As I was getting more stuff for Flick the other day I walked by a CBR250 R. It really caught my eye I sat on it the guy started it up for me it already had a Yosh on it. Sounded pretty good had a pretty aggressive riding stance is about the only bad thing about the bike that and I don't like red. Here is a review for $3800 OTD with a Yosh had me a thinking.
http://www.ultimatemotorcycling.com/2011-honda-cbr-250-r-review
Mary
A test by an experienced rider: http://bayarearidersforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=382586&highlight=CBR250
If you want to move on from your GS500, get an FZ6R.
The CBR250 is a step backwards.
they have em in black too
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZDAFlu-_BQ
Quote from: SAFE-T on November 01, 2011, 08:56:55 PM
The CBR250 is a step backwards.
Not necessarily. I went from a 650 to a 250 and learned how to turn. And, if you want to start racing, a 250 is a far better starting tool. Also, insurance is less expensive.
And, a 250 is a great second bike.
For those people who can't afford Multiple Bike Syndrome, going from a 47 hp GS500F to a 28 hp CBR250 is a step backwards.
The Suzuki GSX650F also looks pretty good. I've never ridden one, but the few reviews I've read have been relatively positive.
I really like that the CBR 250 has an ABS option, but I would not want to own a motorcycle with less power than my GS.
I fear I'm in the minority here but I like 250 and have been looking for a decent deal on a Suzuki TU250. I haven't ridden the CBR but I can tell you that Ninja 250's are a blast! Don't knock 'em till you tried them ;)
-Jessie
Having had a 250 for 14 years, not a 33hp Ninja, but a 22hp Yamaha SRX250, I can tell you I had more fun on that bike than I've had on my GS. Not shutting off for turns is great fun! And, this is coming from a 50hp 650 (and a 50hp 550 Vision)! You only need 5hp to have fun through a turn.
So, without asking my riding habits, what I would want it for, or economic situation. One automatically assumes it would be a step back for me. It will be a commuter mainly on roads with a speed limit of no more than 55mph, it will be light ( I have a heart problem and trying to push Flick up the incline the other day at my new place almost killed me), 70-80 mpg. So, why would I want a bigger displacement bike? Maybe for the every other month I get out on I-4 oh wait I've got a car for that. For entertainment? Wait, I don't have a life I'm a full-time student and work part time.
Sorry, but I"m with Jack!
Mary
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on November 02, 2011, 08:03:40 PM
I fear I'm in the minority here but I like 250 and have been looking for a decent deal on a Suzuki TU250. I haven't ridden the CBR but I can tell you that Ninja 250's are a blast! Don't knock 'em till you tried them ;)
-Jessie
That's not a blast! This is a blast! :cheers:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYu7DQn5vAI
Quote from: Toogoofy317 on November 03, 2011, 09:08:42 AMSo, without asking my riding habits, what I would want it for, or economic situation. One automatically assumes it would be a step back for me.
In terms of mechanical performance, it is a step back for anybody. Given your individual situation it may be more suitable for you personally.
Quote from: SAFE-T on November 03, 2011, 09:37:51 AM
In terms of mechanical performance, it is a step back for anybody.
Not trying to start an argument but isn't this the same forum that is always raving about fuel injection... :laugh:
-Jessie
Mechanically superior but toothless LOL
Mary,
I'll go against the grain on this: I think you should test-ride one! The hell w/ all the nay-sayers! Do what's right for you. In your case, this could be the right move for you, and I'd wager it would be a ton of fun! After you get through school and get yourself situated, then you can think (if you want to) about an upgrade. But attend to those things that meet your immediate needs first and foremost and keep ridin' & smilin'!
Hell, it'll still break the speed limit!
:thumb:
Quote from: Toogoofy317 on November 03, 2011, 09:08:42 AM
So, without asking my riding habits, what I would want it for, or economic situation. One automatically assumes it would be a step back for me. It will be a commuter mainly on roads with a speed limit of no more than 55mph, it will be light ( I have a heart problem and trying to push Flick up the incline the other day at my new place almost killed me), 70-80 mpg. So, why would I want a bigger displacement bike? Maybe for the every other month I get out on I-4 oh wait I've got a car for that. For entertainment? Wait, I don't have a life I'm a full-time student and work part time.
Sorry, but I"m with Jack!
Mary
agreed. it isnt a step backwards, yeah you lose a lil bit in power, BUT mods a plenty lol. CHEAPER than the mentioned 650's etc. i know money is a concern of yours. out of privacy i wont go into details. anyhoo. ive ridden one of these. a friend got one as a commuter. and actually does ok on the interstate. it IS light mind you, but once you got into that and got used to it, youd be fine. its not too light where ai gulf breeze would blow you off of it. but it IS light enough where you could maneuver it without much stress/strain
I'd love a 350-450 twin that is well made - atleast GS like, has nice beefy components, aluminum frame, water cooling and fuel injection. Now we have come to the point in technology that FI is cheaper than carbs. They have to put a nice tight non oil burning motor together and the rest they can mass produce, I'd settle for a early 00's or somehting similar GSXR frame with a 400 twin water cooled FI motor, nice light 110X140-150 tars with 15/16 inch wheels. A 100 mpg 100 mph commuter/beginner bike. Sorta scaled down and less crappy version of an ex500 if you will.
250's could be fine, but I dont like bikes we rev to the moon. I think a 11k redline is plenty, and 45hp is plenty and 375 lb soaking wet is about what it should weigh. A updated GS, I really think if they had the horizon of the GS - 22 year production run for it, it can be done. Heck I'd parts bin it with the GS. The old GS in fact, Just make an aluminum frame, or parts bin it wiht an early 00's GSXR
Cool.
Buddha.
Tried GSX650F: Couldn't justify the added $4k just to get FI and 2 more cylinders. It was smooth.
I want one of these as a 4th bike. Too bad sold in Costa Rica and not the USA....
(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/0e54e8f1.jpg)
I'm with Buddha :cheers:
Didn't we already start discussion on a vtwin 500cc bike?
I think the easiest for anyone to have one themselves is to bore out a 400 monster or resleeve a 600 monster or SV650
Michael
Quote from: The Buddha on November 04, 2011, 01:27:42 PM
I'd love a 350-450 twin that is well made - atleast GS like, has nice beefy components, aluminum frame, water cooling and fuel injection. Now we have come to the point in technology that FI is cheaper than carbs. They have to put a nice tight non oil burning motor together and the rest they can mass produce, I'd settle for a early 00's or somehting similar GSXR frame with a 400 twin water cooled FI motor, nice light 110X140-150 tars with 15/16 inch wheels. A 100 mpg 100 mph commuter/beginner bike. Sorta scaled down and less crappy version of an ex500 if you will.
250's could be fine, but I dont like bikes we rev to the moon. I think a 11k redline is plenty, and 45hp is plenty and 375 lb soaking wet is about what it should weigh. A updated GS, I really think if they had the horizon of the GS - 22 year production run for it, it can be done. Heck I'd parts bin it with the GS. The old GS in fact, Just make an aluminum frame, or parts bin it wiht an early 00's GSXR
Cool.
Buddha.
well theres always royal enfield. something the indians DIDNT mess up. still seems to be a decent ride. had the chinese got their grubby paws on it, youd spend 2 mos gettign the lead shot out of it
The royal enfield is a single and 100% the opposite of what I am envisioning.
The joke is, its the royal oil field. That freaking thing is a guzzler, nothing modern about it.
OK fine its 00's metallurgy and 50's design, like the last 1/2 of the 20th century doesn't exist.
Thanks.
Srinath.
We have the answer in Canada...kinda...
Kawasaki Ninja 400R
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FBQt8EjxI6o/TMmMbTwpRjI/AAAAAAAAAUg/vtD1sLzYjfY/s600/11_Ninja400R_GRN_C%25255B1%25255D.jpg)
ENGINE
Type 4-stroke, Parallel Twin
Displacement 399cc
Bore and Stroke 68.4 x 54.3 mm
Cooling Liquid
Compression Ratio 11.0:1
Valve System DOHC, 8 valves
Fuel System
Digital fuel injection with two 34 mm Keihin throttle bodies
Ignition Digital
Lubrication Forced lubrication (semi-dry sump)
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission 6-speed cassette, with positive neutral finder
Final Drive Sealed Chain
Primary Reduction Ratio 2.095 (88/42)
Gear Ratio: 1st 3.000 (42/14)
Gear Ratio: 2nd 2.167 (39/18)
Gear Ratio: 3rd 1.640 (41/25)
Gear Ratio: 4th 1.360 (34/25)
Gear Ratio: 5th 1.192 (31/26)
Gear Ratio: 6th 1.040 (26/25)
Final Reduction Ratio 3.067 (46/15)
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual
FRAME
Type Diamond, high-tensile steel
Wheel Travel: Front 120 mm (4.7 in.)
Tire: Front 120/70-ZR17
Wheel Travel: Rear 125 mm (4.9 in.)
Tire: Rear 160/60-ZR17
Caster (Rake) 25°
Trail 106 mm (4.2 in.)
Steering Angle (Left/Right) 35º / 35º
SUSPENSION
Suspension, Front 41 mm hydraulic telescopic fork
Suspension, Rear Single offset laydown shock with adjustable spring preload
BRAKES
Front: Type Dual 300 mm petal discs
Front: Calipers 2-piston calipers
Rear: Type Single 220 mm petal disc
Rear: Caliper Single-piston caliper
DIMENSIONS
Overall Length 2,100 mm (82.7 in.)
Overall Width 760 mm (29.9 in.)
Overall Height 1,200 mm (47.2 in.)
Wheelbase 1,410 mm (55.5 in.)
Ground Clearance 145 mm (5.7 in.)
Seat Height 790 mm (31.1 in.)
Curb Mass** 203 kg (448 lbs.)
Fuel Capacity 15.5 litres (3.4 gal.)
Fuel Consumption TBA
** Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied)
PERFORMANCE
Maximum Power‡ 32 kW {44 PS} @ 9,500 rpm
Maximum Torque‡ 37 N·m {3.8 kgf·m} @ 7,500 rpm
Should meet most requirements...this is where I would have started but it wasn't available a few years ago...
This isn't the bike for Mary (no weight savings), but it would be a nice bike to get in place of the GS...just sayin' :cheers:
Later.
id say the cbr will be perfect for her needs. except one concern she mentioned. its ergos. suck ass. not made to be comfy. its a diet litre bike. same ergos pretty much. not comfy for someone in good health. let alone whats ailin her.
Interestingly, I saw a pic of an XJR400 today... 53hp, twin front rotors, ohlins rear suspension, 20 liter tank, I want...
(http://i.imgur.com/XlH0c.jpg)
Michael
agreed. mister i DO like that one(http://i519.photobucket.com/albums/u360/gstwin/big_bowdown.gif)
Don't get too excited yama...we won't see that here...it won't sell without farings...very few naked bikes make it here without having a "name brand"...Ducati gets away with it, Aprillia too...but Yamaha :confused:
Too many possers here...buying a bike because of how you look next too it...we miss out on a lot of very nice bikes because of them... :dunno_black:
Later.
Quote from: madjak30 on November 09, 2011, 02:36:59 PM
Don't get too excited yama...we won't see that here...it won't sell without farings...very few naked bikes make it here without having a "name brand"...Ducati gets away with it, Aprillia too...but Yamaha :confused:
Too many possers here...buying a bike because of how you look next too it...we miss out on a lot of very nice bikes because of them... :dunno_black:
Later.
very true. kinda prefer the naked bikes myself. but i guess im in the minority Eh?
Yes, we are.
It's freaking COLD here. All the time. Even summer temps are often only 15-20 C (59 -68 F) most days. A naked bike is also a cold bike at 100 km/h (60 mph). I had a couple of different non-faired bikes over the years and you only have to get stuck in the rain when it's about 9C (48F) ONCE to understand the benefits of a good fairing in terms of keeping you warmer and drier.
Unfortunately, the XJR 400 is not available in Australia either - unless it's a grey import.
Michael
Quote from: The Buddha on November 07, 2011, 02:10:59 PM
The royal enfield is a single and 100% the opposite of what I am envisioning.
The joke is, its the royal oil field. That freaking thing is a guzzler, nothing modern about it.
OK fine its 00's metallurgy and 50's design, like the last 1/2 of the 20th century doesn't exist.
Thanks.
Srinath.
i considered it a good bike before the indians took over. for a while i was writing it of as an offering from chinabikers.com. it has improved i will admit. modern no. old design etc. maybe newer metals. but in marys case, could we suggest something as nimble or more so than our beloved gs?, and cheaper too. i hadto push mine up my driveway. TRIED. well was successful, but second time i did that, along wiht my harley, i used the ramp, went thru yard and onto porch. but stil neither one is easy. keep in mind her condition. she can elaborate on that if she wishes, but main thing is, physical exertion, at the least will cause significant pain. at worst, well, hospitalisation. mary maybe that cbr and mod hte handlebars, to be more like hte gs'?, hell you could sell its handlebars to someone here for a project? just a thought but risers on that biek would alter it slightly. maybe enough to make it comfy
The manufacturer's specs put the CBR250 at 359 lbs, and the GS500F at 380lbs.
Not a lot of weight savings there :dunno_black:
^^^ I believe that's the CBR wet weight vs the GS dry weight.
Quote from: SAFE-T on November 10, 2011, 10:06:14 AM
It's freaking COLD here. All the time. Even summer temps are often only 15-20 C (59 -68 F) most days. A naked bike is also a cold bike at 100 km/h (60 mph). I had a couple of different non-faired bikes over the years and you only have to get stuck in the rain when it's about 9C (48F) ONCE to understand the benefits of a good fairing in terms of keeping you warmer and drier.
even on warm days it gets chilly goin naked. i used a windshield on ym gs' collection. sometimes used chaps too. or if i had to ride in 20f weather id put trash bags inside pant legs. works wonders, ka a poor mans thermal undies