March 16th, 2009, 09:53 PM | #1 |
Ninja Rider
Name: jameZ
Location: Texas
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - Special Edition Posts: 40
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Getting a Bigger Bike, What to Choose?
I plan on getting a bigger bike before the summer begins , hopefully you guys can help me with my decision. I'm want something fast and sporty, yet versatile enough to take on extended road trips with comfort. Right now I am looking at an '09 Ninja 650r or an '08 Yamaha FZ6.
2009 Ninja 650r 650cc Parallel Twin 440 lbs Curb Weight 31.1" Seat Height 4.1 Gallon Gas Tank $6,799 MSRP 2008 Yamaha FZ6 600cc Inline-4 410 lbs Curb Weight 31.3" Seat Height 5.1 Gallon Gas Tank $6,999 MSRP I have sat on both bikes(virtually identical riding position), but haven't been able to ride either. Anyone have any experience with either of these? Any good arguments for one or the other? Any recommendations on other bikes of similar nature? I had planned on upgrading to the Ninja 650r when I bought my 250, but since then I have ridden several different bikes and now I'm having a hard time deciding .
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March 16th, 2009, 09:57 PM | #2 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Faiyaz
Location: Davis, Ca
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): Black 08 Ninja 250 Posts: 70
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Well, i'd say it'd be worth riding before deciding. I like the new 650s but I also like the nekkid styling of the FZ6. A guy who works at school has one and it looks real nice
also, how long have you had the 250?
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2008 Ninja 250 - Yoshi Exhaust, Brake Light Modulator, HID Kit To Come: Sliders, Fender Elim, Flush Mounts, Hugger (much later...no $ ) |
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March 16th, 2009, 10:06 PM | #3 |
Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.
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how about an FZ6R?
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March 16th, 2009, 10:11 PM | #4 |
Ninja Rider
Name: jameZ
Location: Texas
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - Special Edition Posts: 40
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Thing is, none of the dealers in my area allow test rides on new bikes, and I haven't found any used ones around here.
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March 16th, 2009, 10:13 PM | #5 |
Ninja Rider
Name: jameZ
Location: Texas
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - Special Edition Posts: 40
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I dunno what it is, but I'm not too keen on the looks of the FZ6R.
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March 16th, 2009, 10:15 PM | #6 | |
ninjette.org member
Name: Faiyaz
Location: Davis, Ca
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): Black 08 Ninja 250 Posts: 70
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Quote:
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2008 Ninja 250 - Yoshi Exhaust, Brake Light Modulator, HID Kit To Come: Sliders, Fender Elim, Flush Mounts, Hugger (much later...no $ ) |
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March 16th, 2009, 10:19 PM | #7 |
Ninja Rider
Name: jameZ
Location: Texas
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - Special Edition Posts: 40
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Yeah both of those bikes are sick, but wouldn't be too comfy on a coast to coast ride.
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March 16th, 2009, 10:27 PM | #8 |
I'm lovin' it.
Name: Mike
Location: Melb, Australia
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): '09 Black 250R Posts: A lot.
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I'd say the kwaka, but thats only because I'm not so fond of naked bikes.
Dam, that Daytona looks bloody great!
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March 16th, 2009, 10:48 PM | #9 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Michael
Location: Southern NM
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): '91 Honda CBR600 F2 Posts: A lot.
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From what I can tell from the 600-650 range bikes I've sat on, it's between Kawasaki and Suzuki comfort wise. The new Gixxers look sweet, but they're a little less comfortable, and a little more expensive. I've also found that the '07 ninja 600 is more comfortable than the '09. It's also a little bulkier though. As for riding them, I wouldn't know. I've only ridden 2 bikes: Mine, and the MSF ninjette I learned on, so I really have no idea.
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March 16th, 2009, 11:31 PM | #10 |
Ramen Rider
Name: Gary
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2015 BMW R1200R, 08 Honda VFR800A (sold), 09 Ninja 250R (sold) Posts: A lot.
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if it is between those two, i would definitely get the 650r. it looks a lot better than the yamaha. i was actually going to get the 650r as my first bike, but decided to start with the 250 instead... i figured better safe than sorry.
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March 16th, 2009, 11:57 PM | #11 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Faiyaz
Location: Davis, Ca
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): Black 08 Ninja 250 Posts: 70
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yes, that would be an issue. I'm guessing price is an issue here?
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2008 Ninja 250 - Yoshi Exhaust, Brake Light Modulator, HID Kit To Come: Sliders, Fender Elim, Flush Mounts, Hugger (much later...no $ ) |
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March 17th, 2009, 09:06 AM | #12 |
weekend rider
Name: JC
Location: Central IL
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): '05 Ninja 250 Posts: 87
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Nobody has thrown the Versys into the fray here. What gives? I think it's a sweet looking bike that has a bit of off-road capabilities thrown into the mix. I'd be interested in hearing what people think of that bike.
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March 17th, 2009, 09:08 AM | #13 |
Ninja Rider
Name: jameZ
Location: Texas
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - Special Edition Posts: 40
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yeah, I don't want to spend more than $7,000
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March 17th, 2009, 09:22 AM | #14 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Tim
Location: Portland, OR
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2009 SE Ninja 250R Posts: 796
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I haven't sat on an FZ6 yet, but I've heard great things about em. The two bikes you're considering are definitely two of the best for touring/commuting/sport.
I've done alot more research on the 650, as I was considering it myself, and the changes in 09 are the best - mainly considerable vibration dampening and a new front end. It's comfortable and more forgiving than a true SS. Plus I never liked the look of the FZ6 either. But you just got your 09 Thinking of upgrading already? Besides, if you read the blogs and posts, the 250 is a decent touring bike itself... |
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March 17th, 2009, 01:43 PM | #15 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Tor
Location: TX
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 09 250r (*sold*), 2010 Daytona 675 Posts: 301
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March 17th, 2009, 05:12 PM | #16 |
Revolver Wario
Name: Jeffrey
Location: La Palma, CA
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2003 Ninja 250 Posts: 198
Logo Dude
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You might want to look into the SV650. That would be a great bike to upgrade to, and won't be too much of a step up. Between the ones you posted up though, I would go with the Kawi 650 because of the lower grunt that twins have. From what I've read with Yamaha, you need to be high up in revs to achieve real performance. Especially with an Inline4 engine.
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March 17th, 2009, 05:19 PM | #17 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Arthur
Location: USA
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): '08 250R (sold), '05 ZX6R / 636 Posts: 355
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Daytona 675 = pure sex
Between those two, I'd pick the '09 650R... have you considered the GSX-R600? I think that's going to be my next bike... For a SS, it's supposed to have pretty good ergonomics (including low seat height), and it's not like the R6 where you have to be redlining to access power... can pick up a used one that fits your budget |
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March 17th, 2009, 08:13 PM | #18 |
Ramen Rider
Name: Gary
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2015 BMW R1200R, 08 Honda VFR800A (sold), 09 Ninja 250R (sold) Posts: A lot.
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March 17th, 2009, 10:10 PM | #19 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Joe
Location: City of Angels
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 09 Kawi 250R Posts: 48
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Turbo'd busa...
Actually I have had my eye on the Duc Monster 696. Sexy bike... I have to keep talking myself out of it seeing as I only have 500 miles of total seat time on a motorcycle... |
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March 17th, 2009, 10:34 PM | #20 |
Her name is Itoshii
Name: Nani
Location: Charlotte, NC
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Kawasaki Ninja 250 Posts: 311
Blog Entries: 3
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Dunno about the Yamaha but one of my friends has a sexy red Kawi 650R and it's a beauty. I rode it for a couple of min and also was a passenger on it... awesomeness.
The guy that I brought my 250 from also has a Kawi 650R and all he did was compliment the bike. That would make it 3 good opinions for the Kawi in one post!!
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March 18th, 2009, 07:43 AM | #21 |
Stealth like Ninja, Lol
Name: Jessica
Location: East Tn (round Knoxville)
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): Red 2008 250 Posts: 88
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Another shameful indulgent post. I got the 09 fz6r and love it. What is it that you dont like about it? Just curious.
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March 18th, 2009, 08:34 AM | #22 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Wayne
Location: Brookfield, MA
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Honda CBR250R Posts: 585
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I almost got a Yamaha FZ6 instead of the 250R. It's a great all-around bike. After reading reviews of the new CBR600RR with ABS that actually works, however, I'd have to take a good look at that one. Anything that gives you an edge for safety should be checked out and it looks like they've finally found an ABS system that actually works the way it's supposed to.
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March 18th, 2009, 08:36 AM | #23 | |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Ryan
Location: Carlisle, PA
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 WR250R, 2006 Ural Raven (Sold), 2009 Versys Green (Sold), 2008 Ninja 250R Green (Sold) Posts: A lot.
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Quote:
I love the Versys. It will definitely be my next/additional bike in a couple years. Why are you looking to upgrade already. You have had your bike for all of a month or two right? |
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March 18th, 2009, 09:37 AM | #24 |
Ninja Rider
Name: jameZ
Location: Texas
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - Special Edition Posts: 40
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I got my bike in January and now it has 1,360 miles on it. I chose the 250 to safely learn how to ride and build my confidence up, without worrying about the bike overwhelming me. Don't get me wrong, I really like it, I just want something with more power now. (insert Tim Allen grunt )
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Yoshimura Exhaust, Targa Fender, Zero Gravity Windscreen, Dynojet Stage 2, K&N Filter |
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March 18th, 2009, 10:22 AM | #25 |
Ninja Rider
Name: jameZ
Location: Texas
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - Special Edition Posts: 40
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It looks front heavy to me, kinda weird.
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Yoshimura Exhaust, Targa Fender, Zero Gravity Windscreen, Dynojet Stage 2, K&N Filter |
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March 18th, 2009, 10:40 AM | #26 |
Ramen Rider
Name: Gary
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2015 BMW R1200R, 08 Honda VFR800A (sold), 09 Ninja 250R (sold) Posts: A lot.
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March 18th, 2009, 10:53 AM | #27 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Howard
Location: Cypress, So. Cal.
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): '09 Candy Thunder Blue Ninja 250R Posts: 618
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Have you considered the looks of a triumph speed triple or anything?
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March 18th, 2009, 10:54 AM | #28 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Howard
Location: Cypress, So. Cal.
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): '09 Candy Thunder Blue Ninja 250R Posts: 618
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March 18th, 2009, 12:50 PM | #29 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: David
Location: Wellington, New Zealand
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08 Ninja 250R in Green! (Sold) Now 2011 Triumph Daytona 675 SE Posts: 564
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James, IMO you have barely even broken in the bike and really 1300m is not all that much. I plan to keep my bike till I have atleast 25000km on it and I am confident that I am able to ride it to the best of its ability.
You however may feel differently and confident alread and if that is the case, good luck That is just my
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2008 GREEN Kawasaki Ninja 250R. AreaP Quiet Core Carbon Fibre : 8000k HIDs : Dynojet Jet kit : Double Bubble Windscreen |
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March 18th, 2009, 01:53 PM | #30 | |
ninjette.org member
Name: Tim
Location: Maryland
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Yamaha FZ6 Posts: 117
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Quote:
Tim |
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March 18th, 2009, 09:54 PM | #31 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Michael
Location: Southern NM
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): '91 Honda CBR600 F2 Posts: A lot.
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I actually don't think it's very front biased at all. I love the looks of this bike. My only beef with the new Yamaha is the seat height. I'm a little on the short side (5'5") and when I sat on one at my local Yamaha dealership I could only touch the very tips of my toes on the ground when standing it up. I like it MUCH better lowered (they had modded one of theirs). When it's lowered it's almost as easy to lift as my baby ninja!
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March 18th, 2009, 09:58 PM | #32 | |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Wayne
Location: Brookfield, MA
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Honda CBR250R Posts: 585
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Quote:
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March 19th, 2009, 02:05 PM | #33 |
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
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There are so any nice bikes to choose from. Here are two of my favorites right now;
Hopefully this will help some.
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If everything seems under control; you're just not going fast enough! |
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March 19th, 2009, 05:19 PM | #34 | |
ninjette.org member
Name: Tim
Location: Maryland
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Yamaha FZ6 Posts: 117
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Quote:
Tim |
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March 19th, 2009, 05:43 PM | #35 |
Back on the Black!
Name: Alan
Location: Gastonia, North Carolina
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2006 Kawasaki Ninja EX250 (Black) Posts: 831
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jameZ ,
IMO I wouldn't go with the FZ6. I've ridden a friend's, and I found the bike lacking in comfort. Power it has, but not comfort. Yamaha makes a tough bike, but the FZ6 isn't one of my top choices. As to the Ninja, that I can't say, I haven't got to ride one yet, but I want to. Everyone I ride with on a regular basis has 250's. But for the money, I'd just get the Versys ... seriously. I don't claim to be a well-versed tech savy rider, but I do have 25 years of experience on different bikes. The Versys is the bike I would choose if it were me doing the buying... Just my opinion |
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March 19th, 2009, 08:22 PM | #36 |
Ramen Rider
Name: Gary
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2015 BMW R1200R, 08 Honda VFR800A (sold), 09 Ninja 250R (sold) Posts: A lot.
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the versys does look good, but at 33.1 inches, that seat is way too high for me.
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March 19th, 2009, 08:44 PM | #37 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Michael
Location: Little Rock, AR
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R Posts: 65
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by pure looks alone so far yall have convinced me to get the triumph daytona 675 when i do end up getting a bigger bike....hope its as comfy as good lookin
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2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Special Edition |
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March 19th, 2009, 09:07 PM | #38 |
Ninja Rider
Name: jameZ
Location: Texas
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - Special Edition Posts: 40
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So I got to ride a 2007 GSX-R 600 today, holy crap that thing was fast. I rode it around some rural area roads for about 30 mins, it was quite fun. It's amazing how quick you can get up over 100 mph on those things. First open stretch I goosed it and looked down to see the speedo at 130 in third gear . (keep in mind this is a wide open country road in the desert that is West Texas) Man did my ninja feel slow on the way home after that .
I also rode a 2008 FZ6 day before yesterday through some twisties, that bike was pretty impressive. The handling on it was ridiculously good and the power delivery was silky smooth. I have to agree with Strider though, I was constantly shuffling around in the seat trying to get comfortable. I couldn't put my finger on what it was, but I didn't feel comfortable on that bike. I may have to give it another go. Another thing, the stated seat height is 31.3" but it felt much taller, I was tip-toeing at stoplights. The GSX-R has a seat height of 31.9" but I could flatfoot that bike. Doesn't make sense, maybe wider seats? As for the Versys, that bike is much too tall for me, I am only 5'6" .
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Yoshimura Exhaust, Targa Fender, Zero Gravity Windscreen, Dynojet Stage 2, K&N Filter |
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March 19th, 2009, 09:19 PM | #39 |
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.
Blog Entries: 7
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1300 miles of experience and doing 130 mph on an unfamiliar bike. You're a statistic waiting to happen. Buy whatever bike you can afford (or can finance), it really doesn't matter as it won't make it 6 months before it has a salvage title anyway.
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March 19th, 2009, 09:26 PM | #40 |
Ninja Rider
Name: jameZ
Location: Texas
Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - Special Edition Posts: 40
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I was just trying to get an idea of the bike's acceleration on a straight open road....no need to put bad mojo on me Alex.
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