Ninja 250R/500R - Page 96

Carl722 · 10-05-2008

If you used to ride a 650 and 1100 you will be really dissapointed if you are expecting any level of performance from a 250 regardless of bike. Anyhow if you are just commuting I would recommend a Ninja over the Hyosung for quality reasons. But I have seen some really nice scooters and I am trying to talk my wife into riding one. THe problem is where to we put a 2 year old girl and 7 year old boy could probably ride on the back seat.

I looked at some electric scooter that have a 100 mile range and can do 65 mph and that is the best you can get for fuel economy just plug it in at night and let it charge while you are sleeping.

JAHLuv7 · 10-06-2008

Video: Kawasaki 250 R Ninja v Hyosung GT250R - Motorcycle News

Above is a nice video by MCN on the Hyosung 250 vs. the Ninja 250. I found it to be an honest and informative review.
Pretty much what Carl is saying, it's a nice bike (Hyosung 250), but the quality is a major factor. You'll enjoy the quality of the Kawasaki. It's also a lot of fun.
If you are using this as a gas saving commuter, then it is a good choice (the Ninja), especially for the looks. But if you are serious about gas savings and not necessarily looks, some scooters provide 90+ miles per gallon.

Also like Carl was saying, if you're used to a bigger bike you may grow tired. Especially if you have someone in tow. I've had my Ninja 250 for about 3 months now, and although I would hate to get rid of her, it would be the only viable means, financially, of upgrading. If I had the money though, I would never give her up, but still get a bigger bike.

Be safe!

jaydub77 · 10-06-2008

just because of kawi's reputation for quality, I would go for the ninja 250r, plus the hyosung looks a little bit on the ugly side...but it's not too bad though

Carl722 · 10-06-2008

I used to ride larger bikes cruisers mainly so the performance of the 500R is not bad compared to the cruisers. But I am already wishing I would have went with a bigger bike. I just looked at a new 2006 Katana 600 while I was at the dealer to get a piece for my helment. They looked nice and they were leftover inventory and they had 2 a black and a blue one and they were both priced at $5,300.

jaydub77 · 10-06-2008

It's just me but I wouldn't go for a katana at that price....I would much rather go for an 06-08 zzr600 for about the same price, and the zzr has way more power than the katana....even with all the fuel injected bikes around i'm still looking at getting a zzr600 just because the price is right...i'm also think the fz6r when it comes out as well, it's a cool looking 600, but a little underpowered? I don't know yet as I haven't driven any 600's, I just know I want more than my 500r has now....and I like the sound of the I-4's better...but I digress...like I said look at a zzr600...way more bang for the buck than the katana...and one more thing...yaaay me! 200th post!!!

Carl722 · 10-06-2008

I sat on the Katana and I have sat on a ZX-6R and the comfort on the Katana is what I really liked. It is more comfortable than the 500R. I am not up for switching bikes anytime soon. But you know how it is when you go to the bike shop just for accessories you still have to look at the bikes and prices.

jaydub77 · 10-07-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by Carl722

I sat on the Katana and I have sat on a ZX-6R and the comfort on the Katana is what I really liked. It is more comfortable than the 500R. I am not up for switching bikes anytime soon. But you know how it is when you go to the bike shop just for accessories you still have to look at the bikes and prices.

I am not talking about the zx-6r but the zzr600...there's a difference in ergo's...but if you really like the katana...than no one should stop you...it's always down to the person riding it!

Carl722 · 10-07-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by jaydub77

I am not talking about the zx-6r but the zzr600...there's a difference in ergo's...but if you really like the katana...than no one should stop you...it's always down to the person riding it!

I thought the difference in the ZZR and ZX6R was the fuel injection vs carbs and price. I thought the ZZR was just an older technology bike than the ZX6R. I did see the Katana had carbs on it. I am not buying another bike for a couple of years. I have to get out of the dog house before I get back in it.

JAHLuv7 · 10-07-2008

Just to put in my 2 pennies: I personally do not like the way the fairings look on the Katana; although they are good bikes!! I am a Kawi guy all the way, but have considered a few of the other brands. I've sat on a CBR or 2; I've sat on a SV650 or 2; and have sat on a ZX-10 (the least comfortable); But my heart right now is on the Ninja 650. Have you looked into them or sat on or tried one out? I do believe (Lord Willing) that will be my next bike. The price is right and the gas mileage is decent. It's FI and not tooooo powerful, but just enough power to get me up there in a decent amount of time. Plus!!! there aren't that many of them on the road! Big plus for me!

Oh and congrats Jaydub on the 200th!

Carl722 · 10-07-2008

When I get another bike if I get another sport bike I am going 4 cylinders. I do like the 650. I may go for the new Voyager 1700 on the Kawi site.

PatoConcha · 10-07-2008

Thanks for your opinions guys,

I received a call from a kawasaki dealer i emailed today and went to test a 250R ... WOW, loved it ...

Tomorrow i have to go and see if i close the deal ... my wife went up for the test with me and the little green monster its great for city ...

cya i will keep you informed ...

Pato Concha
Southamerica

jaydub77 · 10-08-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by Carl722

I thought the difference in the ZZR and ZX6R was the fuel injection vs carbs and price. I thought the ZZR was just an older technology bike than the ZX6R. I did see the Katana had carbs on it. I am not buying another bike for a couple of years. I have to get out of the dog house before I get back in it.

The zzr600 is I think a 99-02 version of the zx-6r...but they have changed the seat height, fot peg placement (possibly) and the height of the handlebars...other than that it is a previous gen zx-6r...it's basically just a little more comfortable...and yes it is carbed, but like I said...previous gen technology...that doesn't make it a bad bike though! the katana is carbed as well...but it's a bit heavier than the zzr600 and a little less power...but again i digress...hope this info helps

ninjaDUDE24 · 10-08-2008

I just bought my 06' ninja 250 and want to stiffen the rear shock a little. When I sit on the bike it squats kinda low and i am only 170 pounds. THANKS

gatorswamp · 10-08-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by ninjaDUDE24

I just bought my 06' ninja 250 and want to stiffen the rear shock a little. When I sit on the bike it squats kinda low and i am only 170 pounds. THANKS

a 500r shock would be good ~$40
a zx6c shock would be great ~$100
a big name aftermarket shock is best ~$400

ninja250.org go to FAQ at the top then suspension

ninjaDUDE24 · 10-08-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by gatorswamp

a 500r shock would be good ~$40
a zx6c shock would be great ~$100
a big name aftermarket shock is best ~$400

ninja250.org go to FAQ at the top then suspension

I heard of the 500r would be good because it is adjustable. I just dont know where to buy one. Whats the difference between the zx6c and the 500r?

Deadly Milkman · 10-28-2008

Just registered here, howdy!

Anyways my question is...

How hard is it to find a 2008/2009 Ninja 250 at the dealerships and where the hell is the green? (particularly the 2009 'special edition' green one)

GreenRocket · 10-29-2008

In a major metropolitan area like your it would still probably be easier to find one used. Try Craig's List.
Otherwise, if you want new, your dealers will be able to tell you how many they expect in. 2009's are only in the special edition combo if you want green, and it costs a bit more than the other colors.

roxynoodle · 10-29-2008

Around here you can find the 2008/2009 250s but I know in some places you need to get on a waiting list to buy one. Good luck!

GAS2HI · 4 Weeks Ago

First let me say I love my 500. Lots of "Get up and go" abut Im already looking into an upgrade. The Ninja 650 looks good but can anyone tell me how does it feel ? I can make a 3 Hr trip without a sore butt

.
Does the 650 have the same comfort ?

The road to hell is paved with good intentions.... I hope its flat, straight, and the Hwy patrol is slower than I am. I aint slowing down.

lilredridingliz · 4 Weeks Ago

Quote:

Originally Posted by jaydub77

The zzr600 is I think a 99-02 version of the zx-6r...but they have changed the seat height, fot peg placement (possibly) and the height of the handlebars...other than that it is a previous gen zx-6r...it's basically just a little more comfortable...and yes it is carbed, but like I said...previous gen technology...that doesn't make it a bad bike though! the katana is carbed as well...but it's a bit heavier than the zzr600 and a little less power...but again i digress...hope this info helps

The ZZR600 is still being made. It was originally made for the UK market. It is an update to the styling on the 600e—which was the more ergonomic and less powerful version (though still no slouch) of the 600R—and with the same motor and hp of the 600R or ZX6R. Because of the updated style, demand for the bike was created in the US, and it became available here. However, the ZZR600 is unavailable in California.

At least, that's my understanding of the history of this bike.

10-06-2008	#1902 (permalink)
JAHLuv7 Newbie Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Where Ever You Want Me To Live Posts: 23	Video: Kawasaki 250 R Ninja v Hyosung GT250R - Motorcycle News Above is a nice video by MCN on the Hyosung 250 vs. the Ninja 250. I found it to be an honest and informative review. Pretty much what Carl is saying, it's a nice bike (Hyosung 250), but the quality is a major factor. You'll enjoy the quality of the Kawasaki. It's also a lot of fun. If you are using this as a gas saving commuter, then it is a good choice (the Ninja), especially for the looks. But if you are serious about gas savings and not necessarily looks, some scooters provide 90+ miles per gallon. Also like Carl was saying, if you're used to a bigger bike you may grow tired. Especially if you have someone in tow. I've had my Ninja 250 for about 3 months now, and although I would hate to get rid of her, it would be the only viable means, financially, of upgrading. If I had the money though, I would never give her up, but still get a bigger bike. Be safe! __________________ Tho' I walk/RIDE through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for GOD is with me!

10-06-2008	#1903 (permalink)
jaydub77 Uncle Bob's Love Child BTK Expert Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Vancouver Posts: 286	just because of kawi's reputation for quality, I would go for the ninja 250r, plus the hyosung looks a little bit on the ugly side...but it's not too bad though __________________ '87 EX500 ~Jay

10-06-2008	#1905 (permalink)
jaydub77 Uncle Bob's Love Child BTK Expert Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Vancouver Posts: 286	It's just me but I wouldn't go for a katana at that price....I would much rather go for an 06-08 zzr600 for about the same price, and the zzr has way more power than the katana....even with all the fuel injected bikes around i'm still looking at getting a zzr600 just because the price is right...i'm also think the fz6r when it comes out as well, it's a cool looking 600, but a little underpowered? I don't know yet as I haven't driven any 600's, I just know I want more than my 500r has now....and I like the sound of the I-4's better...but I digress...like I said look at a zzr600...way more bang for the buck than the katana...and one more thing...yaaay me! 200th post!!! __________________ '87 EX500 ~Jay

10-07-2008	#1909 (permalink)
JAHLuv7 Newbie Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Where Ever You Want Me To Live Posts: 23	Just to put in my 2 pennies: I personally do not like the way the fairings look on the Katana; although they are good bikes!! I am a Kawi guy all the way, but have considered a few of the other brands. I've sat on a CBR or 2; I've sat on a SV650 or 2; and have sat on a ZX-10 (the least comfortable); But my heart right now is on the Ninja 650. Have you looked into them or sat on or tried one out? I do believe (Lord Willing) that will be my next bike. The price is right and the gas mileage is decent. It's FI and not tooooo powerful, but just enough power to get me up there in a decent amount of time. Plus!!! there aren't that many of them on the road! Big plus for me! Oh and congrats Jaydub on the 200th! __________________ Tho' I walk/RIDE through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for GOD is with me! Last edited by JAHLuv7 : 10-07-2008 at 04:29 PM.

10-29-2008	#1918 (permalink)
roxynoodle In 6th Gear BTK Intermediate Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: NW Ohio Posts: 205	Around here you can find the 2008/2009 250s but I know in some places you need to get on a waiting list to buy one. Good luck! __________________ 2008 Ninja 500r

10-05-2008	#1901 (permalink)
Carl722 Top Gear Full Throttle BTK Expert Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Warminster, PA Posts: 314	If you used to ride a 650 and 1100 you will be really dissapointed if you are expecting any level of performance from a 250 regardless of bike. Anyhow if you are just commuting I would recommend a Ninja over the Hyosung for quality reasons. But I have seen some really nice scooters and I am trying to talk my wife into riding one. THe problem is where to we put a 2 year old girl and 7 year old boy could probably ride on the back seat. I looked at some electric scooter that have a 100 mile range and can do 65 mph and that is the best you can get for fuel economy just plug it in at night and let it charge while you are sleeping.

10-06-2008	#1904 (permalink)
Carl722 Top Gear Full Throttle BTK Expert Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Warminster, PA Posts: 314	I used to ride larger bikes cruisers mainly so the performance of the 500R is not bad compared to the cruisers. But I am already wishing I would have went with a bigger bike. I just looked at a new 2006 Katana 600 while I was at the dealer to get a piece for my helment. They looked nice and they were leftover inventory and they had 2 a black and a blue one and they were both priced at $5,300.

10-06-2008	#1906 (permalink)
Carl722 Top Gear Full Throttle BTK Expert Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Warminster, PA Posts: 314	I sat on the Katana and I have sat on a ZX-6R and the comfort on the Katana is what I really liked. It is more comfortable than the 500R. I am not up for switching bikes anytime soon. But you know how it is when you go to the bike shop just for accessories you still have to look at the bikes and prices.

10-07-2008	#1910 (permalink)
Carl722 Top Gear Full Throttle BTK Expert Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Warminster, PA Posts: 314	When I get another bike if I get another sport bike I am going 4 cylinders. I do like the 650. I may go for the new Voyager 1700 on the Kawi site.

10-07-2008	#1911 (permalink)
PatoConcha Newbie Join Date: Oct 2008 Posts: 2	Thanks for your opinions guys, I received a call from a kawasaki dealer i emailed today and went to test a 250R ... WOW, loved it ... Tomorrow i have to go and see if i close the deal ... my wife went up for the test with me and the little green monster its great for city ... cya i will keep you informed ... Pato Concha Southamerica

10-08-2008	#1913 (permalink)
ninjaDUDE24 Finally Got Into First Gear BTK Beginner Join Date: Oct 2008 Posts: 51	I just bought my 06' ninja 250 and want to stiffen the rear shock a little. When I sit on the bike it squats kinda low and i am only 170 pounds. THANKS

10-28-2008	#1916 (permalink)
Deadly Milkman Newbie Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Houston, TX Posts: 1	Just registered here, howdy! Anyways my question is... How hard is it to find a 2008/2009 Ninja 250 at the dealerships and where the hell is the green? (particularly the 2009 'special edition' green one)

10-29-2008	#1917 (permalink)
GreenRocket Finally Got Into First Gear BTK Beginner Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Malibu Hills Posts: 56	In a major metropolitan area like your it would still probably be easier to find one used. Try Craig's List. Otherwise, if you want new, your dealers will be able to tell you how many they expect in. 2009's are only in the special edition combo if you want green, and it costs a bit more than the other colors.

4 Weeks Ago	#1919 (permalink)
GAS2HI 2006 Ninja 500R Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Jonesboro, AR Posts: 16	Upgrade from a 500 First let me say I love my 500. Lots of "Get up and go" abut Im already looking into an upgrade. The Ninja 650 looks good but can anyone tell me how does it feel ? I can make a 3 Hr trip without a sore butt . Does the 650 have the same comfort ? The road to hell is paved with good intentions.... I hope its flat, straight, and the Hwy patrol is slower than I am. I aint slowing down. __________________ 1981 Honda CR80R (stolen) F: 100687 E: 5100704 2006 Ninja 500R http://www.myspace.com/gas2hi Last edited by GAS2HI : 4 Weeks Ago at 06:48 PM.