Giving some serious thought to buying another motorcycle. Haven't ridden since I left California nearly four years ago but I find myself wanting it again. So I've been looking at all sorts of bikes: Ducati 900SP, Suzuki TL1000s, Kawasaki ZRX1200, Yamaha FZ1, Moto Guzzi V11 Lemans, a Ducati ST2 (their sport tourer).
So far I've ridden the FZ1, the TL1000s, the ZRX1200, and the ST2. I wrote off the ZRX1200 because it didn't really impress me. I liked the looks a lot but the suspension left quite a bit to be desired. Strong motor but I felt pretty buffeted by the wind. The ST2 and the TL1000S are both twins, and as such, have unbalanced motors (that twin vibration). I guess it's characteristic with all the Ducs but I'm also going to give the 900SP a try. I love the looks of the bike so much that my heart will just be broken if I don't find it pleasant to ride. Both twins had balls of torque but in the lower rpms ranges the Duc seems faster. The TL1000s is definitely smoother. I might have to try them on the freeway to see how they feel at speed.
The FZ1 is definitely my leading contender at the moment. Looks like it fits a really good hard bag system (GIVI) and the motor (1000cc) is butter smooth and very refined. I just don't feel like parking next to the bed at night they way I do with the Duc.
The MG is still an unknown. I've never ridden a Guzzi, though they have a storied history and I've always had an interest.
The next week should prove quite interesting. I hope to make a decision by the weekend but I'm not rushing it.
Posted by artandscience at September 27, 2005 08:55 PM