![]() April 2007 - Rocket Science ![]() As you can see, there is a lot more variation among the liter class bikes than what we saw with the 600cc models in terms of performance and price. If you were going for most bang for the buck, the GSX looks like the obvious winner, but once again, you need to take a closer look at the details. In this group only Aprilia and Ducati offer a 24-month warranty, the rest are for a single year. Also there is that factor of what the numbers can’t tell you. You’ll want to evaluate how well any bike fits you as a rider and take a look at the individual amenities to see if they suit you. The other thing I wanted to point out with this review was how far motorcycles have come in terms of performance. Having a bike that weights less than 400 lbs that puts out over 180 horsepower is nothing short of amazing. Heck, the average car on the road today doesn’t boast that much power. Consider that there are even more powerful bikes available at bigger displacements. If you are truly interested in sport bikes, this is a good selection to start your own evaluation with. Be sure to check all the specifications in WantFacts.com and possibly compare some other, similar models. From there, you should head to your dealer and check them out in person. No matter what you decide to buy, always ride within your abilities and be considerate of others on the road. With power comes responsibility. Ride safe! About the Author: Michael W. Vachon is a regular contributor to the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club of North America (www.vjmc.org) and has other works posted on both the F6 Riders Club web site (www.f6rider.com) and a community site that was dedicated to SL350 Hondas. He has been a motorcycle enthusiast since the early 1970’s, and has been ‘turning wrenches’ on his own bikes (and those of a few close friends) almost as long. Mike also has a keen interest in vintage motorcycles and is a member of the North American chapter of the VJMC. He currently has a 1999 Honda Valkyrie Interstate as his ‘regular’ ride and owns several early 1970’s Hondas. Among them are a 1971 CB750, and a 1971 CB500. Mike is a 1997 graduate of Southern New Hampshire University, in Manchester and currently works in the computer systems management field. He was born in 1956 and has been a life-long resident of the Seacoast NH area. Mike can be reached at mvachon@wantfacts.com |