi __________________________________________________

November 17th, 2011, 01:21 PM	#22
blink Always. Name: Alex Location: Calgary, AB Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): '08 Ninja 250, '05 GSX-R600 Posts: A lot.	well it takes owning a few bikes before deciding... __________________________________________________ blink-182

November 17th, 2011, 06:14 PM	#24
Reddoak ninjette.org guru Name: Bill Location: Orlando Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250r - Traded for 2009 ER-6N Posts: 424	A 2012 ER-6n. Which they don't offer in the US (damn it) so I'd keep the current bike. I like my bike, it's comfortable enough for me to want to ride it, fast enough to enjoy it, and cheap enough to afford it. __________________________________________________

November 18th, 2011, 12:31 AM	#25
DarC DUCEATR Name: Dan Location: El Paso, Texas Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): RVT1000R Posts: 628	I have my decade bike..... __________________________________________________ 2001 SP1 RC51- #62 -Akrapovic Ti, PCIII, Colin Edward's first baby tooth, Honda Racing sticker, some Japanese doods best attempt at Engrish scribbled on my engine block, little touch of soul.

November 18th, 2011, 12:59 AM	#27
DarC DUCEATR Name: Dan Location: El Paso, Texas Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): RVT1000R Posts: 628	They use a magneto ignition that generates it's own "excitement" when it kicks over and then with each engine revolution thereafter. No battery needed Very common on 2-strokes although it can be applied to any motor. Think lawnmower.... __________________________________________________ 2001 SP1 RC51- #62 -Akrapovic Ti, PCIII, Colin Edward's first baby tooth, Honda Racing sticker, some Japanese doods best attempt at Engrish scribbled on my engine block, little touch of soul.

November 18th, 2011, 02:08 AM	#30
akima Nooblet Name: Akima Location: England Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250R FI Posts: A lot. Blog Entries: 5 MOTM - Oct '13	Tony: That red bike is really beautiful. Why is it in the corner of a dirty garage though? You should have it on display in your house!

November 18th, 2011, 02:31 AM	#33
Tony B ninjette.org member Name: Tony Location: Surrey UK Join Date: Aug 2010 Motorcycle(s): GPX250 + many others! Posts: 184	Morning to you too !

November 18th, 2011, 10:40 AM	#36
Kevin2109 KThanksBye Name: Kevin Location: Orange County Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2006 zx636r Posts: A lot.	Ive got to say my 636, I love this thing to death! __________________________________________________ ----> My Youtube! <---- Unregistered, watch my youtube page!

November 18th, 2011, 11:30 AM	#37
GeorgeRYoung ninjette.org member Name: George Location: Ottawa, Canada Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): EX250, C10 Concours Posts: 109	Going on 8 years with a C10 Concours, and it's till comfy and fun. But, I added an EX250 recently.

November 18th, 2011, 01:27 PM	#38
CC Cowboy ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Whodat Location: Ware Is.,MA Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): I pass the wind! Posts: A lot. MOTM - Mar '13, Jun '14	Super-Glide Sport. It does everything well. Handles like a 250, accellerates like a 1000, cruises like a 1500, and stops like a 600. It also looks great, girl love it, and you don't have to wear a helmet (or any gear, except gloves) to ride it. __________________________________________________ If everything seems under control; you're just not going fast enough!

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