Talk me out of this

[jeffw]

I currently own two bandits, a '99 and an '05, and they are great machines.  The stock tires are not the best choice, but can be replaced fairly reasonably.  The rear shock question is fixed by putting a Hayabusa rear shock on, they can be had for as little as $30.  The front end can be upgraded with better springs and new valving to improve thier compliance and will greatly enhance the bikes feel.  Racetech makes a good kit for that.  There are a couple of very good Bandit websites out there with tons of useful information, friendly people, just like here, and lots of specific help.  Banditalley.com and Maximum-Suzuki.com are both good choices for more Bandit specific info.  
Definately a different type of bike from the v-twins you are used to, but very much not just a racer replica.  Very versatile machine and well worth the money.

[birdrunner]

I think with this oiler, I can live with it .



If everyone preferred the same thing-- Dang --This really would be a boring world. Also, since I am on a fixed income I get dang tired of hearing "drop $250.00 here $6000 here and $15,000 more tomorrow.  

My point is that many people insist on a shaft, even though they're more expensive than chain drive, but won't buy an oiler.  Also, an oiler will give you up to 7X more life outta your chain,  which means it'll pay for itself easily.

[St_rydr]

Oiler makes a mess, can of lube $8 bucks (thats the big one too)...taking a min to checkover your bike pretty cheap life insurance.

[KokomoSam]

Oiler makes a mess, can of lube $8 bucks (thats the big one too)...taking a min to checkover your bike pretty cheap life insurance.

FWIW, I got a Scottoiler last year and I think the mess depends on how you set it up.  I put on the dual injector and set the flow correctly and I haven't had much of a problem.  I know another rider without the dual injector and his seems to through a lot more oil on the rim.

Over all I would highly recommend a chain bike with an automatic oiler.  However, I have to agree with St_rydr that a check over of the bike is a good idea.

YMMV.

Sam

[ctfz1]

Would respring Bandit and consider rear shock.  Hyperprousa progressives or California Suspension Works or Traxxion for straight rates.  Cleaning chain (wiping excess off) WD-40 OR Liquid Wrench chain  lube is good for 15-20,000 miles. ADJUST EVERY 4-6,000 MILES.  Went from pc800 to fz1, do not miss shaft.  Right springs front and back settle bike and make it feel "new".