Well I have booked myself a test ride on a 2015 Fireblade. My first ever ride on a Fireblade of any type. I wont be able to reach the budget of that and would like an 06 or 07 model, so I was wondering how ergonomically different are they likely to be. I have a hankering to have one, as I have mentioned in other posts, and although I appreciate they will be considerably different to my Blackbird, but just wanted to get a feel of the riding position. Any thoughts or things to look out for prior to the ride?
Tank is wider on the 06 bike, and 15 blade has slightly wider bars and higher rearsets, but only a little bit. Apart from that they're fairly similar, the 15 bike feels physically smaller and a bit lighter. I think the 07 has more low down/mid-range grunt too, but newer model definitely has more top end power. I work for a Honda dealer. So get to ride all models a lot. And personally I prefer the 04-07 bike not being biased at all
I would not bother with a test ride on a 2015 bike if your budget is 2006 / 2007 bikes. I've had both and they are quite different, as Chris says physical size, chassis / engine totally different. I am sure there will be a dealer with a 2006 / 7 bike you can have a test ride on Just my thoughts but not aware of any part from 2007 being used on 2008+ bike
Yeah same, as far as I know no parts are carried over between them. Only idea you'll get from a '15 test ride is what a 1000cc sport bike Is like to ride. Won't really get an idea what a specific model feels like
All fair points guys. Thanks. Still once booked I felt it rude not to go through with the bike ride. Nice!! Easy to ride and even without anywhere to open it up, one could feel its potential. There was a nice black 06 on eBay but with very little documentation so thought as an older bike, a dealer may have a premium on it but still be worth the warranty as well as may be having done some checks.
