Next bike - CBR1000RR, GSXR750, GSXR1000, R1 or what?

I'm looking at buying a new (probably secondhand) bike. I currently
have a VFR750F-T which I've owned from new in 1996. I'd like
something a bit more exciting before I become a pensioner (only 6
years now!) so I'm looking at the above list but I'd like some
comments and advice.

I commute daily on my bike, including through the winter, so
durablility on salty roads etc. is important. I also don't want
something that is *too* uncomfortable or radical to ride, so my take
and questions on the above bikes:-

CBR1000RR - it's got rather blander since it first arrived but
some reviews of the 2004 and later models say it's a bit hairy
again. Is this true? Are Hondas still better finished than the
other makes and thus more likely to look reasonable after a few
winters?

GSXR750 - This is my favourite at the moment, not quite such a
beast as the 1000cc sports bikes but still good fun. The reviews
seem to say it's generally quite rideable and comfortable.

GSXR1000 - I guess it's much like the 750 but faster! Reviews
seem to say it's quite manageable.

YZF-R1 - I suspect I'll find this a bit too radical, comments?


BTW I'm looking at 2004 secondhand or (very possibly) new. Insurance
isn't really an issue, I'm so ancient!

 

By all accounts a fantastic all round road and track day bike

Rocks!

'Hog

 

I was already to get one of these, then had a test ride and thought it was a
bit of a wet fart, TBH. I thought the thou was loads better.

 

On 28 Sep 2005 11:14:55 GMT, wrote:

IMHO they're all equally capable. Unfortunately this is also true of
their ability to degrade into knackered heaps at the first sign of
harsh weather.

GSXR1000 and a SOB. YKIMS.

 

2004 model, is an excellent road bike
suggest you test ride them all and see what feels the best
I was crushed to find the 999 would'nt fit me after the 998 was perfect!

 

Keep the VFR for winter commuting & get an MV 1000 for summer kicks -
sorted.

 

They're all nice bikes so pick a colour you like and one that has a
convenient / local dealer.

 

In uk.rec.motorcycles, Cane amazed us all with this pearl of wisdom:

That's the option I'd go for, too.

I used to think R1s were wank until I saw a black and grey 2004 model.

 

It's a very good point actually, well that and riding position
comfort. For general use lots of modern bikes are pretty much on a
par.

'Hog

 

Well I'm neither actually, I'm about 5'10", however I am getting on
towards 60 so comfort is relevant.

Thanks for all the comments etc. so far.

 

I have an 05 Blade which I like, I certainly wouldn't describe it as bland.
Finish is better than most I'd guess. I haven't rode the others so can't
comment on them.

Tullyhubbert

 

Not over a K5 it isn't

'Hog

 

I have removed the worst of the Gay Blueness from the Bandit now.
G.Kernahan replaced the hydraulic lines with nice black Goodridge
yesterday. I guess I should drop by.

'Hog

 

"'Hog" wrote in message

About time too, I'll be out every evening until Sunday but I'll be at home
all day Monday. You "paid" someone to fit brake lines <shudder> Over the
winter I'll probably fit braided hoses to the Blade as on the track day I
done the brakes felt awful compared to the RRY.

Tullyhubbert

 

Crikey, you're starting to sound like the twats who always accuse you
of having a clique full of yes-men.

--
_______
..'_/_|_\_'. Ace (brucedotrogers a.t rochedotcom)
\`\ | /`/ GSX-R1000K3
`\\ | //' BOTAFOT#3, SbS#2, UKRMMA#13, DFV#8, SKA#2
`\|/`
`

 

Did you get my email to roche Ace?

'Hog

 

You only say that because it was too much for you.

 

Yeah. ****, did I forget to hit send? I'm nearly sure I typed a
reply... or maybe not. I'll check later, or tomorrow.

--
_______
..'_/_|_\_'. Ace (brucedotrogers a.t rochedotcom)
\`\ | /`/ GSX-R1000K3
`\\ | //' BOTAFOT#3, SbS#2, UKRMMA#13, DFV#8, SKA#2
`\|/`
`

 

^^^^^^
experimental

'Hog

 

Oh c'mon. If you don't think my reply was intended in fun then you're
a bit closer to a SOH failure.

Honestly? I doubt it. I didn't get a chance to ride Andy's t'other
weekend, but it was clear that in standard trim he was unable to
(safely, confidently) keep up with Daz and myself. And Andy's not
normally known for his slowness.

The thing that instantly converted me to the gixxer - yes, after I
rode Champ's - was just how easy to ride it was. It's a pussy cat.
That can roar. The 10R may be more of an animal, possibly 'quicker' in
the right hands, but nowhere near as usable. From what I've seen and
heard.

Although it'll be interesting to hear what Andy says once he's ridden
it for a while in its fettled form.

--
_______
..'_/_|_\_'. Ace (brucedotrogers a.t rochedotcom)
\`\ | /`/ GSX-R1000K3
`\\ | //' BOTAFOT#3, SbS#2, UKRMMA#13, DFV#8, SKA#2
`\|/`
`