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Administrator · 06-20-2007, 09:48 PM

Original Article:
First Ride: 2006 Kawasaki Ninja 650R

Please discuss the Motorcycle.com article First Ride: 2006 Kawasaki Ninja 650R in our Motorcycle Forums below. Use the reply button to let others know your comments or feedback on the article. Constructive criticism is always appreciated, along with your thoughts and personal opinions on the bikes and products we have tested.

Greg Hutchinson · 02-27-2008, 08:59 PM

But...it's got a chain!!! Why would a new rider or someone returning after several years (in my case, 30) want the hassle of adjusting a chain? Is there an alternative? Or an alternative bike to suggest?

BrowningBAR · 02-27-2008, 09:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Greg Hutchinson

But...it's got a chain!!! Why would a new rider or someone returning after several years (in my case, 30) want the hassle of adjusting a chain? Is there an alternative? Or an alternative bike to suggest?

Nope, not really.

SV650: Chain
Versys: Chain
DL650: Chain
GSX650F: Chain
FZ6: Chain
Honda 599: Chain

And a chain isn't that much of a hassle.

ejis · 02-27-2008, 09:32 PM

A chain isn't really that big a deal (you know, they've improved some over the last 30 years...). They're durable, easy to maintain, and let you change gearing if you are so inclined.

If you really don't like a chain, though, the BMW F800S/ST are belt driven (though not exactly newbie bikes...) as is the late F650CS. So is the Buell Blast. And for something really different, the Moto Guzzi Breva 750 is shaft driven.

Greg Hutchinson · 03-02-2008, 06:46 PM

Actually, the bike I was considering was the Kawa 250 (after reading the reviews) - but I thought it might be too small. Sooo - I looked a little bigger and the 650 review came up. I've also thought about the Suzuki c50 and the kawa 900 (either classic or custom). I guess what I want is a bike that handles well for my skill level, is fun, and comfortable to ride. I don't think I want to go bigger than the 900. At 5'10 and 190 I dunno if the 250 is too small. any comments or suggestions?

sachiwilson · 03-03-2008, 08:32 AM

It won't be. It's a superb little bike. People do Iron Butt rides on those 250s, and I know others who have those as their only bike. I'd love to have one in my own stable - I like small bikes and know how to make the most of them!

seruzawa · 03-03-2008, 08:42 AM

Hyosung also sells a neat little 250 V-twin that is built to accommodate adult riders.

06-20-2007, 09:48 PM	#1
Administrator Administrator Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: On My Bike Posts: 1	First Ride: 2006 Kawasaki Ninja 650R Original Article: First Ride: 2006 Kawasaki Ninja 650R Please discuss the Motorcycle.com article First Ride: 2006 Kawasaki Ninja 650R in our Motorcycle Forums below. Use the reply button to let others know your comments or feedback on the article. Constructive criticism is always appreciated, along with your thoughts and personal opinions on the bikes and products we have tested.

03-02-2008, 06:46 PM	#5
Greg Hutchinson Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 5	returning rider Actually, the bike I was considering was the Kawa 250 (after reading the reviews) - but I thought it might be too small. Sooo - I looked a little bigger and the 650 review came up. I've also thought about the Suzuki c50 and the kawa 900 (either classic or custom). I guess what I want is a bike that handles well for my skill level, is fun, and comfortable to ride. I don't think I want to go bigger than the 900. At 5'10 and 190 I dunno if the 250 is too small. any comments or suggestions?

03-03-2008, 08:32 AM	#6
sachiwilson Women Riders Moderator Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: San Diego Posts: 1,609	It won't be. It's a superb little bike. People do Iron Butt rides on those 250s, and I know others who have those as their only bike. I'd love to have one in my own stable - I like small bikes and know how to make the most of them! __________________ Frappé LaRue Safety Queen Are you a Rounder? Sarnali: "what could be more useless than arguing with a deaf female lawyer????"

03-03-2008, 08:42 AM	#7
seruzawa Robby Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: 8501 ft. Posts: 16,660	Hyosung also sells a neat little 250 V-twin that is built to accommodate adult riders. __________________ "If you think healthcare is expensive now, just wait until it's free."

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02-27-2008, 08:59 PM	#2
Greg Hutchinson Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 5	But...it's got a chain!!! Why would a new rider or someone returning after several years (in my case, 30) want the hassle of adjusting a chain? Is there an alternative? Or an alternative bike to suggest?

02-27-2008, 09:32 PM	#4
ejis Founding Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 285	A chain isn't really that big a deal (you know, they've improved some over the last 30 years...). They're durable, easy to maintain, and let you change gearing if you are so inclined. If you really don't like a chain, though, the BMW F800S/ST are belt driven (though not exactly newbie bikes...) as is the late F650CS. So is the Buell Blast. And for something really different, the Moto Guzzi Breva 750 is shaft driven.