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Join the forum today!

Related posts:

1. 2009 Year in Review/Forum Survey!

Finally, after a fair bit of persistence and a random encounter with a rider on a 400R, we were able to hop on one and take it for a proper test ride.

Initial Impression of the 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 400R

At 6’2″ and 227lbs, I am not a light person.  In fact I always feel a little ridiculous when I review smaller motorcycles like the 400R.  Aside from looking like someone who just stepped out of a clown car when riding one, I find that many smaller motorcycles struggle to actually keep a larger rider like myself moving.  Accelerating a big person when you have a small motor is a challenge, so of course I’m somewhat apprehensive when I hop on a motorcycle with less than 500cc’s.

I am happy to say that the Ninja 400R, with all 399cc’s of parallel-twin goodness, moves me pretty well.  It makes roughly 44 horsepower, which is very close to what the departed Ninja 500R made, and 27 lb-ft of torque.  Those numbers, while certainly not encroaching on superbike territory, are more than enough to move the common person around.  It did do a pretty good job of moving my “husky” rump, that’s for certain.

The fairings give it a real sporty look, very similar to what Kawasaki has done with both the Ninja 650R and the Ninja 250R.  Some may find the aggressive appearance a little off-putting, but I didn’t.  In fact, I’m a real fan of the boy racer look.

Riding the 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 400R

The 400R has a great riding position if you’re a taller person; you sit upright, with a slight lean.  If you have back problems, or just find super sports uncomfortable, the 400R might be right up your alley.  If you are much taller than 6’2″ I don’t know how comfortable you’ll find the bike as the foot pegs may be a bit tight.  Otherwise, as far as a smaller motorcycle goes, the 400R fares pretty well in the comfort arena.

The all-digital display lights up beautifully at night (as it was when I was riding it) and highlights the important information (RPM, speed) by drawing your attention to them quite effectively.  If you’ve ever driven a Honda S2000 you may actually find the instrument panel quite similar: the speed is shown on top of a “swooping” rev meter.  Very cool.

Given that’s fuel injected, the 400R starts right up and purrs wonderfully.  Acceleration is brisk, though nothing that will cause you to pop your front tire off the ground (unless you’re really trying to do it).  Like the 500R, the Ninja 400R has plenty of mid-range power; also like the 500R, the newest mid-range Ninja suffers down low and up top.  This is perfect for city riding, where you’ll spend most of your time between 3,500 – 7,000 rpm, but may quickly become underwhelming if you’re used to the down-low torque of a larger v-twin or the up-top ridiculousness of 600cc+ sport bikes.

Personally, I loved it.  Having ridden a Ninja 500R for a first bike, riding the 400R was as much nostalgia as it was invigorating.  The 400R’s suspension is finely-tuned, and new riders (or anyone really) on the bike will quickly find themselves becoming more and more comfortable with throwing the little Ninja around.  It’s light weight, combined with a somewhat-stiff suspension setup, really make this bike fun in the city.  I can’t comment on highway riding as I was unable to take it to highway speeds for more than a few minutes.

Jam the brakes and you’ll find yourself coming to a stop rather quickly.  My earlier comments about the light weight and fun in the twisties applies to braking: smaller, lighter motorcycles have less grunt to move around.  When I lost most of my beer-belly I noticed it infinitely easier to run, climb, stop, and jump.  Same concept, different vehicle

Our 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 400R Review’s Epic Conclusion

Do you want a motorcycle but are afraid to hop on a 600cc+ machine?  Does the concept of riding a 125cc or 250cc sound outright boring?  If you answered yes to either of those questions you may find exactly what you are looking for in the Ninja 400R.

It’s fun.  It’s quick.  It’s confident.  And it’s just a blast to throw around.

If you aren’t planning on racing on the weekends or having looooong highway commutes, the 400R could be a great fit!

Related posts:

1. Kawasaki Gives Canada and Japan the Ninja 400R
2. The 2011 Motorcycle Show – Highlights, Part 1
3. Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Weighing in at 458lbs (600cc), the Katana is far from a light bike- that’s what makes the Katana such a great bike for new riders.  With that much weight it feels planted on the highway, handling bumps and small potholes without fuss.  Twist the throttle and the front end will stay planted, allowing you to enjoy maximum acceleration with minimum wheelie-time.  For a new rider, that’s perfection.

The “Guts” of the 2004 Suzuki Katana 600

Powering the Katana 600 is a 600cc inline-4 based off of an older generation GSXR-750 motor.  The engine has been modified and detuned to 600cc, creating approximately 80 horsepower, and a helluva good time.  With “1 down and 5 up”, the transmission will feel perfect for just about anyone.

Other utilities loaded onto the Katana include electric start, dual headlights (hi/low), vented front and rear disc brakes, a fuel guage, and a digital clock.  Thanks to the bulletproof motor, the Katana 600 will run through just about anything.

The Suzuki Katana is a bit of a “parts bin special” due to the fact that it was made from bits of pieces of other bikes.  To save money, corners were cut in areas so that the bike would be a good overall performer and still be price competitive.  As a result you get a bike that is good at a lot of things but fails to excel.

Riding the 2004 Suzuki Katana 600

If you’re used to the low-end torque provided by v-twins, or the crazy high-end power offered by supersports, the Katana may seem disappointing.  The 600cc inline-4 lacks low-end toque, but by the time you hit 7,000rpm the Katana is ready to throw everything it’s got at you.  The result is a bike that is easy to “ride slow”, while at the same time, can be a screamer up top if you want it to be.  This means new riders can comfortably learn the limits of the bike without having to scare themselves senseless.

As mentioned previously, the Katana 600 weighs in at 458lbs.  This bike is definitely not light, so don’t expect to be able to flick it around the corners in the same way you would with a smaller motorcycle (like a Ninja 500R, for example).  Of course, this pays off when you’re making long trips- the weight lends stability and traction that it wouldn’t otherwise have.  When we said that it was a sport/sport-tourer hybrid, we meant that in every sense you can imagine: it’s got the engine, transmission, and adjustable suspension of a sport bike along with the stability, riding position, and comfort of a sport-tourer.  It also has a ton of storage (for a motorcycle)- more than most litre bikes.

Down low the Katana feels like a powerful V6 car.  It moves with traffic and can certainly negotiate itself well.  Up high, however, is where the V6 becomes a V8, packing lots of accessible power and sounding like a bat out of hell.  For someone with limited riding experience the power may actually be a bit too much, but thankfully the bike gives you the option of choosing how it is going to be ridden.

Finding the Suzuki Katana 600 Used

Suzuki stopped production of the Katana in 2006.  During its production run over over 15 years over 50,000 Katana’s were sold.  This means that they are relatively easy to find, and their pricing is competitive.  The yellow 2004 Katana we reviewed, for example, was purchased for $3,650 with just over 20,050km on the odometer.

For a bike that requires nearly no extraneous maintenance, looks great, and is lots of fun, the Suzuki Katana fails to disappoint and provides  a riding experience that smaller motorcycles just can’t replicate.  If you want a motorcycle that will easily last you 3 or 4 years, the Suzuki Katana 600 is an excellent choice.

Related Blogs

• Related Blogs on Suzuki

• Related Blogs on Suzuki Katana
• 530 SPROCKET CONVERSION « SUZUKI GSX KATANA Custom Build Blog
• KATANA LED TURN SIGNALS « SUZUKI GSX KATANA Custom Build Blog
• KATANA CHARGING SYSTEM « SUZUKI GSX KATANA Custom Build Blog
• SUZUKI KATANA Blog » THE PAINT IS KILL’N ME!!
• SUZUKI KATANA Blog » KATANA USD INVERTED FORKS

Related posts:

1. 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 400R Review
2. Suzuki SV650
3. Suzuki GS500

The Calgary motorcycle show wrapped up last night, and thankfully I was able to attend to snap some pictures and see what’s new and exciting in the motorcycle world.  I took some great pictures, had some fantastic conversations (including a good one with a rep from Suzuki Canada), and left quite excited about some things (I’ll talk about that in a moment).  Of course, this is BeginnerMotorcycleReviews.com, so I tailored my trip for bikes that fit that niche.

A couple of the most exciting changes coming to the beginner motorcycle market are the Honda CBR250R and the Kawasaki Ninja 400R.  Both promise to offer great riding experiences at very affordable price points.  Without further ado, here are some of my highlights for the 2011 year (in no particular order):

2011 Kawasaki Versys

With a smooth 649cc parallel-twin engine (hmm, where have we seen that before?), the Versys is becoming one of my personal favorites.  The engine is optimized for mid-range performance as opposed to peaky power delivery.  Our experience with this engine has proven it to be torquey, with plenty of get-up-and-go without having to worry about the front literally getting up and going!

The Versys sports a comfortable riding position for most riders (at 6’2 and 215lbs I found it quite comfortable) and plenty of space for a passenger.  If you’re looking for an entry-level motorcycle that offers plenty of jam when you mash the throttle, but is still comfortable and easy to ride, the 2011 Kawasaki Versys is a great choice (watch for our 2011 Kawasaki Versys review coming later this spring).

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 650R

Surprised to see this here?  Considering how much we love the Ninja 650R it should come as no surprise that we made a point of checking this year’s model out.  Nothing really changes for the 2011 model year with the exception of some new color and graphic packages.

Of course, I like the “if it aint broke don’t fix it” approach sometimes, and this bike definitely falls into that category.  A couple of years ago Kawasaki made some massive changes to the 650R, resulting in a motorcycle that is a blast to ride for new and experienced riders alike.  We still love its two-tone looks, comfortable riding position, and excellent fuel economy.  The 649cc parallel-twin engine is one of our favorites for a bike like this.

Quick, great looking, and a blast to ride- what more could you want?

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 400R

Exclusive to Canada and Japan, the Kawasaki Ninja 400R looks like a spiritual successor to the widely popular (and, sadly, no longer available) Ninja 500R.  It has a tight, compact frame and is very lightweight.  I found it a bit too small (again, being 6’2″ and 215lbs) but my girlfriend (5’7″ and 135lbs) absolutely adores it.  It promises to offer a bit more pep than the Ninja 250R while still remaining plenty manageable.

While we haven’t had the chance to ride one yet (on account of our sub-zero temperatures and white-fluffy stuff on the ground), we suspect that our recommendation for cautious or smaller riders may shift away from the 250R and land squarely on the 400R.

2011 Honda CBR125R

As with last year, we will not be doing a review of the 2011 Honda CBR125R this year.  There simply hasn’t been enough changes to the motorcycle to justify finding another one to take out and review.  However, also like last year, the CBR125R is an absolute bargain at $1,899 ($3,499 CAD before manufacturer incentives).  The CBR125R is Canada-only (sorry America) and is the little-little brother of the newly introduced 2011 Honda CBR250R.

We recommend this motorcycle to smaller people who are looking for something that can bomb around town.  Due to it small size (and engine size) the CBR125R isn’t ideal for highway riding.  However, it gets exceptional fuel economy and is an absolutely blast to ride.  It’s like a better looking, faster, less scootery scooter!

2011 Honda CBR250R

New for 2011, the Honda CBR250R promises to be the missing link in Honda’s entry-level lineup.  Available pretty much everywhere (including the USA), the CBR250R is similar to the Kawasaki Ninja 250R in that it is small, lightweight, and perfect for new riders looking for something that’s both great looking and extremely manageable.  It’s base price of $3,999 USD is nearly identical to that of the Kawasaki 250R, except that for an additional $500 you can also grab ABS- a feature the Kawasaki doesn’t have.

Using a 249cc single-cylinder engine, the CBR250R cranks out an impressive 26 horsepower (at 8,500 rpm) and 17ftlb of torque (at 7,000 rpm).  It features great looks (it certainly doesn’t look like an entry level motorcycle) and lots of engineering and technology.

I am really stoked for this motorcycle as it means that things could really heat up between Kawasaki and Honda!

2011 Yamaha FZ8 and 2011 Yamaha Fazer 8

The 2011 Yamaha FZ8 is probably the one motorcycle I’m the most excited about this year!  Packing 105 horsepower, delivered by a 779cc inline-four cylinder engine, the Yamaha FZ8 is a gorgeous naked bike that promises to offer plenty of punch while still remaining manageable and enjoyable.  This is not an ideal beginner bike in the sense that it packs a lot of power for a new rider, but it is certainly much easier to ride than a super sport thanks to its upright and comfortable riding position.

The 2011 Yamaha FZ8 starts at $8,490 USD ($10,499 CAD).

Starting at $10,999 CAD (not available in the USA), the 2011 Fazer 8 is the dressed version of the FZ8.  While our aesthetic preference leans slightly toward the naked FZ8, the Fazer 8 still looks great and promises to be an excellent street machine as well.  Look for the upcoming 2011 Yamaha FZ8 review (and long term review, since I bought one).  While the Fazer 8 is not currently available in the USA there are rumors suggesting that it soon will be.

Stay tuned for part 2 of the 2011 motorcycle show!

Related posts:

1. The 2010 Motorcycle Show – Some Highlights, Part 1
2. The 2010 Motorcycle Show – Some Highlights, Part 2
3. 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 400R Review

(Click for larger image)

Engine Size: 399cc
Price (new): $7,499 CAD
Comparable bikes: Kawasaki Ninja 250R, Kawasaki Ninja 500R, Suzuki GS500F

Currently announced for the Canadian and Japanese markets, the 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 400R steps in to fill the lofty shoes of the departed (and sorely missed) Ninja 500R.  It maintains all of the technology and features of its bigger brother, the Ninja 650R, but with a smaller engine and price point (the 400R is approximately $1,200 cheaper than the 650R).  It promises to offer new riders plenty of thrills and good times while remaining approachable and easily-controlled- key elements of an effective entry-level motorcycle.

More Information About the 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 400R:

This all-new Kawasaki weighs in at 447.5 lbs, just 2 lbs shy of of the Ninja 650R.  With an estimated 42 horsepower on tap there is no reason to believe that the 400R will be a slouch, though that is 17 horsepower less than the 500R carries.  With less horsepower and more junk in the trunk the 400R isn’t going to be as peppy as the as the 500R, but we suspect that it will perform just as admirably in the twisties thanks to the updated suspension and braking hardware.

The Ninja 400R is fully faired, though the Japanese market will have the option of the ER-4N (the ER-4N won’t be available in Canada unfortunately).  Currently, it is available in two colors: Metallic Spark Black / Flat Super Black and Lime Green / Flat Super Black.  Both color options are two-tone schemes.

The chassis is based on the same technology employed by the 650R: high-tensile steel frame paired with an upright riding position and an under-engine muffler to keep the center of gravity right where it needs to be in order for a rider to get the maximum amount of fun out of this machine.

We won’t be able to get on one until spring of next year, so watch for our review!

Related posts:

1. 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 400R Review
2. Kawasaki Ninja 650R
3. Kawasaki Ninja 500R

Scroll down for our comprehensive review of the 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom.

Fast Tube by Casper

Summary:

(Click for full size)

Engine Size: 903cc
Price (new): $9,899 CDN/$8,349 USD
Comparable bikes: Honda VT750C Spirit, Suzuki GZ250 Marauder, Honda CMX250C Rebel

The 903cc liquid-cooled v-twin engine powering this beautiful mid-size cruiser provides enough “oomph” to get the Vulcan 900 moving, which the sleek and sexy styling is quick to impress.  For someone looking to get into a cruiser, but is somewhat apprehensive of a “big bike”, the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is our ideal choice. It’s beautiful, it’s powerful, and it’s damn fun to ride.  What more do you want in a bike?

Our 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom Review:

Riding the Vulcan 900 Custom was like cruising on a cloud.  The suspension is comfortable, yet precise enough to provide ample warning should you decide to be a little overzealous in your lean-in.  The pipes project a deep, throaty roar that is satisfying each and every time you give the potent twin some gas.  It’s hard not to be “that guy” at the stop light revving the engine.

Alas, not all Vulcans are created the same.  In the case of the Kawasaki Vulcan 900, there are three different varieties: the classic, classic LT, and custom.  Each is based on the same excellent hardware and chassis, with mostly cosmetic changes defining the differences among the different types.  In the case of the Vulcan 900 Custom, the cosmetic differences are astounding.

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The 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic features traditionally styled wheels, body panels, and fenders.  The smooth, round lines are accented by tasteful chrome, including a “3D” chrome accent on the gas tank, handlebars, and instrument cluster.

The Vulcan 900 Classic also features a two-piece seat, allowing for more comfortable passenger riding.  The Vulcan 900 Classic does not have a passenger back rest as standard hardware.  It also does not have a windshield or saddlebags as standard hardware, either.

For those looking for a more touring-oriented motorcycle, the Vulcan 900 Classic LT is likely the better choice.

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The 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT adds a windshield, a passenger back rest (with saddlebags), and two-tone paint.  Otherwise, it features the same steel-chassis at the Vulcan 900 Classic, as well as the same wheels.  The appearance is not quite as “traditional” as the Classic model, but rather more touring oriented (and obviously so).

The Vulcan 900 Classic LT is a great choice for a new rider who is looking for the comfort and riding qualities of a cruiser, but also needs the versatility of a more touring-focused motorcycle.

The two-tone paint comes in a variety of colors and shades.

(Click for full size)

The 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is much more aggressively styled, with a large 21″ wheel on the front and the widest rear tire in the class.  The headlight is smaller, the windshield is removed, and the more passenger friendly two-piece seat is replaced by one-piece design.  Several accessories can be ordered from Kawasaki for the custom as well.

The Vulcan 900 Custom seems to appeal to a younger crowd, where the motorcycle is more for leisure than for transportation.  It’s affordable price tag, combined with great looks and fantastic riding dynamics, have made the Vulcan 900 Custom quite popular.

So, how does the 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom ride? Beautifully.  Sublime, in fact.  It’s a balance between brisk acceleration and a smooth, relaxed ride.  Bumps in the road aren’t as jarring as they would be in a sport bike, and thanks to the relative light weight of the Vulcan chassis, the custom is easy to manipulate and control.

During our ride, the only hiccup that we had was when we had to mash the brakes to avoid running a red light.  The rear end slight slightly sideways when we accidentally locked the rear brake.  We imagine that, as you become more comfortable with the bike and it’s limits, the chances of you locking up the rear tire when coming to a stop would be pretty low.

The Vulcan 900 Custom exudes an image of comfort and style, and when you’re commanding it there is a sense of belonging and place.  The bike just feels good, and at no point did we find it intimidating or menacing.  For a new rider, the ability to carefully manipulate the throttle and not have to worry about sudden power spikes or wheelies is a beautiful thing.

That’s not to say that the Vulcan 900 is a bike for learners only.  With nearly 60lb-ft of torque on tap, the Vulcan 900 can certainly get up and go (and sound damn fine while doing it).  Many riders find the Vulcan 900 to be their first, and only, motorcycle.  It’s track record of proven reliability, ease of maintenance, and comfort have made it a popular choice among those who value those qualities in a motorcycle.

The Bottom Line:

It’s not a big Harley, nor is it a 1,500cc cross-country cruiser.  At 903cc, the Vulcan 900 Custom provides all the jam, all the pizazz, and all the style of a larger cruiser, but at a fraction of the weight and cost.  The fuel-injected v-twin is smooth, and vibrations are kept to a minimum thanks to a series of design innovations from Kawasaki.

Is it a great bike, and would I recommend one to someone looking for an entry-level cruiser that doesn’t appear or sound entry-level?  Whether you’re just learning how to ride a motorcycle, or you’re looking for something that will keep a smile firmly planted on your face, the answer remains the same: oh, yea.

Related posts:

1. The 2010 Motorcycle Show – Some Highlights, Part 2
2. Top 10 Motorcycles for New Riders: 2010
3. The 2010 Motorcycle Show – Some Highlights, Part 1

The second installment of some of the highlights of the 2010 Calgary Motorcycle Show!  If you haven’t read the first one, check out my preview of some great beginner bikes for 2010!  I was really sold on the 2010 Kawasaki ER-6N… it really blew me away!  I was never a fan of naked bikes before, but this one just looks fantastic.

This update is some beginner motorcycles, but mostly other stuff that I saw and liked.  Unfortunately, a lot of the pictures that I took were blurry when I put them on my computer so I don’t have as much to share as I’d like

2010 Yamaha R6

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I’ve always loved the R6. In my mind it’s the best looking sport bike for sale, and it’s also one of the most comfortable for a guy my size (6’2″, 215lbs). Part of the reason that I’m so fond of “beginner motorcycles” is because they offer a comfortable riding position while maintaining good looks and affordability.

The R6 remains relatively unchanged for 2010, with the exception of a BNG package (bold new graphics) and some minor engine tuning to recoup a bit of the power that was lost last year due to tightened emissions regulations. The new power comes from a increase in the size of the exhaust, muffler (100mm longer), some airbox modification, and a new ECU.

2010 Suzuki GSX-R600

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The Suzuki GSX600: another viable contender in the super sport arena.  Like the R6, the GSX600 features a 600cc, high-revving engine.  Does 120+ HP @ 13,000+ RPM sound like your kind of machine?  If so, the GSX-R600 might be right up your alley.

Do we recommend a bike like this to new riders?  Absolutely not.  The ability to go from 0-60mph in under 4 seconds on two wheels is something that only capable, experienced riders should take on.  Not only that, but with a standing quarter mile of less than 11 seconds, this motorcycle is one of the fastest machines on the street.

Still, one can’t deny it’s sheer awesomeness.

2010 Suzuki GSX650F

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Here’s a bike to watch.  There are plenty of rumors floating around on the internet that are talking about how the GSX650F is going to replace the GS500F on the entry-level/beginner side of things.  No one can really know for sure what Suzuki’s plans are, but I’ve got the suspicion that the GS500F isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

The GSX650F is often called the “faired version of the bandit”, and that’s largely correct.  It incorporates ABS, a “big” 656cc engine, and big brakes, allowing this bike to hang with the other “big 650′s”.  Like the Kawasaki Ninja 650R or the Suzuki SV650S, the GSX650F is multi-dimensional: it’s good for casual riding, touring, or more aggressive riding.

Watch for our review later this year.

2010 Yamaha FZ6R

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When we first hopped on the 2009 Yamaha FZ6R we ranted and raved about how smooth the 2003-esque R6 engine was, and how surprisingly quiet it was (your neighbors will love it, we are hit/miss about it).  Yamaha has kept the basic formula the same with the 2010 FZ6R, aside from changing around some color schemes.

That being said, we still think it’s a fantastic entry into the market and are excited to see how this motorcycle evolves over time!

Related posts:

1. The 2010 Motorcycle Show – Some Highlights, Part 1
2. The 2011 Motorcycle Show – Highlights, Part 1
3. Learning to Ride Sportbikes: A Beginners Guide – Part 2

The Calgary motorcycle show was a few weeks ago, but I’ve been so crazy busy that I never had a chance to post some of the pics that I took.  There were a ton of really excellent motorcycles on display this year, including some new BMW’s that really got the crowd excited (197 horsepower will do that to people).  However, being the guy that I am, I tried to get a line on some of the new entry level and/or tamer motorcycles that would be better suited for beginners.

Tangent Alert!
Lately there have been some people who take offense to certain motorcycles being called “beginner motorcycles”.  Really, people?  There’s nothing wrong with riding a beginner motorcycle at all- it shows maturity, and the desire to ride a machine that won’t kill you the first time you make a minor mistake.  A Ninja 650R can’t even be compared to a R6, because one has a linear powerband, and the other goes like a screaming rocket once you hit a certain rev threshold.

A motorcycle that may be suitable for new riders may also be great for more experienced ones.  The Suzuki SV650 is a great example of this: relatively friendly for a new rider (and forgiving too), but still boatloads of fun for experienced riders who really want to put it through its paces.

The point of this website is to focus on the motorcycles that a new rider can ride, have a great time on, and not have “too much bike” while they’re learning.

With all that being said, here are some of my personal highlights from the 2010 motorcycle show:

2010 Honda CBR125R

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Unfortunately, we won’t be doing a review of the 2010 Honda CBR125R as not much is changing- and what has changed isn’t enough to warrant a full-on review. However, we did snap a picture of the 2010 CBR125R.

See any major changes to the 2010 Honda CBR125R from the 2009 model?  Yea, us either.  However, we still feel that it’s a good entry level motorcycle for someone who’s just looking for something small to rip around on.

Would we call it a tourer or a sport bike?  No, not a chance.  However, if you want something to get in and around the neighborhood, and maybe some slight highway riding, then the Honda CBR125R is a great choice.  And, priced as low as it is, it’s not like it’s hard to afford.  Last we checked, you could grab a 2010 Honda CBR125R for under $3,000 CDN with incentives.  Not too shabby!

2010 Kawasaki ER-6N

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I’ve never been a fan of naked motorcycles, as I’ve almost always found their faired counterparts to be better looking and more aerodynamic.  The 2010 ER-6N, however, is flat out gorgeous.

Click here for even more pictures.

The 2010 Kawasaki ER-6N is drop-dead gorgeous, especially in motion.  Everything from its copper-colored headers down to the visible rear suspension makes this bike a sexy street machine.  And, with the tried and trusted 650cc parallel-twin that powers both the ER-6N and the Ninja 650R, you know it’s reliable and pretty fast to boot.

Owning this bike would be a real treat, and something I’d love to add to my garage.  I may even consider adding the 2010 Kawasaki ER-6N to my garage before I add the Yamaha FZ6R.  Come spring, we will see…

2010 Kawasaki Ninja 650R

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Ahh the Kawasaki Ninja 650R. This bike is extremely popular, and with good reason: great riding dynamics, relatively inexpensive, and inexpensive to insure and maintain.  The 2009 Ninja 650R had a lot of changes from previous model years, so the 2010 650R remains pretty similar.  There are some minor aesthetic differences (powercoated rear handles, painted lower fairing, etc.), but nothing really game changing.

Click here for even more pictures.

It’s important to note that just because there aren’t a ton of significant changes to the Ninja 650R doesn’t mean that it’s no longer competitive.  Unlike cars, motorcycles don’t always undergo significant changes once the correct formula has been found.  The old adage of “if it aint broke don’t fix it” certainly applies here.  In the case of the exceptional Kawasaki Ninja 650R, it hits the nail on the head.

Haven’t had the pleasure of riding one yet?  Get out there and find one to ride!

2010 Suzuki GS500F

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The Suzuki GS500F is a direct competitor to the Kawasaki Ninja 500R.  In a lot of ways they are almost the same motorcycle- while the technical specs may be slightly different, both motorcycles are excellent and accomplishing their respective goals.  Case in point: both are excellent entry level motorcycles that offer great fuel economy and affordability, and both motorcycles should keep you from getting bored for a while.

While we prefer the Kawasaki Ninja 500R to the Suzuki GS500F (for a few minor reasons), there is a cult-like following for this now iconic Suzuki.  However, rumors that the GS500F is going to be replaced have started to float around online.  With that in mind, we approached the 2010 Suzuki GS500F as we do with any other motorcycle: when can get on one for another ride?

We will be revising our Suzuki GS500F review later this spring, as we have had tons of experience on the Ninja 500R and not nearly as much with the GS500F.  Check out our 2009 Suzuki GS500F review and post your own opinion and rating!

Changes to the 2010 model year are minimal: some colors change, and some new graphics are added.

2010 Suzuki SV650S

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The 2009 Suzuki SV650S was one of the first motorcycles that we fell in love with, and it will always hold a special place in our hearts.  Okay, cheeseyness aside, the 2010 Suzuki SV650 remains a great motorcycle for a new or experienced rider looking for a motorcycle that provides a great balance between something that’s fun to ride and something that’s economical and affordable.

The 2010 Suzuki SV650 retains the same “naked” appeal that has drawn in so many, and the faired version continues to look aggressive and capable.  No matter your aesthetic preference, the SV650 delivers.  In fact, the SV650S is one of the reasons that Suzuki’s sales in January 2010 are up 92.85% from January 2009.  Recession?  What recession!

Related posts:

1. The 2010 Motorcycle Show – Some Highlights, Part 2
2. The 2011 Motorcycle Show – Highlights, Part 1
3. Learning to Ride Sportbikes: A Beginners Guide – Part 2

Summary:

It might take a while for the dust to settle, but once it does you’ll realize that the Honda CRF230M may very well be the first attractive dual-sport… kind of.  Clean lines, combined with sleek and stylish bodywork make the CRF230M one of the best looking dual-sports (kind of) around.  A comfortable ride and peppy acceleration certainly add to the fun, but when you look this good, does it really matter?

What do we mean by kind of?  Keep reading.

Engine Size: 223cc
Price (new): $6,399 CDN/$5,399 USD
Comparable bikes: Yamaha WR250X, Suzuki DR200SE, Yamaha TW200, Yamaha XT250, Suzuki DR-Z400S

Our Honda CRF230M Review:

The Honda CRF230M looks like a dual-sport, and feels like a dual-sport, but in actuality is more a  motard than a dual-sport.  A quick Google search will reveal people posting incredible things about the CRF230M, including fuel economy claims upwards of 90 mpg!  If you are like us, in that you’re skeptical of any and all outrageous economy claims, you’ll be a bit taken back.  After all, anything achieving 100 mpg is worth a look, right?

So how did Honda do it?  Well, for starters, the CRF230M only weighs in at 276lbs.  With 14 hp and 12 ft-lbs of torque, it also isn’t packing too much of an accelerative punch.  However, a slick six-speed transmission that is geared efficiently goes a long way.  In this case, it’s likely the reason that this motorcycle pushes as much economy out of it as it does.

When riding the Honda CRF230M feels responsive.  This is a bike that you can feel comfortable leaning over, as its light weight removes that feeling of awkwardness that many new riders will experience when tilting over a larger motorcycle.  Once you’ve had a bit of practice you can literally “flick” this bike through the corners, leaning it over while simultaneously providing input with the throttle.

For a bike that takes a fair bit of time to get up and go (designed for economy, not speed, remember?) the CRF230M is a surprisingly large amount of fun.  You don’t need to hit 60mph in 5 seconds when the machine you’re riding feels like a roller coaster ride every time you lean it over.  And, when you decide that you actually have somewhere to be, this beginner motorcycle will cruise all day long at 65-70mph.

We don’t feel it to be as good a trail bike as the Yamaha WR250X or the Suzuki DR-Z400S, but that doesn’t mean it won’t go there.  Dirt, gravel, and sand are no match for the raised suspension and grippy tires.

But what takes us back the most is the capability this bike provides while still managing to look good.  Yamaha never accomplished that feat with the WR250X, and Suzuki definitely didn’t come close with the DR-Z400S.  But Honda hit the nail right on the head.  In our estimation, the Honda CRF230M is the best looking dual-sport/motard out there.

The Bottom Line:

It’s not an off-road monster, but it does return excellent economy in what should be a relatively maintenance free package (it uses many of the components, including the engine, transmission, and frame, from the excellent CRF230L).  We like the Honda CRF230M a whole lot, and for a motorcycle that was just introduced for the 2009 model year, that’s a bold statement to make.

Related posts:

1. Honda CMX250C Rebel
2. Honda CBR125R

Yamaha FZ6R Video Walkaround

Scroll down for our comprehensive review of the Yahama FZ6R.

Fast Tube by Casper

Summary:

A detuned R6 motor from the last generation R6 provides plenty of power and torque throughout the rev range, and a solid suspension setup keeps this bike stable when it counts. New riders may find the FZ6R a little intimidating, but those who take the time to master it will find it to be a rewarding and enjoyable ride.

Engine Size: 600cc
Price (new): $8,799 CDN/$6,990 USD
Comparable bikes: Suzuki SV650S, Kawasaki Ninja 650R, Kawasaki Ninja 500R, Suzuki GS500

Our Yamaha FZ6R Review:

Most of the competition of theYamaha FZ6R pack their mid-range sport bikes with v-twin or parallel-twin engines (the Kawasaki Ninja 650R and Suzuki SV650 come to mind), so it’s a somewhat odd choice for Yamaha to give it’s new-for-2009 FZ6R an inline 4 that has been taken from the last generation R6 (Yamaha’s 600cc super-sport model).

Not that it’s a bad thing, as the 600cc former-R6 motor is excellent and has all of the latest features, including digital fuel injection. Some may note that Yamaha has had the FZ6 on the market for some time, and that’s true, but the all-new faired version of the bike (aptly named the FZ6R) is brand new for 2009 and a serious contender for this segment. The Suzuki SV650 had enjoyed being the de-facto standard for a while (despite intense competition from the Kawasaki Ninja 650R), but the FZ6R promises to take a substantial chunk from Suzuki’s bottom line.

This bike could be the perfect bike for someone looking for something sporty, easy to ride, and capable on the highway. Moreover, the suspension has been designed to remain as responsive on a mountain road as it is in big city traffic. It certainly feels taut, though it is also quite comfortable. Every time we get on one we find ourselves blending right in with the bike- a very good trait to have.

Yamaha has been very hush-hush about engine specifications, though we suspect that this bike has roughly 75-80 horsepower and around 45-50 ft-lbs of torque. Yamaha claims that maximum power delivery is at 10,000 rpm and we agree- this bike feels at its best in the middle-upper end of its power band. Riders used to torquey v-twins may need to take some time getting used to the FZ6R’s power band, but once you are comfortable with it you suddenly find that the power is very easy to take advantage of.

We prefer the SV650’s motor to the one in the FZ6R as we find that it is less peaky, and hence more suited to city riding. Of course, we also share a bit of a bias having plenty of experience with the SV650. The Ninja 650R also rallies right on in with the FZ6R, though we prefer the looks of the Ninja. With that in mind, the FZ6R does have a more aggressive appearance, and it has a larger selection of color schemes than the Ninja.

Once you’re on the bike and comfortable with it the bike becomes very predictable. It’s a very solid bike to ride and one that new or even experienced riders will enjoy. Riders that are looking at the Ninja 650R or SV650S would be doing themselves no justice in overlooking Yamaha’s sporty and exciting FZ6R.

The Bottom Line:

The FZ6R is a great addition to the middleweight section by Yamaha, and one that new riders looking for a middleweight bike should definitely consider. A powerful inline-4 and sporting suspension combine to make a solid platform that anyone can appreciate.

Yamaha FZ6R Update – July 30, 2009

It was by chance that the yellow-decaled 2009 Yamaha FZ6R sat before me, propped ever-so-gingerly on its kick-stand.  I’ve always been partial for the “twins” when it comes to a good all around motorcycle that a beginner could feasibly hop on and ride without too much fuss.  The Yamaha FZ6R, with its inline-four cylinder engine and relatively peaky power band (compared to the Kawasaki Ninja 650R or Suzuki SV650) didn’t seem like the kind of bike that we’d be gung-ho over.

However, as you could tell from our review, we quite liked the FZ6R.  When we reviewed it back in late-January we found it to be a responsive, peppy machine that any rider, regardless of experience, would enjoy.  This, of course, brings us back to today.

At a local meet and greet I happened to come across a rider who, ironically, had read a review of the Yamaha FZ6R on this website (I didn’t think beginner motorcycle reviews was that popular yet).  As you can imagine, after a bit of conversation and some analysis into what a beginner motorcycle truly is, I quickly found myself sitting on a Yamaha FZ6R.  The fellow I had met took the reins of my Suzuki SV650.

Not only that, but a friend of mine who owns a Kawasaki Ninja 650R happend to be there as well (read our 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 650R review).  It didn’t take long before the three of us were out on the highway.

I’d like to officially change my opinion on the FZ6R, having found it to be an exceptional motorcycle that any new rider that feels confident, or any experienced rider looking for some inexpensive fun, will have have a blast riding.  Through the corners the FZ6R feels taught and refined, with suspension that’s quite stiff – if almost too stiff – and incredibly responsive.  I was able to throw this bike around and, like clockwork, know exactly how it was going to respond.

Acceleration is slightly behind the Ninja 650R or SV650S in the lower portion of the rev band, but once you hit around 8,000rpm it takes right off.  Though it didn’t leave the Kawi or Suzuki in the dust, it did pull on both bikes through most of third and fourth gear.  Very, very cool.

At the end of the evening, when I was forced to return the Yamaha FZ6R to its rightful owner, I found myself wishing for its smooth power delivery and excellent riding dynamics during my ride home.  It’s official: The SV650 has been replaced by the FZ6R as my favorite all-around motorcycle.

Hell has apparently frozen over.

Related posts:

1. Yamaha XT250
2. Yamaha TW200
3. Yamaha WR250X