Suzuki GSXR750 K6-7 vs Suzuki Daytona 675

[Tim in Belgium]

Right,

I'm thinking of both of these as my next bike when I move to Holland in a month's time. I'll be buying secondhand due to the price of second hand bikes and I keep changing my mind between the two.

I'll be using the bike for the following activities in priority order (given that Holland has flat boring roads on the whole):

1. The Nurburgring - aiming for about 200 laps next year (did 58 this year) and will be trailing the bike down from Holland (4-500 mile round trip) 5+ times a year. This is a fast circuit with uphill sections where grunt is required as well as finesse. The bike needs to be road legal, insured etc for this

2. Trackdays - I'll try the dutch circuits (Zandvoort, Assen) as well as other European circuits (Spa, very fast big bike territory, Zolder, Mugello and more). These will be done with a mixture of towing the bike or riding to the circuit.

3. Weekends away - quick blasts out to good riding roads where a smidgen of practicality is required.

4. Week(s) away - it'd be rude not to do the odd assault on the Alps again when on the continent.

So which would you recommend? Have you tried both? I'm a smidge over 6 foot, and not overweight (about 12 1/2 stone).

Things I'm looking for:

Speed
Handling
Reliability
Ease/cost of maintenace

So let battle commence and answers on a postcard please. I know there are owners of both bikes out there, price wise there is very little in it on the dutch 2nd hand market.

[Tim in Belgium]

Doh, subject title should read TRIUMPH Daytona, can a Mods change it?

[G]

Tough one that, I bloody love the looks and power delivery the Triumph offers, but there was always things in the back of my mind when I was looking to buy one. A) Reliability - Even the triumph salesman told me they use scary amounts of oil and have electrical gremlins. B) Build quality - Even bikes in the showroom with 2k on looked used even though they were very clean, it was hard to put my finger on it. C) Was comfort for me and pillion - I found the triumph very tall and very narrow, always thought it would really take some getting used to, my girlfriend struggled to get on the back aswell and found it very uncomfortable.

As for the GSXR750, I only tried the 600 which I believe uses the same frame as the 750, I could not get on with the seating position at all, found the bike tiny and would get really bad cramps, I also marked the demo bike with a plastic zip on my fleece with not alot of pressure which really worried me. If you can get on with the seating position then I cant see much wrong with it other than usual suzuki build quality.

I think I would go triumph.

[carty]

I haven't tried the Triumph but I know the Suzuki 750 is the same size as my 600 which is perfect for me but I think would be a bit cramped for people over 6 foot. :confused:

On the other hand, the 600 is brilliant, so I can only imagine the 750 to be even better. If you're on the continent it might be cheaper for servicing / parts on a Japanese bike too rather than the Triumph? :scratch:

I'd go for the GSXR, I know that people talk about fit and finish on Suzuki's but I've done almost 10k miles on mine in just over a year from new, in most weathers (no snow) and when it's cleaned it still looks brand new. Plus it still feels great. Which is the main thing!

Cheers,
Matt

[carty]

Tim, 200+ laps of the Ring + other trackdays next year :cool:

I hate you! :p

[Dangerous Dave]

Both great bikes, both great engines, and both great handling chassis'.

The best way you can choose the right bike is to test ride them both yourself, we can only suggest or comment from our own experinces but just like the press we will not know which bike suits you, your riding style, and your needs as much as you.

[muffles]

675!

750!

Actually I'm surprised we haven't heard the above yet :)

As a 750 owner I am going to be impartial and say you should get test rides here before you go.

I think the 750 would be a little bit quicker with a bit more grunt but it''ll be negligible.

Speed and handling I just don't think will be a major factor, both would suit, although I note from lukemillar's posts of his track day in Oz on his 675, that it didn't have quite that great a track setup on the front? (IIRC he said he dragged it over as much as he had his R6, but the 675 tucked?)

Reliability - well the oil thing, some people get it, some don't. Seems a bit hit and miss. Nothing major I know of on the 750 in terms of reliability.

I suspect maintenance will be less costly on the GSX-R as mentioned because of things like parts availability and general proliferation of the models.

Does the cost of insurance vary much for you over there? That might be a factor.

[muffles]

Oh yes and I meant to add, the 675 I hear repeatedly as being suitable for the taller rider, and the 600/750 for shorter riders. Given your height that might be a big factor.

[muffles]

Noticed one other thing re: practicality/weekends away - the K6/7 750 has a bit of storage underseat but I doubt the 675 has much, what with that can. It surely can't be as much as the 750 anyhow.

[Alpinestarhero]

Now, I havn't ridden it yet, but my dad seems to be able to do a rather large amount of varied riding on his GSXR750. He's been all round france on it, been to the nurburgring on it, pootled around town on it, shown me how 35+ years experiance riding makes you a very handy rider on it.

He dosn't complain of discomfort, except a little ache in his wrists if he stays too long on the motorway (he claims that the bike is more comfy at 90 mph than 70 mph, the wind helps to lift his weight off the bars a bit).

The only thing he found was soft luggage had a tendancy to rub away at the paintwork; after his france trip, he had to repaint the tailpeice. Not good, Mr Suzuki.

Matt

[ThEGr33k]

Out of those two id go for the 675. Nice bike, not saying the 750 isn't like...

Saying that though K4-5 Gixxer 750's are nice. :)


If I was wanting an almost pure track bike (sounds like you do) then id be going for a SP-2 or a RSV-R. :D Twin power. :)

[fizzwheel]

I've not ridden a 675, but I do own a K5 -750

I've done all sorts on my 750 as said above it does seem very versatile, I've done rideouts, solo riding at for me was a very rapid pace. I've done two big trips one in Ireland and I've just come back from the Glencoe Massacre ( 1667 miles in all )

I'm 6ft ish I find it comfy, Yes I get tired but I'm talking 300 mile days before I do. I get a little bit of back ache, but its not wristy in fact I find it more comfortable than my SV was. It takes luggage easily enough to.

My Dads neighbour had a 675 and he let me have sit on it, and its much more of a focused riding position, and I found I kept sliding forward on the seat into the tank and had to keep sliding back and it felt like it would take alot of weight on my wrists all the time. The bloke that owned it did 1500 miles on it and then sold it as the mirror fell off and the bolts started going furry. He wasnt at all impressed about the build quality and bought a fireblade.

I love my 750 and I cant ever see myself buying another bike. Its never let me down and I've done 17K of trouble free miles on it ( saying that it'll go wrong now wont it ! ) I've just had a new set of front brake pads and also I had a new clutch cable fitted to. Servicing costs always seem reasonable but I dont know what the triumph is like in comparison.

I'd definately recommend getting a test ride on both and making your own mind up.

[neio79]

No contest, all pre 08 Gixers of any kind are fuggly at the front, so its the 675 for you!

[muffles]

No contest, all pre 08 Gixers of any kind are fuggly at the front, so its the 675 for you!

So which of

Speed
Handling
Reliability
Ease/cost of maintenace

Does that come under then? :p

[neio79]

So which of

Speed
Handling
Reliability
Ease/cost of maintenace

Does that come under then? :p

Who cares when every time you open the garage you cry at its elephant man looks!! :p

[Tim in Belgium]

I agree the 675 is "prettier" the 750 more brutish.

I'm not a fan of the K8 headlight, and luckily can't afford one ;)

As for Mille/SP2, wrt reliability I've heard a number of people having little issues with their Aprillias which although not major can cause lost track time, not something I want to have to go through. Also the SP2 fuel range could be crippling on trips through the Alps, but I must say I've been tempted, but have decided to go mainstream. Due to reliability issues I'm also counting out the 999 Ducati.

[fizzwheel]

Due to reliability issues I'm also counting out the 999 Ducati.

The 999 have a much much better reputation for reliability, Liz's 749 has never missed a beat yet. I've said it before and I'll say it again on the later model Dukes especially the 2nd generation revisions the reliability is actually very good.

Also Liz's 749 is really comfortable to ride as well.

[Tim in Belgium]

The 999 have a much much better reputation for reliability, Liz's 749 has never missed a beat yet. I've said it before and I'll say it again on the later model Dukes especially the 2nd generation revisions the reliability is actually very good.

Also Liz's 749 is really comfortable to ride as well.

A guy at Spa with us had some electrical gremlins with his 999 causing a large misfire, which the Ducati dealership couldn't work out even with their diagnostic kit. Missed most of his trackday, and it still wasn't sorted the day after. I'm not saying all Ducatis are bad, just that their reliability is slightly worse than the Jap bikes on average.

[Ed]

Speed
Handling
Reliability
Ease/cost of maintenace

I own a 675.

On speed you won't be disappointed. It is very fast. Whether quicker than Fizz's bike, I don't know. No marked powerband as it has bags of torque, but things do get exciting at around 8K+ rpm.

Handling - another ticked box. Sharp as a needle, flickable, fantastic and exciting ride. And it makes a fantastic howl.

Reliability - have had mine sice March, it hasn't broken down, nothing has gone wrong, it starts first time every time. It does use a bit of oil, oil was of course changed at first service at 500 miles, after 2000 miles more I put in 0.3 litre. The paint and general finish is still as bright as the day I bought it, and no bolts have gone furry. The exhaust valve can 'chirp' at about 4500 rpm, just a characteristic of the bike. And when you switch off, the bike makes a noise like an old fashioned fax modem. Bit odd, but I'm so used to it that I don't really notice any more.

Ease/cost of maintenance - I have only had the first service done, so I can't really say.

It is a tall bike. At 1.78m (5' 11") I can easily get my feet flat on the ground. I don't slide around, perhaps I don't ride it hard enough. I never get achey wrists but I generally don't ride it huge distances, and anyway I had a Daytona 650 before the 675 so a sort of similar riding position. I think the longest distance I've done in one trip is about 200 miles and I felt OK. It's obviously what you're used to. Pillion seat is a bit of a joke, very high up and very narrow.

The bike, to me, is visually stunning. It turns heads all the while and it's fairly often that I get back to the bike and it has an admirer or three.

Few dislikes - the heat on my right leg from the exhaust - in traffic it gets a bit irritating. There is NO storage on the bike. Well maybe enough for a fag packet but no more, it really is ludicrous, so I use a tank bag if I want to carry anything. Stock tyres are Supercorsas. Whilst there's nothing wrong with them, I can't say that they suit my riding style, and I will replace them with something else - jury out on what. Finally the lights are a PIA as only the nearside light comes on on dip. You can buy a gizmo to get both lights on but they are on main on reduced wattage. I get fed up with people advising me that a bulb has blown or similar. If I took passengers frequently I'd list the seat as an irritation, but I don't and the bike wasn't bought with passengers in mind.

Other than that it's a great bike:D

[Zombie Jesus]

No one has mentioned the GSXR has a slipper clutch :p

[fizzwheel]

No one has mentioned the GSXR has a slipper clutch :p

Mine doesnt thats why I didnt mention it ;):p

[Twinny]

The 675 is a great 600 class bike (allways rated top 3 in shoot outs) and a great leap for british built uk bikes

But every mag I pick up says the GSXR 750 IS the ultimate allround superbike ,it gets rated for comfort,handling, etc etc seems to get praised in everthing i read

And for me there would be no choice but the GSXR 750

Just my op

[DanAbnormal]

Wow. What a diffiuclt choice. The Jap bike wins comfort, no doubt, the '07 gixxer is like riding a sporty armchair. Power delivery from the 750 is brilliant low down and phenomenal when you give it welly. I didn't have the courage to pin the throttle on the demo bike. The 675, well, the noise is fantastic even with stock can, with aftermarket can it's just addictive and you want to howl around everywhere. Power delivery is linear, it's stonking everywhere in the rev range, a little bit like a peaky Vtwin with grunt everywhere. It's tall and uncomfortable though. I'm 5'8 and while I wasn't quite tip-toeing I couldn't put the feet on the floor. Handling on both is similar, very light, very flickable and very planted. Kneedown antics no problem on either. For real world biking and longer journeys get the gixxer 750, if it's mainly track use and blasts get the Daytona. That's what my head says. My heart would go for the Trumpet everytime. :D

I guess you are not interested in a CBR600RR? Still very pricey but the 07/08 model beats both bikes on all counts except looks, but looks are a personal thing.

[Tim in Belgium]

I'm wanting a bit more grunt than your IL4 SS600, fantastic though they are, and would prefer a 675 over any of the other SS600. Some interesting points from a lot of people so far, very useful.

[pepe]

http://<a href=http://img519.imageshack.us/my.php?image=12072008422iy6.jpg target=_blank>http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/6537/12072008422iy6.th.jpgI picked up a k6 750 a few weeks ago and must say it's probably the best bike I've ridden to date. Had a zx6r before and thought it handled great, the 750 handles just as great, feels as light as a 600 but has got enough power to keep me on my toes ( a 1000cc would be wasted on me ). Most of what I read about the 750 and people who I've spoken to ( not just owners ) say it the best road bike at the moment. I haven't tried the 675 so can't give an opinion on it, I was looking to get one but went with the 750 instead..

http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/6537/12072008422iy6.th.jpg (http://img519.imageshack.us/my.php?image=12072008422iy6.jpg)


http://img386.imageshack.us/img386/3436/13072008432jc7.th.jpg (http://img386.imageshack.us/my.php?image=13072008432jc7.jpg)



http://img386.imageshack.us/img386/8232/13072008427dh5.th.jpg (http://img386.imageshack.us/my.php?image=13072008427dh5.jpg)

[DanAbnormal]

I'm wanting a bit more grunt than your IL4 SS600, fantastic though they are, and would prefer a 675 over any of the other SS600. Some interesting points from a lot of people so far, very useful.

Just as an aside, I saw some tests with the new CBR600RR and the Gixxer 750. There was almost nothing in it speedwise. The Honda is a beast of a 600.

I'd still get the Trumpet though. :D

[Dangerous Dave]

The 999 have a much much better reputation for reliability.
Use a Duke and they will be good, if you buy a Duke to be a sunny Sunday only bike no matter what the age expect the gremlins to appear.

http://philspector.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/gremlins.jpg

[muffles]

Just as an aside, I saw some tests with the new CBR600RR and the Gixxer 750. There was almost nothing in it speedwise. The Honda is a beast of a 600.

I'd still get the Trumpet though. :D

Tim, if you get a chance it would be worth trying the RR. I had a go on a mate's RR5 (maybe 50-100 miles of twisties so a fair bit) and was quite impressed by it's poke. I thought it was better than the K7 600 I had, but not sure how it compares to the 750 (I was on the CBR at the time).

Would be worth giving them all a test ride if they are there - the RR7/RR8 as Dan mentions are supposed to be quite a leap engine wise - I remember reading that it was the first SS600 to "have some midrange" (not my words!).

Dan, I'm interested in what they tested. I would have expected better straight line acceleration from the 750, but I could see handling/track times/etc being very close. Wasn't sure what you meant be "speedwise".

[sv-robo]

600rr??:)(but i,m biased)

[DanAbnormal]

Dan, I'm interested in what they tested. I would have expected better straight line acceleration from the 750, but I could see handling/track times/etc being very close. Wasn't sure what you meant be "speedwise".

Ah yes, let me expand on that comment. They were laptimes of Infineon Raceway. I think it was MotoUSA that did the testing and they rated the RR as the best 600 but they said that it has similar power delivery of a gixxer 750. It was online somewhere will see if I can find the link. Of course top end would be better though, but who wants to go 186mph on the road? Not me. Maybe 175 though. :rolleyes:

[Tim in Belgium]

At the Ring and Spa Power is needed for the uphill straigh(ish) bits...

Hence 675/750 as a minimum.

Perhaps I should add that I plan to keep the bike for 3-4 years, that's why the 750 appeals, spend a year or two on it , then treat it to some decent suspension for some sub 8 ring laps (in my dreams).

[ThEGr33k]

Stock tyres are Supercorsas. Whilst there's nothing wrong with them, I can't say that they suit my riding style, and I will replace them with something else - jury out on what.


PR2's. Youll get all the grip you need and a lot of milage (mile has done 6K and its still good) out of them too. I love mine... oh and dont take notice of the "sports touring" label they have, the manufacturer recomends them for anyone except the trackers where the sportier tyre will make the odds.

I regularly use the edge of mine and its never thrown a paddy. :D

Cheers.

No one has mentioned the GSXR has a slipper clutch :p

Good arnt they... I cant say as I miss the back end getting out of shape! :rolleyes:

Ah yes, let me expand on that comment. They were laptimes of Infineon Raceway. I think it was MotoUSA that did the testing and they rated the RR as the best 600 but they said that it has similar power delivery of a gixxer 750. It was online somewhere will see if I can find the link. Of course top end would be better though, but who wants to go 186mph on the road? Not me. Maybe 175 though. :rolleyes:

175... Thats what a 750 might do. You'll need a 1000 to hit 186. Your average 600 tops out at 160-165MPH... This is ofcourse still enough to lose your licence. :(



Just out of interest what are the problems you hear about with the RSV's?

[Tim in Belgium]

175... Thats what a 750 might do. You'll need a 1000 to hit 186. Your average 600 tops out at 160-165MPH... This is ofcourse still enough to lose your licence. :(



Just out of interest what are the problems you hear about with the RSV's?

160-165 isn't enough at Spa or the Ring ;)

As for RSVs heard about one (from owner) that blew its expansion bottle, causing him to miss a TD, followed by numerous other small faults, so he sold it. Also heard from a tour operator that it was mainly the Ducati, Aprillia, & Triumphs (mainly earlier ones) that caused grief on the trips he ran when compared to the jap bikes. Unfortunately these are a lot of the "soulful" bikes that I lust after. Never heard of someone selling a recent GSXR because of a myriad of faults.

I want a bike to ride, go fast on round tracks etc. A second bike with character would be great, but when you shell out £1k plus for a week of TDs and accomodation the last thing you want is your bike to let you down. I'm sure many RSVs have been fine, but I'd prefer to go quickly with no hassle ;) The GSXR strikes me as a great tool for this, but then there's always the 675......

[graham04]

I have a k6 750 at the moment, its an awsome bike, its speed and handling are difficult to beat. You will not go wrong with this one. A mate of mine bought a Triumph mainly for track days. It ran and handled beautifully. The only downside was its oil consumption. It never smoked or leaked, just used it. Something to look out for on those long laps at the ring.
Graham

PS tossed an SV1000s at speed into one of the few sand bunkers around the ring. I did manage to fire the bike back up and totter the remains back to the start saving myself a very large recovery bill.
Take care the place can bite.

[Tim in Belgium]

PS tossed an SV1000s at speed into one of the few sand bunkers around the ring. I did manage to fire the bike back up and totter the remains back to the start saving myself a very large recovery bill.
Take care the place can bite.

I've done 93 laps so far there and am well aware of the risks, but thanks for the reminder, it never pays to be complacent there.

[muffles]

I've done 93 laps

Do you put another notch in the bedpost each time or something? :lol:

How do you remember?

[Tim in Belgium]

'Cos I is sad.

35 laps up to this year, 30 laps in a weekend at the end of June, 28 laps last weekend. Also there's a lap counting thread on Northloop for saddoes like myself. I can't do anymore laps this year because it would have been cheaper for me to buy a year's pass, and I can't face that fact!

[ThEGr33k]

160-165 isn't enough at Spa or the Ring ;)

As for RSVs heard about one (from owner) that blew its expansion bottle, causing him to miss a TD, followed by numerous other small faults, so he sold it. Also heard from a tour operator that it was mainly the Ducati, Aprillia, & Triumphs (mainly earlier ones) that caused grief on the trips he ran when compared to the jap bikes. Unfortunately these are a lot of the "soulful" bikes that I lust after. Never heard of someone selling a recent GSXR because of a myriad of faults.


160-165 isnt enough? Man that rules all 600's and the 675 out. :( Go 750. K4-5 :D Nicest looking and (for some odd reason) the most powerful. 125BHP at the wheel, newer ones usually 115-120 at the wheel. :scratch:

What the hell is an expansion bottle? I go on the Aprilia forums quite a lot and I got to say it isnt often there are reliability issues crop up. Maybe the ones with issues got the Friday afternoon bikes? :rolleyes:

But if you arnt fussed then fair enough. :cool:

[fastdruid]

A guy I know bought a 675 from new, been into the dealers multiple times due to the engine warning light coming on with exhaust valve problems and had at two sets of downpipes replaced under warranty.

Infact a search of another list and from the horses mouth so to speak:

Speaking of larger bikes, as of yesterday the daytona is on its 3rd
exhaust in two years due to exhaust valve failures. Its a common problem
(aka design fault). This time I asked for a look at the old part and it
is indeed seized solid and totally badly designed. There doesn't appear
to be any way to service it other than replace the whole front header
pipes and collector box.

I feel a strong discussion coming on with Triumph.

It will fail again and it will be out of warranty when it does. Worst
case I guess I'll end up making a replacement valve section of the
exhaust if I can get access to the appropriate tools. They wouldn't let
me have the old part (which would have let me plan something).


Druid

[fizzwheel]

Go 750. K4-5 :D Nicest looking

He's right you know...

Tim theres a K4-750 on the board at work for sale, 4500 miles, bloke wants £4700 for it, thats a f*ck load of bike for not much cash, that'll leave you more money for your laps of the ring as well :cool:

[Balky001]

if you can stretch to a K6 750 then you'll benefit from slipper clutch and stunning brakes and suspension. A PCIII added will get 132 at the rear wheel and a 10hp rise on 60% throttle - it's a great mod and probably the only one you need.

My mate has a K7 1000 with 186 @ rear wheel and my 750 stayed with it to 130 on Revetts Straight. 750 was better round the corners of course!

I found the 675 horrible to lean as I felt perched high, but the engine is sweet. My mate swears by his 675 though and is racing it this year so horses for course.

What is Neil riding round the ring these days - last year he had the K6 750 and said it was the best bike he had been on round the Ring and he's done a few laps

[Tim in Belgium]

He's now on a K4 GSXR 1000 after selling the 750 at 40k miles (60+k kms). He went for the thou as it was tricky keeping ahead of clients bikes on the 750 on the motorrad courses! Plus the 750 had some miles on it.....

It wil be a k6 or K7 750, or 05/06 675 looking at prices in Holland.

[Balky001]

He's now on a K4 GSXR 1000 after selling the 750 at 40k miles (60+k kms). He went for the thou as it was tricky keeping ahead of clients bikes on the 750 on the motorrad courses! Plus the 750 had some miles on it.....

It wil be a k6 or K7 750, or 05/06 675 looking at prices in Holland.

bit off topic but I did the motorrad course last year with him in fast group, he was quick next to some of the other instructors (the woman on the 10 year old CBR600 could do with a new bike!)

Most reviews would say a 750 would have a 1000 on a short circuit but the Ring is CBR1000 territory! Go 750!

[Tim in Belgium]

Planning on doing a course next year, need to perfect some of my corners :)

[ThEGr33k]

Who are you actually talking about?

[Tim in Belgium]

A guy I know bought a 675 from new, been into the dealers multiple times due to the engine warning light coming on with exhaust valve problems and had at two sets of downpipes replaced under warranty.

Infact a search of another list and from the horses mouth so to speak:


Druid


A good insight there, considering I'll be going for a 2nd hand bike with a view to putting 30k+ miles on it, this pushes things the Jap's way I'm afraid.

[sv-robo]

175... Thats what a 750 might do. You'll need a 1000 to hit 186. Your average 600 tops out at 160-165MPH...


?
Borrow mine buddy(not:))175+

[Ed]

A guy I know bought a 675 from new, been into the dealers multiple times due to the engine warning light coming on with exhaust valve problems and had at two sets of downpipes replaced under warranty.

Infact a search of another list and from the horses mouth so to speak:

*stuff*

Druid

I've not had any problems with mine. Nor as far as I know has Luke or monkey on here.

[ThEGr33k]

Borrow mine buddy(not:))175+

Indicated mate...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speedometer Look at Error.

Most 600's are geared for about 175MPH at the limiter but they dont have the power to get much past 160... With a head wind they wont even see this. Ofcourse the speedo may read more.

E.G. A modern Busa reads 200MPH but cant physically crack 186 because of the limiter. :(

[ThEGr33k]

I've not had any problems with mine. Nor as far as I know has Luke or monkey on here.

How many miles you done though?

[wyrdness]

PR2's. Youll get all the grip you need and a lot of milage (mile has done 6K and its still good) out of them too. I love mine... oh and dont take notice of the "sports touring" label they have, the manufacturer recomends them for anyone except the trackers where the sportier tyre will make the odds.

I regularly use the edge of mine and its never thrown a paddy. :D

I was going to suggest Pilot Powers. I won't use anything else on the Speed Triple and they've saved me a few times where I'd almost certainly been off had I been using lesser tyres. Haven't tried the Pilot Road 2's to see how they compare.

[ThEGr33k]

I was going to suggest Pilot Powers. I won't use anything else on the Speed Triple and they've saved me a few times where I'd almost certainly been off had I been using lesser tyres. Haven't tried the Pilot Road 2's to see how they compare.


Offs? How? :confused:

My old man has a Sprint ST and uses the PR2 too. He seems to like his. :D

Most people say the sportier tyre warms up a little too slow (slower than the sports touring) and so can cause issues through that...

[Ed]

How many miles you done though?

About 3,000, so not many. But time enough for a problem to show I would have thought?

I know you've all seen this before. But I love this pic. Decision made, I'd have thought!

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a127/Sythree/IMG_0884.jpg

[ThEGr33k]

About 3,000, so not many. But time enough for a problem to show I would have thought?

I know you've all seen this before. But I love this pic. Decision made, I'd have thought!

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a127/Sythree/IMG_0884.jpg

I cant see the pic (at work). :(

Im not sure, sounds as though the valve may not like dirt and water if its seizing. So it might be when you ride it I dont know. He might just be unlucky. Might be like the Aprilia's, not common at all but people still dont want to take even such a small risk, could it all be Japanese properganda? :p

[fastdruid]

I cant see the pic (at work). :(
Im not sure, sounds as though the valve may not like dirt and water if its seizing. So it might be when you ride it I dont know. He might just be unlucky. Might be like the Aprilia's, not common at all but people still dont want to take even such a small risk, could it all be Japanese properganda? :p

He does ride it in the wet, it's not a dry sunny sunday only bike, I've asked him how many miles he's got on it and if despite the exhaust he'd still recommend it...

EDIT: 8500 and "Yes, its a lovely piece of machinery :) I like it enough to consider
making my own front pipe if/when it fails again..."

Druid

[carty]

He's now on a K4 GSXR 1000

Neil told us it was a K3 mate :)

There's not a cat in hells chance I'd have kept up with him anywhere on the circuit if he was really going for it. A) Due to his skill B) Due to that 1000cc's. I was having to really rag the 600 to keep up.

Get the 750, you know it makes sense! :p

+1 on the slipper clutch if you can get a bike with one. I would have had the back end all over the place when changing down for some of those downhill corners on the ring, the slipper clutch took my mind off it and allowed me to concentrate on holding the right line :-)

[jumjum_0214]

I like the look of them both but favour the gixxer...... Theres just something in the back of my mind telling me the trumpet might be un-reliable being British and all.

I think the gixxer looks better too :-)

I haven't ridden either of them and probably wont for quite some time :-(

Its your choice though mate and as already said you wont know which one to go for until you have tried them both :-) So go for it!!!!

[Ed]

the trumpet might be un-reliable being British and all.

:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Must explain why mine keeps breaking down. It has never broken down, always started first time, and does what I ask it to do. 100% reliable.

Are you British, jumjum? Are you unreliable? In what ways?

[ThEGr33k]

:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Must explain why mine keeps breaking down. It has never broken down, always started first time, and does what I ask it to do. 100% reliable.

Are you British, jumjum? Are you unreliable? In what ways?

Annoying isnt it... I get it all the time too. :confused:

[chakraist]

I'd get the 675, because it's a stunningly beautiful bike, fast enough for what you want, suits taller riders and has a reliability level (from reading through the 675 forums) that's not quite on the jap bikes, but close enough. How many triumph dealers/all round good service places are in Holland?

Oh, and about using oil, my bike has used 500ml in about 7000 miles (my 650)

[ThEGr33k]

Well I been reading PB where they did a 24 hour thing. The 675 was faster on the track than the 750!!! Apprently the front on the 675 is brilliant. Only issue is the 675 only did 370 miles of the challange before a valve commited suicide against the piston. :(

Apparently it was due to the timing of the cam being wrong, either out of the factory or after the 12,000 miles service when the clearance was checked. The valve's had made contact before they found BUT not enough to break so no one would know there was an issue... Interesting.

[lukemillar]

Speed and handling I just don't think will be a major factor, both would suit, although I note from lukemillar's posts of his track day in Oz on his 675, that it didn't have quite that great a track setup on the front? (IIRC he said he dragged it over as much as he had his R6, but the 675 tucked?)


This is sort of what I said! R6 just worked for me better out the box on the UK tracks I took it on. The 675 has required some suspension twiddling and now I would say I have it better than the R6! One thing which is true though is that the 675 as stock has about 8-10mm less trail than all the Japanese 600s (inc. the 750 as the are the same size) This will make the bike turn very quickly, but obviously at the sacrifice of stability. This is also why the 675 feels very bum up, hands down. Despite the many "I've sat on one..." comments - go and ride them, because sitting on one at an expo vs riding on the road/track are about a million miles apart!

The engine is awesome on the 675, though the 750 will have more grunt. It's the old tuner's adage rings true - 'you can't beat cubes for power'. The 750 will make more power throughout the rev range than the 675. I would regard the 675 as part of the 600 class, not the 750 class (of which the only other comparable bike is an MV Augusta 750 F4). I find the build quality to be pretty good, though I do live in sunny part of the world and I don't ride when it's wet - mainly because I use mine on predominantly the track. I have also heard of a number of blown engines and large oil consumption, but as well as not experiencing this on my 2006 (one of the earlier ones) I also believe there is a certain amount of neglect rather than being the bike's fault!

I have done a lot of stuff to mine now, and am quite enjoying working on the bike. Current mods included, Ohlins rear and fork re-valve, STM slipper clutch, Micron Race can and Tuneboy kit for remapping/diagnostic. I have also just done a full service and have repaired it after skating down the road!

One thing that the 675 has over the 750 is the number of spares available at bargain prices via ebay. I don't know if it is the race series or a lot of people buying them for track, but there is always spare fairings, levers, footpegs, indicators etc going for sale.

Out of the 2, I think the 675 is far prettier and a model update will see older 675's getting even cheaper next year.

However, I would probably go for the 750 if I was in your position and the use you are planning for it. I think it would offer a comfier ride over longer distances. I also think that the bike is a little more versatile. I bought my 675 with the racetrack as the first focus and road riding a distant cousin. I wouldn't even want to go touring on it or sling some luggage over the back - The again, if that was my bag, then I wouldn't be buying a sportsbike!

[DMC]

:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Must explain why mine keeps breaking down. It has never broken down, always started first time, and does what I ask it to do. 100% reliable.

Are you British, jumjum? Are you unreliable? In what ways?

Compared to Japanese manufacturing, British is always gonna come second (sadly). Triumph do make exceedingly good machines, but unfortunately there are far more storys of problems with their bikes than with the Jap eqivalent.

Ive done 11k miles on the Gixer in the last 12 months without a blip. Regretably, I fear that from a random selection of Triumphs would not fare as well against an equivalent selection of Jap bikes.

Yes I am British. The reliability of British peeps against other nationalities is another argument ;)

[monkey]

I love my little baby. Only one problem so far which was a warranty headlight and not very common. Only cosmetic. I did have to put a lot of oil in lately so they need checking correctly especially after a good thrashing. Finish on some bits has suffered a bit due to silly winter use. I'm 6'2" and the bike's fine for track use and blasts but weeks away I'm not sure about. I've managed about 80 miles before having to stop for a bit due to knees and legs crippling up (I have got slightly dodgy knees though). I've had good lean angles on it and had no problems with the way it handles. I'm not very experienced on track although strips are now history and got knee down the other day which I'm told is harder due to the height. There's plenty of power and I've found myself keeping up with bigger bikes.

I can't really comment on the Suzuki at all.

Have fun.
:)

[muffles]

This is sort of what I said! R6 just worked for me better out the box on the UK tracks I took it on. The 675 has required some suspension twiddling and now I would say I have it better than the R6! One thing which is true though is that the 675 as stock has about 8-10mm less trail than all the Japanese 600s (inc. the 750 as the are the same size) This will make the bike turn very quickly, but obviously at the sacrifice of stability. This is also why the 675 feels very bum up, hands down. Despite the many "I've sat on one..." comments - go and ride them, because sitting on one at an expo vs riding on the road/track are about a million miles apart!

The engine is awesome on the 675, though the 750 will have more grunt. It's the old tuner's adage rings true - 'you can't beat cubes for power'. The 750 will make more power throughout the rev range than the 675. I would regard the 675 as part of the 600 class, not the 750 class (of which the only other comparable bike is an MV Augusta 750 F4). I find the build quality to be pretty good, though I do live in sunny part of the world and I don't ride when it's wet - mainly because I use mine on predominantly the track. I have also heard of a number of blown engines and large oil consumption, but as well as not experiencing this on my 2006 (one of the earlier ones) I also believe there is a certain amount of neglect rather than being the bike's fault!

I have done a lot of stuff to mine now, and am quite enjoying working on the bike. Current mods included, Ohlins rear and fork re-valve, STM slipper clutch, Micron Race can and Tuneboy kit for remapping/diagnostic. I have also just done a full service and have repaired it after skating down the road!

One thing that the 675 has over the 750 is the number of spares available at bargain prices via ebay. I don't know if it is the race series or a lot of people buying them for track, but there is always spare fairings, levers, footpegs, indicators etc going for sale.

Out of the 2, I think the 675 is far prettier and a model update will see older 675's getting even cheaper next year.

However, I would probably go for the 750 if I was in your position and the use you are planning for it. I think it would offer a comfier ride over longer distances. I also think that the bike is a little more versatile. I bought my 675 with the racetrack as the first focus and road riding a distant cousin. I wouldn't even want to go touring on it or sling some luggage over the back - The again, if that was my bag, then I wouldn't be buying a sportsbike!

Just curious, did you ever get the R6 suspension set up? I guess in any case, any bike's suspension can be made better so any sportsbike is probably going to handle just fine, and handling is a bit of a redundant question.

[lukemillar]

Just curious, did you ever get the R6 suspension set up? I guess in any case, any bike's suspension can be made better so any sportsbike is probably going to handle just fine, and handling is a bit of a redundant question.

I had the R6 set-up by the guy at CSS after 2 or 3 trackdays. He knew some good start settings for the 06 R6 as they used the same bike for the school. I have been doing a lot of suspension reading and tweaking recently and now understand a lot more than I did about bike setup.

Manufacturers have to deal with such a broad range of rider weights and bike usage, that they can't get it exact for everyone. I would guess that maybe 80-90% of sportsbike owners don't even go near their suspension settings - just leave them as it left the factory.

[lukemillar]

I'd get the 675, because it's a stunningly beautiful bike, fast enough for what you want, suits taller riders and has a reliability level (from reading through the 675 forums) that's not quite on the jap bikes, but close enough.

The reliability thing is bullcarp. With every bike, from every manufacturer you will get lemons. Some people on here have had SV's blow on them or cam chains go lose and lunch the engine. Doesn't mean the SV is carp and unreliable though, does it? I have seen GXSR1000 with bottom ends that have tried to exit the motor through the cases. So they must be unreliable too!?

One of the journo's took a 675 as a test bike, never checked the oil, the level dropped and blew the engine. So that means the 675 is unreliable? :smt017 Instead, everyone then says - the 675 uses tonnes of oil!

With any bike - you get out what you put in and that doesn't just go for riding, but maintenance and cleaning too.

[monkey]

In about 4500 miles and 5 trackdays mine has used a litre of oil which I don't consider extreme, but worth keeping an eye on. I'm not phased by the usage anyway. I was told not to bother changing it before the next service as it's probably not really run in yet.

[ThEGr33k]

I had the R6 set-up by the guy at CSS after 2 or 3 trackdays. He knew some good start settings for the 06 R6 as they used the same bike for the school. I have been doing a lot of suspension reading and tweaking recently and now understand a lot more than I did about bike setup.

Manufacturers have to deal with such a broad range of rider weights and bike usage, that they can't get it exact for everyone. I would guess that maybe 80-90% of sportsbike owners don't even go near their suspension settings - just leave them as it left the factory.


Aye im going to have to get new springs for front and back, now I realise they didnt build it for my 65KG's... I dont even get propper sag the spring rate is so far out :(

[Tim in Belgium]

Thanks for the 675 info Luke and Teriyaki, I guess once I'm over in Holland I'll have to take both for a test ride (on those amazing flat straight roads :rolleyes:). But good to hear some more stories.

As for lap times, PB got the GSXR to go round the 'Ring quicker (probably because it's a power circuit), but I have read the article when the 675 was quicker than the GSXR too.

It's also good to hear that the 675 reliability is better than the mags make out, although I may have to trawl the daytona forum and gixserjunkies in detective mode!

[Paws]

Let me throw a spanner in the works here...
i own a 675...yet tbh i do sometimes think the 750 would have been a better choice.
why? its smaller in height, comfier and not so full on, i bought the 675 though as its something "different" as not your average run of the mill jap bike,shes deffo a head turner :cool:, no issues here with it either (ok has only done 2k from new)