Been thinking about a change of bike in 2017. Love my 09 blade but I'm aware things have moved on a bit since. Can't afford brand new, but a couple of years old should work. What bikes have you ridden/owned that are as "easy" to ride (still a rookie) as usable and as reliable as the RR ? Thanks !
To be honest I'd test ride what you fancy and go from there! It's ok taking people's opinions but everyone likes different things from bikes so isn't always helpful
The Gixxer is much the same to be honest but a bit more comfortable for doing the miles on. Loads of torque in the engine too.
If you like the Blade why not try a 2014 onwards one? - RRE or RRF. There were minor updates in 2010, major updates in 2012 (Suspension, Wheels, Clocks, Fairing etc.) and minor updates for 2014. I have the RRE (previously has RR6, RR8, RRC) and its a great bike.
Yes, something I have thought about. I like the later bikes. I've had a couple of moments on mine, locked up under braking and had the back step out under acceleration this morning (dry road, warm tyres) that's made me think about ABS and traction. It's purely down to inexperience and over enthusiasm on my part, I admit that.. In reality I should get more training/try a track day, get my suspension set up for my weight, get some better tyres...yada yada. Don't get me wrong, not a criticism of the bike, it's awesome. Far faster and more capable than I
I think you have answered your own question. Do you want to improve your riding skill (more brain on the saddle or behind the steering wheel). Or just switch off and let ECU compensate for any shortcomings which includes the ability to deal with emergencies. Electronics aid will give you more confidence but will not improve your skills and experience. I do not criticize rider's aids and safety electronics. At the end of the day you need to ask yourself why you ride and what return you want from it. For me, I still enjoy an unadulterated bike to excite me and keep my senses sharp and on the edge (until I am too old to bend my joints to sit n the bike!. I am bore of a BBQ man than ready made microwave packaged food
As a keeper the Blade is the smart choice - bullet proof, less electronics to go wrong and as exciting on the road as one dares to make it!
Not going to answer you question but having had my Blade for 5 years from new and now on a H2 the H2 is as easy to ride and as comfy to ride. With just a bit more power. Just But also heavier but I really don't notice this compared to the blade Main reason for the change was that I had the bike 5 years and loved every ride but kept waiting and waiting for the next bike change with the blade that as yet has not come. Apart from minor updates Have I looked back at missing the blade. No for 1 second which I am very surprised at
Thanks guys. I think some of my lack of confidence is down to tyre choice. I bought my blade back in Sept and didn't get a chance to ride it, I bought on condition and low mileage. Once I got a few miles on and cleaned it all up I realised the chain/sprockets were worn and the tyres were not far off shot. The Maxxis Supermax Diamonds were on sale, and my friend had used them on his old R1 for a few years, without issues, so I went with them. Looking back at reviews they mention that the tyre can wiggle or move around as a warning when you are coming to the limit. This is what I must be feeling when hard on the gas with some angle (not leant over) A more experienced rider could probably use this to their advantage, I just backed off. It felt more than a wiggle... Not sure what feedback you get from M7rr, Rosso Corso etc ? More grip no doubt... So, will probably go with suspension set up and some new, sport focussed rubber. Did see a lovely 899 pani at the petrol station though... Appreciate the replies.
