Dollar for Dollar, Best Bargain!
Written: Jul 18 '02 (Updated Jul 18 '02)
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Pros: Price, Engine, History, Performance
Cons: Suspension, Weight
The Bottom Line: I would recommend this bike to someone who wants a do-it-all-in-one machine and doesn't want to spend alot of money.
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| n211kg's Full Review: 2002 Suzuki Bandit 1200s |
I have been riding motorcycles for over 20 years and have owned everything from Honda to Ducati to Bimota, even used to do some road racing when I was younger. I still have my 1981 Suzuki GS850G with 50000 miles on it, but I wanted something new that had a little sporting capability but wouldn't destroy my already bad back. After sampling the current crop of UJM's I liked the looks of the Bandit so I decided to give it a try.
First let me say that the motor on this machine is excellent! Plenty of torque so shifting to pass is optional and more than enough power to cruise comfortably at 80mph if traffic permits. The front brakes are amazing, maybe not racing Brembo's but a great fit on this package. It handles good, certainly not a Ducati, but will carve a reasonable corner with the stock fork springs and rear shock. It is a very comfortable riding position for me, I stand 5'9" and weigh in at 170lbs. A few hours in the saddle is no problem at all. The position is a slight forward lean but not alot of weight on the wrists. Fuel mileage appears to be as advertised, about 40mpg. Wind protection is OK as long as you don't move around in the saddle. The still air region is not large behind the fairing. I love having a center stand, and this one is relatively easy to use.
Now for the things that aren't so good. It is not perfectly stable through a corner, seems a little vague at times. I am told that aftermarket fork springs will fix the problem, cost $150. But of course that's only when the envelope is being pushed. I have found it responds to throttle steering type inputs though. The rear brake is useless for anything other than to hold the bike at a stop sign on a slight hill. The bike feels heavy when moving around town, probably because it is heavy at more than 500 lbs with fluids. Finally, the seat height might be a problem for those who absolutely need to have BOTH feet planted when stopped, i.e. less than 34" inseem only one foot is flat on the ground.
When you sum up the whole package though it's a true bargain and loads of fun! Even with a passenger this bike is ready to move. The best thing right now is the cost of a new one. I picked mine up brand new at New England Cycle for $6650 in Connecticut and there looks to be plenty available around New England to the smart shopper. Absolutely no reason to pay the retail price with so many bikes on the showroom floor. Shop around and don't be afraid to ask for a better deal. At that price you would be hard pressed to find a better bang for the buck.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 6650
Condition: New
Model Year: 2002
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Epinions.com ID:
n211kg
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Reviews written: 6
Trusted by: 0 members
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