September 14th, 2011, 10:10 PM | #1 |
Texas Newbie
Name: John
Location: D/FW Texas
Join Date: Sep 2010 Motorcycle(s): 07 Ninja EX250, 07 FZ6 Posts: A lot.
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FZ6 or Ninja 650
I'll be getting a new bike in the next couple of months and need help. The short list is between the 07-09 FZ6 (1st) and the 09 Ninja 650r. Anyone disagree with 1st and 2nd? My goal is to sport tour. I think I can find them for 3,500 to 4,500 in the fall real easy.
What other bikes do you think can challenge the FZ6 for the price? Any older Honda's (2002+)? |
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September 14th, 2011, 10:14 PM | #2 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Jack
Location: columbia MO
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): Red 2009 Ninja 250r Posts: 132
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There was a BMW that looked so sick that was in one of the other threads in here. Not a huge versys fan but that BMW is raw
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September 14th, 2011, 10:16 PM | #3 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Murphey
Location: Eastern Washington
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The kawi man in me would go 650R, but I think I'd prefer the FZ6 because I prefer I4s over twins... granted the 650R has gobs of low end, are you looking for the 06-08 650Rs or the 09+ ones?
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September 14th, 2011, 10:52 PM | #4 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Cody
Location: NoVa
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Fz6r imo.
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September 14th, 2011, 11:31 PM | #5 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Stefan
Location: Riverhead, Long Island, New York
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2000 Ninja 250, Totally black. Gsxr 600 Red. Posts: 179
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September 15th, 2011, 06:37 AM | #6 |
Ninja Dog
Name: Brady
Location: Sunset, UT
Join Date: Dec 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 Posts: 186
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Since I own a '11 650R, I would say go with the 650R
It is a great all round bike!
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September 15th, 2011, 06:44 AM | #7 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Alex
Location: michigan
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September 15th, 2011, 07:35 AM | #8 |
Milkshake Drinker
Name: Skippii
Location: Richmond, Va
Join Date: Aug 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Orange DRZ400-S, 2005 Ninja 250 & Custom Thundercunt Dirt Chopper Posts: A lot.
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Look how happy my mother and I are with the FZ6.
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September 15th, 2011, 09:24 AM | #9 |
Smoker
Name: Bob
Location: SoCal
Join Date: Dec 2010 Motorcycle(s): Guess.... Posts: 556
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If you prefer I4 over the twin, then you gotta go with the FZ6. BUT. DO you mean the old/semi-naked one or the FZ6R with full fairings?
The CBR F4i is supposedly pretty good for touring (not great, but good) because it's not the full tuck riding position. VFR800 is another good option. SV650s can be had for a fair price as well. |
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September 15th, 2011, 12:47 PM | #10 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Toper
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250 Posts: 49
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have you sat on both? I was deadset on getting a 650r as my "next" bike, until I sat on one (too big for me). Now I heart a monster 696, lol.
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September 15th, 2011, 01:41 PM | #11 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Marcus
Location: San Antonio, TX
Join Date: Aug 2011 Motorcycle(s): Green '08 Ninja 250R Posts: 32
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Are you referring to the BMW F800ST perhaps? The F800 series in general are really solid bikes, and the ST is an excellent sport tourer. I'm looking at that bike as a model of what I will probably move up to if I ever feel that my 250 just isn't cutting it anymore.
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September 15th, 2011, 04:25 PM | #12 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Aaron
Location: Gone riding.
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I would'nt buy either personally
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September 15th, 2011, 06:06 PM | #13 |
ninjette.org member
Name: CJ
Location: Las Vegas NV
Join Date: Sep 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R, 2009 CRF230L, 1998 Honda VT1100c, 1974 Honda XL100, 07 Yamaha Wolverine 350, 06 ArticCat 250 Posts: 43
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What I would get
IF those are your two choices go with the FZ6.
However, I would go with a VFR more comfort and power and fit. I fit on them well. Now What I am actually getting is a BMW F650GS which is a Toned down version of the F800. Note 650 is not the cc it is actually 799cc. Only thing to change is the seat to make more comfort and when pavement ends I can still ride. Plus all the farkles one can get for them. Down side service is costly. Seating is more upright as well compared to the other choices. In the end buy what suits you and your needs. My choice is an addition not a replacement to any of my bikes. Picking mine up in Jan 1, 2011 or around that time frame. |
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September 15th, 2011, 06:59 PM | #14 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: T
Location: U.S.
Join Date: May 2010 Motorcycle(s): Current: '11 ZX-6R; Previous: '09 Ninjette; '08 ZX-6R (Ex-Wife '09 TU250X) Posts: 981
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I say FZ-6 and I second Bob's Honda nominees.
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September 15th, 2011, 07:02 PM | #15 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Eric
Location: Murfreesboro, TN
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VFR's are great sport touring bikes, my brother in law has one w near 80k on it now, I really liked this bike, it's in my short list to get next season too.
I am pretty partial to the FZ6 or FZ6R because of the I4 engine Our local forum group we have about 10 guys with SV650's and they love them for touring. |
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September 15th, 2011, 07:13 PM | #16 |
ninjette.org Monkey Spank
Name: Kevin
Location: Illinois
Join Date: Apr 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 250R Track-Bike Woodcraft clip-ons and rearsets FZ-6 track bike Posts: A lot.
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The FZ6 will wipe the floor with the ninja 650. Its sporting near 100 horse.
Are we talking FZ6 or FZ6r?
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September 15th, 2011, 09:32 PM | #17 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Murad
Location: Orlando fl
Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Yamaha FZ6R Posts: 84
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September 15th, 2011, 10:09 PM | #18 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Cody
Location: NoVa
Join Date: Jan 2011 Motorcycle(s): 06 yzf r6r previously: 09 ninja 250r, black 07 zx6r Posts: A lot.
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I must admit that an inline 4 is very enjoyable. I think the fz6 and fz6r are both nice bikes. I don't like the looks of the 650r very much at all; and as mentioned it doesn't compare to the inline 4 of the fz6. With my inline 4 zx6r I have more acceleration while puting around at 40mph in 6th than I do with my ninjette in 2nd gear wot at the same speed. It's honestly a nice feeling to know that power is there when you need it but you most learn to control it. It's very easy to lose track of your speed. Also I must say that my zx6r has a lot better throttle response than my 250; and engine braking is much harder than the 250 which imo is a big plus. I'm not sure if that's a result of the inline 4 or not but, if it is, I'd suggest that it's definitely another advantage.
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September 15th, 2011, 11:24 PM | #19 |
Texas Newbie
Name: John
Location: D/FW Texas
Join Date: Sep 2010 Motorcycle(s): 07 Ninja EX250, 07 FZ6 Posts: A lot.
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What would you go for?
The 07 FZ6 is 1st, 08-09 FZ6R 2nd, and 09 Ninja 650 3rd. Touring is my goal so comfort is 1st priority, price(under $4,500) 2nd, and style is 3rd. I don't care about top end speed, I'm looking for a great engine that's not hard to wrench. |
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September 15th, 2011, 11:30 PM | #20 |
Winging It In Life
Name: Umar
Location: SoCal
Join Date: Aug 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 250R; 2011 250R (sold) Posts: A lot.
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Of the two you listed, the FZ6 is definitely worthwhile.
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2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R (Bought - Apr 22, 2011; Sold - Feb 17, 2015) 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 250R (Bought - May 01, 2017; Current) |
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September 16th, 2011, 12:22 AM | #21 |
There's a limit to s2pdty
Name: A.D.
Location: NoVa the burg
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 250r ninja (sold) Posts: A lot.
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they say the fz6 is a tank.
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September 16th, 2011, 12:49 AM | #22 |
Ninjette wanabe :D
Name: Ruslan
Location: San Jose
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): white 300 :D Posts: A lot.
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VROOOM vrooom >.> |
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September 16th, 2011, 12:20 PM | #23 |
DUCEATR
Name: Dan
Location: El Paso, Texas
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): RVT1000R Posts: 628
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I'm glad this discussion came up. I have been looking high and low for a good used VFR in my area and there isn't anything within 500 miles :S I prefer the full fairing and this bike looks really good in person. The seats feel wonderful too, the back is the largest non-banana seat I've seen compared to similar bikes. They have a white one here but I haven't fully convinced myself to give up on the Honda yet. Seeing the hard luggage up top there gave the FZ6R a big boost in my quest, as did the under engine exhaust (my wife would appreciate that!)
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September 16th, 2011, 12:51 PM | #24 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Aaron
Location: Gone riding.
Join Date: Mar 2010 Posts: 389
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What would I go for?
Yasko, if top end speed is not your concern I would keep the 250 or maybe look at the ninja500. Alot of peeps tour the ninjette. If I was going to spend that kind of money, I would look for a used zx6r or cbr 600. You could always modify the bike for your comfort. Good luck with your search. |
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September 16th, 2011, 01:20 PM | #25 |
DUCEATR
Name: Dan
Location: El Paso, Texas
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): RVT1000R Posts: 628
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Agreed, I think the N250 would make a great touring bike, for one up touring. My wife and I have tried to tour the Ninjette and it is just too small and a little underpowered for the both of us. It gets a little uncomfortable after awhile.
A bigger engine usually comes with a bigger bike and that space (and little added weight for stability) really come in handy for two-up riding. After having a multitude of supersports I don't think I would want one to tour on. Even with higher bars and re-adjusted pegs I think the bike remains a bit too agressive for my tastes nowadays. One caveat is the v-twins such as the RC51 and TL1000R. I think they have a nice robust lower end that would compliment touring really well if the ergos were adjusted (and you weren't opposed to not passing any gas stations)
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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. |
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September 16th, 2011, 01:27 PM | #26 |
Texas Newbie
Name: John
Location: D/FW Texas
Join Date: Sep 2010 Motorcycle(s): 07 Ninja EX250, 07 FZ6 Posts: A lot.
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Thanks. Very good info.
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September 16th, 2011, 04:50 PM | #27 |
So, where's the reverse?
Name: Anson
Location: Ontario, Canada
Join Date: Nov 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Posts: A lot.
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I think you got the right idea with your ranking although any of those choices would be great bikes in their own right. Off the top of my head:
FZ6 vs. FZ6R - aluminum frame vs steel frame - aluminum swing arm vs steel swing arm - 4 piston monobloc calipers front stoppers vs 2 piston - adjustable rear suspension vs non-adjustable - 180 rear tire vs 160 rear - fixed seat height and handlebars vs adjustable seat and handlebars (fits shorter people better yet can also be adjusted to fit taller riders) - naked vs fully faired; although you can buy a fairing kit for the FZ6 if you wanted and looks very nice with the kit as I saw one in a parking lot last week. |
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September 17th, 2011, 07:07 AM | #28 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Neal
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250 Posts: 56
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Another suggestion
I know you've placed the 650r as last on the list but have a look at the versys. The suspension is better as the travel is a little longer and progressive rate springs are used and its adjustable. As a another example of what the versys can do check this and part B out. I am stunned myself at the performance of this bike... ....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7ivn5PeQz8 |
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September 17th, 2011, 08:06 AM | #29 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Pat
Location: Barrie, Ontario
Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250 SE Posts: 338
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Just to put another potential option on the table: KLR 650.
They're good for touring, and they give you access to a few places you can't (well... shouldn't) go with fairings. Don't worry about how ugly they look, when they're covered with mud no one can really tell what they look like
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September 17th, 2011, 09:35 AM | #30 |
Milkshake Drinker
Name: Skippii
Location: Richmond, Va
Join Date: Aug 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Orange DRZ400-S, 2005 Ninja 250 & Custom Thundercunt Dirt Chopper Posts: A lot.
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Aprilia Futura
Last futzed with by Skippii; September 17th, 2011 at 12:40 PM. |
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September 19th, 2011, 01:17 AM | #31 |
Texas Newbie
Name: John
Location: D/FW Texas
Join Date: Sep 2010 Motorcycle(s): 07 Ninja EX250, 07 FZ6 Posts: A lot.
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September 19th, 2011, 06:29 AM | #32 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
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At this point, it is. Here's a reasonable example for $4500.
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September 19th, 2011, 08:03 AM | #33 | |
Internet Slut
Name: Jeff
Location: L.A.
Join Date: Sep 2010 Motorcycle(s): 04 FZ1, 07 FZ6 Posts: A lot.
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Quote:
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September 19th, 2011, 08:23 AM | #34 |
Guest
Posts: n/a
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I like the FZ6 over all others. That was the bike I wanted to get, but bikes are pretty limited here on Guam. I don't like the styling of the FZ6R compared to the FZ6 (undertail exhaust ftw!).
I am currently being tempted by a 2007 FZ6 here one Guam, might be the only one on island. |
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September 19th, 2011, 02:54 PM | #35 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: eddie
Location: Lawnguylind
Join Date: Nov 2009 Motorcycle(s): 300, WeeStrom Posts: A lot.
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Had an 05 fz...put 27k on it and it was so dependable that I bought a new 05 with only 5k on it and it also runs flawlessly. Dont know much about the ninja 650 but the fz was rock solid. Not THAT fast @ 134 top end and has a touchy rear brake but with stock tires and no mods at all I had no expenses beside a valve adjustment @ 18k
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September 19th, 2011, 07:07 PM | #36 | |
Milkshake Drinker
Name: Skippii
Location: Richmond, Va
Join Date: Aug 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Orange DRZ400-S, 2005 Ninja 250 & Custom Thundercunt Dirt Chopper Posts: A lot.
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Quote:
I really want a Futura...
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September 19th, 2011, 07:14 PM | #37 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Brad
Location: Centerville, OH
Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250R SE (Green) Previous bikes R1, Daytona 675, GSXR600, Pre-Gen 250R Posts: 330
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No brainer. FZ6.
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September 28th, 2011, 09:16 PM | #38 |
Texas Newbie
Name: John
Location: D/FW Texas
Join Date: Sep 2010 Motorcycle(s): 07 Ninja EX250, 07 FZ6 Posts: A lot.
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Any thoughts on a 03-05 Honda VFR? Looks like I might add to my short list.
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September 29th, 2011, 11:41 AM | #39 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: patricK
Location: San Jose, CA--BAY AREA!
Join Date: Mar 2009 Motorcycle(s): '08 blue 250R [sold]. '09 lime ZX-6R [stolen :( ]. '06 blue 636. Posts: 918
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I'm in on the Fz6 due to the I4 engine, but looks -wise the '09 650R is more of a win to me vs. the 07-09 FZ
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September 29th, 2011, 11:56 AM | #40 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: john
Location: Palm Beach County, Fl Sligo County, Eire
Join Date: Dec 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2005 ninja 250 street fighter, 2008 street fighter ninja 500, 2001 nsr 125 Posts: 812
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I ride ****in' Kawasakis DUDE!
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