Planning on trading up to a 650

[Proteus]

I love my ninjette, and if money and space weren't an option I'd keep it forever. Ideally turn it into a track bike.

I've been doing lots of research and am pretty sure I want to trade up for the Ninja 650 next season. Here's my thinking.

Like about ninjette:
Light and easy to corner
Pretty quick acceleration
Love the look
Pretty comfy ergos
Great gas mileage

Don't like:
Feel like I'm always redlining
Not much passing power on the highway at 70-80 mph
Still get passed by cars trying to race me at stop lights
Limited two-up touring capability

The Ninja 650 seems to fit the bill perfectly:
More than enough power
Still good gas mileage
I really like the look, I think it's the best looking in the current Kawi lineup. I like how it's kind of in between a supersport and a streetfighter.
Might be better for two-up touring?

The only thing I don't like about it are the handlebars, I'd probably want to put some clipons instead.

As far as use, I commute every day 1hr each way on the highway and ride around town a lot. My wife and I have been taking 1-3hr trips on the weekends and have had a lot of fun.

I find myself tucking and laying down on the tank as much as possible far more than sitting upright on my ninjette.

If I could have multiple bikes, I'd keep the ninjette and add a zx6r and something for dedicated touring, but I'm trying to split the difference with one bike.

[adouglas]

Try to ride one first.

On paper the 650 was the right upgrade for me also. Then I rode one at a demo day and decided not to.

Don't get me wrong... it seems like a fine bike. It just.... lacked personality. As I was riding it, I kept on thinking that it reminded me of operating a sewing machine. Or perhaps a big Vespa. It would make a great commuter bike.

But it would not move my soul.

At the time, I'd modded my 250 with a full exhaust, jet kit, clip-ons and rearset adjusters. It was a lot more sportbike-like than it had been stock, and had a terrific, up-yours punk personality. After riding the 650 I realized I liked the 250 better.

That same day I also rode a real sportbike for the first time (ZX6R).

Look at the bike in my profile.

Now you know the outcome of that demo day.

Now, of course, that's just me. You're not me. I'm one of those weirdos who thinks sportbikes are actually pretty comfortable, view the 250 as a decent solo touring bike, and I never ever carry a passenger.

[Proteus]

That's the thought that's nagging at me. The 650 is definitely set up to be a comfortable upright commuter but I spend most of commute on the 250 hugging the tank.

[Proteus]

I should probably add that the only bikes I've ever even sat on are scooters, dirt bikes, and my 250. I've never ridden a bigger bike or a cruiser or standard or anything.

[fishdip]

I for one really like the 650.

[verboten1]

I rode a 650 when I was in Georgia, it was the first "sport bike" I had ever ridden.
Wolfpen Gap on a borrowed bike nearly killed me I think!

I had a blast once I figured out how to ride it. Keep the revs up and have fun. it's still a high revving twin as far as I'm concerned, its just a scaled up 250.

[broken neck]

Originally Posted by Proteus

The only thing I don't like about it are the handlebars, I'd probably want to put some clipons instead.

If I remember correctly, there is no clipons that fits the 650 without interfering with the body, or having to modify the body.

I think someone on one of the Ninja 650 forums created or was able to fit a lowered handlebar to give it a more sportier look.

Also, there is a lot less parts available to personalize your Ninja 650 and some ask for a pretty hefty price tag. For example, if you want to play with the foot controls, the rear set available are quite pricey, because the rider and passenger are one big piece, so you have to change the whole thing. Otherwise, you'll have to let go the passenger one to get the rider only rear set.

I would advise you to lurk some forums dedicated to the Ninja 650. That's what I did when I thought about going for the 650 or a Ninja 400. After a couple of hours reading and searching, I put that idea on the side and kept my 250 and modded the hell out of it...

Don't want to discourage you on going for the 650, just wanted to add my rock to the pound...

[Proteus]

There are sport bars that are lower, but there seems to be one option that works without body modification: http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/superb...l-rounder.html

They might be tricky to get from Thailand but it looks possible.

[Hero Danny]

I'd go for it man... Although I must admit, I do miss the hell out of my 250... I do love the 300 though.

The extra bump in power is worth it alone, I test rode the 300 and sold my 250 that same day... (i'm not kidding) It rides so much better than the 250, I'm sure the 650 is just as good too.

[ninjamunky85]

I'd be more interested in the Versys for a do everything bike.

[Proteus]

Originally Posted by ninjamunky85

I'd be more interested in the Versys for a do everything bike.

I was originally eyeing the versys - it's basically a 650 tuned for more low end torque with a higher, more upright riding position and luggage options.

It's just not quite sporty enough.

[BoBO]

I tried the 650 before, it's a nice commuter bike, but that's it. I prefer my 250, but everyone is different. If had to pick between a 250/300/650, hands down 300.... it rides nice and handles great. If I had the $$$ I would get rid of my 250 for a 300 in a heartbeat. The 300 is a better version of the 250. The extra power is not that much, but it's worth it. It would be better if a new Ninja 500 came out, but who knows when that will happen.

[Proteus]

Originally Posted by BoBO

I tried the 650 before, it's a nice commuter bike, but that's it. I prefer my 250, but everyone is different. If had to pick between a 250/300/650, hands down 300.... it rides nice and handles great. If I had the $$$ I would get rid of my 250 for a 300 in a heartbeat. The 300 is a better version of the 250. The extra power is not that much, but it's worth it. It would be better if a new Ninja 500 came out, but who knows when that will happen.

What did you like better about the 300 over the 650? The 650 really just seems like a bigger 250/300.

I'll admit that part of this is just that I want more power. I don't really NEED it, and I'm not trying to justify it by saying "I'm a big guy," or "the 250's no good on the highway" or anything. I am pretty big (6'1", 210 lbs) but the 250 fits me just fine and holds its own on the highway. I just WANT more power.

[verboten1]

my issue with wanting to get back on a 650 is this:







silver is 650, red/green is 250. the 250 doesn't look as silly now, with all of the body work, but it's still small.

I really need to ride one again, it's been 8 years or so!

[BoBO]

Originally Posted by Proteus

What did you like better about the 300 over the 650? The 650 really just seems like a bigger 250/300.

I'll admit that part of this is just that I want more power. I don't really NEED it, and I'm not trying to justify it by saying "I'm a big guy," or "the 250's no good on the highway" or anything. I am pretty big (6'1", 210 lbs) but the 250 fits me just fine and holds its own on the highway. I just WANT more power.

For me, it's the sportiness & the looks of the 300. It's lighter, plus the body positioning fits me pretty good on the 300...even better with clipons.The looks are OK on the 650, but the handle bars I don't like. I weight about 145-55 lbs and like you, I want more power as well. If you want a bit of power but don't want a supersport, CBR500 would be a nice choice, especially for commute since the motor is not winding up. If I was a big guy like you, save yourself the time & money and go with a 600+ Supersport. My best friend is a big guy as well, 6'7" 275lbs, he really enjoys the r1. Heck I tried the R1 myself and it's a blast.

[Hero Danny]

Originally Posted by Proteus

I just WANT more power.

And there's no problem with that. Why is everyone so hesitant on saying that around here?

I love this forum, but i'll be the first to admit, members here tend to want to tear off other's heads off when they say they want more power lol.

[Proteus]

Well I just discussed this with my wife. Turns out that she's more interested in upgrading her Elite 80 to a Helix 250 so she can ride with me instead of behind me. She said that I should go for the supersport and not worry about the passenger capacity.

Further evidence that I picked the right one, because this seems like a rare conversation:

"Baby I'm thinking about getting a more practical motorcycle"
"Naaa, get the supersport"

[Proteus]

Originally Posted by Hero Danny

And there's no problem with that. Why is everyone so hesitant on saying that around here?

I love this forum, but i'll be the first to admit, members here tend to want to tear off other's heads off when they say they want more power lol.

I think it's because a lot of times (and I'm speaking more about the rest of the internet than here) you see people saying any number of untrue things to prove why they need a supersport instead of a 250 (often as their first bike).

I'm a big guy
It can't keep up on the highway
I'll outgrow it so quickly
I'll grow into a bigger bike
etc.

My 250 is quite capable, and I know that I'm not riding to anywhere near its full potential. But man that ZX6R looks like a ton of fun.

[Klondike1020]

I love ridding the ninja 650. Its has the personality of a lawn mower. But its the perfect rental bike when I travel because I am not tempted to get stupid with it and the seat is comfortable. Also it is very comfortable for the inevitable passengers.

Could it be my only bike. Never. I want a bike that thrills in my garage.
650 is a great commuter bike

People don't jump on people about wanting more power. We jump on people who use redic talk to justify wanting more power.

If you want it and you are going to get it. Don't justify it with me.
Do what you want. If we respect you we might raise a few concerns. \
If you expect people on this forum to promote the big bike craze. obviously its the wrong place lol

Now talk about certain politically correct stuff and you might get your head tore off.

[verboten1]

Originally Posted by Proteus

I'm a big guy
It can't keep up on the highway
I'll outgrow it so quickly
I'll grow into a bigger bike
etc.

I love my 250, it's great on the expressway (well, as great as riding a bike in a straight line at constant speed for long distances is....which is not great at all....)
It handles well, considering.

I own bigger bikes.

My problem is, I'm a big guy, and the bike is physically small for me.
I'm cramped when I'm on it. I could spend untold amounts of money to make it better....but it's still as all bike, and that's my biggest problem with it.

Otherwise it's been a great bike!

[BoBO]

To the OP, Supersport is the way to go. Not just the power, but a better suspension & brakes.

[BoBO]

Originally Posted by Hero Danny

And there's no problem with that. Why is everyone so hesitant on saying that around here?

I love this forum, but i'll be the first to admit, members here tend to want to tear off other's heads off when they say they want more power lol.

LoL, also members here tend to make supersport bikes sound so heavy as well. I was fortunate to test a 600rr last week, and that thing was just as easy to flick around the turns like my 250. I mean it's heavier, but not as heavy as people make it out to be.

[Sirref]

Originally Posted by BoBO

LoL, also members here tend to make supersport bikes sound so heavy as well. I was fortunate to test a 600rr last week, and that thing was just as easy to flick around the turns like my 250. I mean it's heavier, but not as heavy as people make it out to be.

the real weight of it is trying to tip it in on the gas, supersports love being tipped in on the brakes but if you're opening it up it'll feel heavier because the front doesn't have as much connection to the road.

[Hero Danny]

The extra 10 pounds from the 250 to 300 I didn't even notice at all. I know the gsxr 600 weighs about 420lbs so that's about 35 more than the 300 which isn't that much.

[Proteus]

Now that I don't have to take passenger comfort or touring capability into account my world has opened up quite a bit. Considering something like a Street Triple as well.

[adouglas]

Originally Posted by BoBO

To the OP, Supersport is the way to go. Not just the power, but a better suspension & brakes.

yes.

The brakes are amazing. The ride is in another league.

The power of a supersport comes on high up in the rev range. On ordinary rides (e.g. commuting), it's really not hard to handle. But don't think you can get on it and thrash it like you can the 250. It will get away from you.

Supersports reward control and maturity, and will punish aggressive behavior harshly. The biggest reason that squids crash is they haven't learned the value of subtlety. Too much throttle, too much brake, too much speed, not enough brains.

There is only one area in which my GSXR is harder to ride than the Ninjette: Low-speed parking lot maneuvers. The ergos and steering lock make it really tough when it comes to doing those walking-speed U-turns.

Otherwise... yeah. Light, flickable, a real joy to ride.

Which reminds me... time to hop on and go to work!

[csmith12]

Originally Posted by Sirref

the real weight of it is trying to tip it in on the gas, supersports love being tipped in on the brakes but if you're opening it up it'll feel heavier because the front doesn't have as much connection to the road.

Somebody is using their noggin.

[Desmoluci]

+1 on the Versys. After 4 or 5 hours in the saddle, you're neck and shoulders will thank you. Great running, do it all bike.
I thought it was an 800 when I first rode one, it has really strong low-end torque.

[Sirref]

Originally Posted by csmith12

Somebody is using their noggin.

It was one of the biggest differences I noticed between the 250 and the r6 through the quick flick onto the front straight after the carousel. I couldn't just rip it open the same way I would on the 250 since then I'd run wide due to there being no weight on the front. Required a slightly different approach but it was still fairly rewarding.

[Sirref]

Originally Posted by Desmoluci

+1 on the Versys. After 4 or 5 hours in the saddle, you're neck and shoulders will thank you. Great running, do it all bike.
I thought it was an 800 when I first rode one, it has really strong low-end torque.

There was even a guy running on one at my last track day, it's not as good for it as some other jack of all trades bikes (specifically the sv650) but it's fine for a novice day.

[choneofakind]

Originally Posted by BoBO

that thing was just as easy to flick around the turns like my 250. I mean it's heavier, but not as heavy as people make it out to be.

You weren't on the gas while flicking, were you?





I'll admit it, I want more power. Fun time.

[Proteus]

It's been a slow few days at work - meaning lots of reading about/looking at motorcycles online. The Street Triple may have stolen my heart.

[verboten1]

http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/...c,42139.0.html


check out that trip on a Street Trip(le)!

he put tons of miles on that bike, it was a very good bike for him!

[Roark]

Friend of mine rides a 636 with handlebar risers and lowered pegs for touring. Admittedly, he's been swaying me on my next purchase..

[BoBO]

Originally Posted by Sirref

the real weight of it is trying to tip it in on the gas, supersports love being tipped in on the brakes but if you're opening it up it'll feel heavier because the front doesn't have as much connection to the road.

Oh yeah, I lean on gas, not crazy on the throttle of course. As I previously mentioned, 600rr/zx10r is a heavier bike compared to the 250, but not like people make it out to be. I had no issues with it, it felt agile. The only issue is the seat height for me, I had to tip toe. I remember the FZR1000 now that felt heavy everywhere, along with the zx7r. I remember the early 900rr Fireblade being lighter than the both. But yeah the 250 does have it's advantages, that's why It will be my track toy like my lightweight Miata.

[BoBO]

Originally Posted by adouglas

yes.

There is only one area in which my GSXR is harder to ride than the Ninjette: Low-speed parking lot maneuvers. The ergos and steering lock make it really tough when it comes to doing those walking-speed U-turns.

Otherwise... yeah. Light, flickable, a real joy to ride.

Which reminds me... time to hop on and go to work!

I did notice the low speed maneuvers on the bigger bikes too, it's tricky. I don't remember testing out a gixxer before, but I've always like the look of the 05 model.

[Sirref]

Originally Posted by BoBO

I did notice the low speed maneuvers on the bigger bikes too, it's tricky. I don't remember testing out a gixxer before, but I've always like the look of the 05 model.

it's the damn clip on bars, they don't move as freely as the upright bars at lower speeds, my 250 has the bars tap the tap the tank as the end of their travel and it's not as tight at lower speed as my 300

[Proteus]

Well I got all excited about the Street Triple and somehow forgot that I won't have enough $ from selling my 250 to get one.

I think I should be able to get $3k for my 250.

[BoBO]

Originally Posted by Sirref

it's the damn clip on bars, they don't move as freely as the upright bars at lower speeds, my 250 has the bars tap the tap the tank as the end of their travel and it's not as tight at lower speed as my 300

Speaking of 250, I drove an 07 model this morning and their pretty quick. It felt faster than my 08 when it was stock. I almost bought it, if it weren't for a few electrical issues.

[alex.s]

just go for the h2