Naked used bike buying decisions. Input, opinions and experiance wanted.

[smackdoogle]

Okay, so I'm looking into a bike I can comfortably commute, tour and carve on.  My top four are 2003 SV1000N, 01-05 Kawasaki ZRX, 03-07 Buell XB9/12, and pre 05 Triumph S3.  A limiting factor is my price range of less than $4500.  I have a 03 SV1000N located for $4K bone stock and the ZRX's are pretty easy to come by for sub $4500 in good shape and low miles.  Fuel injection is the only thing the ZRX doesn't have that keep it from being first place overall.  I only want a naked bike otherwise I'd be looking for a 5th gen VFR.  Buell's are hard to find in my price range along with Triumphs, plus, it seems every Triumph S3 I see has had engine work or engine replaced or something else.  So I guess my top two would be the SV1000 and a ZRX.  I'm really torn between the two and if anyone has any comparo's that would be very helpful.  Thanks.

[Sport-Touring]

[TBone]

I owned a '07 Buell XB12S for 2 years. It was a great bike, but I sold it exactly because it wasn't right (for me) to commute or tour on. They're pretty compact, and handle extremely well. But it's difficult to carry much with you , and I wanted more wind protection for touring and commuting. The little fly screen offered zero in that department, and in my opinion the larger aftermarket screens ruined the streetfighter look I loved. Also, I'm not really fussy, but the heat from the aircooled twin was pretty intense at any temperature above 70 deg. People bitch about the heat thrown off by the Sprint, but to be honest after the Buell I didn't even notice it!

If I could afford to have 2 bikes, the Buell never would have gone. For backroad blasts or mellow cruising around it was awesome. I still miss it.

[Andrew]

I vote for the ZRX
Fun to ride, good fuel economy, comfy and the carbs will never suddenly fail (loose something in the FI system and you are screwed)
maintenance is simple and easy. OH and above all they come in GREEN

[smackdoogle]

Yeah, that worries me about the Buell's.  I'm 6'4" 215lbs. and I think I may be a lil cramped.  The ZRX would probably work better for my size.

[effort1]

I would look at the Suzuki SV1000. They are trouble free and can pound out some great miles. Plus the dealer network is great and ton's of aftermarket equipment.

[county]

Bandit 1200 and FZ 1 oughta be on the list.

[motoguy128]

I rode a friends ZRX and thought it was pretty crude feeling.  Big motor, but overall it felt outdated.  The FZ1 felt much more sorted out.  They make Givi sidecases and top case for the FZ1 that woudl be great for commuting.  

I think the SV would be a btter overall machine.  I agree... that for commuting you don't want to mess with cold blooded carbs in the morning.

[Mookie]

For a grand or two more you could put yourself on a Tuono and be happy forever  

[scott-sts]

I found the SV1000 to be too damn narrow to be comfortable.  However, it probably has more personality than the other bikes you mentioned (except for the Buells).  Twins have a way of lighting up most situations.
I think I4's are bland unless you get them really screaming.

[DogBoy]

ZRX1200, FZ1, Naked SV1k are all great bikes. You really can't go wrong.

As Mookie says, find those extra dollars for a Tuono and you will get a more fun bike than the above options.

[chimera]

and she said "I'm naked and feel used"


Sorry, title got me.

On topic:  I think the Bandit 1200 is an incredible value for so much bike.  If I could sanely own that much power it would be at the top of my list.

[scott-sts]

I don't think he will find a $4500 Tuono.

[fhaze]

If you would consider a 2001 naked bandit with some goodies attached for a song, PM me.

Sorry I hope this doesn't violate any rules. I am in W Mass.

[Spiffious]

I think the SV1000 is a real hoot!  Aftermarket cans transform it!  Handlebars make the bike lots of fun.  Reliable, light, easy to carve corners with, etc.  I think you'd really like the bike.  Can you test ride?

One thing about the SV, is the motor feels crude at idle-3,000 rpm or so... but after that, it feels great... just keep things over ~3500 and she growls!

[smackdoogle]

Thanks for the info. gang.  A big factor may be the Suzuki is located in Penn. and I'm up in Mass.  It's a tough decision.  I'm not a big fan of the Bandit's or FZ1's.  
FZ1 - The looks aren't there for me, I guess it's a personal thing plus, I'm a lazy rider and prefer shifting around 3-4k when commuting.  The ZRX and SV and Buell all have oodles of torque around there while the FZ1 is still waiting to be spun.  

Bandit - Same thing with the looks on the S model, just not a fan.  Now the earlier nakeds I liked the looks but some of the examples around 2001 had oil burning issues correct?  That scares me.

fhaze - Thanks but I think I may pass.  Right now it seems like a tie between the ZRX and the SV1000N.  They both have eqaul pros and cons.  Just so confusing.  

Keep the info coming folks.  

[Zerosum]

I really like the ZRX.  It's pretty much the only inline four that I really drool over.  But it's purely an asthetic thing... I've never ridden one.  I just love the retro looks of the thing.  It would have to be a green one, too.  

[Motodisiac]

You just cannot go wrong with SV1000. The fact that it's out of state is great, I would be looking forward to that trip

[cyclopathic]

Kawasaki 2003 Z1000 with 20xxx miles - $4500 http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/mcy/897042428.html
2004 Kawasaki Z1000 Street figther - $4950 http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/mcy/897765843.html
2004 Kawasaki Z1000 - $5000 http://denver.craigslist.org/mcy/897751061.html

there is gotta be at least one in your area for $4500 or less. ZRX is a nice retro bike; carbs suck when it gets cold or you go over mountains.

[Scum]

 Any reason the Z1000 isn't on your list?  



edit-  damn, beat me to it  

[DogBoy]

Kawasaki 2003 Z1000 with 20xxx miles - $4500 http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/mcy/897042428.html
2004 Kawasaki Z1000 Street figther - $4950 http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/mcy/897765843.html
2004 Kawasaki Z1000 - $5000 http://denver.craigslist.org/mcy/897751061.html

there is gotta be at least one in your area for $4500 or less. ZRX is a nice retro bike; carbs suck when it gets cold or you go over mountains.

The Z1000 is a cool bike and worth a look.

I've never had an issue with carbs in the mountains around here were we have several roads between 7,000-10,000 ft. Same for temps down the 20's.

[bomber]

While you may think the Buell will be too cramped for you, the good news is that most Buell dealers allow demo rides -- I also thought the XB series would be too small, But I was surprised at how well it fit me.

[Dan K]

Thanks for the info. gang.  A big factor may be the Suzuki is located in Penn. and I'm up in Mass.  It's a tough decision.  I'm not a big fan of the Bandit's or FZ1's.  
FZ1 - The looks aren't there for me, I guess it's a personal thing plus, I'm a lazy rider and prefer shifting around 3-4k when commuting.  The ZRX and SV and Buell all have oodles of torque around there while the FZ1 is still waiting to be spun.  

Bandit - Same thing with the looks on the S model, just not a fan.  Now the earlier nakeds I liked the looks but some of the examples around 2001 had oil burning issues correct?  That scares me.

fhaze - Thanks but I think I may pass.  Right now it seems like a tie between the ZRX and the SV1000N.  They both have eqaul pros and cons.  Just so confusing.  

Keep the info coming folks.  

Gen1 FZ1's can be had for $4k or less, and with a jet kit and a sprocket mod (I find my bike needs neither) there is more torque than you can shake a stick at.

Both mods are cheap, and you could likely find a used bike already modded to your choice.  Can't repair your problem with the looks tho...  I can say it's perfect for commuting and cruising, and does whatever I want it to if I'm in a hurry.  GIVI racks galore.

But not enough torque?  How a bike that can flip over in 1st or 2nd with a full out twist of the throttle is lacking in torque is beyond me....buddy of mine who rides an '08 heritage softtail thought he was used to the FZ1 and when he cranked the throttle all the way open was easily ACCIDENTALLY at 10:00.

- Dan

[kyzrex]

I'm partial to the ZRX because I have one (62,000 trouble free miles also) and have done all you have asked for on it (in addition to a couple of track days).  However, you really can't go wrong with any of the bikes you mentioned.  All of them are really good all around bikes.

[Norwegian Blue]

Of the ones you've listed, I would be partial to the ZRX. No particular reason, other than I've always liked the way they look.

That said, SOMEBODY had to come along and recommend the bike they own -- may as well be me.

BMW R1150R. Excellent torque, excellent handling, lots of available features that make commuting much easier (heated grips, power outlet for heated gear, ABS, removable factory windscreens, excellent factory luggage).

While they are generally more expensive than what you're considering, higher mileage ones are an option. Here's one that's very nicely equipped for a bit more than you want, but it has LOTS of stuff:

2002 R 1150 R ABS
dakar yellow/ferro; 47000 miles; Ohlin shocks; system sidecases; PIAA lights; elf highway pegs; sport & touring windshields; heated grips; throttlemeister; Lite-Blazer LED brake/tail light; luggage rack. All scheduled service done by Hermy's BMW dealorship. Beautiful bike, but new R1200ST means we must part. Please CALL for any further info
Price: $5300
Location: Valley Forge, Pa
Contact Richard N at
Telephone 610-933-1484
Posted Friday, October 10, 2008 at 13:21:21 (EDT)

[ASCSurveyor]

I'm going to say SV, but my opinion is biased.  I have the 650 and have never had a problem with power carrying my lard ass around (6', 240lbs).  While the 1000 is a bit heavier than the 650, it's still plenty fun and flickable.

I've gone from SE Virginia to Inidianapolis and back like this...



And had plenty of fun on el dragon...



But as I said, my opinion is biased.

[Jeff]

This is one of the most bitchin SVs I've ever seen. Post more pics please.
Jeff

[phoenix]

 Any reason the Z1000 isn't on your list?  

maybe since the OP had a Z750s before, he's wanting a change of pace. At least that's how I am.

The first thing I thought of was the weight difference. I could be wrong, but I suspect the ZRX is a fair amount heavier than the SV1000. Probably much longer wheelbase too. This could play to your favor for comfort, or against you for flickability. But I have not dug up specs on the ZRX or SV, so I could be all wrong.

Have you test rode either? If so, what are your likes/dislikes about them?

[scott19]

ZRX's are absolute steals right now. A buddy just sold his low mileage 00 1100, with a boatload of farkles (Corbin seat, muzzy exhaust, lowered pegs, raised bars, etc.) for $3000! Great bike. Carbs are a non issue unless you're planning on not running it for a long time.

Sounds like to me it's just a question of personality as to what bike you end up with. All the bikes you are interested in are all about equal in goodness.  

[scott-sts]

While you may think the Buell will be too cramped for you, the good news is that most Buell dealers allow demo rides -- I also thought the XB series would be too small, But I was surprised at how well it fit me.

i'm 6'2", 230 lbs and my little XB9 fits fine.  I probably look like one of them big monkeys riding a little tricycle though.

[ASCSurveyor]

This is one of the most bitchin SVs I've ever seen. Post more pics please.
Jeff

"Bitchin' ", eh?    Thanks.  Put alot of work into it, I guess.  Daily commuter.  Hoping to hit 60K by turkey day.

More pics, but not wanting to jack the thread too much.  I can PM you more if you want, with a write up.

[keppyou812]

All these bikes are good picks.    

One of the things you didn't cover is how much experience riding you have.  Yeah, I'm one of those..

I have heard of someone that does a monoshock conversion for the ZRX. Supposedly handles much better.  I don't know what aftermarket goodies are available for it.

The SV is everywhere, huge dealer support, tons of aftermarket goodies. Also there are tons of mods that can be done relatively cheap on them.  If your thinking of one of these check out www.svrider.com.  These people live SV's.   (they also make great track day bikes  ).

I myself have a 00' SV650.  I do a lot of double up riding with my daughter, and a lot of out of state rides.  Central PA. to NJ., DE., MD., WV.   I have a decent set of soft saddlebags, and a good tankbag.  

Another option out there is the Honda SuperHawk 996.   Got to test ride one locally,  liked it, but too agressive seating position for the type of riding I do.

Check out  www.uncycle.com  This is Unlimited Cycle Center in Tyrone, PA.  They have the old Ames store building, and about 1/2 of their space is used bikes, at a decent price.   For buying a bike, I like them. For anything else, I go elsewhere.

[Mastros2]

smackdoogle, I have a '99 X1 and is probably the best commuting bike.  I'm 5'10, 175lbs and it's a blast, really! Easy to work on, low maintenance as well.  There is no (yes, no) aftermarket pannier racks for it unless you get the XB9 or XB12X.  You will have to make your own to mount bags.  Unless you are looking for engine mods, there is little for other aftermarket products as well.  

I've been on many trips with it and would take it in a heartbeat across country.  I have a tail and saddlebags that offer plenty of storage. Yes, there is minimal wind protection but there is no turbulence from the screen as well. Also, average mpg is 50.  I've seen low 60's on multiple day trips.  

Buell is very good with demo rides, go check them out and see how you feel on it.  

[Against The Wind]

I really like the ZRX's.  

[MadMax96]

All these bikes are good picks.    


I have heard of someone that does a monoshock conversion for the ZRX. Supposedly handles much better.  I don't know what aftermarket goodies are available for it.

The double shocks yield one of the best features of the bike - HUGE storage under the seat!  My friend who has a '00 ZRX told me he was able to pick up a footlong subway sammich AND a drink, drop it right in there and head back to the office.  Now that's good stuff right there!

The ZRX is a great bike - strong runner, the 1200s even more so.  The thing that kills me is that he can pound on his all day (jetted, full exhaust) and he gets 40-45mpg while my Bandit gets 32-36mpg...argh!

If my Bandit suddenly exploded and I had only a few grand to replace it, the ZRX would be on my short list for sure.  The ZRXOA board is a great resource with a good bunch of peeps too.

[ctbandit]

 while my Bandit gets 32-36mpg...argh!

Ouch, I usually get about 40 from my 2nd Gen.

[smackdoogle]

Thanks to all who posted.  Lots of good info and all of it is appreciated.  For those who wanted to know my experience.  It's mixed.  I've only had my M-1 license for 3 years now but I've rode in these 3 years over 30000 miles on two wheels.  My first bike was a SV650S.  Had it for 2 months and 3K miles and didn't like the clip-ons so I went to the 05 Kawi Z750S which I had for 6 months and 9k miles.  Then I had a lil FZR600 becuase of some old memories growing up, rode that to death.  Sold that and most recently I bought a 2002 Honda SuperHawk this past spring.  I've put over 8k miles on that and it's been great to have, awesome bike, lots of farkles on it and with GenMar risers I did a few 400+ miles days in comfort.  Then last Friday, on the way to work at about 6am, dark out, I began a left hand turn and caught a car running a red light (oncomming traffic) so to avoid certain disaster and possible death I stood my SuperHawk up and grabbed a handful of front brake to lay her down.  I had too for two reasons, if I continued with the turn the red-light runner would have t-boned me.  Reason #2, after standing the bike up there was a little median with a curb (looked huge at the time) and going into that head on would = flip.  No thanks so I laid it down on purpose.  I slid about 10 ft and I'm fine and dandy, few scratches and bruises but that's it (good excuse to get a new helmet).  The Super Hawk..........twisted forks(very twisted), all right side plastic is non fixable, right exhaust tore off, right engine case scraped with a quarter size whole, right rear-set snapped in two. Other stuff is broke here and there  but that all resulted of the bike sliding and hitting the curb, flipping over and landing.  Not good for the bike.  Damn Boston drivers.  Red-light runner never stopped and doubt he even knew it happened.  The witnesses who saw the event, only 1 guy asked if I was alright out of 7 cars.  No one helped me get my bike up (did it myself with oil all-over the ground from my bike) and even worse, traffic was honking at me to get out of the intersection as I walked my bike to the nearest parking lot.  I am very firm in ATGATT.  I am active duty Navy and have taken the MSF and MSSB courses.  I plan on becoming a rider coach next summer.  Anyway,  Insurance comes tomorrow to asses the damage on my SuperHawk.  I assume they will total it and cut me a check which leads me to a new bike.  I do have a perfect condition 1982 Kawasaki KZ440 in the garage but that won't do for the highway and such.

-I do like the Z1000 but, it's very vibby like my Z750S was and that is a deal breaker.
-ZRXOA is a big reason to go with the ZRX and they are very affordable and easy to find here in New England.  I've seen 4 for sale around here over the last week.
-There is a 03 Buell XB9 with some goodies on it in CT. for $5 with about 7k miles.  Not bad
-The nearest 03 SV1000N is in Penn. with 7K miles.  It's bone stock and the guy wants $4 even, perfect shape.

so that is were I'm at assuming the insurance goes off of KBB ($5300 for my SuperHawk maybe) and everything else.  I've been going from the SV to the Buell to the ZRX as favorites on a daily basis.  At times, twice a day.  Maybe I just need to close my eyes and pick one.
Thanks again though.

[Against The Wind]

Glad you're alive!

[MadMax96]

Ouch, I usually get about 40 from my 2nd Gen.

Yup - Holeshot Stage II w/ pod filters.  Works great, but those 150 jets suck some serious fuel.  Runs so well I don't want to mess with it.  If I ride like an old man it'll get upper 30s.  But having fun and/or with 3 Givi cases on trips...it sucks (fuel).  

[keppyou812]

I fully concur with Against The Wind..  Glad your ok!!!  
 When I had my trip over the handlebars while down in WV., cager induced, (ok, contributed ), they drove off.  Car load of kids stopped and helped me out.  Seriously, it looked like a clown car.

I might be able to deliver your new purchase to ya..  

[Jeff]

For obvious reasons, I'd say the SV will be most like your Superhawk. Whether or not you want that is up to you. Glad you're ok. Bummer to hear  about the situation.

Jeff

[smackdoogle]

For obvious reasons, I'd say the SV will be most like your Superhawk. Whether or not you want that is up to you. Glad you're ok. Bummer to hear  about the situation.

Jeff

I'm not sure about that.  

SuperHawk=carb'd, clip-ons, soft front suspension,3/4 fairing

SV1000N=FI, handlebars, better than SuperHawk front suspension, naked

Same size engine though which equals a beautiful sound with a set of pipes.

[stevent]

Of the bikes you mentioned I'd get the ZRX., My own personal choice would be a 2nd gen Bandit or and FZ1. Bandits are comfy, bulletproof and cheaps. I've owned two of them and really enjoyed them, If I could have afforded my new bike without selling my Bandit I would still have it.

The new FZ1 is about the coolest looking bike on the road if you ask me, I'd like to get one next.

[Dan K]

Thanks to all who posted.  Lots of good info and all of it is appreciated.  For those who wanted to know my experience.  It's mixed.  I've only had my M-1 license for 3 years now but I've rode in these 3 years over 30000 miles on two wheels.  My first bike was a SV650S.  Had it for 2 months and 3K miles and didn't like the clip-ons so I went to the 05 Kawi Z750S which I had for 6 months and 9k miles.  Then I had a lil FZR600 becuase of some old memories growing up, rode that to death.  Sold that and most recently I bought a 2002 Honda SuperHawk this past spring.  I've put over 8k miles on that and it's been great to have, awesome bike, lots of farkles on it and with GenMar risers I did a few 400+ miles days in comfort.  Then last Friday, on the way to work at about 6am, dark out, I began a left hand turn and caught a car running a red light (oncomming traffic) so to avoid certain disaster and possible death I stood my SuperHawk up and grabbed a handful of front brake to lay her down.  I had too for two reasons, if I continued with the turn the red-light runner would have t-boned me.  Reason #2, after standing the bike up there was a little median with a curb (looked huge at the time) and going into that head on would = flip.  No thanks so I laid it down on purpose.  I slid about 10 ft and I'm fine and dandy, few scratches and bruises but that's it (good excuse to get a new helmet).  The Super Hawk..........twisted forks(very twisted), all right side plastic is non fixable, right exhaust tore off, right engine case scraped with a quarter size whole, right rear-set snapped in two. Other stuff is broke here and there  but that all resulted of the bike sliding and hitting the curb, flipping over and landing.  Not good for the bike.  Damn Boston drivers.  Red-light runner never stopped and doubt he even knew it happened.  The witnesses who saw the event, only 1 guy asked if I was alright out of 7 cars.  No one helped me get my bike up (did it myself with oil all-over the ground from my bike) and even worse, traffic was honking at me to get out of the intersection as I walked my bike to the nearest parking lot.  I am very firm in ATGATT.  I am active duty Navy and have taken the MSF and MSSB courses.  I plan on becoming a rider coach next summer.  Anyway,  Insurance comes tomorrow to asses the damage on my SuperHawk.  I assume they will total it and cut me a check which leads me to a new bike.  I do have a perfect condition 1982 Kawasaki KZ440 in the garage but that won't do for the highway and such.

-I do like the Z1000 but, it's very vibby like my Z750S was and that is a deal breaker.
-ZRXOA is a big reason to go with the ZRX and they are very affordable and easy to find here in New England.  I've seen 4 for sale around here over the last week.
-There is a 03 Buell XB9 with some goodies on it in CT. for $5 with about 7k miles.  Not bad
-The nearest 03 SV1000N is in Penn. with 7K miles.  It's bone stock and the guy wants $4 even, perfect shape.

so that is were I'm at assuming the insurance goes off of KBB ($5300 for my SuperHawk maybe) and everything else.  I've been going from the SV to the Buell to the ZRX as favorites on a daily basis.  At times, twice a day.  Maybe I just need to close my eyes and pick one.
Thanks again though.

While I may be biased, as I own one, why not consider a Gen1 FZ1?

- Dan

[smackdoogle]

Well, think I made up my mind.  I found a 2003 kawi ZRX1200R, blue in color, only 7000 miles  and looks super clean.  New tires and clean title.  Oh, has a slip-on also.  All it'll need is a valve adj. this winter. Price is good.  Only thing it doesn't have that I wanted was FI but from what I've hear the cold starts are non-issue on ZRX's and as long as you keep it running and keep them clean then it's good to go.  Any input from owners?  I 've been surfing the ZRXOA board for awhile and seems as though anything you need tho know is there.  Thanks again for all your input.

[MadMax96]

Nice!  The blue ones are my fave... they don't seem very common either (2003 might be only year for that color)

Make sure to post up pics once you got it......

BTW, if you plan on doing the valves yourself, the ZRXOA has a roaming shim kit.  Instead of paying for each one at the stealer, you put your name on a list and it gets sent to you.  You use what you need, put back what you remove, and send it to the next guy - it's a great setup they got over there.

[smackdoogle]

Update
The ZRX I was seriously considering was sold  So, now I'm going back on what I said earlier about the Gen1 FZ1.  After looking around and stopping by FZ1OA I found a 02 FZ1 with 7K miles for $3500.  I also found some of the members rides to be actually very attractive.  Not what I thought about the FZ1.  Maybe I'll have a nice blue FZ1 in the garage this weekend.  Thanks again for all the help and opinions.

[HipGnosis]

Also look at/for Sprint RS.  Wonderful power band.  I miss mine.

[TheGoose]

Yeah, that worries me about the Buell's.  I'm 6'4" 215lbs. and I think I may be a lil cramped.  The ZRX would probably work better for my size.

Yep, at your size I'd definitely recommend the Rex.

[Hotbrakes]

$5500 for the 'Hawk would be enough money to get another one (because it's the best damn bike ever made) and a naked SV650 to cure your streaking addiction.  If my 'Hawk ever dies (which will be a sad day and I will probably give up riding after that...just too painful) I would probably try a SV1000.  So my opinion is SV

[chornbe]

Okay, so I'm looking into a bike I can comfortably commute, tour and carve on.  My top four are 2003 SV1000N, 01-05 Kawasaki ZRX, 03-07 Buell XB9/12, and pre 05 Triumph S3.  A limiting factor is my price range of less than $4500.  I have a 03 SV1000N located for $4K bone stock and the ZRX's are pretty easy to come by for sub $4500 in good shape and low miles.  Fuel injection is the only thing the ZRX doesn't have that keep it from being first place overall.  I only want a naked bike otherwise I'd be looking for a 5th gen VFR.  Buell's are hard to find in my price range along with Triumphs, plus, it seems every Triumph S3 I see has had engine work or engine replaced or something else.  So I guess my top two would be the SV1000 and a ZRX.  I'm really torn between the two and if anyone has any comparo's that would be very helpful.  Thanks.

Hey there. I have a 1st-gen Yamaha FZ1 available. Blue with the silver frame (pic below). 27k miles on it. All stock except for Ducati handle bars, new springs and a jet kit. Very sweet bike. If you're not familiar with the FZ1, it's built from the first-gen R1 parts bins. More information than you ever wanted to know can be found at ( http://yamahafz1oa.com/forum ). It's currently got Givi racks on it for side and top cases, but no cases are included. I'm just cutting back on the number of bikes in my garage, so this and my big touring Harley are going. I need to get $3500 for it.

[Bikenut]

www.zrxoa.org

I have a ZRX1100. Never sell it. Can drop a gallon of milk and a six pack under the seat. Torque. Stock suspension is worthy of the $$ to work it over (www.aftershocks-suspension.com)  Does everything very well. There are so many things you can do with/to a ZRX.

Oh the 1200's are nice and all but don't be afraid of the 1100's. I have no urge to "upgrade" to a 1200 whatsoever. ZX11 cams drop right in too. I believe the '04-'05's forks are not revalvable (is that a word?) but earlier forks interchange.

Surf over to the link. ZRXOA is some good people. Look through all the parts and accessories made by members. I'm Greg1040 over there.

[chornbe]

Update
The ZRX I was seriously considering was sold  So, now I'm going back on what I said earlier about the Gen1 FZ1.  After looking around and stopping by FZ1OA I found a 02 FZ1 with 7K miles for $3500.  I also found some of the members rides to be actually very attractive.  Not what I thought about the FZ1.  Maybe I'll have a nice blue FZ1 in the garage this weekend.  Thanks again for all the help and opinions.

See PM

[keystonejenks]

Every S3 you've seen has had engine trouble?    

[smackdoogle]

Okay, not every but the last two, one had a daytona engine in it (owner said kickstand was left down while being trailored and it went through the engine) and the other was mysteriously burning oil, was rebuilt and was still burning oil.  Both looked very clean in person, just leary of those things.