Can't make up my mind - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

mnealp33 · 05-25-2004, 05:16 AM

I'm stuck and can't make up my mind on which bike to get the more i think about it the more confused i get maybe you guys can give me some Pros and Cons, i need some help deciding between: GSXR 600, GSXR 750, or SV1000S

I'm an experienced rider with good amount of time on the track, but this bike will be, for a while anyway, strickly street and weekend cruising but i just can't make up my mind for me the main reasons are:

GSXR 600:
+great small bike
+Price is great
-lot of high reving
-not a "big" bike
GSXR 750
+great all around
-towards the top of what i want to spend
+ergos will be great for twisties
-ergoes get a little cramped on loooonnngg trips
SV1000S
+Nice motor for regular riding
meduim pricing
-not a "true" sport bike

**Uncle Bob** · 05-25-2004, 09:23 AM

I'm sensing from your post that comfort is moving up in your list of priorities. That's ok, now how big a compromise are you willing to make power wise in order to attain the comfort level you really seek ?.

This sounds like a plea for a V-Strom to me.

Memphis · 05-25-2004, 10:17 AM

I am 5'10" and about 140 lbs. I am a lil small guy weight wise and it feels perfectly fine when leaning the bike in low around a turn and then comming out of it. From what I have been reading, someone correct me if I am wrong since I am a new rider, that everyone is saying that 750+ are really touchy more than the 600 and wiping around of your twists my be a lil more challenging than fun. Plus I can cruise with my 600 and I am more comfortable than I would have thought to be on a streetbike on the long riding I partact with my dad. I personally like the 600. It is a lil smaller so you can throw it around more easily underyou when you will be ripping up those turns @ 100mph..

stevie c · 05-26-2004, 11:57 AM

I think this has to be a personal choice,they are all good bikes and do what they say on the tin.

For me it would have to be the 600,but thats for me and other people would be happier on other bikes.

Happy hunting!

dmdan · 05-26-2004, 11:11 PM

Well,
I am going to put a vote in for the 750. 600's are mopeds, especially since you have track time. There are going to be times when you want to get out of someones way, and you may be stuck in a gear at 5k or 6k rpms. I am pretty sure the 750 will get you out of it, while the 600 may cause you trouble. I don't know tho, I am glad the other people are happy with thier 600's so I don't want to diss them. As for the 750 going into turns, PFFFFF. I live on a mountain. it is 3 miles up, all turns ... ALL TURNS. I have no problem, the bike is light, and small in my mind and bounces in and out of them without a problem. I would have no idea about how the throttle response is with the other bikes. Mine is touchy, but grab a helmet, its a sportbike, you learn how to control it like your g-friends g spot (its too bad some people never really have control over either).
The thing that really points out is your experience and track time. Remember you can always get some heli bars, and rear sets that make you feel a bit better. I agree the 750 isn't like my couch, but I think only the degree angle on the bars is a problem. I can sit up, or crouch down and feel comphy. (remember i ride 60 miles in one direction every day). I was devloping a little kink in my wrist, but i made a concerted effort to take my weight off the arm that was on the throttle (the only wrist that hurt) and it has cleared up.

In the end its your fun, your comfort, and your decision, and either way, I am still going to be insane. I choose mine because i can squeeze in between traffic, go faster than i really should, and look sassy doing it. I have been riding it for 2 months, my shoulders, neck, back and hips feel fine, just a bit kinky on that one wrist, and its getting better.

When I get a weekend cruizer, Its gonna be a fatboy, so I guess thats my idea of recreation.

Crazy1ear · 05-27-2004, 09:56 PM

I'm only chiming in because you asked, but have you considered the GSX750 (Katana)?

I just picked one up and was very surprised by the sportbike power and touring comfort. I've snapped the throttle and within seconds had the speedometer needle to a location that I never want to see it in again and have leaned it into corners almost as low as my previous 600 Ninja. All this and after a long evening of riding at highway and city speeds noticed I had zero discomfort (no burning shoulders or wrist pain, no leg cramps, etc.). You can ride like a sport bike with your toes on the foot pegs, or rest your heels there (like on a cruiser) for a more upright riding position.

I honestly believe this is the best 750 ever made - and I am a huge XR fan (remember the 1100!?).

dmdan · 05-27-2004, 10:20 PM

you know those kats aint that bad.
They are pretty much a couple years ago technology in a fresh package. at 3g less, its economy. But they do look like bubble bikes.

mnealp33 · 05-27-2004, 11:04 PM

I had actually thought about getting a Katana, but just can't get by the looks of the thing, but i have to say that the more i read up on all the bikes that i'm interested in the more i am leaning towards the SV-S

WannaBusa · 06-01-2004, 01:23 PM

I am also having a hard time making up my mind on a new Suzuki. I really want a Hayabusa because it's the best looking cycle I've ever seen. The problem is that I haven't ridden or owned a motorcycle in 10+ years.

I know that these big bikes are for experienced riders but I don't want to buy a smaller *less expensive* bike to learn on and then in a few years trade up to the hayabusa. Right now I have the opportunity to pick up a brand new Hayabusa as a gift from a relative. That's right, FREE!

The Katana's are cool but why get a bike I don't want when I have the chance to go straight for the best.

I am 6 foot tall, 210 lbs, and like I said I have ridden bikes before, even large ones, just not in the last 10 years.

What would you guys do?

pitbull76 · 06-01-2004, 01:25 PM

Why not take the free Busa and buy a used smaller bike to use for a year so you can ease back into riding. Then you can have it all! How much riding did you do in the past?

WannaBusa · 06-01-2004, 01:45 PM

2 Bikes isn't possible, it's the Hayabusa or something else.

I did a lot of riding in the past and also lived through 6 friends getting killed trying stupid stunts. I believe that I am a cautious rider because of that. Of course that wont save you from the "person-on-a-cell-phone-not-paying attention" type of accident.

I know the Hayabusa is a powerful bike but according to the specs, the seat height is a few inches lower that the GSXR600, 750 and 1000. The dry weight wasn't that much higher either, I was surprised to see.

I DO plan on taking a safety course and getting my cycle license with their loaner cycle before I go to the dealership and ask for a test drive, that's for sure!

98G · 06-01-2004, 02:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WannaBusa

2 Bikes isn't possible, it's the Hayabusa or something else.

I did a lot of riding in the past and also lived through 6 friends getting killed trying stupid stunts. I believe that I am a cautious rider because of that. Of course that wont save you from the "person-on-a-cell-phone-not-paying attention" type of accident.

I know the Hayabusa is a powerful bike but according to the specs, the seat height is a few inches lower that the GSXR600, 750 and 1000. The dry weight wasn't that much higher either, I was surprised to see.

I DO plan on taking a safety course and getting my cycle license with their loaner cycle before I go to the dealership and ask for a test drive, that's for sure!

///I was in pretty much the same position about a month ago. I bought the 2004 'busa and have no regrets. I hadn't been on a MC in just over 7 years. No problems with the 'busa, no close calls, no complaints. 2500 miles and counting...I consider myself cautious, and I ride within my abilities.

98G

WannaBusa · 06-01-2004, 05:33 PM

Thanks 98G,

I went by the dealership this afternoon and picked up some more info. They have the purple/black 'busa there. God I love that bike!

Any other tips you can give me about the 'busa?

dmdan · 06-01-2004, 10:41 PM

GEESH,
I wanted the busa so bad too, all that muscle looked bad ass, plus the nasty logo on it. I decided on not even a 1K, but a 750 and I am so pleased its rediculous. I would be a spot on the pavement right now if I got a faster bike. I live on a mountain, that requires precision cornering, acelleration and braking. The busa is HUGE> and wide, not as good to split through traffic with (as I do on my commute). Plus I would get in so much trouble with the speed. Most busas you see, are all tricked out. I can't help you decide, but sleep on it for a couple nights, and make sense out of what you want and what you need.

I am so happy with my decision, as I am sure you will be with what ever you decide. Plus a good condition busa costs around 9-10K and my showroom condition 02 750 (3800 miles) was 6900. I suppose you would be financing a new one so that wouldn't be a problem

good luck

mnealp33 · 06-03-2004, 01:07 AM

well i have made up my mind i'm getting the SV 1000s my reasons are I figured the best street bike for the money plus won't take much to get it ready for the track when i get ready to do that so i should be getting it next week

Hoomgar · 06-03-2004, 11:10 AM

And I don't think you will be disappointed. It is very sport bikeish and you should be fine with it. It's a very good common ground for what your looking for.

vstrombc · 06-03-2004, 05:18 PM

good choice man !!! you are going to LOVE that V-twin. and you won't find it lacking for power. The narrow feel of a v-twin vs an inline 4 is quite notoceable and makes direction changes is the twisties super easy

even detuned from the SVS, the V-Strom really moves out in the real world

keep us posted on your impressions !

06-03-2004, 06:45 PM

i'd go with the gixxer 600. great speed and handling plus comfort. you wouldnt be needing a new bike for years after this bike.

stevie c · 06-04-2004, 10:35 AM

I just read through this thread and I can honestly say I have never heard anybody call a gixer600 a moped before!

05-25-2004, 05:16 AM	#1 (permalink)
mnealp33 Newbie Joined: May 2004 Posts: 10	Can't make up my mind I'm stuck and can't make up my mind on which bike to get the more i think about it the more confused i get maybe you guys can give me some Pros and Cons, i need some help deciding between: GSXR 600, GSXR 750, or SV1000S I'm an experienced rider with good amount of time on the track, but this bike will be, for a while anyway, strickly street and weekend cruising but i just can't make up my mind for me the main reasons are: GSXR 600: +great small bike +Price is great -lot of high reving -not a "big" bike GSXR 750 +great all around -towards the top of what i want to spend +ergos will be great for twisties -ergoes get a little cramped on loooonnngg trips SV1000S +Nice motor for regular riding meduim pricing -not a "true" sport bike

05-25-2004, 09:23 AM	#2 (permalink)
Uncle Bob Site Admin & Squeegee Boy Joined: Dec 1969 Bike: 2003 Volusia SE Location: Montréal, Québec, Canada Posts: 107	I'm sensing from your post that comfort is moving up in your list of priorities. That's ok, now how big a compromise are you willing to make power wise in order to attain the comfort level you really seek ?. This sounds like a plea for a V-Strom to me. __________________ Yadda yadda yadda, whatever, they ain't going to listen anyway.

05-25-2004, 10:17 AM	#3 (permalink)
Memphis In Training Joined: May 2004 Location: Ellington, CT Posts: 121	I am 5'10" and about 140 lbs. I am a lil small guy weight wise and it feels perfectly fine when leaning the bike in low around a turn and then comming out of it. From what I have been reading, someone correct me if I am wrong since I am a new rider, that everyone is saying that 750+ are really touchy more than the 600 and wiping around of your twists my be a lil more challenging than fun. Plus I can cruise with my 600 and I am more comfortable than I would have thought to be on a streetbike on the long riding I partact with my dad. I personally like the 600. It is a lil smaller so you can throw it around more easily underyou when you will be ripping up those turns @ 100mph.. __________________ 02 Gsx-r 600, 73 Chevy Nova SS Hitting water at 100mph feels like asphalt, What does asphalt feel like at 100mph? Now I have experienced what sliding across asphault feels like @ 70 mph

05-26-2004, 11:57 AM	#4 (permalink)
stevie c Sit speling cheker Joined: Mar 2004 Bike: GSX-R 600 K1 Location: Northants,UK Posts: 1,631	I think this has to be a personal choice,they are all good bikes and do what they say on the tin. For me it would have to be the 600,but thats for me and other people would be happier on other bikes. Happy hunting! __________________ Stevie C '02 Gixer 600 K1,Yellow and Black (fastest colour!), always beats red ones!! Why put off until tomorrow what you can get someone else to do for you today.

05-26-2004, 11:11 PM	#5 (permalink)
dmdan Seat Tester Joined: Mar 2004 Posts: 85	Well, I am going to put a vote in for the 750. 600's are mopeds, especially since you have track time. There are going to be times when you want to get out of someones way, and you may be stuck in a gear at 5k or 6k rpms. I am pretty sure the 750 will get you out of it, while the 600 may cause you trouble. I don't know tho, I am glad the other people are happy with thier 600's so I don't want to diss them. As for the 750 going into turns, PFFFFF. I live on a mountain. it is 3 miles up, all turns ... ALL TURNS. I have no problem, the bike is light, and small in my mind and bounces in and out of them without a problem. I would have no idea about how the throttle response is with the other bikes. Mine is touchy, but grab a helmet, its a sportbike, you learn how to control it like your g-friends g spot (its too bad some people never really have control over either). The thing that really points out is your experience and track time. Remember you can always get some heli bars, and rear sets that make you feel a bit better. I agree the 750 isn't like my couch, but I think only the degree angle on the bars is a problem. I can sit up, or crouch down and feel comphy. (remember i ride 60 miles in one direction every day). I was devloping a little kink in my wrist, but i made a concerted effort to take my weight off the arm that was on the throttle (the only wrist that hurt) and it has cleared up. In the end its your fun, your comfort, and your decision, and either way, I am still going to be insane. I choose mine because i can squeeze in between traffic, go faster than i really should, and look sassy doing it. I have been riding it for 2 months, my shoulders, neck, back and hips feel fine, just a bit kinky on that one wrist, and its getting better. When I get a weekend cruizer, Its gonna be a fatboy, so I guess thats my idea of recreation. __________________ 2002 GSXR-750 My blue and white baby DevilBikes GP 5 undertail, Total Performance bar ends, GSXR frame sliders, GSXR heel guards. Swingarm mounted tag. Watsendesign Flush mount LED blinkers. Sportec M1 sneakers. AlpineStars gear. Arai Lid.

05-27-2004, 09:56 PM	#6 (permalink)
Crazy1ear Seat Tester Joined: May 2004 Location: Newfoundland Posts: 61	Because you asked I'm only chiming in because you asked, but have you considered the GSX750 (Katana)? I just picked one up and was very surprised by the sportbike power and touring comfort. I've snapped the throttle and within seconds had the speedometer needle to a location that I never want to see it in again and have leaned it into corners almost as low as my previous 600 Ninja. All this and after a long evening of riding at highway and city speeds noticed I had zero discomfort (no burning shoulders or wrist pain, no leg cramps, etc.). You can ride like a sport bike with your toes on the foot pegs, or rest your heels there (like on a cruiser) for a more upright riding position. I honestly believe this is the best 750 ever made - and I am a huge XR fan (remember the 1100!?). __________________ Crazy

05-27-2004, 10:20 PM	#7 (permalink)
dmdan Seat Tester Joined: Mar 2004 Posts: 85	you know those kats aint that bad. They are pretty much a couple years ago technology in a fresh package. at 3g less, its economy. But they do look like bubble bikes. __________________ 2002 GSXR-750 My blue and white baby DevilBikes GP 5 undertail, Total Performance bar ends, GSXR frame sliders, GSXR heel guards. Swingarm mounted tag. Watsendesign Flush mount LED blinkers. Sportec M1 sneakers. AlpineStars gear. Arai Lid.

05-27-2004, 11:04 PM	#8 (permalink)
mnealp33 Newbie Joined: May 2004 Posts: 10	I had actually thought about getting a Katana, but just can't get by the looks of the thing, but i have to say that the more i read up on all the bikes that i'm interested in the more i am leaning towards the SV-S

06-01-2004, 01:23 PM	#9 (permalink)
WannaBusa Newbie Joined: Jun 2004 Location: Daytona Beach, FL Posts: 4	Can't decide I am also having a hard time making up my mind on a new Suzuki. I really want a Hayabusa because it's the best looking cycle I've ever seen. The problem is that I haven't ridden or owned a motorcycle in 10+ years. I know that these big bikes are for experienced riders but I don't want to buy a smaller less expensive bike to learn on and then in a few years trade up to the hayabusa. Right now I have the opportunity to pick up a brand new Hayabusa as a gift from a relative. That's right, FREE! The Katana's are cool but why get a bike I don't want when I have the chance to go straight for the best. I am 6 foot tall, 210 lbs, and like I said I have ridden bikes before, even large ones, just not in the last 10 years. What would you guys do?

06-01-2004, 01:25 PM	#10 (permalink)
pitbull76 Found second gear by accident Joined: Dec 2003 Location: Montgomery, IL Posts: 330	Why not take the free Busa and buy a used smaller bike to use for a year so you can ease back into riding. Then you can have it all! How much riding did you do in the past? __________________ 1994 Kawasaki ZX-6E

06-01-2004, 01:45 PM	#11 (permalink)
WannaBusa Newbie Joined: Jun 2004 Location: Daytona Beach, FL Posts: 4	2 Bikes isn't possible, it's the Hayabusa or something else. I did a lot of riding in the past and also lived through 6 friends getting killed trying stupid stunts. I believe that I am a cautious rider because of that. Of course that wont save you from the "person-on-a-cell-phone-not-paying attention" type of accident. I know the Hayabusa is a powerful bike but according to the specs, the seat height is a few inches lower that the GSXR600, 750 and 1000. The dry weight wasn't that much higher either, I was surprised to see. I DO plan on taking a safety course and getting my cycle license with their loaner cycle before I go to the dealership and ask for a test drive, that's for sure!

06-01-2004, 05:33 PM	#13 (permalink)
WannaBusa Newbie Joined: Jun 2004 Location: Daytona Beach, FL Posts: 4	Thanks 98G, I went by the dealership this afternoon and picked up some more info. They have the purple/black 'busa there. God I love that bike! Any other tips you can give me about the 'busa?

06-01-2004, 10:41 PM	#14 (permalink)
dmdan Seat Tester Joined: Mar 2004 Posts: 85	GEESH, I wanted the busa so bad too, all that muscle looked bad ass, plus the nasty logo on it. I decided on not even a 1K, but a 750 and I am so pleased its rediculous. I would be a spot on the pavement right now if I got a faster bike. I live on a mountain, that requires precision cornering, acelleration and braking. The busa is HUGE> and wide, not as good to split through traffic with (as I do on my commute). Plus I would get in so much trouble with the speed. Most busas you see, are all tricked out. I can't help you decide, but sleep on it for a couple nights, and make sense out of what you want and what you need. I am so happy with my decision, as I am sure you will be with what ever you decide. Plus a good condition busa costs around 9-10K and my showroom condition 02 750 (3800 miles) was 6900. I suppose you would be financing a new one so that wouldn't be a problem good luck __________________ 2002 GSXR-750 My blue and white baby DevilBikes GP 5 undertail, Total Performance bar ends, GSXR frame sliders, GSXR heel guards. Swingarm mounted tag. Watsendesign Flush mount LED blinkers. Sportec M1 sneakers. AlpineStars gear. Arai Lid.

06-03-2004, 01:07 AM	#15 (permalink)
mnealp33 Newbie Joined: May 2004 Posts: 10	well i have made up my mind i'm getting the SV 1000s my reasons are I figured the best street bike for the money plus won't take much to get it ready for the track when i get ready to do that so i should be getting it next week

06-03-2004, 11:10 AM	#16 (permalink)
Hoomgar In Training Joined: Jun 2004 Location: Manheim, PA Posts: 149	And I don't think you will be disappointed. It is very sport bikeish and you should be fine with it. It's a very good common ground for what your looking for. __________________ Mark 1978 GS1000C Click Here To See It Now 1982 KZ550C3 LTD 1976 KH100

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06-03-2004, 05:18 PM	#17 (permalink)
vstrombc Seat Tester Joined: Oct 2003 Location: vancouver, bc Canada Posts: 67	good choice man !!! you are going to LOVE that V-twin. and you won't find it lacking for power. The narrow feel of a v-twin vs an inline 4 is quite notoceable and makes direction changes is the twisties super easy even detuned from the SVS, the V-Strom really moves out in the real world keep us posted on your impressions !

06-03-2004, 06:45 PM	#18 (permalink)
Anonymous Guest Posts: n/a	i'd go with the gixxer 600. great speed and handling plus comfort. you wouldnt be needing a new bike for years after this bike.

06-04-2004, 10:35 AM	#19 (permalink)
stevie c Sit speling cheker Joined: Mar 2004 Bike: GSX-R 600 K1 Location: Northants,UK Posts: 1,631	I just read through this thread and I can honestly say I have never heard anybody call a gixer600 a moped before! __________________ Stevie C '02 Gixer 600 K1,Yellow and Black (fastest colour!), always beats red ones!! Why put off until tomorrow what you can get someone else to do for you today.