December 15th, 2012, 04:19 PM | #1 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Bought a Ninja 650 yesterday
Have been impressed with the 1999 Ninja 250 since I bought it last year, so I dropped by a Kawasaki dealer yesterday to look at a Ninja 300 for my Wife. Have not purchased a Ninja 300, "yet". Fine looking sportbike.
The dealer also had a new 2012 Ninja 650, that I really liked. Worked out a fair deal and the 650 came home with me. It's a very sweet machine! |
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December 15th, 2012, 05:11 PM | #2 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Richie
Location: Arkansas
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2022 Honda CRF300L Rally, 2015 Ninja ZX6R 636, 2014 Ninja 1000, 2013 Ninja 300 (sold), 2011 Ninja 250R (sold) Posts: 479
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Nice bike! I've sat on them the last few times I've been in the dealer. I seriously considered one a while back, but I hated the handlebar position. I know it can be changed with aftermarket clip-ons, but I'm content with the 300. I may pick one up on the used market a few years from now. Enjoy it!
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December 15th, 2012, 05:30 PM | #3 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Thanks!
The bike fits me well. My neighbor (rides a Honda 929) & I took the bikes out for a ride today. Really like this Ninja! Breaking in the engine right now. Max 4000 RPM (55MPH 6th gear) up to 500 miles, then max 6000RPM up to 1000 miles. Like the looks of Ninja 300, too. Bet it's a fun ride, too. |
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December 15th, 2012, 07:54 PM | #4 |
Gixxer Powered
Name: Brett
Location: OH
Join Date: Mar 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2007 GSXR 600 Posts: 397
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Nice bike. I came real close to getting a new one but I couldn't get over the awkward shape of the tank and the seating position. Good all around bikes, though. It's unfortunate since I knew the guy at the dealer and said he'd give it to me for I think $6k for a new 2012 just to get it out of the dealership. As I start realizing I want a bike that's a little better for longer distance rides I kind of kick myself for passing it up, but you live and learn.
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December 15th, 2012, 08:14 PM | #5 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Some of my long day rides are 250 to 350 miles. The seating position should work for me on long rides. Will have good range with the 4.2 gallon tank, since some of the ride areas are remote. The bike I traded had a 3.1 gallon tank.
Thanks, |
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December 15th, 2012, 09:03 PM | #6 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Richie
Location: Arkansas
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2022 Honda CRF300L Rally, 2015 Ninja ZX6R 636, 2014 Ninja 1000, 2013 Ninja 300 (sold), 2011 Ninja 250R (sold) Posts: 479
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What's the engine sound like? I have not had the opportunity to ride a 2012. I've ridden a 2006 before that a friend picked up for a $1000. Definitely a lot more torque than the 300.
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December 16th, 2012, 02:20 AM | #7 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Eric
Location: Murfreesboro, TN
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): '13 300 Posts: A lot.
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Nice bike, been considering one of these. However, I've been told the vibrations from the twin is worse than our 250s and that I would hate. I've meet and rode with you so your opinion on this may sway me
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My replies are intended for street riding only, plz do not provide track only replies. Visit my new MotoVlog Channel !! |
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December 16th, 2012, 06:28 AM | #8 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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It's not loud but feels strong. Since I can't take it over 4000RPM right now and limited to 6000RPM until 1000 miles, the jury is out until I reach 1000 miles. Will report back after 1000 miles about twisty handling, power, sound, and vibration.
The front/rear peg mounts are rubber mounted to isolate engine vibration to the pegs. It was smooth yesterday at low RPMS. Will be raining here for the next two days, so can't test ride any until the rain stops. In a hurry to get 1000 miles on the Ninja to "really" check it out. EsrTek: Found this photo from our last Ninja 250 Dragon ride : Last futzed with by exploring/carolina; December 16th, 2012 at 08:52 AM. |
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December 16th, 2012, 10:42 AM | #9 | ||
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
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Quote:
Quote:
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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 |
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December 16th, 2012, 11:41 AM | #10 |
Daily Ninjette rider
Name: Hernan
Location: Florida
Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Ninja 250 Posts: A lot.
MOTY - 2016, MOTM - Dec '12, Jan '14, Jan '15, May '16
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Congratulations, Bill !!
I wish I had one. Enjoy it for many miles to come.
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Motofool .................................Never ride faster than your guardian angel can fly "Mankind is composed of two sorts of men — those who love and create, and those who hate and destroy. Love is the bond between men, the way to teach and the center of the world." - José Martí |
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December 16th, 2012, 12:01 PM | #11 |
The Corner Whisperer
Name: Chris (aka Reactor)
Location: Northern KY
Join Date: May 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 250 (track), 1992 250, 2006 R6 (street/track), 2008 R6 (track) Posts: Too much.
MOTY 2015, MOTM - Nov '12, Nov '13
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December 16th, 2012, 02:19 PM | #12 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Al
Location: York, Pa
Join Date: Dec 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2013 Ninja 300..............2008 Ninja 500-sold...2009 Ninja 250-Crashed Posts: Too much.
MOTM - Sep '14
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December 16th, 2012, 03:17 PM | #13 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Thanks Guys!
Always break in my engines the way the manufacturer recommends. There's plenty of time to wring it out later. |
1 out of 1 members found this post helpful. |
December 16th, 2012, 04:25 PM | #14 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Laurence
Location: Bangbuathong Thailand
Join Date: Jan 2012 Motorcycle(s): Green 2012 Ninja 250SE and a Yamaha fino scooter (my wife's really) Posts: 355
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nice bike I've ridden the previous model a few weeks back and i liked it, they say the 2013 model is even better.
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Be safe ride smart .....a dumb rider is a dead rider |
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December 16th, 2012, 04:36 PM | #15 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Hope to get a 200 mile twisty/sweeper ride in Tuesday. The suspension feels good and should have plenty of range on a tank of gas.
Thanks, |
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December 16th, 2012, 05:01 PM | #16 |
Ninja noobie
Name: NOOBIE
Location: Sydney
Join Date: Aug 2012 Motorcycle(s): ninja 250r Posts: 498
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Sexy
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December 16th, 2012, 05:05 PM | #17 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Like the red!
Thanks, |
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April 15th, 2013, 06:20 AM | #18 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Made some upgrades since the last post and have over 2400 miles on the 650, so far. It's a fun mountain bike and handles fine with plenty power for twisty riding. Already replaced the rear tire with a a Pilot Road II and have a Pilot Power for the front, when needed.
Installed an OEM rear cowl and made a TechSpec snakeskin pad for it. The cowl has enough room for a tire plug kit with CO2 cartridges: Installed Two Brothers full exhaust & juicebox pro: Installed R&G sliders & radiator guard: Installed TechSpec tank pads & Targa fender eliminator with LED turn signals: Installed speedmetal bar end mirrors that work fine: Last futzed with by exploring/carolina; April 16th, 2013 at 12:57 PM. |
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April 15th, 2013, 10:07 AM | #19 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Danger
Location: Canada
Join Date: Jan 2011 Motorcycle(s): 15 CBR300R, 14 BWS50, 09 FZ1, 09 Ninja 250, 06 CRF450R Motard, 03 ZX-6R Posts: 422
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Love the mods you did to the bike. Great looking 650!
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15 CBR300R, 14 BWS50, 09 FZ1, 09 Ninja 250, 06 CRF450R Motard, 03 ZX-6R 636 |
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April 15th, 2013, 10:08 AM | #20 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Luke
Location: Sevierville, TN
Join Date: May 2011 Motorcycle(s): 06 Buell Uly, 05 VStar 1100 Posts: 577
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Bill, how many bikes do you have you crazy ole man
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In the East TN Region (Knoxville/Maryville/Chattanooga area) come join us. www.EastTNBikers.com Great group of people who just wants to RIDE! |
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April 15th, 2013, 01:59 PM | #21 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Thanks Guys!
Lucas, Have five bikes right now. Installed a rear fender eliminator on the Ninja 250, too. |
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April 15th, 2013, 03:02 PM | #22 |
Ninja chick
Name: Allyson
Location: Athens, GA
Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 4
MOTM - Dec '13, Feb '15
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Nice bike! I used to own a 650. I was happy with it!
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Sometimes it's the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination. ~Drake Check out my Appalachian Trail journal, 2015! Postwhores are COOL! ~Allyson |
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April 15th, 2013, 03:41 PM | #23 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Jono
Location: Memphis, TN
Join Date: Sep 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Triumph Street Triple, 2009 KLX250SF, 2003 Suzuki SV650S (Sold), 2006 Ninja 250 (Sold) Posts: A lot.
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One of the best looking 650's that I've ever seen!
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April 15th, 2013, 03:54 PM | #24 |
Long Time Rider
Name: Blue
Location: Charlotte, NC
Join Date: Sep 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Posts: A lot.
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Looks good Bill!
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April 15th, 2013, 04:35 PM | #25 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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April 16th, 2013, 09:30 AM | #26 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Tony
Location: Buford, GA
Join Date: Mar 2012 Motorcycle(s): '14 Honda NC700X; '14 Honda CRF250L; '07 Lifan 200 Posts: 623
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@exploring/carolina - First, nice bike man! I was between that exact red/black 650 and my 300 but I went with the 300. Second, may I ask who told you to break in the bike and how to break in your 650? I bought my 300 with 0 miles on it and was given a complete walk around of the bike. When I asked a bout break in period the mechanic said to just not ride it hard for the first few hundred miles and to not red line too much until after 500 miles. He said they pretty much come "broke in" from the factory because they set the seals and such there during their tests. I didnt 100% believe him so I went around asking other mechanics and such the same question and they all said very similar things. Just wondered if your mechanic said to "break in"?
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April 16th, 2013, 11:49 AM | #27 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Thanks!
Did not ask the Kawasaki mechanics, I followed the manufacturers break-in recommendations. Try to perform most of my motorcycle repairs & maintenance, but I am not an engine builder, yet. The 2012 Ninja 650 owners manual break-in section recommendations, break-in period is 1,000 miles, not to exceed 4000 RPM for the first 500 miles, and not to exceed 6,000 RPM for the next 500 miles. Let the engine warm up for 2 to 3 minutes at idle speed to give the oil a chance to work up into all the engine parts, not to race the engine immediately after starting, and not race the engine in neutral, either. Have broken-in different types of gasoline engines and another thing recommended for some other engines is not to run the engine at a constant RPM for long periods of time during break-in period. The Ninja manual did not mention this, but I did not maintain constant RPM during the first 1,000 miles, either. Last futzed with by exploring/carolina; April 22nd, 2013 at 04:55 AM. |
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April 28th, 2013, 04:07 PM | #28 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Tommy
Location: Missouri
Join Date: Jul 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2014 Honda CRF250L, 2010 ninja 250r Posts: 413
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Very nice.
I didn't think it was possible to make a 650 look good but you did it. |
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April 28th, 2013, 04:41 PM | #29 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Had a idea of what I wanted to do to the Ninja 650 a week after I bought it. The 650 has all the power I need for mountain riding and gets many compliments on the looks, too. Once had a SV650 and this Ninja makes about the same power. The SV650 90 degree V twin is sweet coming out of curves, but as long as I have the Ninja 650 in the correct gear, it does fine coming out of curves. The Ninja 650 is very comfortable for all day rides, too!
Thanks, |
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May 16th, 2013, 05:19 PM | #30 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Benji
Location: Wadsworth, IL
Join Date: Aug 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250r (Sold), 2009 FZ6, 2015 Honda Grom Posts: 898
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Bike looks really good!!
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May 17th, 2013, 09:16 AM | #31 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Jesse
Location: Ann arbor mi
Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2007 ninja 250r Posts: 374
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I always follow this.
http://www.mototuneusa.com/break_in_secrets.htm |
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May 17th, 2013, 12:35 PM | #32 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Bill
Location: NC
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250 Posts: 282
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Thanks, thisisbenji!
Thanks for the link, Jesse8931. |
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