Ninja 1000 ... is it what VFR followers have asked for?

[Lon]

It's pretty obvious that the new VFR is much more Hayabusa or ZX14 or K1300S than "older VFR".

Is the Ninja 1000 the new ultimate all-rounder sportbike?

For years, the VFR followers asked for a VFR with more power and less weight (ideally, less money also) but it never happened.  The '08 VFR800 VTEC is 551# wet, put out ~90hp / 49lb-ft at the wheel (source).

Enter the new Ninja 1000.

- 123 hp @ wheel, 74lb-ft @ wheel (source)
- 503# wet
- 1043cc
- 5 gallon gas tank
- Fully adjustable inverted cartridge front forks, mostly adjustable rear suspension. (source: Kawasaki)

I think Kawasaki gave VFR owners mostly what they'd been asking for -- well, except for the engine being inline and not having gear-driven cams.

I've ridden the 2010 Z1000, and it handles better than any VFR I've ridden (1991 w/ upgraded suspension, 2000 with upgraded suspension, stock 2006).  Is this it?  Will the Honda followers jump ship?

If I was in the market for a new bike, this would jump right to the top of my short list.  The Z1000 was as much fun as a Super Duke for $4000 less ...

[chornbe]

Honda is all but dead to me.

The Ninja 1000 looks like a fantastic package.

[sammyseaman]

.

I've ridden the 2010 Z1000, and it handles better than any VFR I've ridden (1991 w/ upgraded suspension, 2000 with upgraded suspension, stock 2006).  Is this it?  Will the Honda followers jump ship?

If I was in the market for a new bike, this would jump right to the top of my short list.  The Z1000 was as much fun as a Super Duke for $4000 less ...

Nope, never. That's like asking Chevy guys to drive a Ford or Miller Lite guys to drink Amstel Light or Pepsi drinkers to drink Coke or..... you get the idea.

[Dave the slave]

 I

Nope, never. That's like asking Chevy guys to drive a Ford or Miller Lite guys to drink Amstel Light or Pepsi drinkers to drink Coke or..... you get the idea.

I disagree, as a former VFR owner I admit the VFR has just been out VFRed by the Ninja 1000.  The ninja is missing one KEY ingredient and one preferred ingredient: the V-4 and the single sided swingarm.  But everything else is what I wanted the new viffer to be.  Hell, for me they coulda used the same chassis and just put a 1000cc V4 in it with 125hp and 70l ft-lbs of torque and I'd have bought it.  Even if it was still 550lbs (50lbs heavier than the Ninja).  The compliment of ergos and smooth power and a realistic weight is what the VFR used to be about, its currently lost sight of all these criteria.... And the Ninja fits them all.

The Ninja has just slayed shamu.

[Lon]

Heh, Dave ... your wish list is pretty much the same as mine.  

I'm waiting to see the Tiger Cub in the flesh.

[sammyseaman]

 I

I disagree, as a former VFR owner I admit the VFR has just been out VFRed by the Ninja 1000.  The ninja is missing one KEY ingredient and one preferred ingredient: the V-4 and the single sided swingarm.  But everything else is what I wanted the new viffer to be.  Hell, for me they coulda used the same chassis and just put a 1000cc V4 in it with 125hp and 70l ft-lbs of torque and I'd have bought it.  Even if it was still 550lbs (50lbs heavier than the Ninja).  The compliment of ergos and smooth power and a realistic weight is what the VFR used to be about, its currently lost sight of all these criteria.... And the Ninja fits them all.

The Ninja has just slayed shamu.

I disagree with your disagree   The Honda Followers will always follow Honda. VFR riders on the other hand may go for the new Ninja. I really think Honda dropped the ball on the new VFR. They had an amazingly charismatic V4 motor and that awesome-o SSA and they gave us the VFR1200  

[Lon]

I disagree with your disagree   The Honda Followers will always follow Honda. VFR riders on the other hand may go for the new Ninja. I really think Honda dropped the ball on the new VFR. They had an amazingly charismatic V4 motor and that awesome-o SSA and they gave us the VFR1200  

To be fair, the new VFR1200's engine is not the problem.  It's lighter than the VFR800's engine.

[Dave the slave]

To be fair, the new VFR1200's engine is not the problem.  It's lighter than the VFR800's engine.

Is it really?  Wow. Really.  Well that really makes me say WTF.

Anyway, it's a moot point for me.  Im quite happy with my ZX14, in fact I've become a bona fide Kawasaki guy.  I've owned 4 since I sold my VFR and there are several Kawi models I would go out an buy right now if I had the cash.  The Ninja 1000 is just one.

[motormike]

I'm not really a Honda follower as I don't own any motorcycle but I'm looking (drooling) over the 2007-2008 VFR800.  There are plenty of new and slightly used bikes out there.  I haven't rode a VFR800 but they seem like they would be nice.

[McHack]

To be fair, the new VFR1200's engine is not the problem.  It's lighter than the VFR800's engine.

Yea, my only real complaints about the new VFR are:

Ridiculously high asking price.
Ridiculously small gas tank.
Ridiculously intrusive fuel mapping,  if your gonna give us this awesome engine... let us use it!

[gritsngravy]

Based on three Kawasaki ownership experiences I find it very difficult to pay real money for a fourth.  This Ninja is a cool concept but for me I'll stick with my VFR.  Frankly,  the power output for me is more than enough for street riding.   I do eventually want to get another big inline four again but I can't weather another Kwacker.   Been riding the street since 1981 and have owned bikes from each of the big four but I just can't go Kawi again!!

[Dave the slave]

Based on three Kawasaki ownership experiences I find it very difficult to pay real money for a fourth.  This Ninja is a cool concept but for me I'll stick with my VFR.  Frankly,  the power output for me is more than enough for street riding.   I do eventually want to get another big inline four again but I can't weather another Kwacker.   Been riding the street since 1981 and have owned bikes from each of the big four but I just can't go Kawi again!!

Bad experiences I take it....  That's too bad.  I've had 4 (ZX-11, ZZR1200, Z1000, ZX14) and have only had great machines.  No issues what so ever, I'm either lucky or you're unlucky!    

Needless to say, with only positive experience and the fact this bike checks all the right boxes, I'm going to put this on my short SHORT list.

[Rincewind]

The VFRs have lower sportbike ergos than this Ninja 1000.  The Ninja 1k is akin to the Bandit and FZ1 instead.

I wouldn't necessarily say it will be a better sport-tourer than the VFR1200 either.  I haven't ridden either of them, but the old VFR was quite good.

[gritsngravy]

I can understand problems with mechanical devices  but for me it was the poor customer service, scratch that, NO customer service at all levels with Kawasaki that caused me to say C-YA.   Among many things that went south with Kawi was the 'factory trained'  hack that stripped the spark plug threads on the motor of my NEW bike AND then lied about it was the last straw.  Shit happens all the time and I understand screw ups but to lie about it and to blow off a cash paying customers complaint is lame.   My complaints fell on many deaf ears so I eventually got rid of the citrus and moved on.  


Hell, I even worked in the parts dept of a Kawi shop for a short time in the early 80's and loved being around the then new and exciting  GpZ's and big liter kwaks so I do have some history with the brand.  

Never have experienced any of that type of incompetence  and BS with my Suzuki's, Honda's and the one Yamaha.    

[Lon]

Is it really?  Wow. Really.  Well that really makes me say WTF.

It's also physically smaller

Ridiculously high asking price.
Ridiculously small gas tank.
Ridiculously intrusive fuel mapping,  if your gonna give us this awesome engine... let us use it!

Sadly, I can't use the same complaints about the new VFR...

I ride a BMW with a 150 mile range (on a good day) that surges badly sometimes in lower RPM ranges...  

[st2sam]

Honda is all but dead to me.

The Ninja 1000 looks like a fantastic package.

My thoughts exactly. I'm not a brand loyalist, just so happens Kawasaki is making the bikes I want to ride at this time.
If I wasn't so happy with my C14 there would be a new Ninja in my garage this spring..
IMO if the C14 was about 50lb lighter it would be perfect, as is it does everything very very good! Oh, and the shaft drive, IMO the best one yet....Oh, and the power windscreen, ahh and the ABS, the 3yr unlimited milage warranty... Geeze, I'm spoiled.
I have one year left on my warranty and at the rate I'm going I should have about 50,000mi. when it's over, so who knows? The 1000 Ninja looks like the perfect SPORT-touring bike...
If it's one thing I learned, "never say never".    

[spd2918]

Nope, never. That's like asking Chevy guys to drive a Ford or Miller Lite guys to drink Amstel Light or Pepsi drinkers to drink Coke or..... you get the idea.

Brand loyalty is for simpletons.

[sammyseaman]

Brand loyalty is for narrow minded simpletons.

FTFY  

[chornbe]

My new-bike buying days are over for a while (kid in college, couple more right behind him), but I'd love to find a way to swing getting the Ninja 1000 if a test ride proves that I like it as much as I think I might.

(notice how I'm not saying "used in a few years" because Kawasaki freaking NEEDS to be rewarded with sales for putting this bike out)

Anyway, I don't really correlate the VFR to the Ninja 1000 in any way at all.

They're very different bikes in a lot of ways, mechanically (obviously), by intent and by philosophy.

Equating them at all is a little short sighted.

[Jetpilot5]

It wasn't a question of correlating the new VFR to the Ninja 1000.  It was a question of giving VFR riders the bike that they had hoped for from Honda and didn't get.  With the exception of the V4 engine I think it hits the mark.  Sporty looks, decent suspension, reasonable weight, good power, all day comfort and available hard bags, all at a price that doesn't melt your wallet.  A centerstand and optional ABS would be nice but then you start to lose the price and weight advantages.  Pick your poison.

[chornbe]

  I get what you're saying.

But... Lots of bikes have been that kind of alternative for years, though. Yamaha's had the FZ1, Suzuki's had the Bandit. Honda's had the 919 and CBR/Fs, Kawasaki's had the Z1000, etc.

But none of those are true VFR alternatives. VFR buyers - the loyalists - don't really have much of an alternative if the new VFR doesn't scratch their itches. The V4 - particularly the older-gen, gear driven cam models - is a huge part of VFRness.

Engine.
Single-sided swing arm.
Relaxed sport ergos.
Higher-tech.

[atadaskew]

 The V4 - particularly the older-gen, gear driven cam models - is a huge part of VFRness.

That is what makes a VFR a VFR.  No in-line bike can replace that aspect. There already have been lots of I-4 choices before this Ninja 1K showed up.  One could even argue a ZX14 is a VFR alternative - it weighs less, has more powah etc.

The only alternative would be if someone else made a V4 St bike.  Aprilia should really use their V4 motor in other bikes....

[Jetpilot5]

I suppose the true VFR lover will only be happy with the V4 and if that's the case then no, this bike won't cut it.  I had a VFR 800 (5th gen) and it was a great bike but I'm glad I can be happy with other configurations.  Triumph's triple is a fine powerplant, so is Suzuki's 1250 Bandit engine.  For that matter, I'm happy with my BMW motor.  I understand that it's a motorcycle, but to me there's more to it than just the motor

[falconati]

I'm actually eying this too.  At this point, it's really a 'nice-to-have' since I just convinced myself that I didn't need an ST for a bit...

The price-point and performance are great, I just can't justify any new bikes

[chornbe]

That is what makes a VFR a VFR.  No in-line bike can replace that aspect. There already have been lots of I-4 choices before this Ninja 1K showed up.  One could even argue a ZX14 is a VFR alternative - it weighs less, has more powah etc.

The only alternative would be if someone else made a V4 St bike.  Aprilia should really use their V4 motor in other bikes....

There ya go. That's really the point I was trying to make... the VFR is rather unique in the market place.

[XLR8]

No ABS = fail as a VFR replacement.

[rajflyboy]

As a long time Honda Owner and more recent owner of a Z1000 and a ZX14

I know think that Honda is way way behind the other Jap makers.    Honda sticks with the same bikes for way too long and they used to make top quality sport bikes that were reasonably comfortable but yet fast as hell.   Now they make sport bikes in which your registration is too thick to fit under the rear seat.  

This new 700 sport touring thing is ugly as can be (the new VFR isn't much prettier).   New VFR is just average compared to its competition.   Its sad that such an awesome machine for the last 15 or so years has been ruined by Honda.  

Honda should bring back the F series 600's.   Its time for a 600 F5 (comfortable and fast)
Honda should bring Red, White and Blue bikes to the USA (how come Europe always gets the best colors?)
Honda should have an updated 1300 VTX
Honda should bring back the Valk or even a 15000 version of the RUNE

[stratus17]

No ABS = fail as a VFR replacement.

In Europe, the Ninja 1000 (or Z1000 SX) will come with ABS.

http://www.kawasaki.ch/fr/Z1000SX

Is there any reason, the US version will not have it ?

[rajflyboy]

We are good enough riders in the USA that we know not to keep the brakes on when the tires are slipping

 

[Zerosum]

 I

I disagree, as a former VFR owner I admit the VFR has just been out VFRed by the Ninja 1000.  The ninja is missing one KEY ingredient and one preferred ingredient: the V-4 and the single sided swingarm.  But everything else is what I wanted the new viffer to be.  Hell, for me they coulda used the same chassis and just put a 1000cc V4 in it with 125hp and 70l ft-lbs of torque and I'd have bought it.  Even if it was still 550lbs (50lbs heavier than the Ninja).  The compliment of ergos and smooth power and a realistic weight is what the VFR used to be about, its currently lost sight of all these criteria.... And the Ninja fits them all.

The Ninja has just slayed shamu.

I own a VFR, and I really don't see a basis for all the V4 zealotry.  Yeah, it's a fantastic engine, but I don't think it's inherently superior to the I-4.  One test ride on a Bandit 1250 cured me of the notion that I-4's can't be torquey and provide nice linear power output.

[XLR8]

+1


And it's not like the VFR 800 produces a lot of torque either. I don't know how that one got started.

[Hulked Up]

Just learned about this bike last night; got me excited.  I've had my VFR for 8 years now and at 97,000 miles it's not going to last forever.  Been thinking for a while about a replacement but haven't seen a clear winner.  This could be it.  Upright riding position, hard bags, more horsepower, less weight, $5,000 less than the competition.  

VFR represents a lot of things to a lot of people.  To me the V4 and single sided swing arm are less important than it's overall competence in all areas.  The Ninja 1000 seems to be the answer to my question.  Certainly more than the new VFR is.

[XLR8]

How is it that this new Kawasaki is getting so much attention compared to the FZ1? Are they not similar?  

[malbojah]

How is it that this new Kawasaki is getting so much attention compared to the FZ1? Are they not similar?  

Kinda, but not really.

Ninja 1000 has a similar riding position, but has better weather protection (with the lower fairing and adjustable windscreen) and has the option of factory hardbags

[XLR8]

Kinda, but not really.

Ninja 1000 has a similar riding position, but has better weather protection (with the lower fairing and adjustable windscreen) and has the option of factory hardbags

Well, OK, not exactly ground breaking though because it's not electric right? And I thought the hard bags available were just Givi stuff. No?

[Dave the slave]

Well, OK, not exactly ground breaking though because it's not electric right? And I thought the hard bags available were just Givi stuff. No?

One more small detail.  The new Ninja has a bigger fuel tank than the FZ1.

[Tpoppa]

I own a VFR, and I really don't see a basis for all the V4 zealotry.  Yeah, it's a fantastic engine, but I don't think it's inherently superior to the I-4.  One test ride on a Bandit 1250 cured me of the notion that I-4's can't be torquey and provide nice linear power output.

Agreed.  It's really a matter of tuning.  A big I4, tuned for tq makes for a terrific street motor.  

[chornbe]

Bigger is the key.

The more valid comparo is the VFR800 vs. the Z750, GSX750 and the FZ8.

[Tpoppa]

Bigger is the key.

The more valid comparo is the VFR800 vs. the Z750, GSX750 and the FZ8.

The VFR800 (VTEC) and the Z750S are quite equal per the dyno.  Can't speak to the other 2.

[chornbe]

The VFR800 (VTEC) and the Z750S are quite equal per the dyno.  Can't speak to the other 2.

Exactly. Fairly comparing the Bandit 1250's engine to the 800 V4 makes no sense.

I think there's a whole lot of yardsticking of the VFR in all the wrong ways lately.  

[rajflyboy]

Exactly. Fairly comparing the Bandit 1250's engine to the 800 V4 makes no sense.

I think there's a whole lot of yardsticking of the VFR in all the wrong ways lately.  

I disagree.   I think Honda went too far with the new VFR.  

[Joey Stalin]

It's pretty obvious that the new VFR is much more Hayabusa or ZX14 or K1300S than "older VFR".

Still trying to figure this part out...

[falconati]

Higher weight, higher power?

I think the weight part is probably true; however I didn't have a problem with the amount of power the 6th gen VFR 800 had.  While it's nice to have maybe 130 horses, 110 is sufficient.

[Dan K]

Still trying to figure this part out...

The new VFR 1200 is more comparable to the Busa / ZX-14/ K1300S (gentlemen's sportsbike) than the old VFR.  SMall tank, very fast, not quite the handling of a 600 class, or even a liter bike.  

The FZ1 and Bandit (until added to the Bandit this year) do not have full fairings.  The biggest question about this bike for me is whether or not the full fairings offer up any real wind/weather protection - the only reason I bought the Sprint.

In the US, many roads are straight and the speeds achieved are much higher than the commuters and twisty riders of Europe that ride true naked bikes.  


ALso don't get the lack of ABS, but my guess is they are trying to keep the cost low to ensure popularity.  I'd still prefer a VFR1200 with a big tank and good weather protection (VFR `100ST?????) but for the cash, this looks to be spot on to fill the void between sport and the sport-touring big boys.

- Dan

[atadaskew]

I think the weight part is probably true; however I didn't have a problem with the amount of power the 6th gen VFR 800 had.  While it's nice to have maybe 130 horses, 110 is sufficient.

The problem is that the last VFR's made about 89 at the wheel..

http://www.motorcycle.com/shoot-outs/2008-middleweight-sporttouring-shootout-bmw-f800st-vs-honda-vfr800-interceptor-86719.html

As such, it’s no surprise the VFR posts a bigger horsepower number than BMW’s Twin. However, its peak of 89.2 ponies (at 10,900 rpm) is underwhelming for a fuel-injected, DOHC four-cylinder mill of this displacement. Consider that the cheaper and smaller Gixxer 750 produces more than 30 extra horses.

[Joey Stalin]

The new VFR 1200 is more comparable to the Busa / ZX-14/ K1300S (gentlemen's sportsbike) than the old VFR.  SMall tank, very fast, not quite the handling of a 600 class, or even a liter bike.  

I would never mistake the new VFR for any of those three bikes. They exist in their own realm in the bike world, and the VFR1200 exists, um, in it's own, other realm, somewhere no one is really interested in going, I guess. I kinda get what you're saying, in that the 1200 is far departed from its predecessor, but it doesn't belong in the same sentence as superbikes knocking on the door of 200 mph and 200 hp.

Actually I always thought of the VFR 800 as kind of a small scale Busa, mainly because of the similar ergos, handling is similar, and both can be sport toured very well.

[Dan K]

I would never mistake the new VFR for any of those three bikes. They exist in their own realm in the bike world, and the VFR1200 exists, um, in it's own, other realm, somewhere no one is really interested in going, I guess. I kinda get what you're saying, in that the 1200 is far departed from its predecessor, but it doesn't belong in the same sentence as superbikes knocking on the door of 200 mph and 200 hp.

Actually I always thought of the VFR 800 as kind of a small scale Busa, mainly because of the similar ergos, handling is similar, and both can be sport toured very well.

Check out the specs on the VFR.  It's a bit heavy (like the K1300S) but moves really fast in a straight line (like the K1300S).

I'd say the K1300S is the most comparable bike out there to the new VFR1200F.

- Dan

[Dave the slave]

You know what's funny, I didn't like the new VFR one tiny little bit.....

Until I saw it in black.  That made all the difference in the world to me.  Yet it makes NO difference about what the bike does and is.

I guess my ex-wife is right, I just like things that are pretty on the outside.  Who gives a sh!t about the inside.  

[FiremanBob]

From the photo I saw in the other thread, the Ninja would need a proper fairing to interest this VFR fan. It's too naked for me.

[Black Sheep]

From the photo I saw in the other thread, the Ninja would need a proper fairing to interest this VFR fan. It's too naked for me.

What do you mean "a proper fairing"? Nearly everything is covered...

[Nitro]

Just might be for me! Havn't been happy with much out there compared to my vfr's. Looking forward to seeing the real thing. Local dealer has one in crate, will be setup in Feb to check out.And Yes, it actually  looks like finally a new bike to replace my vfr. Yes i wish it had a v4 with gear driven cams,(why, because of the cool sounds and the lack of vibration,and great heat management.) but this appears to be a bike like it that still puts my upper body and  head out in the clean air like a bike should and has the protection I need when I hunker down. And it appears to be not a tanker bike like the fj/st/connie. That is huge  for me as I have tried and owned some of these,no thanks! This is my size of bike,  there are not many in this size with fairings to pick from. 
And no, a bandit or fz1 is no replacement for a VFR, nice bikes, but I already tried that route and no thanks.

I want a new VFR but since they didnt make one, this looks most promising, and  I don't mind jumping off any ship(if water is warm).

[Squidlius]

Just might be for me! Havn't been happy with much out there compared to my vfr's. Looking forward to seeing the real thing. Local dealer has one in crate, will be setup in Feb to check out.And Yes, it actually  looks like finally a new bike to replace my vfr. Yes i wish it had a v4 with gear driven cams,(why, because of the cool sounds and the lack of vibration,and great heat management.) but this appears to be a bike like it that still puts my upper body and  head out in the clean air like a bike should and has the protection I need when I hunker down. And it appears to be not a tanker bike like the fj/st/connie. That is huge  for me as I have tried and owned some of these,no thanks! This is my size of bike,  there are not many in this size with fairings to pick from. 
And no, a bandit or fz1 is no replacement for a VFR, nice bikes, but I already tried that route and no thanks.

I want a new VFR but since they didnt make one, this looks most promising, and  I don't mind jumping off any ship(if water is warm).

I think the new Ninja is more similar to an FZ1 (GenII) than a VFR.  I don't think there's another bike out there like a VFR (I assume you mean 750/800 and not the new USS Enterprise).

I would love nothing more than to see Honda fans jump ship.     Most Honda guys would never even consider buying anything else, much to their own detriment.

.

[rajflyboy]

I think the new Ninja is more similar to an FZ1 (GenII) than a VFR.  I don't think there's another bike out there like a VFR (I assume you mean 750/800 and not the new USS Enterprise).

I would love nothing more than to see Honda fans jump ship.     Most Honda guys would never even consider buying anything else, much to their own detriment.

.

I made the switch from Honda to Kawasaki and I'm very happy.    Let the good times roll.   This new Ninja 1000 is every bit the bike that honda wishes they could make.  

[Squidlius]

I made the switch from Honda to Kawasaki and I'm very happy.    Let the good times roll.   This new Ninja 1000 is every bit the bike that honda wishes they could make.  

Honda could easily make it, they just choose not to.  It amazes me that Honda continues to do as well as it does with their corporate mentality.  I like Kawasaki's attitude.

.

[ANZAC]

Squid - that bike is  

I am liking the exhaust though.  It gives it that industrial mean look - slightly dirty  

[Squidlius]

Squid - that bike is  

I am liking the exhaust though.  It gives it that industrial mean look - slightly dirty  

It's funny, at first I didn't care for the exhaust at all but it has definitely grown on me. It runs great and I like it quiet.

.

[JamieK]

I had a sit on a hard bagged Ninja 1K at the bike show this aft. It looked good, felt good, all the controls were in the right place...if I was in the market for a very sporty tourer this bike would be high on my list.

[Squidlius]

I had a sit on a hard bagged Ninja 1K at the bike show this aft. It looked good, felt good, all the controls were in the right place...if I was in the market for a very sporty tourer this bike would be high on my list.

Having had hard bags on my FZ1, I think I'm gonna try a top box on my Ninja and see how I like that.

.

[Marin Phil]

I think the new Ninja is more similar to an FZ1 (GenII) than a VFR.  I don't think there's another bike out there like a VFR (I assume you mean 750/800 and not the new USS Enterprise).

I would love nothing more than to see Honda fans jump ship.     Most Honda guys would never even consider buying anything else, much to their own detriment.

.

Ya know.  that is really a good lookin bike-I even like the exhaust.  What's that little mailbox on the bars for???

[falconati]

It's a Twinkie dispenser  

[rajflyboy]

Honda could easily make it, they just choose not to.  It amazes me that Honda continues to do as well as it does with their corporate mentality.  I like Kawasaki's attitude.

.

I tend to agree with you here.

[Squidlius]

Ya know.  that is really a good lookin bike-I even like the exhaust.  What's that little mailbox on the bars for???

That's where I keep my bridge toll!  

.

[camaroz1985]

Ya know.  that is really a good lookin bike-I even like the exhaust.  What's that little mailbox on the bars for???

Speeding tickets...

[Mighty Kentor]

Indeed, but my experience (two 5th gens) showed that the VFR made quality power all over the rpm range. You could flog the motor, or burble along through the twisties in a relaxing way that something like the gixxer 750 never could.

The problem is that the last VFR's made about 89 at the wheel..

http://www.motorcycle.com/shoot-outs/2008-middleweight-sporttouring-shootout-bmw-f800st-vs-honda-vfr800-interceptor-86719.html

[Cricket1]

Indeed, but my experience (two 5th gens) showed that the VFR made quality power all over the rpm range. You could flog the motor, or burble along through the twisties in a relaxing way that something like the gixxer 750 never could.

While true the VFR is better down low than a GSXR, have you tried a Triumph triple? It's the definition of "power all over" the rpm range. More so than the VFR. 

[Squidlius]

Indeed, but my experience (two 5th gens) showed that the VFR made quality power all over the rpm range. You could flog the motor, or burble along through the twisties in a relaxing way that something like the gixxer 750 never could.

Holy sh!t.  I had no idea that VFR800 was that anemic, wow.  To make matters worse, the BMW 800 twin makes more power than the VFR all the way to 8500 rpm.

.

[Squidlius]

While true the VFR is better down low than a GSXR, have you tried a Triumph triple? It's the definition of "power all over" the rpm range. More so than the VFR. 

I've owned a Sprint St, Speed Triple and currently own a 675.  All fantastic bikes.  I love Triumph triples!  A buddy bought my Sprint St and has over 100,000 miles on it and it's still running well!

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[nater]

Indeed, but my experience (two 5th gens) showed that the VFR made quality power all over the rpm range. You could flog the motor, or burble along through the twisties in a relaxing way that something like the gixxer 750 never could.

Umm...  Sportbikes will go thru the twisties in a relaxing way as well..  My experience riding a 5th gen VFR is that it was heavy and slow.

[Bryan217]

There was a guy on one of the VFR forums complaining the Ninja cooks his shins. Have you experienced any excessive heat?

[mrcllusb]

I went to the dealer and sat on the new 2011 Ninja 1000 and lemme tel ya,it was a winner for me!!! I've been debatingover the zx-14,but after sitting on the 1000 today,it surely has me thinking that's for sure..Cheaper insurance,lighter,easier to manuver,out the box better riding position for me..They won't let if go for anything but msrp right now,so i'll sit and wait patiently to see what they'll start moving for.

[Squidlius]

There was a guy on one of the VFR forums complaining the Ninja cooks his shins. Have you experienced any excessive heat?

My experience has been the opposite. I have not noticed any heat below my knees but I wear all the gear, all the time. Maybe if I rode in jean I might feel some, I don't know. My inner legs and crotch area get colder on my Ninja than it does on my half faired FZ1. Kawasaki says the body work was designed to draw heat away from your legs and it definitely feels like that's the case right now. I'll find out if that changes in the summer.

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[Bryan217]

My experience has been the opposite. I have not noticed any heat below my knees but I wear all the gear, all the time. Maybe if I rode in jean I might feel some, I don't know. My inner legs and crotch area get colder on my Ninja than it does on my haKawasaki says the body work was designed to draw heat away from your legs ...

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I heard the same thing, about Kawasaki designing the bodywork to draw heat away from the rider. That's why I was surprised to hear the heat complaint. And for the record, he was wearing ATG.

[Cricket1]

I heard the same thing, about Kawasaki designing the bodywork to draw heat away from the rider. That's why I was surprised to hear the heat complaint. And for the record, he was wearing ATG.

"Heat" from a bike means different things to different people. Has the VFR forum guy spent time on a fully faired liter bike, or is he coming from a cruiser or naked bike?

[Bryan217]

He's coming from an 09 VFR. He rode the VFR to the dealership, test rode the Ninja for a good while, then hopped back on the VFR.

[gritsngravy]

As the owner of a '07 vfr I must say it does everything I ask of it.  It commutes well, has readily available luggage options for touring, centerstand, near 6 gallons fuel capacity, decent wind protection, comfortable and a great exhaust note when on the boil.   This is a bike I will never sell.      I do admit that I've been craving a big in-line four with some serious  real stomp to it so I went shopping not to replace my vfr, but to buy it a stable mate.  


Honda's new cb1000r is a great bike, just built to damn small for me.   All this down sizing of so called "big" bikes is just getting out of hand.   Great if you're maybe 5'6" and do hot yoga everyday.  

Kawasaki's ninja 1000 was kind of the same for me, just felt very compact and for my 6 foot frame I felt "forced" into a cramped up riding position.    Ultimately it felt like just a faired z1000 and that is a tiny bike.    

Ended up finding a new 2008 Suzuk gsx1300bk aka the BKing!!   Now this thing is more like it, big, comfortable, smooth and yes, very rapid.  Traded my cruiser in and couldn't be happier.  

To answer the question, no the ninja 1000 is definately not what THIS vfr owner asked for.  

[Cricket1]

He's coming from an 09 VFR. He rode the VFR to the dealership, test rode the Ninja for a good while, then hopped back on the VFR.

Ok, fair enough. So I wonder how much hotter it is than the VFR? Slightly or OMG I'm getting cooked?

[mountainmotor]

I wouldn't regard it as an issue unless you heard it from multiple sources - as in from owners - or experienced such on your test ride.

[BobW]

^+1 The bike looks great and is an excellent value. From the original BMW Bricks, last gen FJR to HD, nearly every big bike has had some heat issue complaints. Every rider has a different experience so a test ride is all anyone can rely on.   yrmv

Cheers

[DaleFranks]

I've looked at it, and it seems like a great all-round package.  Not too keen on the exhaust, but Vance & Hines make a really great looking replacement. Lack of ABS sort of bothers me, as the European Ninja has it standard. It's need a bit of farkling, too.

But it seems really comfy and light.

And it looks great.  I love the Black/Dark Red version.

[JSharp]

I went to the dealer and sat on the new 2011 Ninja 1000 and lemme tel ya,it was a winner for me!!! I've been debatingover the zx-14,but after sitting on the 1000 today,it surely has me thinking that's for sure..Cheaper insurance,lighter,easier to manuver,out the box better riding position for me..They won't let if go for anything but msrp right now,so i'll sit and wait patiently to see what they'll start moving for.

A nearby dealer has one and said the same thing. They want MSRP but they would knock off the $300 freight charge *if* I bought before the end of Feb.

Thanks a bunch guys.    M/C sales down 50% from a few years ago and they don't want to deal...

[Jetpilot5]

A nearby dealer has one and said the same thing. They want MSRP but they would knock off the $300 freight charge *if* I bought before the end of Feb.

Thanks a bunch guys.    M/C sales down 50% from a few years ago and they don't want to deal...

Don't know which dealer you went to but World of Powersports in Decatur has a red and black one in stock.  I have no idea if they're willing to deal but might be worth a call if you're looking to buy.

[JSharp]

Don't know which dealer you went to but World of Powersports in Decatur has a red and black one in stock.  I have no idea if they're willing to deal but might be worth a call if you're looking to buy.

Thanks! They're on the list but a little farther way from me since I'm in Paxton. Not out of the question though. I'll probably give them a call next week. There are 10 Kawasaki dealers within 75 miles of me so one of them should be somewhat flexible on price.

Sportland in Bloomington has a a red/black one and that's who I was talking about.  So far I've been there and to Watseka. Watseka didn't have one and said they wouldn't until probably April unless 'someone wanted one' which I suppose means someone buys one.

It's hard for me to believe that no one wants to deal. It's winter here. It's a Japanese motorcycle. It's not like they're limited edition and irreplaceable. I ride out on one and they have another in a few days. Not exactly rare.  

[Jetpilot5]

Sportland in Bloomington has a a red/black one and that's who I was talking about.  So far I've been there and to Watseka. Watseka didn't have one and said they wouldn't until probably April unless 'someone wanted one' which I suppose means someone buys one.

It's hard for me to believe that no one wants to deal. It's winter here. It's a Japanese motorcycle. It's not like they're limited edition and irreplaceable. I ride out on one and they have another in a few days. Not exactly rare.  

I sat on that very bike last week.  Kind of nice to be able to sit on the Ninja 1000, FZ-1 and VFR1200 all side by side.  I get to Mattoon, Taylorville and Litchfield on occasion too so if I run across any more at the dealers I'll shoot you a PM.

[JSharp]

I sat on that very bike last week.  Kind of nice to be able to sit on the Ninja 1000, FZ-1 and VFR1200 all side by side.  I get to Mattoon, Taylorville and Litchfield on occasion too so if I run across any more at the dealers I'll shoot you a PM.

Thanks for the heads up.

I thought it was great having all those bikes there to compare. It's especially important for me since I have some problems with one leg. Footpeg height and width across the pegs are a big deal. That's what's causing me problems with my C-10.

[knuckledonkey]

Hell, for me they coulda used the same chassis and just put a 1000cc V4 in it with 125hp and 70l ft-lbs of torque and I'd have bought it.  Even if it was still 550lbs (50lbs heavier than the Ninja).

THANK YOU!!!

[FALCONSEYE]

i was reading a review where they mentioned some kind of vibration coming by the tank around 8k rpm. is this true?

[Bryan217]

Back to the thread title, there's a guy on VFRD that is selling his 6th Gen VFR and picking up a Ninja. So there's your proof that the title is accurate.  

[UFO]

Back to the thread title, there's a guy on VFRD that is selling his 6th Gen VFR and picking up a Ninja. So there's your proof that the title is accurate.  

Ooooooooooo, another outcast to be shunned by motorscicle loyalists.

Been there, done that.

[Squidlius]

i was reading a review where they mentioned some kind of vibration coming by the tank around 8k rpm. is this true?

If you're asking about the Ninja, some vibes sneak in here and there on accasion but never more than just noticeable. I'm pretty picky and it's never bothered me. The bike always has a nice rumbly feeling like a muscle car. It's not sewing machine smooth like some inline 4s.

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[JSharp]

i was reading a review where they mentioned some kind of vibration coming by the tank around 8k rpm. is this true?

If you're asking about the Ninja, some vibes sneak in here and there on accasion but never more than just noticeable. I'm pretty picky and it's never bothered me. The bike always has a nice rumbly feeling like a muscle car. It's not sewing machine smooth like some inline 4s.

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Mine has plenty of vibes in the seat. Maybe it's my big butt.    The bars, pegs and mirrors are fine.

All I've done is take one test ride on the bike then ride it home the next day. It has about 35 miles total and I put every mile on it myself. I probably need go over the thing. I found the Kawasaki provided dealer setup sheet in the package with the owners manual. None of the boxes had been checked...  

[Squidlius]

Mine has plenty of vibes in the seat. Maybe it's my big butt.    The bars, pegs and mirrors are fine.

All I've done is take one test ride on the bike then ride it home the next day. It has about 35 miles total and I put every mile on it myself. I probably need go over the thing. I found the Kawasaki provided dealer setup sheet in the package with the owners manual. None of the boxes had been checked...  

I feel some vibes on my feet and a tad through my hands on occasion but haven't noticed my butt, I'll pay extra attention my next time out.

Definitely want to go through the basics. One of the wind screen screws fell off of mine in the first 50 miles. I should have gone through it right off the bat.

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[JSharp]

I feel some vibes on my feet and a tad through my hands on occasion but haven't noticed my butt, I'll pay extra attention my next time out.

Definitely want to go through the basics. One of the wind screen screws fell off of mine in the first 50 miles. I should have gone through it right off the bat.

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We're supposed to have warmer weather and no rain for the next 2 days so I'm dying to ride mine to work. 35 miles round trip, 2 days, that'll put it at about 100 miles by the weekend when I can go over it.  I'm hoping nothing falls off before then.  

I'll have the stand I ordered by then too which will make it a lot easier. The bike purchase happened a little more quickly that I thought it would so I wasn't quite prepared.  A week ago I didn't think I'd be riding it home last Saturday. The stars must have been in the right position for me for a change...