First world problems and bike dilemas

[Adam Ef]

Hi all.
After a bit of input.


A few recent trips on the MT09 Tracer recently have got me wondering if it's the bike for me. All first world problems as it is really an amazing bike, but quite a few things aren't adding up to make it be the bike I expected it to be.


From a physical point of view I have had the usual problems that all owners seem to go through trying to work out how to get rid of the buffeting from the screen. I'm now on my third one and have improved it slightly by going the counter-intuitive route and fitting a short screen. Which means it has little of the protection for the elements that I believed it would when I was looking to buy one for longer trips. Essentially motorway and dual carriageway speeds have been difficult and tiring, due to the very upright position and low screen. Higher screen options seem to direct buffeting wind straight into your head, making it feel like you're being punched repeatedly. Plus I really don't like viewing the scenery through a screen, prefering to be looking just over it. Also a bit of (clean) airflow is really necessary in the heat we're having at the moment. I nearly passed out in traffic a few times with the taller screen fitted on sunny days.


Then there's the seat. The upright position means you're sitting with all your weight straight down on the seat. I have the expensive Yamaha "comfort" seat fitted that came with it and find it really painful after a couple of hours. Strangely I was fine with the seat on my SV that so many people seem to hate.


It has built in Yamaha heated grips. No amount of changing the settings stops the right one from being burning hot and the left being luke warm. A known quirk apparently.


The decel cut snatchyness is present even with the special KEVxtx mod fitted to the O2 sensor. Next stage would be an ECU flash.


The bars are wide. Very wide. Filtering into the city for work has become very limited. I spend more time sitting there as if I was in a car. The bars are also very upright... see the higher speeds comment above about having to cling on at motorway speeds, leading to fatigue and sore back, neck, shoulders. I liked my SV how I had it, with the bar conversion done, but with low bars, so I had an inbetween position from the usual riser bar uprightness and low clip-ons. I'd found a really good middle position on my SV that suited me well.



Fuel economy.. I was hoping for better than 45-50mpg at best. I even ride fairly sensibly and can't see how people claim to get 70mpg out of them without really boring motorway journeys doing 60mph constantly for a few hours. I find it hard to run a bike just for me that has slightly worse fuel economy than our 12 year old family car that carries 4 of us, a dog and luggage! (Edit: If it was something I loved and was really fun and right for me then I could probably see past this point though).


I won't list any more negative issues as there's lots of aesthetic things I don't like and there's plenty I do love about it too. The engine is the main one. I love the triple engine. The grab when you want it but smooth and subtle when you want too. I even liked the stock exhaust sound. I've fitted an aftermarket system and may change it back as it's lost some of it's tone that I liked stock. I love the practicality of the centrestand, but have an Abba stand that I used for my SV, so it's nice to have but not essential.


So I'm at a point where I bought a bike I thought would be a good all rounder off the peg and am now deciding if I need to start spending on more screen trials... an after market expensive seat.. possibly suspension upgrades... (it is comfy over the bad british roads, but at the expense of being slightly bouncy!), investing in an ECU flash etc. Or if I should be thinking about something else? My insurance runs out beginning of September so the cheaper time to change bike if I do is approaching. I got fleeced changing insurance from my SV to the Tracer a couple of months ago and would like to avoid that again if possible


I realise I should really like this bike and am extremely lucky to own it. But I am also currently struggling to feel any connection with it. I did really love and feel connected to my SV. But then I had it a few years and made it mine doing a lot of work on it. I was at the end of doing what I could with it though and could take it no further to get it performing how I wanted to unfortunately. The Tracer feels almost like I'm borrowing someone else's bike.


So I'd love some input from the org. Possible suggestions of other bikes to try too if anyone thinks I should?


I have some other ideas but I'll leave it at that for the moment, other than to say I do really like the triple engine (a great mix of power / torque, just enough engine breaking and enough power low down) and I felt very at home behind the half faring on my SV.. one aspect of it that I do miss behind the broken up dash of the Tracer.

[daktulos]

I can't help much with an answer, I'm afraid, but do you think the problems are with the Tracer specifically, or the change to an adventure-style bike? If you had gone with a Tiger 800, do you think you'd have the same issues?

[ASM1]

I think if you're asking the question, then it's probably not the right bike for you.
I am having a similar issue with my sv,after a break for a few years,after a lot of analysing where and how i like to ride,i figured the sv would be the best reintroduction to bikes for me and in every logical way it still is.
But i spent most of my life riding aircooled and oil cooled monsters,which in every normal situation the sv would probably beat hands down-but i do miss the absolute fear and excitement of the old behemoths.
If your not in love with it,then your not in love with it,no amount of money thrown at it is going to fix that. Just my opinion (im sure there are more sensible ones available:-))

[Adam Ef]

If you had gone with a Tiger 800, do you think you'd have the same issues?


Probably. I did test a Tiger 800. In fact that's why I tested the Tracer at the same dealer on the same day. I visited just to test the Tiger and was a bit underwhelmed by it, finding it a bit woolly feeling in handling and response. The dealer suggested I take a Tracer out. The Tiger had similar screen issues too, but without the redeeming feel of fun that made me think the Tracer would be worth trying to sort the screen issues out for.

[Adam Ef]

I think if you're asking the question, then it's probably not the right bike for you.


That's what I was thinking.

[daktulos]

Have you considered a naked bike? :-D A Street Triple or even an MT-09 may work for you.

I would personally look at the reasons why you decided to move away from your SV. What were you looking for which the SV didn't provide?

[Seeker]

I think 50 mpg from an 850 cc engine producing approx 115 bhp is about right. My 2012 675 Street Triple never bettered 52 mpg even when ridden at 55 mph down country lanes (yes, I know - who buys a Street Triple to do 55 mph - it was a mistake, ok?).

Windscreen - there is a company making screens that, they claim, use laminar flow techniques to reduce buffeting https://shop.heroblobs.co.uk/pages/laminar-lip
On the other hand you don't like looking through plastic want wind protection but no buffeting. I think you may only get to pick 1or 2 out of those.


Seat - Corbin, Sargent maybe?

... but if the "magic" has gone then it's back to a dealer.

Plan B on the seat: Visit a dominatrix, get spanked, embrace the pain and the Tracer will give you fond memories each time you ride. ;)

[Grant66]

Screen: it seems to be widely acknowledged that the stock screen is a bit crap and shorter ones offer "cleaner" air to reduce the buffering.
Some have reported that the puig Vario gets good results, but different sized people get different outcomes.
It appears that every bike has a screen that somebody isn't happy with otherwise there would be no aftermarket options available.
The naked version doesn't have any buffeting or noise issues, but then you get the full wind force on your chest which can be tiring at higher speeds although it does give your core muscles a decent workout.

Seat: not had a problem (no worse than the sv) with the standard mt09 seat. I've read that the comfort seat is worse.

Economy: didn't get the mt09 for economic riding [emoji14] but still gets around 56mpg on average taking in the Welsh scenery. Mt07 version gives 75mpg but at the expense of that top end power.

Traffic: it'll never fit through the gaps an sv can, but then the sv is narrower than my shoulders (with the curvy mirrors folded in). Main issue is it feels bigger so you don't try to get through the smaller gaps.

Fuelling: it does occasionally introduce some interesting wheelies, entering busy roundabouts on one wheel can be fun (depending on your definition of fun). But you know it's a "feature" and you can minimise it's effect by keeping a little throttle on.

You're going to make the economy worse if you map it out.


What was it about the sv you didn't like and the change was going to fix?

Personally, I miss the weather protection in the winter I got from the fairings (Fixed with heated gloves).

I don't miss the painful knees or having to take a run up to get past traffic on A roads.


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[yokohama]

A slightly different bike but the same engine, I'm getting almost exactly the same mpg from an XSR900 as I was from my 04 pointy and it's probably about 50mpg too. I haven't calculated it scientifically, just from filling up. If I commuted on the SV with a full tank, the round trip was 100 miles and refilling was around £10 give or take 20p either way. The XSR comes within the same range. Surprisingly, it seems to be more fuel efficient revved highly through the lower gears than cruising in 5th or 6th.
I know where you are coming from though Adam. Although it's more comfortable and nicer to ride, I haven't bonded with it yet in the same way I did with the SV. Maybe it's a time thing, maybe it's because of the electronics and rider aids and the fact that it's dealer serviced at the moment rather than me doing it myself. Time will tell I guess but while I don't love mine yet, there's nothing I positively dislike

[Chris_SVS]

I can't add anything really to your post Adam, even though I was vociferous in recommending the Tracer... I try to keep in mind that the bike for me is a toy, I don't use it daily for commuting or anything so my experience of ownership will differ.

Genuinely sorry you feel this way about it, maybe it's just not right for you in the same way an R1M wouldn't be right for me :p I'd be crippled :(

[admin]

The screen buffeting problem seems to be an issue on a lot of adventure bikes. A couple of years ago an MCN reporter had an issue with the DL650. This month in Bike they complained about the KTM 790 adventure.
Doesn't the latest Trancer have narrower bars?

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[SV650rules]

I shortened the MRA screen i fitted to my AL7 due to buffeting and helmet noise, took 75mm off the top and layed it down at a shallower angle to move air down to chest. Tall screen can produce turbulent airflow round your head and make horrendous noise. I am happy to get over 70mpg from without trying too hard. Most bike seats too tall for me, used to have a DRZ400 SM with 35" seat height and could only ever get one foot down.

[Seeker]

if you drilled some small holes in your screen maybe that would equalise the pressure better and cut the buffeting. Not sure whether near the top or near the bottom would work best though.

[Chris_SVS]

if you drilled some small holes in your screen maybe that would equalise the pressure better and cut the buffeting. Not sure whether near the top or near the bottom would work best though.
I've seen people tape and cut the stock screen right down as well as drill holes, yet I cannot find the posts :eek:

My Puig double bubble came with longer bolts, which will accomodate 6mm of spacer easily - I'm going to try 3/8 rubber tap washers with drilled centres to see what difference it makes.

Spacing out the bottom two will obviously lower the top of the screen and move it back, where the top two bolts would lift and move forward. May just be enough, or may also not work :rolleyes:

[Adam Ef]

I would personally look at the reasons why you decided to move away from your SV. What were you looking for which the SV didn't provide?


As Grant mentioned .. the run up to overtakes on A roads and never quite being confident about getting past and back in. Doing the IAM course where they encourage progress and overtakes made me feel even more this way. The Tracer is great for this.


A bit better corner handling? I'm already going around corners that I'm familiar with 10 to 20mph faster without really thinking about it on the Tracer, and the stock suspension isn't even that sharp for it.


More wind protection to make long journeys at decent speeds less tiring.. altough now realising maybe it's not what I wanted, or at least no working out how I expected with a bike that is meant to be for that purpose?

[Adam Ef]

On the other hand you don't like looking through plastic want wind protection but no buffeting. I think you may only get to pick 1or 2 out of those.


I'd prefer smooth air flow to turbulent buffeting. I think it's the broken up design of the front of the Tracer that causes it more than anything. All the gaps and angles of the lights etc. That and the fact the screen sticks out on it's own and isn't attached to anything at the sides. The short screen is better, but I'm basically riding a naked bike that pretends to have fairings when it's fitted with the short screen. Why aren't I just on a naked bike?

[Adam Ef]

I think the big problem is how upright it is. Contrary to what I thought it would do for comfort, it's actually causing me to hunch and crouch a bit and I keep finding myself trying to lean forwards on corners. The bad back ,especially between my shoulder blades from holding on for any decent length of time at speed isn't really what I expected. I've thought about looking into lower bars, but the space they have to fit into is quite specific with everything that's going on at the front of the Tracer, so not really an option.

[Grant66]

The naked version allows the bars to be rotated, gives a degree of adjustment to the riding position.


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[Talking Heads]

the IAM course where they encourage progress and overtakes

A wanky old bunch of shyte.

[Chris_SVS]

A wanky old bunch of shyte.
Strongly disagree :p

[Talking Heads]

Strongly disagree :p

Fairy nuff :cool:

[Seeker]

have we got a fairing for you...
https://burtonbikebits.net/images/!cid_5DCC3017CDCA4E87ACC1DF0B89441E1B@David.jpg

Alternate plan, visit local college and see if there's a class on aerodynamics and tell them about your problem and see if they'll take it on as research (or at least offer advice).

Here you go: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/aerodynamics-research/

[Talking Heads]

See your trumpet and raise you a screaming orange paintjob.....
(best fairing ever?)

https://i0.wp.com/www.bike-urious.com/wp-content/uploads/BMW-R100RS-Right-Side-3.jpg?fit=881%2C681&ssl=1

[Adam Ef]

I do actually kind of like those old fairings... but only on old bikes. When I had my CB250rsd I was on the lookout for a Rickman fairing for it.

Maybe not on the Tracer though :p



From reading the endless posts about it on forums and FB etc I don't think there trully is a way to solve the front end turbulence. I think it's just built into the design that was created with the MT aesthetic in mind rather than function.

[Adam Ef]

My main reason for thinking this through now is my insurance renewal coming up at the beginning of September. I'll either be reinsuring the Tracer and sticking with it for another year or trying something else instead.

But, I really can't work out what I'd try instead if I did sell / trade the Tracer at the end of the month.


I'd like to stay with a triple engine. Obvious options seem to be the naked MT09 version or the Street Triple.
I do find the MT09 feels a bit small for me in the naked version though and find the front end and position more upright than I like still. It does have that great engine though.
I tried Street Triples a while ago and found myself shoved forwards sliding down the seat and feeling cramped up pushed forwards against the tank. It is a bit lower on the bars though than the MT09. Someone mentioned a way of solving the sliding on the seat problem a while ago but I can't remember what it was?


The newer Striples have the two part seat and I've found those to be perfect for me, but they only come on the newer models and the latest 765, so well out of budget.



Neither have a fairing though. One bike I really really like the look of is the Daytona 675. But.. the clip-ons! I converted my SV because I couldn't live with the position and have got a feeling the Daytona would be similar. I have sat on one and found them roomier in reach and hip angle than an SV though and there are a few options for slightly raising the bars with Gilles bars or flipping the originals etc. Too much alteration and it starts to involve cable changes though.


I'd really like to still have ABS. Controversial I know.



Thinking at the moment of maybe getting something cheap to keep me going through winter and try out without too much investment. That would probably mean a Street Triple (as Daytonas and MT09s are still higher priced than old Striples) to keep me commuting and able to do so short to medium journeys ok still. Maybe even just as capable (or incapable) as the Tracer in the current 'naked' setup that I have with the short screen on longer journeys too?


I do love the look of the Daytona though. Possibly best to go with my heart a bit more on the next decision as I was very logical and practical in my thinking getting the Tracer.


Everything I think of seems to lack the practicality of the Tracer with top box fitted etc. But, I used to manage fine on the SV with tank bag and a couple of Kriega packs.

[zsv650s]

My main reason for thinking this through now is my insurance renewal coming up at the beginning of September. I'll either be reinsuring the Tracer and sticking with it for another year or trying something else instead.

But, I really can't work out what I'd try instead if I did sell / trade the Tracer at the end of the month.


I'd like to stay with a triple engine. Obvious options seem to be the naked MT09 version or the Street Triple.
I do find the MT09 feels a bit small for me in the naked version though and find the front end and position more upright than I like still. It does have that great engine though.
I tried Street Triples a while ago and found myself shoved forwards sliding down the seat and feeling cramped up pushed forwards against the tank. It is a bit lower on the bars though than the MT09. Someone mentioned a way of solving the sliding on the seat problem a while ago but I can't remember what it was?


The newer Striples have the two part seat and I've found those to be perfect for me, but they only come on the newer models and the latest 765, so well out of budget.



Neither have a fairing though. One bike I really really like the look of is the Daytona 675. But.. the clip-ons! I converted my SV because I couldn't live with the position and have got a feeling the Daytona would be similar. I have sat on one and found them roomier in reach and hip angle than an SV though and there are a few options for slightly raising the bars with Gilles bars or flipping the originals etc. Too much alteration and it starts to involve cable changes though.


I'd really like to still have ABS. Controversial I know.



Thinking at the moment of maybe getting something cheap to keep me going through winter and try out without too much investment. That would probably mean a Street Triple (as Daytonas and MT09s are still higher priced than old Striples) to keep me commuting and able to do so short to medium journeys ok still. Maybe even just as capable (or incapable) as the Tracer in the current 'naked' setup that I have with the short screen on longer journeys too?


I do love the look of the Daytona though. Possibly best to go with my heart a bit more on the next decision as I was very logical and practical in my thinking getting the Tracer.


Everything I think of seems to lack the practicality of the Tracer with top box fitted etc. But, I used to manage fine on the SV with tank bag and a couple of Kriega packs.

Just go get a vfr and stop moaning :smt023

[Seeker]

My main reason for thinking this through now is... to justify having 2 bikes

...fixed your quote for you Adam.


We're all friends here, you can tell us the truth. :)

[DJ123]

Reading through your posts about what you need the bike to do, you will end up with a compromised bike. It'll either be too sporty to do the commute, or a bit dull when out for a fun ride.
Regarding the fuel economy Fuelly shows you are achieving the average for this bike http://www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/yamaha/mt-09_tracer so you are at least getting real world figures.

My advice would be to go ride a BMW F800ST or GT. A nice and smooth 800CC parallel twin, comfortable to ride, economical, plenty of practical luggage options and good wind protection too. Also lots of aftermarket options to adjust handlebars, footpegs and seats for adjusting the seating position if needed.

[Adam Ef]

...fixed your quote for you Adam.


We're all friends here, you can tell us the truth. :)


I'd prefer 3! One fun sports bike, one ratty all weathers, nimble commuter and one proper tourer.


I think part of the issue is trying to find that holy grail of fun, practicaliity for commuting and ability to do longer distances in comfort.


VFR and BMW are interesting ideas I hadn't thought of but not sure...

[Talking Heads]

I think part of the issue is trying to find that holy grail of fun, practicaliity for commuting and ability to do longer distances in comfort.

You need two bikes, an R3 for fun and a Burgman 400 for everything else.

[DJ123]

I'd prefer 3! One fun sports bike, one ratty all weathers, nimble commuter and one proper tourer.


I think part of the issue is trying to find that holy grail of fun, practicaliity for commuting and ability to do longer distances in comfort.


VFR and BMW are interesting ideas I hadn't thought of but not sure...

The BMW option is a bit of a curve ball. One that caught me by surprise and have stuck with it since. One of the main reasons i like it is the low center of gravity. It means on off camber junctions, low speed maneuvering or on roads with a lot of left/right or switchbacks it is very responsive to inputs and takes very little effort. It also means the bikes handling characteristics don't change depending on how full/empty the fuel tank is.
Worth a test ride to see what you think. The engine has lots of torque throughout the rev range and has a very flat line power delivery, so there is no real power band, it only progresses more as you get further up the numbers.

[admin]

Looks like there's an article on tracer owners in this month's Ride mag. Lots of different screens used. Might be worth a look.

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[Adam Ef]

Cheers John. I'll have a look for it.


In other news... I test rode a Street Triple this morning. It was.. interesting. Going to let my thoughts sink in and then I'll report back.

[Red Herring]

Just go get a vfr and stop moaning :smt023

Can't believe it took until page three for someone to state the obvious.....:cool:

All joking aside I've got a 2002 VFR tucked away in the garage that I pretty much only use for long distance touring as you really don't need that kind of performance on UK roads. I can easily do 400 miles plus of progressive non motorway miles and still feel ready to turn round and do it again, where the majority on my mates on their collection of newer/more powerful/more sophisticated/more expensive/more orange etc etc bikes are all desperately looking for a hotel.

In my humble opinion it's one of the most competent all rounders out there.....but then it doesn't get nearly as much abuse as my SV does!

[ethariel]

Went through about 8 screens between the tiger 800 and the tiger1050 and ended up with an MRA and an additional flip on the top to finally get the blast over the top of my helmet - suppose it's ok if you are 5'6 but not for 6'4.

+1 for the VFR or maybe a Blackbird if you can pry one out of someones fingers

[admin]

Ditto the comments on the vfr. I wanted something comfy but still sporty after 2 sv650's. It fits the bill fine and I can ride it for hours whereas the SV used to kill my **** after an hour or so. The downside is that it's heavy and not so agile as the SV.

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[Adam Ef]

Not sure I can handle the extra weight on the VFR. It's the same weight as the Tracer and BMW dry as they are wet.
On paper I thought I wouldn't like the 214kg of the Tracer, but it actually feels very light. Noticeably heavier moving it about to get in the garage etc than my SV was, but once moving it handles like a much lighter bike. The BMW suggestion has me intrigued though. My IAM instructor rides one and loves it. The belt drive looks good. Weight is same as the Tracer and if it rides with the weight low down (fuel under the seat etc) then it could be a good option.


I know it was a joke when mentioned but I do realise I won't get everything right in one bike. I'd love to have something small fun and light to commute and enjoy locally and then something more sophisticated to do distances on. I think I need to just get something cheap and cheerful to keep me commuting and mobile locally at the beginning of September.


A street Triple would be a great fun bike for a few hours out and decent for commuting too. I test rode one yesterday and loved it, but felt like I did last time I sat on one that I kept sliding forwards into the tank and felt cramped unless I pushed myself back up the seat, which caused me to tense my arms to hold myself back (even with knees gripping the tank). Someone mentioned an option of sorting out that seat problem a while ago on here and I wish I could remember what it was. Apart from that the position was good. The bars could be very slightly wider (every time I moved my hand and then put it back I kept nearly missing the end of the grip, but that may be because I've got used to the very wide Tracer bars). Difficult to judge from a half hour test ride as I think the suspension was set way off for me (hyperpro spring on the rear which I think was uprated for a heavy rider). The blue lights that keep flashing when you up the revs were a bit annoying too. As a simpler honest, smaller bike I could see it being fun though. Not sure how it would be on longer journeys.


I'd definitely have one if I could sort out the seat problem and get a tourer to live alongside it though. :p


I'll do some more research on the BMW.

[Adam Ef]

Looks like there's an article on tracer owners in this month's Ride mag. Lots of different screens used. Might be worth a look.

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Unfortunately this was an article that came from a call out on the Tracer Facebook page, so is mostly people who have already had the same screen discussions many times over online. It looks like the conclusions are the same... either go full on barn door screen or the best results seem to be from removing the screen altogether and riding it as a naked bike. I've tried that though and still get turbulence and unclean airflow off all the angles of the lights and gaps between all the front end bits.


If they'd concentrated less on the making it look angular and aggressive and thought about creating smooth air flow from the front end instead I think they'd have solved a lot of problems that people have. Maybe make it so that you can adjust or swap out the bars without fouling all the pointy out bits on the front too and I'd be very happy with it all.

[zsv650s]

I have only had a quick go on a vfr but it did not feel heavy but I was coming off the big boy rf900r so I may have been used too it.

[Adam Ef]

Found it...



The street triple ergonomics are immediately sorted with a sargent seat. I speak from experience. Wider and flatter pan = not crushing your balls on the tank.

The over-the-bars position is where you want to be on a sharp bike. Upright and beg is comfy, but hardly makes for an involved, fun ride.


http://forums.sv650.org/showpost.php?p=3078305&postcount=13

[Talking Heads]

I have only had a quick go on a vfr but it did not feel heavy but I was coming off the big boy rf900r so I may have been used too it.

When I got my '86 VFR I traded from a Z1300, the VFR felt like a 250.

[BoltonSte]

A street Triple would be a great fun bike for a few hours out and decent for commuting too. I test rode one yesterday and loved it, but felt like I did last time I sat on one that I kept sliding forwards into the tank and felt cramped unless I pushed myself back up the seat, which caused me to tense my arms to hold myself back (even with knees gripping the tank). Someone mentioned an option of sorting out that seat problem a while ago on here and I wish I could remember what it was. Apart from that the position was good. The bars could be very slightly wider (every time I moved my hand and then put it back I kept nearly missing the end of the grip, but that may be because I've got used to the very wide Tracer bars). Difficult to judge from a half hour test ride as I think the suspension was set way off for me (hyperpro spring on the rear which I think was uprated for a heavy rider). The blue lights that keep flashing when you up the revs were a bit annoying too. As a simpler honest, smaller bike I could see it being fun though. Not sure how it would be on longer journeys.


I'd definitely have one if I could sort out the seat problem and get a tourer to live alongside it though. :p


I'll do some more research on the BMW.



I will commute on mine, have a fun ride on back roads and have done the NC500 twice with Kriega US 20's and 10's on the pillion seat. First time with a tent, second stopping at B&B's so distance can be covered. Also a couple of slow track days (BMW club) where it held it's own and claimed some scalps.


I'm 5' 10" by the way.


Other than relatively minor issues it has been great and doesn't use any oil.


Although I've had it since new and currently trying to decide if I want to sell and try something else.

[punyXpress]

Ditto the distance on a Street Triple: best was 700 miles from Applecross via Johnny Grouts to home. :D

[Adam Ef]

Half way through August, I can't see myself deciding to get another years insurance on the Tracer at the beginning of September.

[garynortheast]

Half way through August, I can't see myself deciding to get another years insurance on the Tracer at the beginning of September.

So the question is - what bike are you going for then?

[Adam Ef]

Still undecided and a bit hesitant to choose something, knowing how I feel about what I thought was going to be an ideal bike in the Tracer.


I keep coming back to it needing to be fun at the top of the list though.

[garynortheast]

Still undecided and a bit hesitant to choose something, knowing how I feel about what I thought was going to be an ideal bike in the Tracer.


I keep coming back to it needing to be fun at the top of the list though.

Maybe you should consider one of those Suzuki SV650 bikes. I hear they're pretty Good all rounders! :D

[Chris_SVS]

Maybe you should consider one of those Suzuki SV650 bikes. I hear they're pretty Good all rounders! :D
There may even be one of those forum things on t'internet for them :D

[zsv650s]

There may even be one of those forum things on t'internet for them :D

Don't think so this is the triumph forum

[zsv650s]

Still undecided and a bit hesitant to choose something, knowing how I feel about what I thought was going to be an ideal bike in the Tracer.


I keep coming back to it needing to be fun at the top of the list though.
Grom

[yokohama]

I've not ridden one but if you liked the SV and the V twin along with leg room and a less cramped stance, is it worth trying out a Vstrom 1000??

[Heorot]

I am 5'9" and test rode a vstrom 650 last year. I found it too tall (I couldn't put both feet down) and top heavy. I nearly dropped it in the dealers yard. Not as agile through the twisties as my k3 naked as its wet weight is 31kg heavier than my bike.

[Talking Heads]

I keep coming back to it needing to be fun at the top of the list though.

Nice red SV650AL7 going cheep cheep cheep in the for sale section.....
Its as fun as a fun thing on a fun day.
I'll even ride it down to you for free if you pay the full asking. :cool:

[Adam Ef]

Nice red SV650AL7 going cheep cheep cheep in the for sale section.....


Cheers, but if I had another SV I'd probably go for something older that needed fixing up as a project.


The bhp of the Tracer is one thing I do like, so looking for something nearer that sort of power with similar torque.

[Talking Heads]

Z900rs

[zsv650s]

Cheers, but if I had another SV I'd probably go for something older that needed fixing up as a project.


The bhp of the Tracer is one thing I do like, so looking for something nearer that sort of power with similar torque.

All joking aside have you thought about the FZ1 more comfortable better wind protection and more than enough power my dad's got one and thinks its the mutts nuts.

[Adam Ef]

Z900rs
I was looking at z1000 and z750 s a while ago. They've got a lovely rumble. Not really wanting an IL4 though and they drink more petrol than our car!

[Adam Ef]

All joking aside have you thought about the FZ1 more comfortable better wind protection and more than enough power my dad's got one and thinks its the mutts nuts.


That's what I thought I was going to get before I got the Tracer.. mainly because of budget. But then I wanted ABS and all the ABS models were up around the price of the cheapest Tracers. Looks wise, I do like them. They've got enough of a dated but still modern front end. Not that fuel efficient though and 150bhp does up my insurance slightly! I do keep looking at them though. Should probably test one.


In other news....

[Adam Ef]

... test rode a BMW F800GT today. It was a very nice bike. Felt a lot smaller when you're on it than they look. Felt heavier than the Tracer and less inclined to steer, but it surprised me when it steered really well with little input. No where near as flickable though and much less grab when you open the throttle, which is both good and bad. I'd like a bit more oomph and ability to pull away, but on the plus side it meant the throttle response was very smooth, no where near the snatchiness of the Tracer.


Wind protection was ok. Decent front end that was nice to be behind but still looking over the screen and good clean air flow. Some wind when up to 70mph, but smooth enough and not annoying. Nice on a warm sunny day like it is here today. The bar position was slightly forward compared to the Tracer, so better but still a bit too upright maybe. Also found the seat held me forward to the tank a bit too much. I'd have liked to have pushed back.


Putting a foot down kept surprising me when my foot hit the ground a few inches before I expected it too. It's low! Decent enough knee angle though to feel like you can lock in nicely. I'm 6ft and not sure I'd want it any smaller or lower. My IAM instructor gets on really well with hers and she's about 5ft 8".


It felt long. The wheel base felt and looked very long. Maybe that affects the steering? Or at least the feel and what you expect from the steering? What amazed me was the low speed handling. You can almost track stand it, which for someone of my limited ability at that sort of thing is impressive, especially considering (although it's not what most would call heavy) it does weigh 214kg. The back brake was almost non existent though (compared to the very, very good fronts) but maybe that made slow control easier meaning you could be heavy on it and still move nicely at slow speeds.


Indicator switch was terrible. No feedback or click at all and very small. I kept having to look at the dash to check I'd signalled, which isn't ideal as you're usually signalling at times when you need to be looking around you instead of at the dash.



I can see why people get 70mpg out of them. They do feel a bit like the edges are taken off everything. I think if I rode my Tracer in B (rain) mode and didn't ride high revs I could get similar with a similar ride style. It definitely feels like more of a straight line bike and would be great for longer journeys cruising. It is buzzy when revved (especially through the bars) but if you settle into 60 to 70mph in 6th gear all that dissappears. Nice to be able to have buzzy feedback of what the engine is doing in changeable conditions, stop start and corners, but also the choice to not buzz your hands into numbness when at higher cruising speeds for longer times.


Overall though, I really liked it but can't imagine myself having one as my only bike. And as much as I'd like, I can only have one. Even if I could afford two, I can't afford to run / insure / care for two and don't have space either.


Getting back on the Tracer made me appreciate certain things about it again. Mainly it's ability to position yourself out of blind spots etc when pulling away at 65/70mph on dual carriageway. Still came back with fluttering ears from the wind noise even after a short ride though and can't afford to batter my already tinnitus filled lugholes. And I get a bit bored sitting so upright.

[admin]

... test rode a BMW F800GT today. It was a very nice bike. Felt a lot smaller when you're on it than they look. Felt heavier than the Tracer and less inclined to steer, but it surprised me when it steered really well with little input. No where near as flickable though and much less grab when you open the throttle, which is both good and bad. I'd like a bit more oomph and ability to pull away, but on the plus side it meant the throttle response was very smooth, no where near the snatchiness of the Tracer.


Wind protection was ok. Decent front end that was nice to be behind but still looking over the screen and good clean air flow. Some wind when up to 70mph, but smooth enough and not annoying. Nice on a warm sunny day like it is here today. The bar position was slightly forward compared to the Tracer, so better but still a bit too upright maybe. Also found the seat held me forward to the tank a bit too much. I'd have liked to have pushed back.


Putting a foot down kept surprising me when my foot hit the ground a few inches before I expected it too. It's low! Decent enough knee angle though to feel like you can lock in nicely. I'm 6ft and not sure I'd want it any smaller or lower. My IAM instructor gets on really well with hers and she's about 5ft 8".


It felt long. The wheel base felt and looked very long. Maybe that affects the steering? Or at least the feel and what you expect from the steering? What amazed me was the low speed handling. You can almost track stand it, which for someone of my limited ability at that sort of thing is impressive, especially considering (although it's not what most would call heavy) it does weigh 214kg. The back brake was almost non existent though (compared to the very, very good fronts) but maybe that made slow control easier meaning you could be heavy on it and still move nicely at slow speeds.


Indicator switch was terrible. No feedback or click at all and very small. I kept having to look at the dash to check I'd signalled, which isn't ideal as you're usually signalling at times when you need to be looking around you instead of at the dash.



I can see why people get 70mpg out of them. They do feel a bit like the edges are taken off everything. I think if I rode my Tracer in B (rain) mode and didn't ride high revs I could get similar with a similar ride style. It definitely feels like more of a straight line bike and would be great for longer journeys cruising. It is buzzy when revved (especially through the bars) but if you settle into 60 to 70mph in 6th gear all that dissappears. Nice to be able to have buzzy feedback of what the engine is doing in changeable conditions, stop start and corners, but also the choice to not buzz your hands into numbness when at higher cruising speeds for longer times.


Overall though, I really liked it but can't imagine myself having one as my only bike. And as much as I'd like, I can only have one. Even if I could afford two, I can't afford to run / insure / care for two and don't have space either.


Getting back on the Tracer made me appreciate certain things about it again. Mainly it's ability to position yourself out of blind spots etc when pulling away at 65/70mph on dual carriageway. Still came back with fluttering ears from the wind noise even after a short ride though and can't afford to batter my already tinnitus filled lugholes. And I get a bit bored sitting so upright.That was an interesting read. It's one of the bikes that I would consider. They had one in a local bike shop and one of the things that put me off is the speedo, its a bit of a mess with a small needle that doesn't quite reach the mph scale.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[Seeker]

So:
1) more power than an SV
2) wind protection
3) no buffeting
4) fun
5) positive turn signal switch (?)
6) V twin preferred


The good news is we have a vehicle that fits your needs:

A Morgan 3 wheeler: https://www.morgan-motor.com/3-wheeler/


(and you can walk around with a waxed handlebar moustache and throw in an occasional "tally ho, chaps" when you're down the local)

[admin]

So:
1) more power than an SV
2) wind protection
3) no buffeting
4) fun
5) positive turn signal switch (?)
6) V twin preferred


The good news is we have a vehicle that fits your needs:

A Morgan 3 wheeler: https://www.morgan-motor.com/3-wheeler/


(and you can walk around with a waxed handlebar moustache and throw in an occasional "tally ho, chaps" when you're down the local)Lol. Problem solved, though filtering in traffic might be a challenge.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[Adam Ef]

Strangley that is the only car I've ever wanted, apart from maybe an old mini as it's the only thing that will fit in our narrow 1970s garage.

I grew up in Malvern, home of the Morgan factory. Never liked the 4 wheelers though.
If I had one I'd want an old original one though, and they go for £80,000+. So unlikely to happen on my pocket money. There's a couple around there that I see about and they look and sound great with the V-Twin out front.


Anyway as far as being able to filter, commute, tour, corner, levitate etc and all at a cheap cheap price... I'm still on the lookout for the holy grail.

[Adam Ef]

John (admin) or anyone else who owns a VFR800 .. how do you get on with the linked brakes? Do you know what proportion one affects the other? I'm guessing the front lever doesn't slam on the rear brake with full force and visa versa, but does it proportionately? I can't find any info online about what ratio one affects the other?



I sat on one last weekend and felt very at home on it. But... the weight! Not sure how well I'd filter on it weight wise, but the bars aren't too wide being clip-ons (ish).

[admin]

John (admin) or anyone else who owns a VFR800 .. how do you get on with the linked brakes? Do you know what proportion one affects the other? I'm guessing the front lever doesn't slam on the rear brake with full force and visa versa, but does it proportionately? I can't find any info online about what ratio one affects the other?



I sat on one last weekend and felt very at home on it. But... the weight! Not sure how well I'd filter on it weight wise, but the bars aren't too wide being clip-ons (ish).The combined brakes are very subtle in my view. I'm not a heavy breaker but when I have had to brake hard the stopping power is impressive and I've never managed to activate the ABS. You do get less fork dive as I guess the rear brake pulls the rear of the bike down.

The front brake lever operates all three pistons on the right disc and two pistons on the left. The left caliper rotates and has a secondary master cylinder which operates one piston on the rear disc.

The rear brake lever operates two pistons on the rear and one piston on the left front.

So you still have two braking circuits and both have proportional control valves, though what the proportion is I don't know.

If you brake with the front only you'll still have most of the retardation on the front and vice versa with the rear.

As for the rest of the bike, well mine is 2006 and still looks good, it's true what they say about Honda build quality.

Its a good compromise between a sports bike and a tourer. It's not as nimble as an SV but I can ride it for hours in comfort whereas I had to stop on the SV after an hour for my bum to recover.

Some people hate the VTEC transition but I love it. The engine starts to howl and it just takes off, just like a power band on a two stroke. This occurs around 7k and you can easily drive below that most of the time if you want to as 80mph is around 6k in top.

I've got bar risers on mine for a slightly more relaxed ride but you can fit normal bars without having to hack the fairing.

Apparently the new model is even more refined. Have a think about the crossrunner too it's based on the vfr800

Sent from my Moto G (5) using Tapatalk

[SV650rules]

My Brother has 1996 non-VTEC VFR750 ( carbed ) and also 1998 non-VTEC VFR800 ( injection ) and a few years ago his mate ( who had a VTEC VFR800 ) asked my brother if his bike was 'OK' as he felt it had little power low down and he kept stalling it, so they swapped bikes for a few miles and despite him riding the older carbed 750, which was 10 years older than his VTEC the bloke wanted to swap bikes there and then, and my brother said no way I have ridden your bike and agree with you - I stalled it nearly every junction until I learned to wind it up before feeding clutch in - I have had quite a few Honda VTEC cars, and I agree it is great when they get on the VTEC and the exhaust note hardens and they take off, but still not impressed with the power below about 2500 revs - but the top end more than makes up for it.

[admin]

My Brother has 1996 non-VTEC VFR750 ( carbed ) and also 1998 non-VTEC VFR800 ( injection ) and a few years ago his mate ( who had a VTEC VFR800 ) asked my brother if his bike was 'OK' as he felt it had little power low down and he kept stalling it, so they swapped bikes for a few miles and despite him riding the older carbed 750, which was 10 years older than his VTEC the bloke wanted to swap bikes there and then, and my brother said no way I have ridden your bike and agree with you - I stalled it nearly every junction until I learned to wind it up before feeding clutch in - I have had quite a few Honda VTEC cars, and I agree it is great when they get on the VTEC and the exhaust note hardens and they take off, but still not impressed with the power below about 2500 revs - but the top end more than makes up for it.There is a lack of flywheel effect but I've never had a problem with stalling. However there isn't that low down grunt you get with a V twin and it does seem happier if you keep above 3k

Sent from my Moto G (5) using Tapatalk

[Adam Ef]

I just went to see a 2006 VFR. Listed as "full mot". Turns out that full mot was from two years ago. Hardly any miles put on it since 2014. 11,000 miles total which is very low for a VFR of that age. Most are around 30k now at least.Not sure if that's good or bad. Totally stock and asking a bit much for what I'd pay, but said he'd drop it £200 for a worn rear tyre and lack of current MOT.



I've also had an offer from someone quite far away for a 2006 VFR with 31k miles on it at quite a bargain of a price. But it would be buying unseen and getting a courier to collect.


Not sure what to do. I did have a short (albeit fairly slow) test on the one today to get a feel and the steering felt fairly heavy. The weight of the bike dissapeared a bit after I pulled away, but the steering didn't change much. I've heard that disappears when up to higher speed. Still unsure if I could have it as my one bike.

[admin]

I just went to see a 2006 VFR. Listed as "full mot". Turns out that full mot was from two years ago. Hardly any miles put on it since 2014. 11,000 miles total which is very low for a VFR of that age. Most are around 30k now at least.Not sure if that's good or bad. Totally stock and asking a bit much for what I'd pay, but said he'd drop it £200 for a worn rear tyre and lack of current MOT.



I've also had an offer from someone quite far away for a 2006 VFR with 31k miles on it at quite a bargain of a price. But it would be buying unseen and getting a courier to collect.


Not sure what to do. I did have a short (albeit fairly slow) test on the one today to get a feel and the steering felt fairly heavy. The weight of the bike dissapeared a bit after I pulled away, but the steering didn't change much. I've heard that disappears when up to higher speed. Still unsure if I could have it as my one bike.The steering gets heavy when the front tyre is worn out, at least that's what I found running michelins. They square off. I've swapped to continental now. So it could be that.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[Adam Ef]

Rear tyre was an MOT advisory (2 years ago) and is very flatted off. The front looked ok, but he didn't check inflation and he has it standing in a shed at his mother's house and only starts it every few months. It's had 7 miles put on it since the last MOT two years ago? Bad idea?

[admin]

Rear tyre was an MOT advisory (2 years ago) and is very flatted off. The front looked ok, but he didn't check inflation and he has it standing in a shed at his mother's house and only starts it every few months. It's had 7 miles put on it since the last MOT two years ago? Bad idea?They have pretty robust engines and can withstand long periods of inactivity. Weak points are ccts, which seem to fail at the 30k+ mark, mine have been replaced. Also stator regulator failure. I've had no problems with mine and I'm now at 37k. Opinion seems to suggest that excess heat kills the stator as owners in warmer climates seem to suffer most.

Sent from my Moto G (5) using Tapatalk

[SV650rules]

They have pretty robust engines and can withstand long periods of inactivity. Weak points are ccts, which seem to fail at the 30k+ mark, mine have been replaced. Also stator regulator failure. I've had no problems with mine and I'm now at 37k. Opinion seems to suggest that excess heat kills the stator as owners in warmer climates seem to suffer most.



My brother fitted 12volt computer fans to regulators on both his bikes after suffering a failure 200 miles from home on a cold wet day on his VFR750 - mind you the aftermarket RR might never fail but can't be too careful, he blames the fairing keeping airflow off the RR..

[Adam Ef]

I noticed the two side radiators kicked out a lot of heat very quickly when he started it up today. It was very hot here today and the engine warmed up to 60 degrees in about a minute! I might have to try and get a proper test ride up to speed on one. I'd be looking at it being at motorway and NSL capable / long journey end of the spectrum. Still not sure I'd dare filter on it though, so possibly not a great commuter?

[admin]

It does run hot. The rear cylinders generate heat into the frame and your legs. I used to commute on it but being in the sticks little filtering was needed. I have used it for filtering on traffic snarlups on some of my trips and its no worse than my SV, my mates on GS's have far more trouble with their wide bars and panniers.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[admin]

My brother fitted 12volt computer fans to regulators on both his bikes after suffering a failure 200 miles from home on a cold wet day on his VFR750 - mind you the aftermarket RR might never fail but can't be too careful, he blames the fairing keeping airflow off the RR..Yep, that's a common fix and fitting a non Honda rectifier.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[Adam Ef]

Do you know if it's possible to angle the bars outwards slightly? They felt a bit too pointed inwards on this one but the last one I sat on was fine. Both had standard bars. I had read something about them being fixed at a certain angle with a tab that locks into the fork? The height of them felt fine with a good slight forward lean but not too aggressive. My hands were twisting out sideways slightly though.

[admin]

Do you know if it's possible to angle the bars outwards slightly? They felt a bit too pointed inwards on this one but the last one I sat on was fine. Both had standard bars. I had read something about them being fixed at a certain angle with a tab that locks into the fork? The height of them felt fine with a good slight forward lean but not too aggressive. My hands were twisting out sideways slightly though.They do have tabs that lock in. There is a bit of slack for adjustment, you'd get more if you trimmed the tabs or filled then off. I've fitted risers to my bike for a less crouched forward position. See image belowhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190826/f60ef82478d571b86a4aeb0bcc8aaea5.jpg

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[Talking Heads]

Ah the dreaded central revcounter, hated that about mine, I need to know speed so gimme a big central speedo, I can hear what the engine is doing, I don't need a ruddy great revcounter dominating the dash. Grrrr!!! /endrant

[Adam Ef]

At least the whole dash is positioned centrally. Take note Yamaha!


Cheers for the info John. I think I need to do some more research and visit a dealer.

[Talking Heads]

Does your 900 tracer have the assymetric dash and fuel cap like the MT-09?
Daft idea.

If you're going to Ye Honda Shoppe, ask them about servicing costs for the VFR.
Make sure you're sitting down first.

[admin]

Does your 900 tracer have the assymetric dash and fuel cap like the MT-09?
Daft idea.

If you're going to Ye Honda Shoppe, ask them about servicing costs for the VFR.
Make sure you're sitting down first.A major service is expensive at 16k as it involves a valve check. Mine had just been done when i bought it. I haven't bothered with the 32k as most owners find that the valves rarely need adjustment. Everything else I can do myself even the brake bleeding.

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[Adam Ef]

I am aware of the valve check cost. Checking it's been done on anything I look at. Cheers.

[ASM1]

On the VFR front,i have owned 5,the first a scruffy 1986 model with 59,000 miles on it and scratch marks on the odometer numbers,so had already been clocked,sold it with 89,000,it was light,handled well and the engines are/were absolutely bullet proof,bit of cam gear rattle at high mileage. Still doing the job in some classic racing classes now. The early ones were built as sports bikes,but immediately eclipsed by gsxrs etc.
The newer they were(back then) the heavier and less fun they got,despite still imho being the ultimate do anything bike.
Had two more early ones 88 and 89,both absolutely faultless and fun the fk being the pick of the bunch. Then got a single sided swing arm one,an FL i think.
Still capable,but not fun and felt heavy,then the nr750 lookalike 96? Looked great,still did not inspire me in any way. I realise that i am now (very) old and most people want abs and traction control. I don't.
I don't know about the late vfr800vtec, by all accounts if power comes on in a rush,then i imagine despite its weight (and the dreaded honda camchains)it's probably a giggle.

[Adam Ef]

So this is where I've got to so far. The new (to me) bike...
A 2014 Street Triple R with some slight mods by a previous owner.


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48696000777_8139af3054_c.jpg


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48695831856_d49af736af_c.jpg


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48695831831_de8c54de99_c.jpg
.

[Adam Ef]

The most obvious difference to stock is the round headlight. I'm changing that back to normal straight away. Bracket, lights, fairing etc already sourced. The rear end looks to be either a Daytona or Striple RX version that's been added on with Triumph "Shad" seat and pillion cowl. Not something I've seen on any others. I had hoped the seat would solve the slipping forward issues I have with these bikes. It does to an extent but not totally. Tank knee grips are definitely needed. I might get another seat and have a go at modifiying it or get it sent away to be modified if I can get the money together.


Along with the light change a previous owner also (brutally) screwed the clocks into the top of the bar clamp. Done in a very shoddy way, slightly to the side and not straight. Probably because the round light sits where the original clock bracket was. The whole arrangment of the wires and position of everything is a mess up front and the clocks and light leads are stopping the steering going to full lock. Quite surprised it passed an MOT like that! I'm changing it all asap though.


A few nice bling bits inc Triumph LED indicators and quickshifter. I keep forgetting to use the quickshifter though and actually prefer the clutch lever most of the time for a softer release into the next gear as the quickshifter can cause shifts to grab a bit. I'm probably not using it right though.



I looked at all bikes I was interested in and ultimately decided to put "fun" at the top of the list. After all that's why I ride a bike, to enjoy it. When it works for a commute or getting to relatives that's great too. But I found I was focusing too much on finding a bike that would cope with motorways well too and everything was too much of a compromise. I actually hate riding on motorways anyway and only do so out of necessity sometimes, so not the best main criteria for choosing a bike. The Striple is definitely hard work at 70mph for any length of time, but for most of the riding I do, it's great and I'm actually enjoying riding a naked bike again. I'll wait and see how I feel about that in the depths of dark cold winter though.


But, other suggestions that people gave did really interest me. And still do. I know it was a joke when someone mentioned having two bikes. But it got me thinking. Having the short test ride on the VFR in the summer heat a few weeks ago made me think about what a great second bike it would be. Motorway capable and built in double heaters (radiators) to kick out some heat in the winter. I'm intrigued by the V4 engine too. I'm keeping an eye out and if a 2006 or newer one with higher mileage comes up cheap (as they seem to sometimes) and I find some money somehwere, I might just try and make space in the garage for one. I think it would be a great combination with the Striple. Likewise, if a cheap BMW F800gt came up for sale that could be a good combo too as a motorway capable and frugal option. The BMWs don't seem to come up for sale as such bargains though.


For now I have plenty to keep me busy getting the Striple fixed up and adjusted and hopefully a bit more decent weather to get out and have fun on it.


Thanks to everyone for input on this. I was quite surprised how interested I was in some of the bikes mentioned that I would never have thought of before.

[garynortheast]

Nice bike Adam. I'd agree though that the headlight really does need changing - it just looks so wrong on a striple.

[Seeker]

I actually like the single headlight look. I investigated it when I had a triple but, if it's the same one, is an American kit and is expensive. My triple was a 2012 and it was the last year of the high pipes - I liked the pipes but they were very heavy. I'll be curious to see what mileage you get because the newer 675s (after 2013) were supposed to be 10% better than prior models. The triple weighs slightly less than the SV but feels much more like a big bike - more solid. Nice looking bike, congrats.

[admin]

Nice bike Adam. I'd agree though that the headlight really does need changing - it just looks so wrong on a striple.I agree.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[Adam Ef]

I actually like the single headlight look. I investigated it when I had a triple but, if it's the same one, is an American kit and is expensive. My triple was a 2012 and it was the last year of the high pipes - I liked the pipes but they were very heavy. I'll be curious to see what mileage you get because the newer 675s (after 2013) were supposed to be 10% better than prior models. The triple weighs slightly less than the SV but feels much more like a big bike - more solid. Nice looking bike, congrats.


It needs changing because it gets in the way of the clocks bracket, which I want to move back out front instead of hacked onto the bar clamp, where they're too far back out of view.

[Adam Ef]

The triple weighs slightly less than the SV but feels much more like a big bike - more solid. Nice looking bike, congrats.


I'd say it definitely shares some characteristics. The engine breaking has a similar feel and it has some character to the engine too.


It's a more involved ride than the Tracer was. I need to pay attention as it feels very sharp and responsive. It requires slightly heavier bar input, but responds sharply to that input if that makes sense. I guess that's down to geometry and shorter suspension travel and narrower bars. The suspension is quite firm too! Definitely need a loose grip on the bars on bad road surfaces, especially through corners.


Considering it has 10bhp less than the Tracer it feels like it really flies from standing and pulls well at dual carriageway speeds for overtakes and blipping the throttle to get out of blind spots etc.

[Adam Ef]

Well this happened a lot sooner than expected! ...
.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48738532923_a05b51c6a2_c.jpg

[admin]

Well this happened a lot sooner than expected! ...
.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48738532923_a05b51c6a2_c.jpgNice. Let me know if you want the workshop manual.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[Adam Ef]

Nice. Let me know if you want the workshop manual.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk


Yes please! Do you have a PDF? PM on it's way... ..







+ I took it out for a quick test spin this evening and have to say.. wow! I was not expecting to enjoy it so much! Felt like when I first got my SV, but with more oomph and smooooooth. Nice gutsy feeling when revved too and the exhaust a previous owner fitted has a good tone and gives great feedback from the engine when riding.


It's a Cat N insurance write off. Looks decent from a distance (and in that photo) but when you get up close every panel is scuffed, there's a small dent in the tank, footpeg is bent, crash bung is bent in with cracked fairing underneath and the engine casings are scuffed. It also has zero service history (22,000 miles) and was caked in about 10 years of thick grime when it arrived. But it was cheap enough to not refuse.


I've got a feeling I might like this bike.

[zsv650s]

Nice I'm very tempted myself I know a 2008 with 12k on it with my name on it.

[admin]

Yes please! Do you have a PDF? PM on it's way... ..







+ I took it out for a quick test spin this evening and have to say.. wow! I was not expecting to enjoy it so much! Felt like when I first got my SV, but with more oomph and smooooooth. Nice gutsy feeling when revved too and the exhaust a previous owner fitted has a good tone and gives great feedback from the engine when riding.


It's a Cat N insurance write off. Looks decent from a distance (and in that photo) but when you get up close every panel is scuffed, there's a small dent in the tank, footpeg is bent, crash bung is bent in with cracked fairing underneath and the engine casings are scuffed. It also has zero service history (22,000 miles) and was caked in about 10 years of thick grime when it arrived. But it was cheap enough to not refuse.


I've got a feeling I might like this bike.The engine is very smooth, like a turbine. Things get really interesting above 8k rpm.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[Adam Ef]

The engine is very smooth, like a turbine. Things get really interesting above 8k rpm.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk


I've felt what I think is the Vtec kick, but it's not nearly as extreme as I was expecting.



The lights are the best I've had on a bike too.

[admin]

I've felt what I think is the Vtec kick, but it's not nearly as extreme as I was expecting.



The lights are the best I've had on a bike too.I don't think it's as extreme as people say, maybe the earlier models were.
Vtec starts at 6-7k and the engine note changes to a howl. By 8k it's really pulling. I find it really addictive. Take it to 11k in third gear and you'll see around 110mph ish.

Yes the lights are superb. Some people upgrade them, god knows why.


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[Chris_SVS]

That escalated quickly, again

[BoltonSte]

Damn Adam!


You got me thinking with this carry on, so on Saturday I went round the local Kwak/Suzuki, Yam and finally Triumph dealer looking at a replacement for my 10Yo Street R.


I've not looked at other bikes in some time, at l;east I got to figure out what I like. The MT09 feels as small as mine, the MT-10 a little larger. The new Street is nice as is the speed. So now I have 4 bikes I need to get test rides on and decide what I'm doing with mine. Plus another local Yam dealer has a KTM superduke GT in which looks good from the pictures.


I'm going to have to take a day off work probably as I've now no weekends free until the end of October.


Ste

[Adam Ef]

That escalated quickly, again


I blame whoever it was on this thread joking that I needed two bikes. I now have two bikes! And I can't move in the garage.