I've started to kindda look at bandits as my next bike.  I've not done any research on them, I just know I like the look.   I'm all about those naked bikes.  I expect that the 600 probably isnt as stout as a 600 super sport (R6, CBR, GSXR...)   However I'm sure the 1200 has the HP hookup.
Never rode one and never really talked to anyone who has...

The Bandit 1200 is a sweet machine but I really think it's a BIG jump from a GS500.  It has so much power, that I had difficulties making smooth right turns at intersection because the rear wheel always wanted to slide out.  Wheelies are no issue with this bike... it will power wheelie all day from as slow as walking speed.  The 919 I think might be a more suitable choice except for the fact that it has no windshield.

Barna

I think it is ok
My first bike was Rg250 WW
Than Rgv 250
Than my sweet Gs 500
and now I have bought CBR F-3.

Next bike will be 900RR or GSXR 1100

But I like my Gs and I am not going to sell her

I rode a Bandit 600 at a demo ride last year.  I was really disappointed because I thought they were nice bikes and I wanted a comfortable riding position.  They have absolutely no bottom end power which hurts because they are also fairly heavy.  When we were cruising at 80 kph I was sitting at 5000rpm and cracked the throttle ... nothing.  Top end was awsome tho, when you got it up there.  I would not trade my GS in for that.

The more I ride my GS, the more I like it.

500Rider, if you can get an ignition advancer, it really helps with the low end power.

I often ride with bandit riders. for more research check out www.maximum-suzuki.com (a gstwin.com of bandits and katana's-very active message board). The bikes are great looking and they really move. Most prefer the 12 to the 6. the 01 and early 02 b12's had piston issues making them burn quite a bit of oil; difficult to get dealer to fix but is doable. There's a whole forum section dedicated to this issue there.

A bit of cult status and great aftermarket support (Holeshot is biggest sponsor of max-suz.com and biggest single aftermarket shop).

the B6 is no more for 2004-will be replaced with a yet-to-be-named naked 600 using the gsxr600 motor. The b12's and b6's can be had for a song in the dealers since they're not a fast selling bike. It's my second shoice over the sv650 though.

This is one of the b12's I ride with...

NICE...

Quote from: pantablothe B6 is no more for 2004-will be replaced with a yet-to-be-named naked 600 using the gsxr600 motor. The b12's and b6's can be had for a song in the dealers since they're not a fast selling bike. It's my second shoice over the sv650 though.

Is there information about this new naked they are planning?  Can it be confimed that it will be released to the US?  The manufacturers seem to like releasing the middleweight nakeds to Europe and not to us.

Do you have any links available that talk about this new bike?

I only JUST found out about this and apparently the US dealers dont even know, yet. It is supposed to be US bound too.

I found out from a max-suz member who talked to a Suzuki rep directly. Rep said the dealers were going to be told soon but didnt know anything yet. I'd going to look for it at the Int'l motorcycle show (Dec. in CA). Should be stunning.