Having said that, the Bandit 12 uses basically the same engine, and I've not heard that it's being dropped.

When I traded my SV it was a straight choice bewwen the GSX1400 and the CB1300. I thought the GSX looked better, is supposed to have the better gear box and be more comfortable but the build quality ain't up to much. I got the CB and I haven't been disappointed... although I still think the GSX looks better!

I've got a '14' and it's a simply awesome machine. Forget paper specs and internet bull**** *except mine!

It's not at all scary to ride and has no jerky powerband, it simply goes like ferk whatever gear you're in. The engine is turbine smooth (designed for the 14, it's not based on the bandit motor, uses hayabusa pistons and a longer stroke). It's oil/air cooled, not liquid *I know oil's technically a liquid!

It's very hard to get in a car or on another bike afterwards as you get used to being able to **** all over 99% of vehicles on the road and overtaking with impunity. Without trying (or speeding) I've usually got quarter of a mile on other cars at the lights, while they're still on the junction.

It's surprisingly slim considering the engine size and is a great commuter (apart from cleaning all that chrome). You can do full lock walking pace circles with one hand, very very stable and easy to control.

It has a great forum also at www.gsx1400.org

Thats very true - it's huuuge. Don't use a tankbag as often as I used to, as everything fits under the seat! :)

Agree with arenalife, it's an awesome machine. One thing I was worried about when I first test-rode one was that it would be difficult for slow speed riding, but it's very stable. The lack of powerband is wierd at first - there is no sudden kick as power comes in, it's just always there. This can lead to going deceptively fast!

Press say that the engine is strangled a bit and simply adding an aftermarket can adds another 20bhp :wink:

The CB1300 or ZRX1200 are better bikes and better built, but the Suzuki looks the best IMHO.

I thought it was based on the GSXR1100 air-and-oil motor? Which the B12 engine is also based on.

I think the the Yam looks the best, the GSX is the most comfortable, the CB most reliable and the ZX the best "all round" of the 4 contenders...

.

The power bit is true apparently. Adding a full exhaust system and new cams gives about 130bhp at the wheel - the standard exhaust headers are very restricted and the standard cams very mild. Apparently there is no sacrifice in lower rpm torque either. Just gets a bit expensive as you really need a PCIII and a dyno setup to get it all working nicely.

I'll never agree on the others being better bikes, obviously ;)

well here is my opinion!

i have sold my sv and am picking my new 2006 XJR1300 in blue and white up in 2 weeks sat! and will spend the whole of the sunday on it messing about in and around boxhill!!

Shame that some of these carb-fed muscle bikes have to be lost or tinkered with :(

I think they're all great and would love one as my next bike.