The Inbetween

Well I'm posting because I feel cramped on my vtr250. I have determined that while my 250 is too small it still works for running errands around town so I will keep it, but when I try to go on trips longer than 30 min going faster than 60 mph while trying to follow my dad it shows that this isn't my dad's 800. That is why I'm looking for a cross between the 800 and my 250. Something comfortable like the 800, light like the 250, and different like them both. I have looked for bikes in honda's current line up, but they are too focused like the cbr; too much track bike, the vtx1300; too heavy and not sporty, etc. So any input, suggestions, or critizism that I should just stop complaining and live with it are welcome.

 

Have you looked at the Triumph Street Triple? Very comfortable (especially if you get the optional gel seat), very fun, light, and definitely more on the "different side". I have a Speed Triple (the 1050cc bigger brother) and it's a bike I can't imagine selling (unless I replaced it with another). The Street Triple is 675cc and has a good torque curve. They make an R version which has upgraded suspension, etc. You can probably find a used one for a pretty decent price.

 

How about an older CBR? Cheap, fun and parts grow on trees.Here is one in your neck of the woods.
1992 Honda CBR 600F2

 

1988-1991 Honda NT650 Hawk GT.
http://www.hawkgtforum.com/

KC-10 FE out...
lane: :usa2:

 

I you can stand the naked look I say a sv650 or a fz6. I test road a fz6 and it was great fun.

 

Yeah I've looked at the street triple, on paper and in reviews it seems like exactly what I'm looking for. Put a gel seat and a front cowl after getting a good price and it would be awsome, but I'm worried about reliability and parts prices. I can do most of the simple repairs and service stuff, but I don't want to drive over 100 mules to the closest dealership just to be waiting for months for parts like some people. I've heard of people who have constant problems and people who are on their third bike with no problems all from triumph. I guess what I'm trying to say in a not so short way is that I'm not opposed to the idea I'm just hesitant and if it's not Honda or at least Japanese I'm going to have a hard time trying to convince my dad. Oh and the Honda dealer in my town has a used SV for 4500 that I'm going to see if I can get a test ride on. Thanks again you guys

 

Well I'm not here to sell you a Triumph, although I do love mine. I haven't had a single problem and I daresay that the fit and finish and overall quality is even better than the Honda. Triumph of the 2000s is a much different company than Triumph of the 60s and 70s. The bikes compete with the best of the best. The other choices mentioned are all good. You can always find people who have problems with every marque, every model. That will never change. SVs are nice bikes, I've owned two TL1000Rs (its older brother). I would say my Triumph is a better bike than either of my TLs and the SV is built to a lower price point than the TLs are. I'm sure for every 9 perfect experiences with an SV you'll find some guy or girl who ended up with a nightmare. It's just the nature of the beast. My first TL was fantastic, the second was most definitely a nightmare.

Good luck with your choice, buying a new bike is a lot of fun. The SV is a bike I've recommended to many beginners and I know people who have had much fun with them at the track. Twins are a blast, pure and simple. Honestly, it's pretty tough to go wrong these days, production techniques having progressed to where they are. Don't stress over the decision and enjoy the hell out of the bike you end up getting. Let us know what you get!