First bike recommended, just (Kawasaki ZZ-R600)

Member Name: bikerchris

Product:	Kawasaki ZZ-R600
Date:	27/10/01 (2128 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Wind protection, Power, reliable

Disadvantages: Handling, Plastic, Gearbox, Keerrrcluunnk

Right nearly time for bed so I'll be brief:

Good seat height for vertically challenged

A bit heavy (at 195KG) but gets away with it.

Reliable, rode two up to Assen (Netherlands) and never skipped a bit

Comfort: Strange beast, one minute you could ride 'til dawn - next, 20 miles becomes uncomfortable

Handling, bad point (some don't say), very soft suspension esp. front and people can think you flashing them when you brake/accelerate. Good in certain circumstances, but if your coming up to junction and brake/accelerate, that guy in the car might think you want him to pull out.

Headlight adjustments a pain in the bum to get to.

Plus: mainstand

Word of warning: DON'T try to race this bike, the handling makes it unstable above 80-90mph and the suspension really worsens the situation. But the chassis good, so go figure?

Not the best for two up stuff. 20 stone shared weight equates to the mainstand decking out at any hints of a slightly bumpy corner.

Motor: A big plus, loadsa Kwacka goooooooo.

Gear box: People can hear you in the next county when changie from 1st to 2nd.

Wind protection: Ironically for a bike with the low seat height, short people may find helmet buffeting, but taller one's (around 6ft) will find it hits 'em in the chest (preferable).

Clocks: OK, but watch that fuel gauge! And it has a digital clock...which is nice.

First bike?: Well, if you really need wind protection, but remember all that shiny plastic can look a little unpleasant after a few drops. Unfaired (no plastic) always recommended for ex.:

Suzuki bandit 600
Honda Hornet 600
Kwacka ZR7
Yam 600 Divi' (Poor handling though)
Duke Monster (money & AA cover permitting)

....Not so brief afterall.....

NOTE: BORROWED FOR APPROX. 3000 MILES

Summary: