I test rode the 2012 blade on sat and to be honest as much as i love the fireblade i wasn't overly impressed with it, something was missing. I did however meet Jimbo vills and sync24, and both were nice blokes. It'll be good if the 1000rr members could arrange a meet next sping. I am interested to hear what other members that have test rode the 2012 blade think?
the 2011 version i think is a dream to ride but i don't think it is very attractive, the 2012 in my opinion didn't have any grunt, it wasn't comfortable to ride, your laying on the tank a bit to much so at slow speeds your arms start to ache, but most importantly i got bored after just 45 mins on it. i'm not just going to give up on it because i think it is a work of art to look at, so come spring i will borrow it from kmc for a day or 2 and hope it changes my mind. Sadley it just didn't get my adrenaline pumping. Obviously the above statement are just my views others may disagree and i would apprietiate their opinion..
I hope so nutty tart, i was looking forward to this bike so you will understand my disapointment. This is why i won't give up on it until i've ridden it in not only warm weather but also saltless and gritless roads. really it's the wrong time of the year to be givin it large on a blade
Least got out without an instructor mate!! Think I'll wait till I can get it out for a morning on my own with some decent weather for a proper going over.
lol, There is that. I think thats wise, hopefully warm weather, clean/warm roads and less shoppers will mean a better more injoyable ride
It was nice to meet you jimbo and sync24, i hope we can share a ride next spring. and hopefully with other 1000rr members
I was a bit down after reading this thread, I was looking forward to testing the 2012 Blade in the spring!! Now I will still test it but, might just not bother getting it. I also think its a work of art SoonBeDead. But just can't belive that there is a lak of wow factor!!
Sorry friend, as i say this is just my opinion, even i'm hoping others will disagree and i can be talked into wanting this bike. you won't believe how much i was looking forward to getting my hands on one of these. It did feel slow and sluggush but i'm hoping this is because it needs running in. Don't give up on it just yet, give it a go and see what you think.
As I said "I Will test ride it mate" But I think I was just looking for it to blow my socks off before I saw it. Then when I heard what Honda had done I was a bit miffed! But not to worry I still have my blade to ride!
The 2012 is a tweaked 08 to 11 .. Felt exactly the same as mine when i sat on it . Its the same engine thats been tweaked for more midrange . Chassis and sub frame is the same . It can only be better
Read the latest fast bikes mag review, they gave it 9/10 said if they were 2011 owners they wouldn't trade up but anybody else it's well worth it. They had problems in the cold with the standard rubber but then when they put R10's everything came good. Total control not traction controlmis what they reckon
i rode it yesterday and i agree with soonbedead no power ! brakes work well with the suspension looks gorgeous sounds pants but the handling is good ! BIG THANKS TO ALL THE BOYS AT KENT MOTORCYCLES ( paul , ben and course h ) you cant go wrong with these guys they are very helpfol and proper nice guys
I feel the time of year does not help. I am a fare weather rider as I can enjoy the bike more at speeds when its warm and dry. I nevver try to get the most I can out of a bike when I have test rode bikes in the winter. Again just my feelings. Also read the fast bike review when they rated it highly
I just can't see how Honda would mess it up. It's arguably the most important bike to them and they have been making bikes a long time! I'm at a loss as to how something that has 175bhp can develop no power. I'd have another test ride again when the weather & roads are better
What Sossige says. I cant see how anyone would say that the new model, with improved throttle response and more low-mid range, is gutless. Personally i have an opinion that people were negative about the bike before they rode it. Get yersens back out on it come march/april in fairer weather and try again, it can only be better!
