My bike. '01 Buell Blast. 500cc single cylinder, 70mpg.
Dad's bike. 650cc Ural Deco Classic.
'75 Kawasaki H1 500 Triple
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| Initial D World - Discussion Board / Forums > Automotive Discussion > The Motorbike Discussion Thread! |
| Posted by: Bubs Jan 27 2008, 04:11 PM |
| In today's time of high gas prices, it's never been a better time to hop on a bike. Not to mention the extreme amount of fun you can achieve on just about any motorcycle. Got one, post it! Want to know more about bikes? Shoot. Have any other questions? Feel free to ask. I want to know who else on IDWF owns, rides, or wants a bike. My bike. '01 Buell Blast. 500cc single cylinder, 70mpg. Dad's bike. 650cc Ural Deco Classic. '75 Kawasaki H1 500 Triple |
| Posted by: Möbius Jan 27 2008, 04:56 PM |
Up here, a bike is useless at least 4 months out of a year. Couple that with the fact that the general populace cannot drive, and having a bike is more of an exercise in frustration than anything else.  |
| Posted by: Bubs Jan 27 2008, 04:59 PM | ||
I'm not far south of you, either. While this is true, I still get to ride from March-December so I'm happy.  |
| Posted by: Cyrus430 Jan 27 2008, 08:53 PM |
| I was going to get a 650 Ninja. Still want to... any advice? |
| Posted by: VRr1FD Jan 28 2008, 02:43 AM | ||
someone here has one, the guy with the beach avatar. http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/Article_Page.aspx?ArticleID=3250 i like them. |
| Posted by: Alex Jan 28 2008, 01:43 PM |
| My dad has a '99 ZX-6, "Rosebud." I've posted it on here before but all pics were temporarily hosted or the host crashed and burned. I'll get more of his bike. But, because of my dad's back issues (crushed disk I think) the Kawasaki really isn't the best thing for his back, so he's looking at BMW's grand tourers and similar bikes. His riding buddy has a BMW with something like a 1200. He absolutely does not want to give up the Ninja so I wish we could think of some way to make that bike mine, but I need to learn to ride first. I'm thinking a Ninja 250 or something would be fun just around town. I mean, I'm probably not the person to give 500 - 600cc of power to right off the bat. I'd probably get a little cocky, just like everyone else, and try something I'm not ready for yet. |
| Posted by: vwboyaf1 Jan 28 2008, 07:30 PM |
| That would be me. I love my 650r. Unfortunately I have to sell because I'm moving to Korea, and I can't ride or drive in Korea. Here is a pic. It has R&G frame sliders, to protect the fairings, a muzzy slip-on exhaust, and a custom LED kit that I did myself. Here is a pic.  See the link below for more pics and vids. www.ninja650.com www.livevideo.com/650rsuperfuntime/ The 650r gets 55 mpg, has 65 hp, 48 ft-lbs of torque, goes 0-60 in 3.7 seconds, and the quarter mile in about 12.3 seconds. A lot of people have viewed the bike as a girls bike, but you can make this bike anything you want it to be. Some people take the fairings off to create a cafe style racer, some swap out the handlebars, footpegs, and brakes to create a SuperSport type bike. This bike also races in the Moto-ST series and routinely beats the SV650. I also saw that people have been using the bikes chassis and engine in a dirt flat tracker and have been quite successful. My insurance cost 318 dollars this year total for full coverage. Of course, I'm over 26 so its cheap, But it is still way cheaper than any SS bike. I'm willing to part with it for $4900, but not until May. I still need a way to get to work. Here are some bikes that I got a chance to ride in Japan. They belong to a local bike gang that is friends with my brother in law.  Check out the cigarette vending machine, complete with lucky strikes!    |
| Posted by: mdb Jan 30 2008, 08:22 AM |
Love those Urals! Several years back I had a Russian Sputnik sidecar fitted to my racebike (Bandit 400). Quite a bit of fun! Miss that old rig. Been through several bikes, but I've settled on a '98 Superhawk. Swapped out the front end for a CBR 929's and fitted it with OZ wheels from a VTR1000-SP1. Nice balance of power / handling / practicality. Two Bro's cf exhaust has a really nice rumble too, roars in the higher revs. Just the range with a 4 gallon fuel tank is weak   |
| Posted by: redgreen Feb 4 2008, 11:22 PM |
| what do you guys think would be a good bike to get for learning. i'd probably like to take it to a track occasionally and do a bit of racing, but probably dont need something like a busa i learn to control something, or may stick to lower powered since it's probably more rewarding beating high powered ones. |
| Posted by: Bubs Feb 5 2008, 05:00 AM | ||
If you don't mind taking the risk of buying American, the Buell Blast I own is considered one of the best learner bikes out there, and one of the most fun mid-range bikes for experienced riders. It is light, relatively powerful and easy to control. If you want to know more about the bike, just let me know. If you want something a bit older or cheaper, the first bike I owned was a Honda CM400T. Not exactly a racing bike, but a great learner. Pretty comfortable, but a bit top-heavy and awkward for technical riding. |
| Posted by: Frost Feb 5 2008, 01:24 PM |
| Well technically while bikes consume less gas and get more MPG than cars, they aren't more cost effective in terms of transportation. In North America (ie: Canada / Alaska), we get crappy winters which limit use of these sexy beasts to maybe 4-5 months a year. Add the fact that North American traffic is downright hostile to bikers for most part, insurance costs become a nightmare. Biking is fun but I don't think I'll do it again in North America. Too many idiots. In Japan, bikes and scooters are EVERYWHERE and I would certainly hop on a scooter to get around town if the subway for whatever reason didn't cut it. Kawa's are great starter bikes. Best complete package from what most people tell me since I only ever rode a ZZR250. |
| Posted by: Alex Feb 5 2008, 03:52 PM |
 I'd love one of these. Available in 400 or 440. My dad's first bike was a KZ440 just like this, except I don't know if he had the smooth seat or this one. I'd rather have this one or the one that's even more built up in the back. Something to push my butt up against. Edit: Something like this!  |
| Posted by: Drew Feb 5 2008, 04:01 PM |
| I'd eventually want a bike. Something old, with modern workings...  Triumph Bonneville |
| Posted by: Bubs Feb 5 2008, 04:05 PM |
| Frost - I live in central NH and can ride from mid-March (depends, April at latest) and can ride until mid November if I dress up right. Given that I really start riding in April, that's still a good eight months of riding. I was riding in mid December this year when it was eight degrees outside. Could've been better if I had a face shield on my otherwise full-face helmet but still fun. Alex - That's pretty cool. Seeing that you dad's first bike was a Kawasaki reminds me of my dad's first bike. He and his friends all bought Kawasaki H2 400 Triples in '76. He says that you can rip a wheelie out of any gear on that bike because of the powerband. My boss, one of his high school friends, was the only one in the group to buy a four-stroke, a Suzuki something-something 400. My dad refers to that Suzuki as a "doggy piece of s**t." |
| Posted by: mdb Feb 5 2008, 11:39 PM | ||
Ahhh, but in Washington state no insurance is required. Though if you go that route, only hit something cheap or be sure to punch your ticket in the wreck  I rode year round in Seattle, not the driest of places. Only had to deal with snow a few times, though in the sidecar it was a lot of fun! |
| Posted by: FinToy-83 Feb 6 2008, 01:47 AM |
 Honda Monkey FTW.  I actually considered getting one, but then, one beautiful day, I managed to beat my cousin who was riding with his slightly modded Monkey with my bicycle on straight.. I had higher top speed you know.  |
| Posted by: Banken Apr 19 2008, 08:25 AM |
| So, who here has a motorcycle? About 6 months ago I started collecting parts for a 1994 Honda CBR600F2, and about two months ago I got it running, although after buying a frame and engine, and a bunch of other parts, I gave up and bought a mostly complete parts bike. It's probably the ugliest sports bike you'll ever see, but jesus it's fast. I'm starting a new job this week so I'll finally have money for a suit, so I can take it to the track (well, I need to find a place to live where I can keep and work on my bike and car first...)...although it needs new tires and preferably brake lines and pads since the ones on there won't stand up to the track. Once I get some fairings it'll start to look a little better, but I can't find any good street/track fairings that I like, and are cheap... guess I'll just get some race fairings since I don't really like riding in the street that much (although you don't have to have a headlight in Alabama to ride during the day). Here's a pic to show just how ugly it is... for some reason the previous owner painted over the windscreen, so I just bolted it on there to cover up the way I stuffed the harness into the fairing bracket. I've spent about $1000 on it so far... which in hindsight, I probably could have bought a much nicer one for that price, but this way I've learned a LOT about working on bikes (I swapped the bad engine on the parts bike for the good engine I bought... I have a pile of spare everything, including a pretty painted frame that the dick I bought it from wouldn't give me the title to). |
| Posted by: Dr.Ift Apr 19 2008, 08:50 AM |
| My father has a BMW F650GS Dakar,and I am going to buy a Honda Today 50 maybe in 2-3 weeks. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Apr 19 2008, 11:04 AM |
| This is a repost, and I think Bubs made a similar thread. Edit: https://idforums.net/index.php?showtopic=33339&hl= |
| Posted by: Möbius Apr 19 2008, 02:50 PM |
| *Topics Merged* Good catch, JZX100. |
| Posted by: N643 Apr 23 2008, 01:10 PM |
| lol i want 2 stunt ride & i want a honda CBR but my old math teacher back in high school had a black ninja he said with was little better that the CBR while he drives a accord he saids that honda cars are better then bikes while the other thing 4 me is because in canada bc around where i live there are lots of bad chinese drivers lol even though i am chinese i find that if i ride i might be in danger is there any that can help me on this |
| Posted by: MattW Apr 23 2008, 01:48 PM |
| My god, you're from CANADA? You're typing is atrocious for an English speaking native. |
| Posted by: N643 Apr 23 2008, 01:55 PM |
| i know i not a great typer but dude u should stay on topic |
| Posted by: RisfortypeR Apr 23 2008, 02:47 PM |
I used to have a 2005 GSXR 600. I wish I had it now because gas is becoming so expensive! |
| Posted by: zAE86BoYz Apr 29 2008, 11:11 AM |
| Planning to get a 08 R6 next week...hopefully my credit is good...Im ganna put a 1500 down payment. |
| Posted by: VRr1FD Apr 30 2008, 02:33 AM |
lately i've been lusting after cruisers. i wish i could afford to buy that without selling the 14. |
| Posted by: Wheels84ss Apr 30 2008, 08:59 AM |
 1980 Yamaha maxim 650... Picked it up for under a grand with 8800 miles on it... It's a 650 inline 4 (same motor as the Seca) and gets about 45-50 mpg... Light enough it's not a bear but enough power I don't have to get worry about getting run over either... will do about 125 if you run her all the way to redline in top gear (have seen no reason to test those numbers just picked them up online) and because it's older parts are easy to find and fairly cheap (needed a sidecover when i got it, 20 bucks) |
| Posted by: Banken Apr 30 2008, 05:15 PM |
| Change the seat and get clipons... I'd get a CB750 or a Z1 or something if I wanted an older bike. |
| Posted by: Banken Jun 4 2008, 09:45 AM |
| BUMP! I have some one-piece racing leathers now. They're rather hard to get off, but it's actually not bad at all to wear while riding, despite being about a size too small for me (they're literally skin tight... I can't get them on if I wear anything more than biker shorts and a t-shirt... and wearing a biker shirt makes it easier to get off). Black and blue is my favorite racing leather color. I haven't put a slider on the ground yet though... |
| Posted by: Bubs Aug 23 2008, 08:26 PM |
 My father and I went halves on a piece of  It isn't very efficient; 20mpg at best. But, it's worth every penny in high-octane. Three expansion chambers send a great sound and a good bit of smoke into the air as the two-stroke powerplant winds up to a 9,000 rpm redline.  While pretty doggy at low revs, once that needle pushes past 5,000 RPM, it will rocket you in excess of 120mph. Pretty fast for a '70s bike. It will do effortless wheelies in 1st and 2nd gear. Pretty scary considering this is still a step down from the world-famous H2 750 "Widomaker" triple. This bike is the ancestor of the high-performance street machines most kids my age swoon over.  It is incredibly fast, incredibly loud, incredibly thirsty, incredibly nimble, incredibly Honestly, I would not have it any other way.  |
| Posted by: Alex Aug 24 2008, 05:58 PM |
| That's a hell of a bike, Jake. The exhaust is super weird, and I don't mean the 2-1 pipes. The pipes are so small! I'm really digging it though. I'm still searching for my bike. My test ride should be coming up soon. Don't know if I already mentioned it in this thread or not but it won't hurt to restate it. My dad's old co-worker/riding buddy bought his daughter (my age) a Ninja 250 and she just didn't take interest in it the way they thought she would. So now he has a 250 sitting around and it's just what I'm looking for. We're going to arrange a date where Carl (dad's buddy) will ride the Ninja down here and I get to learn to ride. My ideal bike would be a commuter bike like a Kawasaki KZ, Honda Rebel, etc. anywhere in the 250 - 400cc range or maybe this exact Ninja 250. |
| Posted by: Dr.Ift Aug 24 2008, 10:38 PM |
| So I`m getting my A2 license next year,which lets me drive every bike I want.I probably will start a job,and try to get some kind of loan from my parents to get myself a bike.I`m thinking of these bikes: -Kawasaki GPZ500 -Suzuki GS500E -Kawasaki ER6-F(but it`s more expensive than the other bikes listed) Does anyone have used one or heard anything about one? |
| Posted by: Bubs Aug 25 2008, 07:16 AM | ||
It truly is; someday I must ride the 750. The funny thing is that it is the same displacement as my Buell Blast, but it has over double the horsepower, alongside being lighter. If you are looking for a good learner bike, look at your local craigslist. I bought, learned on, and sold a '79 Honda CM400T for $500 and then sold it for $500 when I was done. It was a great bike to learn the basics, comfortable, easy to ride. A bit awkward to ride around the license test course, but I sold it before I took the real test anyway. You could probably find something with a bit of a lighter frame and more sporting credentials. Hm...you live in Atlanta still? http://atlanta.craigslist.org/mcy/810701089.html http://atlanta.craigslist.org/mcy/807591592.html http://atlanta.craigslist.org/mcy/806765494.html http://atlanta.craigslist.org/mcy/800967548.html |
| Posted by: RSMi5FiT Aug 25 2008, 07:38 PM |
| well been thinking of getting a bike also, once im stable with money and take the riding courses. but yeah my dad ended up getting a 07 Harley V-Rod then exchanging for a road king i believe. pretty nice bike of course i want something more sporty and cheaper for now, was looking at the new 08 Ninja 250R but rather get something older and used to start out with |
| Posted by: Frost Aug 29 2008, 06:45 AM |
| Can't go wrong with the 250R. I loved riding it and it just felt right. In fact, I'm really pining to be on a bike again... god, why did I stop? Right, the dangerous idiots our ministry passes as drivers on the road... Damnit. |
| Posted by: Möbius Aug 29 2008, 10:17 AM | ||
You can also relate to the moron thread in general for another reason. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Aug 29 2008, 07:45 PM |
| I recently saw a KZ440 for 40 bucks, and the only thing it needs were Coil Packs. How good is the 440? |
| Posted by: Frost Aug 30 2008, 07:55 AM |
| That's a really old Kawa no? At $40, I assume there's much more to it than just the coil packs. Maybe you can't even find the packs anymore or worse, there's something hidden about it. If this is your first bike, I suggest getting something in the 2000s and second hand (cuz you're bound to drop it - everyone drops it EVENTUALLY). |
| Posted by: Möbius Aug 30 2008, 08:04 AM | ||
Second hand 250R, I say. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Aug 30 2008, 10:58 AM | ||
Well, I need something that is pratical, and away from scooters. I searched for a 250R, and I don't feel like spending more than 2200...... |
| Posted by: Frost Aug 30 2008, 05:06 PM |
| If you are purely looking for something that you can get around with, look for some Yamaha V-star 250s or whatever they were called back then. These are REALLY good beginner bikes (most schools here in the GTA use them as trainer bikes) and they are good around the city and very very maneuverable. My only caution is that they strain at 120km/hr on the highway so be careful ... and they are, like any 250 (Ninja included), susceptible to wind gusts and truck tailwinds. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Aug 30 2008, 06:13 PM | ||
That would be this, right?  It looks kind of heavy....  |
| Posted by: Alex Aug 30 2008, 06:13 PM |
| The Honda school here uses Nighthawk 250s. Similar is the Rebel. Both of which are on my list. Dude, those aren't heavy at all. Anything with a 250 is going to be suitable for beginners. |
| Posted by: Frost Aug 30 2008, 06:53 PM |
| The Yamaha Virago / V-star 250 / whatever they are called now are EXTREMELY light. Anything 250cc is very light and typically in the 300-350lbs range. If you consider that heavy then maybe you are talking about bicycles? The Virago is a very nice bike. Slightly more expensive (brand new) compared to the Ninja 250R but that's because of all the chrome you get with the bike (as you can see on the picture). It's a very nice sounding bike and very easy to use. You can't go wrong with it. |
| Posted by: Alex Oct 6 2008, 02:32 PM |
 Hopefully this will be sitting in my garage by the end of the month. 2003 Kawasaki Ninja 250. I got to ride it yesterday and I loved it to death. Right now it belongs to my dad's friend (rides a BMW himself) who bought it for his daughter. She just didn't get into it and now he was left with an extra bike. He has an extra jacket, helmet, a tank bag, a strap on bag and some other goodies he's including. All for $2,100, and he's even letting me do it in payments. This is my first case of spending money I don't have but I can make it fit in my monthly budget. |
| Posted by: Rudy Oct 6 2008, 03:57 PM |
| They call the Ninja 250R the "Beginner Bike that you just can't get off" for a good reason... You'll probably ride the bike for much longer than its training curve. I know a neighbor who owns a Ninja 250R, he's got 75,000 miles on it and refuses to give it up until it falls apart   |
| Posted by: Shirogane Oct 6 2008, 04:03 PM | ||
Looks like one bike I should stay away then.  |
| Posted by: Rudy Oct 6 2008, 04:08 PM | ||
Start out with a late-model Triumph Bonneville, it's not too fast but it's all the bike you'll ever need + great looks |
| Posted by: DeeezNuuuts83 Oct 6 2008, 04:22 PM |
I thought these Can Am Spyders were kind of cool: On the bright side, it doesn't require a motorcycle license. |
| Posted by: NismoTime Oct 6 2008, 06:35 PM |
| is that beacuse the is no countersteer?^^ |
| Posted by: Alex Oct 6 2008, 07:10 PM | ||
Please explain how that constitutes a bike you should stay away from? I'm sure I'll step up to a 600 in due time, but I think the 250 will keep me MORE than happy for a while. You could probably see my smile poking out of my full face helmet the whole time I was riding it. Only time there wasn't a smile big enough was when I stalled getting into 1st and on my very first complete halt. Forgot to clutch in  . I've only driven a manual car twice before so I don't have any of those habits down, but I found operating the gears on this bike exceptionally easy. |
| Posted by: Frost Oct 7 2008, 06:57 PM |
| I know plenty of people who rode the Ninja 250 and all of them have bigger bikes but they all commented on the same thing about the 250: "That bike reminds me of why I ride in the first place." - or something similar. The bike is EXTREMELY fun, forgiving and begs to be whipped. Unlike the GSX-R or any of the super bikes which HAVE to be whipped to be fun, the 250 is decent at most ranges but EXCELS at being whipped. It's proven to be reliable and looks pretty good. I have no clue why JZX100 you are staying away from the 250. If its because of friends laughing at your "puny" 250cc, I suggest you take the 250 to the track take some lessons and then challenge your friends in their 600+ cc bikes. There's a strong likelihood you will beat them if all of you have the same biking experience. The only thing I don't like about the 250cc is only when I'm not riding it and someone zips by in one. It sounds like a killer bee lol. |
| Posted by: Möbius Oct 7 2008, 07:03 PM |
| I have to concur, if I would get a bike , it would have to be the Ninja 250R. Either the older one, or the newer one, they both have really good reviews from experienced riders. |
| Posted by: Alex Oct 7 2008, 07:18 PM | ||
When test riding my bike, it was my first time ever on a motorcycle. Both my dad and his friend selling the bike to us thought I did REALLY well considering it was my first ride. We were in a small industrial park, the same one I learned to drive in, and I didn't go past 40-ish the whole time, revs were consistently around 6k every time I looked. The bike has sooo much more to it that I didn't even touch. I have so much respect for 250s now. My dad brought his 600 to our spot and even just after stepping off the 600 was impressed with the 250. I'm so incredibly... stoked for this bike. Today whilst driving my friend home, we passed by the EXACT same bike I'll be getting and she had to help me stay focused on the road. |
| Posted by: DeeezNuuuts83 Oct 7 2008, 07:55 PM |
| Just don't be retarded and buy a kick ass bike as your first one. My boss has five motorcycles and has been riding for quite some time, and one day, I was riding in his BMW 530i as we saw an orange Honda bike (I forget the model, but it's one of the nicer newer ones) pull up next to us and drive away. He immediately knew that the guy was a beginner based on what he was wearing and how he was positioned on his bike, and that he would probably end up messing the bike up. Sure enough, an hour later as we were driving back from another direction, we saw a crashed orange bike with pieces of the body on the side of the road. We were pretty certain it was the same guy. |
| Posted by: MattW Oct 7 2008, 09:15 PM |
| A friend of mine has a Ninja 250. That bike can seriously move from a stop. |
| Posted by: zAE86BoYz Oct 7 2008, 11:44 PM |
| I have a green 2008 Ninja 250r. This bike is so much fun and rides like a beauty. This thing will teach you everything. Great for beginners and Great commuter bike. I love this thing but maybe in 2 year Ill trade for a 600. |
| Posted by: DeeezNuuuts83 Oct 8 2008, 12:04 AM |
| ^ What state do you live in? |
| Posted by: Alex Oct 8 2008, 06:23 PM |
 A candid pic from my test ride. Guy next to me is my dad's buddy who is selling me the bike. Excuse my improper footwear! |
| Posted by: Bubs Oct 12 2008, 12:22 PM | ||
Maybe I'm not a "serious rider" but I just wear my sneakers out all the time. No worries. I started doing all the work on my Buell myself instead of trusting it to those douchebags at the Harley shop. Those guys are so hardcore about getting your money and then, after they get it, they don't care at all about you, your bike or how you will like their service. The Blast is remarkably easy to work on when you strip everything down.  |
| Posted by: Frost Oct 13 2008, 06:20 PM | ||
You are so damned lucky to get bikes in the US. Up here in Canadia, the 250Rs in blue were for whatever reason, rare to find. They are re-releasing the newer 250s in blue again. I always liked the combination of a blue bike, yellow jacket and black helmet. |
| Posted by: Möbius Oct 14 2008, 04:24 PM | ||
There was a low km 2007 model on craigslist a couple months ago, blue... If I ever get a 250R, it has to be Kawi green. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Oct 14 2008, 05:46 PM |
| I was horribly wanting to say "Burgman", but, no. Nice Kawasaki, Alex. |
| Posted by: Alex Oct 15 2008, 12:48 PM | ||
Cannot stand Kawi Green! It's such an obnoxious color, and every bit of K merch is that color too. There's very few accessories, apparel, etc that aren't super-f**king-bright-obnoxious green. Thanks JZX! I hope to have it as my own very very soon. |
| Posted by: Bubs Jan 3 2009, 05:36 PM |
| Yes! I sold that damn awful Buell Blast! I had bought the bike with a little under 5,000 miles and rode it until 10,000. During that period of, mind you, very light riding with no falling over or abuse, the front isolator broke twice, rear isolator broke once, an oil leak formed around the shifter, the intake boot broke three times, rocker box gasket went, there was a leak that spit gas and oil all over my legs, the motor mount bolts broke twice and a motor mount broke once. I did not beat on or abuse the bike, did not crash it, and did not do any wheelies or anything like that - even the fastest I went on it was 76. It held the road like nothing else, but it was dorky looking, relatively slow, and on top of the reliability issues, the local dealer was not much help - I waited a month and a half on the isolators! 70-76mpg was nice, but when you're spending that kind of money on parts, I may as well have been riding the 15mpg 500 triple. Regardless, I have it sold now and got a good portion of my money back, and am looking toward better horizons. I'm considering a Yamaha XS750 Special. Three cylinder - just like the H1 500 (but four-stroke). Funny to think that the 34 year-old, two-stroke triple is more reliable than a 2001 model American product.  |
| Posted by: Alex Jan 5 2009, 07:48 PM |
| @Frost: I think I read the blue/yellow/black pipes 250 was an '03 only option. I like it a lot, I just wish I had a helmet to match. @Apex: Kawi green has to be the single ugliest color for a motorcycle, haha. My pursuit of the Ninja 250 was heavily delayed by my job pretty much sucking. I kid you not, one of my paychecks was a mere $54 for 2 weeks. They just didn't give me any hours and I was even covering for people. However, recently they've kicked me into overdrive and I'm getting 4-5 days a week and back into range of buying that bike. I'm insanely ecstatic about the idea of owning that bike. I'm just a little intimidated by the safety course but the reward is just so worth it. |
| Posted by: David_m213 Jan 5 2009, 11:55 PM |
| I bought myself a new bike a few weeks ago. It took me ages to save up, but I've got it. It's a 2001 Kawasaki ZZR 600. Americans may know it as the Ninja ZX6E.  I know you lot do the whole milk and loaf in the picture thing but I don't have that yet. That is me standing outside the sellers house when I just bought it. My biking mate took the photo. and another.  I've only been out on it a few times as the weather isn't great and the roads are covered in salts. I have another bike that I ride everyday in all weathers. I cannot afford ANY car because of the insurance. |
| Posted by: Alex Jan 6 2009, 01:44 PM |
| VERY nice! Paint it red and that's what my dad has in our garage. |
| Posted by: WRX DEMON Type R Jul 6 2009, 08:39 AM |
| dunno if it fits in here, but my Japanese host father over here traded an old air compressor of his for this, a Honda Tact 50cc scooter. It doesnt run, but he thinks he's identified the problem - a leaking fuel line. I'll be helping him repair it over the weekends from now on (and probably see if he was right about the fuel line).      Cool thing about this badboy is that since it's only 50cc's, i can ride it when i get my Japanese license (which I must NOW DO, cuz my International Driving Permit is expired and i cant even drive my car). |
| Posted by: Bubs Jul 6 2009, 04:53 PM |
Yeah, that fits in here just fine. Scooters rule, man.  |
| Posted by: Shirogane Jul 6 2009, 05:20 PM |
Pictures later, but some ranting from a scooter-ist.  Just a few months ago, some d(bleeeep) of a mo(bleeeeeep) girl chose to drive past a Stop sign without stopping. WHAT THE F(Censored). DID SHE NOT SEE THE MOTHERF(Again)ING STOP SIGN IN HER MOTHERF(Again)ING SUBURBAN. Though the Burgman has got some cosmetic damage from T-boning the Suburban (Note: The Burgman's road never had the Stop sign, whereas the Suburban's road did), My father, while using it at the time, almost had a fractured neck and brain damage. If he died, then I go violent. I'm sorry, I love my Burgman and all, but losing a father is like losing something important. And if you were that person that caused this, I feel a little sympathetic for you, but this is horribly unexcusable. |
| Posted by: Bubs Jul 6 2009, 05:47 PM |
| Oh, my... Is your dad going to be alright? Did he get any severe injuries? |
| Posted by: Alex Jul 7 2009, 04:35 PM | ||
Inappropriate or not, I found this line HILARIOUS. |
| Posted by: MattW Jul 7 2009, 05:54 PM | ||
Just swear, the filter will take car of it. Honestly, you sound like a little kid with the self censoring. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Jul 7 2009, 09:01 PM | ||
What if someone you loved died, huh? UPDATE: Apparently, Allstate wanted to open the bike to see anything under the skin for frame damage and such, and then charge us if there's nothing wrong. Whoa. They didn't yet, as we chose to wait for the (Un?)insured person to cough up. Phew. |
| Posted by: Bubs Jul 8 2009, 05:24 AM | ||
I probably shouldn't drag this along, and it's probably in poor taste, but I think you may have missed what he meant. It's because of the way you worded the sentence: "losing a father is like losing something important." Well, glad to hear that he made it out alright. Allstate wanted to charge you guys if there was nothing damaged under the bike's skin? Got to love insurance companies.  |
| Posted by: WRX DEMON Type R Jul 8 2009, 05:46 AM | ||
I saw it too, and wanted to say something along the lines of what Alex did, but I had better judgement. None-the-less Losing a father is not like losing something important. A father IS important. |
| Posted by: Bubs Jul 8 2009, 05:59 AM |
| ^ I didn't get on him about it because I knew he didn't literally mean that, it's just ow it got written. I'm going to try and steer this back on topic. Oh, look! A bike!  |
| Posted by: Bubs Apr 1 2010, 10:46 AM |
| This thread needs to come back now that spring's here! Finally got my 125 registered since the weather will finally be nice for more than a single day. Filled it up with fresh gas and opened it up! Took it on a good trail ride as well.   Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8311.jpg to view the image in its original dimension.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8313.jpg to view the image in its original dimension.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8314.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. Also going to have the H1 500 Triple back this year with a fresh new motor.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF6610.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. |
| Posted by: Kiroshino Apr 1 2010, 04:09 PM |
Nice.  Closest thing I have is a 1970's Sachs moped. Currently not running, but I'm considering fixing it up. Would require all new parts (fuel/oil filter, lines, etc.) and probably an engine rebuild if not a very thorough cleaning. Unfortunately, I wouldn't have much use for it. Have an opportunity to pick up a free, low mileage 250cc Suzuki motorcycle. All I know is that it wouldn't shift right after it was dropped. Not sure if I'll go for it or not since my parents wouldn't allow me to ride it. |
| Posted by: Möbius Apr 3 2010, 06:14 AM | ||
1. Buy bike. 2. Use said bike to run away from home. ( j/k of course ) |
| Posted by: mdb Apr 7 2010, 04:44 PM |
| Same bike that I've had all these years, but I've been working on it continously, and here is the final result Just did the paint scheme a few weeks ago using the Duplicolor paint line from Autozone. Turned out MUCH better then I was expecting lol My 1998 Honda Superhawk (again): CBR 929 front end / brakes / fender CBR 1000RR Dash / Gauges OZ HL-02 wheels (for the RC-51) Honda VFR gas tank (adds 1.6 gallons over stock!) Suzuki Hayabusa controls (both clipons, more switches, handlebar choke!) Bar end mirros / block off plates K&N Filter Yamaha R6 Regulator / Rectifier HID headlight Carbon Fiber Two Bros exhaust Complete undertail with integrated turn signals LED Brake / Tail light APE CCT's Speedo Healer  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://www.orangearrowskarting.com/111.jpg to view the image in its original dimension.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://www.orangearrowskarting.com/112.jpg to view the image in its original dimension.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://www.orangearrowskarting.com/113.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. There were some other mods that I can't recall at the moment, but all together I couldn't be happier with it. Its the perfect bike for me |
| Posted by: Alex Apr 7 2010, 05:40 PM |
| I am reeeeally digging your bike man, and major kudos for the project. I'm really impressed. |
| Posted by: Twizted Apr 8 2010, 03:31 AM |
| Nice bikes! I'm also a biker and a bike enthusiast. I also LOVE WSBK and MotoGP!! Looking forward to bike discussions with you guys in this thread! Power to the bikers! |
| Posted by: mdb Apr 8 2010, 05:32 PM |
| Thanks! Was a really fun project, just have a little jetting to do and it'll be 100%. Since its bikes I can't forget the kid's new set of wheels (birthday was a week or so ago). Really cool, two stroke 49CC pocket bike. We'll add a touch of orange later so it matches up with Force India's colors lol   Goes pretty quick with me on it, scoots right along with him! |
| Posted by: Dr.Ift Apr 8 2010, 09:47 PM |
| That's a really nice CBR you got there,mdb. I'm trying to sell my RS125,because I'm probably moving to Japan next year,where I plan to get a TL1000S,if I don't get a car. I'm thinking of using the F650GS Dakar,until I go there,which we already have in house.   |
| Posted by: Phantom_R32 Apr 8 2010, 10:07 PM |
So I'm thinking about getting a bike this summer. I'm curious as to which are good bikes. I've been looking at GSX-R's. Especially this one below Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 532. http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a107/blkgsx90/GIXXER/GIXXER_HDR.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. The only thing I'm kinda clueless about is the miles. Is 18k high for a bike? How long do they usually last? Here's the details the dude put up 2001 GSX-R 600 18,693 miles Yellow with black accents. Newer chain and sprockets. New NGK plugs Just put Woodcraft frame sliders and rear spools. Also put two new CT2 tires on it, less than 1000 miles on them. Muzzy exhaust. He wants $3400 for it. But he will take $3000 cash in hand, since he needs money for school. Should I take him up on this offer? Or should I wait and find one with lower miles? I have about $8700 to work with. |
| Posted by: Möbius Apr 9 2010, 06:35 AM |
| Most people will recommend not to go with a 600 for first bike. Also, I think 18K is a bit high for bikes, does it come with service history? |
| Posted by: Twizted Apr 9 2010, 07:37 AM | ||
Very True. 600s are NOT good beginner bikes. I would advice starting off with a 125cc (small and light). Then after gaining experience one could move onto a 400cc bike (much more powerful and heavier, but still a lot less than a 600cc). After gaining much more experience with the 400cc, that's the time to jump onto a 600cc bike. From 600cc one must gain more experience still before jumping onto 800cc and 1000cc. |
| Posted by: Dr.Ift Apr 9 2010, 07:50 AM |
| Well,600cc Supersport bikes are not suited for beginners,as everybody says,but there are bikes which have less power and slower throttle response. For example,the -Yamaha XJ6 or XJ6 Diversion. -Kawasaki ER6N or F. or the Honda CBF500-600 should do OK. And saying to yourself that you will ride your 600cc supersport bike slowly would be lying to yourself,because you simply can't,it's just too tempting to have all that power under a twist of your hand.What is even more important,you should put your money on the best gear,then look for a bike with what's remaining. |
| Posted by: Möbius Apr 9 2010, 07:54 AM | ||
That sounds like good advice, especially that last bit. |
| Posted by: Twizted Apr 9 2010, 08:34 AM |
| When I was biking I actually spent more money on Safety Gears than the actual Bike itself. Stuffs like helmet, back protector, knee and elbow pads, riding jacket and pants... It's a good thing. Safety is much more important than the Bike. It's useless to have a cool bike if you're dead. You could cut costs on the bike, but not on your safety gears. That is the prime advice I would give. Always spend on the best safety gears (they're expensive, but in the event of a road accident that may be the difference between life and death). Also, riding a smaller bike like a 125cc or 250cc doesn't mean you are much safer. Remember it takes two to tanggo. You may have your bike under control, but if there are dangerous drivers on the road, you're still vulnerable. For example drunk drivers may ram their cars into you unexpectedly if you don't watch out. It's happened to me once. I was riding home late, and a Mitsubishi Pajero (imagine how big that 4x4 vehicle is) just came out of nowhere and sideswiped me. It broke a couple of my bones and I was confined in the hospital for days. Luckily I was equipped with complete safety gears and so the damage was minimized. Otherwise I would have been dead, seriously. |
| Posted by: Phantom_R32 Apr 9 2010, 10:24 AM |
| Thanks for the advice guys. I rode a Ninja 250r before. My friend let me take it for a quick ride around his neighborhood. I was able to handle it pretty well, and had no problem stopping it from 50 mph. So I'll start checking out bikes around that size. And for sure I'll get good gear. After all the horror stories I've heard about crashes and pics I've seen on here. *remembers the pic of the guy who went flying through the air and landed ass first on a fence post*. So yeah, safety is my main priority. |
| Posted by: Weezy Apr 9 2010, 01:32 PM |
| 01 with 18,693 miles is not high. With a good service record it will run like a champ to 50k miles and beyond. There are people that start out on 600+cc and are doing fine but most won't last a season. It is logical to start smaller and go up. Check out the 08 and newer ninja 250, pretty slick for a beginner ride. Forgiving to mistakes, nimble, and high mpg. The 0-60 with good shifts is less than 6sec so that's like 350z speed. If you decide to move on to a faster bike, the 250 will be easy to resell since it's a popular beginning bike. Pro 250 rider > amateur 600 rider on the twisties and track. |
| Posted by: mdb Apr 9 2010, 02:11 PM | ||
Nice 125! I've been looking through the local listings here for one for quite awhile hoping a good deal comes up, to bad you aren't state side! My favorite bikes are the small, light weight manuverable ones with small displacement enginges you can really flog on. Little two strokes are fairly rare here! |
| Posted by: Möbius Apr 9 2010, 04:30 PM | ||
The 250R is probably the most recommended beginner bike. I was looking at one myself... |
| Posted by: Alex Apr 9 2010, 08:06 PM | ||
I've test ridden a 250R too and loved it, but sometimes it pays to shop for a first bike knowing you'll grow out of it, and that's where the 500 comes in. It's still not the wildhorse a 600 is, and it's probably the #2 most recommended beginner next to the 250. Not to mention it won't be howling the entire time while you're just keeping with traffic flow should you make your way onto any highways. Apex, for some reason I imagine you being fairly tall, and probably a little oversized for the 250 anyway. I'm 5'10 with a 30" inseam and can walk a 600 flatfooted without much, if any trouble. 500 would definitely be your beginner. |
| Posted by: Twizted Apr 9 2010, 11:27 PM | ||
And oh... make sure the helmet you buy is both DOT and SNELL certified (so it could withstand tremendous crash impact). Helmets with only the DOT certification are good enough, but SNELL certification is much more preferable. Most European race helmets are both DOT and SNELL certified. When you have spare bucks after buying all required safety gears, do upgrade your stock tires too. That would add another level up on your safety. Stock tires that come with bikes are good, but you always wanna go that extra step by buying something with even more grip. Lastly, add "reflective stickers" on your bike if you could get them (its those stickers that glow at night like the ones you see on Police cars and Ambulance). Headlights and taillights on bikes are a lot smaller than on cars. So you are always less visible on the roads as compared to cars, especially when at night. You would want to be more visible to be safer from other vehicles. |
| Posted by: MattW Apr 9 2010, 11:48 PM | ||
If you're having a crash with "tremendous impact" on a bike, chances are you're not coming out of it alive. |
| Posted by: Twizted Apr 10 2010, 12:01 AM | ||
If you are not equipped you will surely die, yes. But if you are fully-equipped, you would likely still be hospitalized, but at least with a chance of survival. If you're into professional motorcycle racing -- sometimes you accidentally crash (like tremendous impact to the wall at high speeds and etc) and many times you come out alive. Of course you still sustain a degree of injury from the impacts and may have to be hospitalized, but then it does not really get to the point of death except on very rare occasions. The added layer of protection provided by the safety gears really makes that extra difference. |
| Posted by: MattW Apr 10 2010, 04:34 AM | ||
A sand trap + air wall is a hell of a lot softer than anything you're going to hit on the streets. |
| Posted by: Twizted Apr 10 2010, 05:01 AM | ||
Uhu... Then why the hell do riders still wear helmets when they ride on the streets if they believed that stuffs like helmet would not be able to protect them in the event of a street accident?? The truth is, it does offer protection even from the type of dangers the streets offer. I've been through street accidents before. Are you saying that safety gears does not and cannot protect people from street crashes??? |
| Posted by: Möbius Apr 10 2010, 05:31 AM | ||
Tremendous impact in a head injury would be anything higher than 10 mph impact speed? I don't see anything wrong with what Twizted has posted. Gear first, bike second. @Alex : Hmmm, something to consider, thanks for the insight. |
| Posted by: MattW Apr 10 2010, 09:24 AM | ||
Tremendous impact to me sounds like a 60+ mph crash into something almost stationary. Yes helmets are safe, as is all the safety equipment, but there is a reason most bikers are labeled as "organ donors" in the hospitals. |
| Posted by: Möbius Apr 10 2010, 11:47 AM | ||
And that's your argument against wearing safety equipment? If it's not, what is it?  |
| Posted by: Twizted Apr 10 2010, 05:58 PM | ||
Well that is why I said earlier that you'd have to buy DOT and SNELL certified gears. Before a safety gear, such as the helmet for example, goes to the consumer end, it is put to test (rigorous road and street crash testing that is). And if it passed, it gets the DOT and/or SNELL certificate. So in buying, if you see the DOT and/or SNELL logo on it, it means that particular gear has passed crash tests for the streets. |
| Posted by: MattW Apr 10 2010, 08:36 PM | ||
Go get your DOT or SNELL helmet, slam your head into a wall at 100mph, and tell me how it works out for ya. |
| Posted by: Möbius Apr 11 2010, 12:09 AM | ||
Are you saying that since it is a given you will have to slam your head into a wall at 100mph as soon as you get a bike, one shouldn't bother to buy a helmet? Because that what it sounds like... |
| Posted by: MattW Apr 11 2010, 08:07 AM | ||
Not at all. I'm just saying that he's making it sound like if you wear all the safety gear, you'll be immortal, when that's not the case at all. |
| Posted by: Möbius Apr 11 2010, 08:11 AM | ||
I don't think he said that. |
| Posted by: mdb Apr 12 2010, 08:51 AM |
| I don't think he meant you can head on a wall at triple digits and live... It DOES make a big difference though. Back when I raced there were a couple horrible crashes, a particular one with the rider airborn at triple digits into a chain link fence who lost limbs, but still lived. About the same time in one of the forums a guys friend died on his R1 at about 20 mph hitting a tree branch (no helmet) and went head first into the ground. In my hometown somebody actually checked out while not even in motion, just fell over (no helmet) and hit the curb. Your body can take a rather awful pummeling and still function, your brain on the other hand... |
| Posted by: takumi-kun Jun 6 2010, 08:15 PM |
heres my bike |
| Posted by: Alex Jun 6 2010, 08:57 PM | ||
Thank god you bought a Kawasaki that wasn't Kawa green. My dad's Ninja is red too, but about 10 years older. I'm assuming it's a 600? |
| Posted by: Möbius Jun 7 2010, 03:23 PM |
| I don't know man, if I would get a Kawi, it could only be 2 colours, black or Kawi green. |
| Posted by: takumi-kun Jun 7 2010, 04:29 PM |
| actually no its not a 600 its a 250. I actually was parked next to a ren ninja zx14 today it was a suprise to see another red bike let alone a kawi around here (fayetteville) |
| Posted by: Möbius Jun 7 2010, 04:44 PM | ||
That's the newest model 250, isn't it? |
| Posted by: takumi-kun Jun 7 2010, 08:14 PM |
| yea 2010 model when i sell this im prolly gonna get a 600cc bike |
| Posted by: Möbius Jun 8 2010, 12:55 AM | ||
The good thing about the Kawi 250's is that you can sell them for close to what you got them for. Good idea starting with a 250, instead of a 600, too. |
| Posted by: Alex Jun 8 2010, 08:35 AM |
| The current 250s sure look a lot fuller. I'm in the hunt for a 500. It's still perfectly suitable for a first bike with room to grow in to. A lot of people outgrow the 250 pretty quickly. How long have you been riding, t-k? |
| Posted by: takumi-kun Jun 8 2010, 12:22 PM |
| I used to ride dirtbikes, did that for about 3 years. Then didn't ride anything for 2 years. I've had this bike for about a month. Its a great beginner bike if you have no riding experience but if you have experience I recommend getting a biggerr bike but not like a 1300cc cuz you'll prolly die. |
| Posted by: Möbius Jun 8 2010, 04:15 PM | ||
I see people all the time with 600's who have no clue... Except to go fast in a straight line. |
| Posted by: takumi-kun Jun 8 2010, 04:28 PM |
| I know exactly what you are saying Apex |
| Posted by: DeeezNuuuts83 Jun 8 2010, 04:58 PM |
| I've toyed around with the idea of buying a bike since it's not hard to find good deals... though I'm not particularly thrilled with the insurance rates hahaha |
| Posted by: Möbius Jun 8 2010, 05:11 PM | ||
They're pretty cheap if you tack onto an existing car insurance and are 25+. Might get away with sub-100 a month. |
| Posted by: DeeezNuuuts83 Jun 8 2010, 05:19 PM | ||
Well, there are a lot of other variables... but if you get a sport bike, the insurance is going to suck unless you're getting liability coverage only. I insured a kid who had a DUI but was going liability only for $750 per year. |
| Posted by: Möbius Jun 8 2010, 05:29 PM | ||
That might be the key factor here, I think over here they don't look at whether it's a sports bike or not, just the CC's. |
| Posted by: DeeezNuuuts83 Jun 8 2010, 05:57 PM |
| Engine size also plays a role (since we do have to input the cc's of the engine, even though it's already evident from most bike names, like GSXR600) like you said. But a 1000 cc touring bike will usually cost less to insure than a 600 cc sport bike. Plus one of my companies that generally has the best rates won't insure someone under 30 with a sport bike for full coverage, but they will do everything else. |
| Posted by: Bubs Jun 9 2010, 12:31 PM |
I have owned this thing for the past month or two. It's been trail use only but I'm getting to work on it once I have a break from classes - I've been so damn busy. I originally bought it because my father and I were moving back to our old home, where I have literally dozens of trails accessable from my street. He convinced me to buy this thing for myself, and then cancelled the move shortly after. So, I decided to put it on eBay. He decided to shield bid for me without me knowing. This is a great gesture and all, except for the fact that he won the auction. So, I've decided that some outside force (or maybe just my dad) requires me to hang on to this thing, so I'll fix it up.  '75 Yamaha DT125. Single cylinder two stroke. It is incredibly fast for a 125, fun little bike. It fires up and runs like a champ. I need to put blinkers on it (or find a loophole), install a new speedometer cable, replace a couple of bulbs and put some mirrors on it, and it will be street legal. |
| Posted by: mdb Jun 14 2010, 06:14 PM |
Went for a ride in the rain, summer is taking too long  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://www.orangearrowskarting.com/Rainy1.jpg to view the image in its original dimension.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://www.orangearrowskarting.com/Rainy2.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. He's getting the two wheeled thing down pretty good! (Vid if you're bored!) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9svygD8HGk So far the neighbors have been supportive of our antics, I hope that continues until he can get his license |
| Posted by: Möbius Jun 15 2010, 12:56 AM |
| That kid is one very lucky kid. Good job! |
| Posted by: Bubs Jun 17 2010, 11:23 AM |
| mdb - nice to see that you're helping another young man learn the art of motorcycle riding. My father did the same with me, except it was dirt bikes since my street was dirt at that time. One more 125 update  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8433.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. I threw a temporary plate on it today and rode half way home along the public streets, and the other half on a trail that runs along train tracks. It rides just fine on the road, not surprisingly it has no top end to speak of. The speedometer isn't working since there isn't any cable, but I would be surprised if I was doing 45 at redline in 5th gear - not that I was expecting it to have a high top speed. Other than that, it is a really fun little bike. Given that I bought it for $400, it is proving to be a pretty good deal. |
| Posted by: Rudy Jul 12 2010, 10:40 PM |
| ^ ...and is it still? Come on man, keep us updated! Also, what's that scooter you own? I wanna buy a scooter... if I can convince my Dad to cosign on one, shit's so mines. |
| Posted by: Bubs Jul 13 2010, 10:39 AM |
| Well, I've owned two scooters over the course of my lifetime. One was my '86 Yamaha Razz 50 Turbo Intercooler 24v DOHC 6.2 liter diesel supersport. One day the  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF7313-1.jpg to view the image in its original dimension.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF7314-1.jpg to view the image in its original dimension.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF7315-1.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. Shortly later, I said screw it and bought a '09 Zuma 125 with .9 miles on it. A little over a year later, it has almost 3500 miles. I would highly recommend one. It does everything a regular motorcycle does but it's easier to maintain, cheaper to insure, and even has some trail capability and cargo capacity.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8466.jpg to view the image in its original dimension.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8464.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Aug 22 2010, 08:49 PM |
Thought I'd resurrect this thread with an Aprilia Scooter for $600. Even though the title stated it's an RS250, uh.... |
| Posted by: Möbius Aug 23 2010, 12:25 AM | ||
Did you just get that? Looks pretty cool. |
| Posted by: Alex Aug 23 2010, 09:37 AM |
| Yeahh... that's a little different than an RS250. So, what size motor does it have? Yayyy 2 wheels! |
| Posted by: Shirogane Aug 23 2010, 09:55 AM | ||
Trying to find that out myself, but I definitely know it's not anywhere below 125cc, and it's a 2-stroke (forced) water-cooled. |
| Posted by: Dr.Ift Aug 23 2010, 11:10 AM |
| That's an Aprilia SR,though I'm not sure which engine it is. But after a little googling,I think they only imported the SR50,though I'm not sure again.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_1Ilwthvk5-c/S-V3pvfE5RI/AAAAAAAAAT4/s_a9SCyNe7M/s1600/aprilia_sr50%5B1%5D.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Aug 23 2010, 11:55 AM |
| I'll be damned, it is an SR50! Thanks, Dr. Ift! |
| Posted by: Möbius Aug 23 2010, 08:43 PM | ||
Well, it was only one number off. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Aug 23 2010, 09:12 PM | ||
Eh, can't help it. But it does mean one good thing; No endorsement required |
| Posted by: Rudy Aug 23 2010, 09:23 PM |
| Paula really needs to show everybody here her daily transportation. It's hilarious and frightening at the same time. |
| Posted by: Dr.Ift Aug 23 2010, 09:27 PM | ||
You're welcome,nice to have another Aprilia in the forums I've ridden 50cc 2-stroke scooters,although not the SR50,and they are FAST as 50cc scooters. |
| Posted by: Alex Aug 27 2010, 05:48 PM |
| *sigh* This thread just keeps reminding me of my motorcycle situation. Of course nothing is going to happen as long as I remain in limbo between jobs (see: unemployed), but once I have the money I can either pick moving out or a motorcycle. I really, really want both, but of course I can only have one for the time being and I think we all know which would be the better choice. There's a long wait on my 2 wheeled dreams. |
| Posted by: Möbius Aug 28 2010, 07:08 AM |
| I thought you got a 250 a while back? |
| Posted by: Alex Aug 28 2010, 09:01 AM | ||
I test rode a 250 two Octobers ago. It's becoming a distant memory. |
| Posted by: Möbius Aug 28 2010, 10:09 PM | ||
When you posted pics I thought you got it already. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Oct 24 2010, 12:43 AM |
| As it turns out, a friend was selling me a DiTech (Same generation, just cheaper than mines) that, well, I couldn't get much out of him besides saying it runs like crap after 20, as well as no titling (It was brought over from Michigan.) Seeing as I have no experience involving EFI motorcycles, as I'm more of an old-techie (My SR's Carb'd, if some wanted to know), would this be a useful investment alongside my oddly-green SR? |
| Posted by: takumi-kun Oct 24 2010, 07:48 PM |
| I just recently traded in my ninja 250r and picked up an 09 zx6r and its a lot better than the 250 |
| Posted by: Shirogane Oct 24 2010, 08:05 PM | ||
... Well, what do you think the 250R was meant for? |
| Posted by: Bubs Nov 12 2010, 11:22 AM |
Literally just got this back on the road after a long hiatus. Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8617.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. It has a brand new motor. Everything is new except for the bottom case. I put it away because one of the bearings in the bottom end was making noise, and upon getting the motor apart I found out that it was a pretty old rebuild. Nothing was seriously broken, so to speak, just not in the best of shape.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8620.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. Not trusting myself to this job, I handed the bike over to a gentleman in a nearby town who owns a very nice motorcycle shop. It turned out that he not only was the last person to rebuild that motor several years ago, but he also owned it prior to the man I bought it from. He literally owned this exact bike many years ago.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8625.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. We attributed the bearing failure simply to old age, since it had been at least six years since it had been rebuilt. Six years of hard riding - because that's the only way a Kawasaki Triple knows. He did a fantastic job of redoing the motor. The crankshaft was damaged, so it was shipped out and completely restored. Brand new everything. It should be good for many years to come.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8626.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. He also put in a new fuel petcock that actually makes sense, so now I have one fuel shut-off instead of one to each carb. The carburetors have been made like-new as well. New chain and sprocket.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8623.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. It runs absolutely amazing now. It rode nice before, but now it is responsive at all RPM ranges. Normally these are pretty doggy below 4-5000RPM, which is to be expected with a two-stroke, but it just runs so nice now at all speeds. It's great to have this bike back. It's so loud and obnoxious and thirsty for fuel, but I love it. |
| Posted by: Alex Nov 14 2010, 06:53 AM |
| I've always been attracted to that bike of yours. Such a sweet coincidence with the mechanic you found! |
| Posted by: Boost1995 Nov 14 2010, 09:26 AM |
| Beautiful bike. I have always loved the RDs. Vintage is the way to go. |
| Posted by: Bubs Nov 14 2010, 10:22 AM | ||
He's a real stand-up guy, that is for sure. I have not done enough motors to be confident in redoing this bike, so leaving it to him was definitely the way to go. I HATE handing any vehicle to anyone else, so it is one hell of an occasion when I find myself legitimately wanting to let someone else touch any car or bike I own. Not to mention how he has already rebuilt that exact bike before. The situation could have not been more perfect. I think he gave me a bit of a discount because of it as well. The guy has a pretty nice business set up, tons of bikes in his shop. I was charged for the motor rebuild and parts relating to that, but I did not get charged much (or at all) for the following: Carburetors completely cleaned and rejetted. The "tip" on one of the right exhaust pipes was loose. He welded it back up. Issue with the gas cap gasket and gas cap latch was fixed. A bunch of other little things. It's nice to have a "legit" motorcycle again. Now that my father has his Harley, we can finally go on some long rides again next year. Probably going to do a few poker runs (basically a motorcycle road rally) as well. |
| Posted by: Bubs Nov 18 2010, 03:51 PM | ||
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| Posted by: Alex Nov 18 2010, 04:12 PM |
| Some new respect for that bike. What kind of speed were you hitting in the WOT bit? |
| Posted by: Bubs Nov 18 2010, 05:06 PM |
| I cut out early on that clip, but I let off at around 80. |
| Posted by: Rudy Nov 18 2010, 05:54 PM |
| It sounds like a friggin' Saab! Glorious! <3 |
| Posted by: Shirogane Nov 18 2010, 07:42 PM | ||
You're talking about the 96, right? |
| Posted by: Rudy Nov 18 2010, 07:55 PM | ||
I'm talkin' about anything that had the old 3-cylinder 2-stroke engine. |
| Posted by: Boost1995 Nov 18 2010, 09:30 PM |
| Sweet video bro. She sounds awesome. I love that 2-stroke ping. |
| Posted by: MattW Nov 18 2010, 11:50 PM | ||||||
LOL no it doesn't. This is the sound of a Saab. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXVRdSbKDT8 It sounds more like an old grand prix car with the Cosworth DFV.
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| Posted by: Jardim Nov 19 2010, 04:45 PM | ||
Were you there for the Limerock even with the old F1 cars with DFV's? things f**king SCREAM! |
| Posted by: MattW Nov 19 2010, 08:52 PM | ||
No. I only go for the ALMS weekend. |
| Posted by: Jardim Nov 19 2010, 09:04 PM |
| I only go whenever i get a free or discounted weekend pass...got a friend who works there. Good place to see cars fly, drink some brews and catch a tan haha. |
| Posted by: MattW Nov 19 2010, 09:12 PM |
| Good shit. One of the best tacks in the country for sure. |
| Posted by: Bubs Nov 28 2010, 06:34 AM |
| Advantage #6507 of Having a Scooter: Is your home on ground level? Just roll it inside and toss it in a closet for the winter. It'll fit just fine.  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF8660.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. |
| Posted by: Boost1995 Nov 28 2010, 09:48 AM |
| That scoot looks warm and happy. |
| Posted by: Bubs Nov 28 2010, 10:13 AM |
| Haha, that thing always looks happy. It looked happy outside with icicles dripping off the handlebars too. |
| Posted by: Boost1995 Nov 29 2010, 12:58 PM |
| Scoots are the greatest! As soon as I get the CB on the road I'm gonna get me a scoot too. There is just something about them that always puts me in a good mood when I see them. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Dec 17 2010, 12:16 AM |
| http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/mcy/2107554534.html Even the guy had the gall for selling it that high.* *Note: You can pretty much guess why. "Vietbodge." AKA, f**ked-up restoration. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Feb 4 2011, 02:50 PM |
| Thought I'd resurrect this thread with a new purchase.... I ended up buying a friend's SR50 DiTech (Tuono?) for less than 500, and the only issue was that the scooter runs fine for a few, but when you try to drive the thing, it'll die..... Though on the outside, normal wear and tear (A few scratches), but with it's usual SR-R livery. Pictures later as I sort things out with the title. |
| Posted by: Bubs May 9 2011, 03:37 PM | ||
Playing around with the new Flip cam (was borrowing one for rallyX) and using the Panavise suction mount as a helmet cam. Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y6/Bubs360/DSCF0959.jpg to view the image in its original dimension.
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| Posted by: Shirogane Nov 10 2011, 06:16 PM |
Even if it was absurdly cold, riding the Burgman is a blast. Even for a maxi-scooter. |
| Posted by: MattW Nov 27 2011, 10:22 PM |
my hog |
| Posted by: Boost1995 Nov 28 2011, 12:17 PM |
| Nice Scoot Matt! Here are my 2 bikes. 1971 Honda CB350 (project)  Image size reduced, original size: 1024 x 768. http://i409.photobucket.com/albums/pp175/Boost1995/CB350/023.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. 2011 Kawasaki ZX10R  Image size reduced, original size: 800 x 600. http://i409.photobucket.com/albums/pp175/Boost1995/photo1.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Mar 21 2012, 10:38 PM | ||
After a horrendous winter period, I am more than happy to go scooting around in my 'Priller. Image size reduced, original size: 4608 x 2592. http://i.minus.com/iTEMmwn4eXggC.JPG to view the image in its original dimension.  Image size reduced, original size: 4608 x 2592. http://i.minus.com/ibxylL7f9NzaFo.JPG to view the image in its original dimension.
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| Posted by: Dr.Ift Mar 27 2012, 10:44 AM |
| Boost1995,I really like the ZX-10R,do you know how it compares to the S1000RR if you have ridden one? BTW,here is my 2010 CB600F Hornet,I really like this bike,and I just fitted new Battlax S20's,but I'm selling it as I want to return to thumper bikes.     |
| Posted by: Shirogane Apr 20 2012, 09:02 PM |
| Once again, the internet http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/police-seize-bike-believed-to-be-in-youtube-speed-sensation/article2408136/ Even minute details will still be enough for police to find you. |
| Posted by: Rudy Apr 20 2012, 10:12 PM |
| I'd love to know how they managed to trace him. That was some damn good riding, BTW. Your only bet when riding a motorcycle (and it's a damn good one too if you're rocking 800 cc's or more) is that you've got far superior acceleration and top speed than a Dodge Charger, Ford Taurus SHO or Chevrolet Caprice and can slice into holes in traffic that the car drivers have to use lights and siren to make larger. But I guess if you're careless even in where and how you videotape, you WILL get caught. Then again, it looks like he was filming to show off, not speeding with a legitimate cause. (i.e. outrunning said police vehicles) Guess he got what he deserved. |
| Posted by: Boost1995 Apr 21 2012, 04:57 AM |
| Dr Ift - First ,nice bike! Second, I have never rode a 1000RR but this year in WSBK the 1000RR and ZX10 seem to be about the same. Both wonderful bikes! |
| Posted by: Shirogane Mar 28 2013, 09:08 PM |
| Y'know, it's been a long while since I've said anything about the Burg. Had her in storage for God knows how long and I had to go through the troubles of getting my endorsement (again). But lo and behold, she still rides like a champ.  Image size reduced, original size: 4608 x 2592. http://i.minus.com/ibeah8Ohk0cN2q.JPG to view the image in its original dimension. Also, I have never took the Burgman on the freeway until, what, late in the afternoon today? It was...... An interesting experience, I'll put it at that. However, I've also heard of the new CTX models from Honda equipped with a DCT. Tempted to research about the bike more. |
| Posted by: Shirogane Sep 10 2013, 09:35 PM |
So, I bit the bullet and now in the process of heading to the dealer tomorrow to pay for what could be my new-to-me Honda Hornet. I think I went overboard, but I just had to. Yes, it was 28K miles, yes, it was $4,000 out the door, but you know what? I think I love her. Image size reduced, original size: 1280 x 720. http://i.minus.com/ivqgvBYeVV4n7.jpg to view the image in its original dimension. |