Advice on used Big Bikes for 2500 euros

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Advice on used Big Bikes for 2500 euros

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Second-hand advice on Big Bikes for 2500 euros

Second-hand advice on Big Bikes for 2500 euros
Here is playing the music

Mighty cubic capacity ensures a species-appropriate background noise when riding a motorcycle. It’s amazing what the used market has to offer for around 2500 euros in large four-cylinder engines. MOTORRAD presents the most interesting offers.

Holger Hertneck

03/13/2008

Does it really have to be the latest hyper athlete, the latest naked bike or the most modern tourer? Or maybe a motorcycle model that celebrated its success ten or 20 years ago is enough? Anyone who answers the last question with “yes” is in good hands on the following pages. Interested parties don’t necessarily have to pay 8,000, 10,000 or even 15,000 euros and more for displacement and high-performance big bikes. Prerequisite: The object of desire is a model from the 1980s and 1990s. For around 2500 euros you can find a lot of usable scrap metal that is still good for many 10,000 kilometers of two-wheeler fun. Most of the big four-cylinder engines are extremely reliable – at least if the previous owners treated them carefully and gave their bike regular oil changes and inspections. On the other hand, caution is called for if the offers are conspicuously young big bikes. The supposed bargain is in all probability a vehicle involved in an accident with more or less visible traces and / or extremely tinkered models.

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Suzuki GSF 1200 / S Bandit

The fact that the big bandit became the most successful big bike of its time (1995 to 2006) was due to the coherent concept ?? and of course at the comparatively cheap new price (around 7500 euros). Cream piece is her ?? despite Europe-wide restriction to 98 hp ?? Strong as a bear, elastic and at the same time silky smooth to work four-cylinder. If it does not run smoothly during the inspection, it is probably due to poor carburetor synchronization. A pulsating brake lever on the test drive with the handbrake pulled slightly reveals warped brake discs. Since hardly any of the many used Bandit offered is in its original condition, interested parties should at least ask about the series components. The most popular conversion measures are accessory silencers, which provide a partially significant (and therefore illegal) increase in performance in the Suzuki that is throttled via the exhaust pipe? therefore it is essential to also request the original pot. If the external condition is also in order, there are neither striking traces of a fall nor rust due to lack of care, then you have to grab it and feel good. Because the comfortable seating position and the wide handlebars convey a safe driving experience from standing, which is underpinned by the confident engine.

Data (year 1996):
air / oil-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine, 98 hp, 1157 cm³, weight 236 kg, payload 214 kg, tank capacity 19 liters, seat height 820 mm, top speed 203 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h in 3.4 seconds, Pulling 60 140 km / h in 9.9 seconds, consumption 5.7 to 11.4 l / 100 km (normal).

Market situation
A vehicle inventory of around 30,000 units suggests a large range of used vehicles. That is basically true, but unfortunately not in the price segment considered. Only the years of construction up to 1999 are already available for 2500 to 2900 euros and mileage around 50,000 kilometers ?? ABS versions do not.

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
10/1995 (T), 5/1996 (VT), 8/1997 (VT), 22/1999 (VT), 7/2000 (GK)
T = test, VT = comparison test, GK = used purchase
Internet www.banditforum.de; www.1200bandit.de

Conclusion
You can’t go wrong with a big bandit. Their suitability for everyday use and life expectancy are just as high as the conversion options with accessories. If you are looking for wind protection, simply choose this
S model with standard half-shell.

Kawasaki Zephyr 1100

She was one of the pioneers of the retro wave in the early 1990s. In addition to its classic design with a drop tank and distinctive duck tail, the large Zephyr offers manageable technology and a reliable motor. And on top of that, the snappy brakes from the super sporty ZXR 750. Touring riders lack a wind protection, and they are also unable to carry a load of 179 kilos. And for sporty ambitious riders, the set-up with too hard struts and too soft fork is not at all suitable. But everyone who simply swings through the landscape with pleasure and lazily and wants to feel the wind around their noses will be happy with a Zephyr. Models from 1996 onwards that have spoked instead of cast wheels are particularly in demand, but are rarely available for less than 3000 euros. The Zephyr is particularly suitable for do-it-yourself screwdrivers. Not because there is a lot to do, but simply because neither plastic parts, injection, water cooling nor elaborate electronics hinder crafting ambitions. When buying a used vehicle, in addition to the obligatory test drive, it is sufficient to check the wheel, swing arm and steering head bearings as well as the general condition of the naked 1100.

Data (year 1993):
air-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine, 93 hp, 1062 cm³, weight 266 kg, load 179 kg, tank capacity 19 liters, seat height 780 mm, top speed 207 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h in 4.4 seconds, draft 60 to 140 km / h in 13.5 seconds, consumption 5.1 to 10.1 l / 100 km (normal).

Market situation
A fat Zephyr can only be found for less than 2500 euros with a lot of luck, and then often with minor damage from a fall. Recommended used cars built between 1993 and 1995 ?? rarely younger ?? cost at least 2500 to 2900 euros, with mileage between 30,000 and 60,000.

Tests in MOTORRAD6 / 1992
(T), 7/1992 (VT), 11/1993 (VT), 22/1994 (VT), 23/1999 (GK)
T = test, VT = comparison test, GK = used purchase
Internet www.zephyrfahrer.de; www.igzephyr.de

Conclusion
Fans of air-cooled four-cylinders can hardly ignore the no-frills Zephyr 1100, even if its technology is not exactly state-of-the-art. The Zephyr is extremely reliable and will certainly still be in demand 15 years from now.

Suzuki GSX-R 1100

With a clear conscience, the Suzuki GSX-R 1100 can be seen as the mother of all super sporty big bikes. First, it rolled away from the competition with a full tank of 226 kilograms on 18-inch wheels. The narrow, large tires made for playful handling, but also for some slides at the exit of the curve. From 1989 onwards, wider 17-inch tires provided more grip. In terms of weight, a lot has changed over the years? unfortunately to the disadvantage of the formerly light sports rocket. In 1994 the scales showed just under 260 kilograms. On the other hand, the chassis is much more comfortable than in the first years of construction when the spring elements were as hard as a board. The spartan seating position with the deep handlebars doesn’t encourage you to travel either. Prospective buyers should take a look at the exhaust system, which was extremely susceptible to rust up to and including 1988? only later did the Suzuki get a stainless steel version. Blocked brake pistons are also not uncommon. This problem can be easily localized: push the motorcycle, pull the brake, release it and push on. Something is wrong with increased sliding resistance. On the other hand, high oil consumption is normal? up to two liters per 1000 kilometers are possible. After all, with a reasonably long warm-up phase and regular service intervals, the engine proves to be reliable and lasts up to 100,000 kilometers and more.

Data (year of manufacture 1989):
air / oil-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine, 100 PS, 1127 cm³, weight 243 kg, payload 203 kg, tank capacity 21 liters, seat height 795 mm, top speed 235 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h in 3.4 seconds, Pulling 60 140 km / h in 8.1 seconds, consumption 7.0 to 8.3 l / 100 km (normal).

Market situation
While the water-cooled model series from 1993 onwards can hardly be found for less than 2900 euros, there are plenty of offers on the market for the air / oil-cooled version for less than 2000 euros with mileages between 50,000 and 100,000 kilometers.

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
4 + 5/1986 (VT), 10/1987 (LT), 4/1989 (T), 18/1991 (GK), 11/1992 (VT)
T = test, VT = comparison test, GK = used purchase, LT = long-distance test
Internet www.gsxr.de

Conclusion
Uncompromising sports equipment that made history and the first years of construction of which are already fetching enthusiast prices in the original condition. Nevertheless, there are plenty of interesting offers for little money.

Beware of the cost trap

Every used purchase includes an extensive inspection and a test drive. If you do without both, you buy a pig in a poke. The estimated purchase price alone says nothing. Even if the model, year of manufacture and mileage of two machines match, their maintenance condition does not have to be.

tire
If you have worn out tires on the property you are buying, Big Bikes will cost you 250 euros and more for a set of new soles in no time at all.

Brakes
Worn pads on a front double disc brake are still comparatively harmless with a cost factor of 50 to 100 euros. But woe if the brake discs have run in and fail at the latest when they pass the TuV hurdle. Per disc, depending on the manufacturer, you have to shell out 150 euros and more? Workshop costs not included.

Chain set
A worn out drive set for high-torque motorcycles strikes completely (chain, pinion, sprocket) with at least 150 euros? if you assemble it yourself, otherwise it will be more expensive.

Oil change
Costs from around 25 euros, depending on the oil quality and including the oil filter.

tank
Small cattle also make crap. A full fuel keg when the vehicle is handed over can bring a price advantage of over 30 euros.

inspection
If you value a complete checkbook and first have to have a service done in the authorized workshop after the purchase, you should expect 150 euros, sometimes even significantly more, depending on the motorcycle model.

General inspection (HU)
The best thing to do is to let the previous owner take over. After all, depending on the federal state and inspection service, 50 to 100 euros have to be paid for a HU due including emissions test. And if the badge doesn’t work, that’s a good reason not to buy the used motorcycle.

Conclusion
It is best to compare several interesting offers and specifically include the possible follow-up costs. Only in this way can the really cheapest offer be found. Because if you have to invest another 500 euros after buying it to make the motorcycle roadworthy, you may not have made a bargain.

Honda CBR 1000 F.

The CBR 1000 F was one of the first motorcycles completely wrapped in plastic on the market, which gave it the nicknames yoghurt pots or plastic steamer. The designers expected a particularly sophisticated aerodynamics and thus a higher top speed. The initial problems with the timing chain tensioner should long since have been resolved on all affected machines? anyway, that was only the case in the first two years of construction. If you have the choice, you should still opt for the newer version of the type SC 24 (from year of construction 1989), which is significantly improved compared to the SC 21 in terms of chassis, wind protection and tires (170 instead of 140 rear tires). The main argument for choosing an even younger CBR from 1993 onwards is the Dual-CBS (Combined Brake System), which brakes the front and rear wheels simultaneously when the hand and foot brakes are applied ?? a real security plus. Regardless of the year of construction, prospective buyers should not only check the entire cladding for cracks (especially in the area of ​​the brackets), but also take a look under the dress to look for telltale traces of oil.

Data (year 1993):
water-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine, 98 PS, 998 cm³, weight 288 kg, load 168 kg, tank capacity 22 liters, seat height 770 mm, top speed 225 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h in 4.5 seconds, pulling 60? 120 km / h in 8.4 seconds, consumption 4.9 to 8.8 l / 100 km (normal).

Market situation
A stock of over 10,000 vehicles guarantees plenty of offers. They start at less than 2000 euros for models from the 1980s with mileages of around 100,000 kilometers. Hondas with dual CBS from 1993 and a good 50,000 kilometers on the clock are available for 2400 to 2800 euros.

Tests in MOTORRAD5 / 1987
(T), 15/1987 (LT), 10/1988 (VT), 14/1993 (VT), 25/1994 (GK)
T = test, LT = long distance test, VT = comparison test, GK = used purchase; Repeat orders by phone 0711 / 182-1229
Internet www.cbr-forum.de

Conclusion
The CBR hides its fat cylinder block and all its innards completely under a plastic cover? what a pity. If you are looking for an inexpensive big bike suitable for long journeys, the Honda is the right choice.

Yamaha FZR 1000

the era of Yamaha FZR 1000 in 1987 under the surname Genesis with 989 cm³. When the model changed for the first time in 1989, the super-sporty Japanese named herself FZR 1000 Exup because of her new exhaust gas control, and her cubic capacity from then on was just over 1000 cm³. Further model upgrade measures followed, including an upside-down fork in 1991. Regardless of the year of manufacture, the Yamaha is a thoroughbred piece of sports equipment for soloists ?? except the passengers are under 1.50 meters and can cope with the extremely high rest and the tiny seat bun. The FZR collects plus points for its easy-care engine, which only requires valve clearance checks every 42,000 kilometers and, with good care, can last well over 100,000 kilometers. The few weak points should already have been fixed by the previous owners. These include rubbing brake discs. Instead of the original parts, it is better to switch to floating accessory discs. If the clutch is difficult to dose on the test drive or if it even pulls, it is better to keep your hands off the used one. The expense of a repair is hardly worthwhile in the price range under consideration. In addition, the range of used FZR is so large that you can confidently look elsewhere.

Data (year of manufacture 1990):
water-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine, 100 PS, 1003 cm³, weight 242 kg, payload 198 kg, tank capacity 19 liters, seat height 770 mm, maximum speed 231 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h in 3.7 seconds, pulling 60? 140 km / h in 9.4 seconds, consumption 6.6 to 10.2 l / 100 km (normal).

Market situation
The aged sports cannon is offered up to the year of construction 1989 and at least 60,000 kilometers for less than 2000 euros. Models from the 1990s with mileages between 20,000 and 50,000 kilometers cost between 2,300 and 2,800 euros.

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
6/1987 (T), 12/1988 (LT), 7/1989 (T), 24/1990 (T), 19/1993 (GK)
T = test, LT = long distance test, GK = used purchase; Repeat orders by phone 0711 / 182-1229
Internet www.fzr-forum.de

Conclusion
The FZR 1000 is a thoroughbred athlete and nothing else. With its impressive driving performance, it can still keep up with much younger motorcycles. Prospective buyers can fish in a huge second-hand pond.

Yamaha XJR 1200

In the year of its release, the Yamaha XJR 1200 was the largest naked bike in terms of displacement. Its timeless elegance with the air-cooled four-cylinder in a fine rib suit is a real feast for the eyes not only for classic fans. Particularly noteworthy are the reliable and high-torque engine from the FJ 1200 as well as the stable braking system. The too thick front tires of size 130/70 ZR 17, which sometimes caused stubborn steering behavior and a clearly noticeable pitching moment when braking in an inclined position, only replaced Yamaha in 1999 when the model changed to the XJR 1300 with a much more manageable 120 format. With a parts certificate from the importer, however, older models can also be converted without any problems. In addition, many XJR owners replace the fork springs that are too soft, which do not harmonize at all with the uncomfortably hard struts. With a little luck, interested parties will come across used ones that have already been converted. In this case, it is essential to make sure that the relevant entries are made in the papers. Badly tinkered 1200s, which are offered with retrofit silencers, cockpit fairings, handlebar conversions or similar accessories, are only recommended if the buyer wanted to make these conversions anyway or at least the original parts are still available.

Data (year 1996):
air-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine, 98 hp, 1188 cm³, weight 253 kg, load 207 kg, tank capacity 21 liters, seat height 790 mm, top speed 198 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h in 3.7 seconds, pulling 60? ? 140 km / h in 12.6 seconds, consumption 6.0? 11.7 l / 100 km (normal).

Market situation
There is practically nothing for less than 2500 euros, the Yamaha are still too young or in too good condition for that. Only at prices between 2500 and 2900 euros are there a few XJR 1200s built up to 1996 with 30,000 to 60,000 kilometers on the clock.

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
19/1994 (T), 22/1994 (VT), 5/1996 (VT), 2/1999 (GK)
* T = test, VT = comparison test, GK = used purchase
Internet www.xjrig.de; www.yamaha-xjr.de

Conclusion
The XJR is worth considering for the huge range of accessories alone. It’s reliable anyway, and it’s a squeaky clean big bike that offers enough space for two people.

Triumph Trophy 1200

The trophy is only of limited use for people under 1.80 meters. The seat and steering stub are separated from each other by a long 25-liter tank, which means that the sitting position is stretched out. Tall contemporaries, on the other hand, feel quite comfortable, as do passengers thanks to the sufficient space available. And the big four-cylinder has no problem with additional weight anyway. The torque of just 8.2 seconds from 60 to 140 km / h determined by MOTORRAD speaks volumes. Models of the first two years of construction (1991 and 1992) struggled every now and then with jumped timing chains and crooked valves. That was the end of the revised 1993 Trophy. And all affected vehicles have long since been converted. Used buyers only need to take a careful look at the service booklet to check them. Many useful model maintenance measures can also be retrofitted to older models. These include 310-millimeter brake discs, higher handlebars and lower footrests (from 1993) and from 1994 the 17-inch rear wheel, which replaced the 18-inch version. If you are planning to convert this type of equipment, you would be better off looking for an already modified trophy, otherwise there will be an extra 1000 euros.

Data (year 1994):
water-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine, 98 hp, 1180 cm³, weight 275 kg, load 176 kg, tank capacity 25 liters, seat height 790 mm, top speed 225 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h in 3.9 seconds, pulling 60? 140 km / h in 8.2 seconds, consumption 5.2 to 8.3 l / 100 km (super).

Market situation
Not even 1000 of the 1200s are registered in Germany, so the supply of used vehicles is correspondingly meager. The minimum stake for a Trophy built up to 1995 with mileage around 40,000 kilometers is a good 2500 euros.

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
13 + 14/1991 (VT), 25/1993 (LT), 16/1994 (VT), 3/1996 (T)
VT = comparison test, LT = long distance test, T = test; Repeat orders by phone 0711 / 182-1229
Internet www.t300.de

Conclusion
If you are not into mass-produced motorcycles, but are looking for a special big bike that is characterized by a high-torque engine and high long-distance suitability, you are right.

Alternatives

Honda CBR 1100 XX
Super-clean, super-fast and comfortable sports tourer, which can only be found with luck and generally very high mileage for 2500 euros.
Tip: long-range missile

Kawasaki GPZ 1100
In the mid-1990s on the market for a few years and then sold again for lack of success. It has a lot to offer: It is reliable, suitable for two people, has great brakes and wind protection.
Sports tourers for all-rounders

Kawasaki ZRX 1100
The sporty Kawa is unveiled except for the cockpit fairing. Your pluses: impeccable brakes, good workmanship and robust engine. Less good: no main stand and passenger pegs that are too high.
Naked bike with show effect

Suzuki GSX 1100 F.
Even models from the last years of construction 1995 and 1996 can be found with 50,000 kilometers for just over 2000 euros. Hardly any big bike is traded cheaper. Once the highlight: electrically adjustable window.
Inexpensive heavy athlete

Yamaha FJ 1200
Tried and tested travel steamer with a mileage guarantee. The popular Yamaha is in demand and usually sold out very quickly in the price segment under consideration. High mileage ?? no problem with good care.
Feel-good travel companion

Yamaha XS 1100
A true original big bike: at the end of the 1970s, the XS was the largest and fastest mass-produced motorcycle in the world. Particularly well-preserved specimens with few kilometers are worth their 2500 euros.
Youngtimer big block

BMW K 100 RS

A full ten years ?? from 1983 to 1992, BMW’s sporty flagship enriched the K 100 RS, the motorcycle market. The biggest model maintenance measure in 1990 was the switch to the 100 hp four-valve engine and the Paralever chassis from the K1. The four-cylinder installed lengthways is responsible for the K’s unflattering nickname “brick”. The unusual, strongly whistling expressions of life also caused some ridicule. But the engine is the epitome of longevity? Even mileages of well over 200,000 kilometers are not unusual with appropriate maintenance and care. Advantages for those interested in used are the often accurately filled out service checkbooks ?? an indication of technically perfect overall condition ?? and the mostly extensive range of accessories. Hardly any RS is offered without a case system. Models from 1988 onwards are also usually equipped with ABS, and from 1991 onwards often with catalytic converters. During the inspection, special attention should be paid to the function of the instruments, which occasionally fail, and to leaks in the area of ​​the valve and timing chain cover as well as the sealing of the oil and water pump.

Data (year of manufacture 1985):
water-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine, 90 hp, 987 cm³, weight 259 kg, load 190 kg, tank capacity 19.5 liters, seat height 810 mm, top speed 222 km / h, acceleration 0-100 km / h in 4.4 seconds, pulling force 60 ?? 140 km / h in 10.4 seconds, consumption 8.5 l / 100 km (normal).

Market situation
The range of used K 100 RS is large and starts at less than 2000 euros. Four-valve models (from 1990) cost 2500 euros and more. The mileage is between 50,000 and 120,000 kilometers, regardless of the year of construction.

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
24/1983 (T), 14/1985 (VT), 5/1990 (T), 11/1990 (VT)
* T = test, VT = comparison test
Internet www.flyingbrick.de; wiki.bmw-bike-forum.info

Conclusion
As an entry into the big bike class, the K 100 RS, which is convincing in all factual criteria, is one of the particularly recommendable offers ?? despite her “old man image” that she will probably drag with her forever.

Tire question – what fits?

The tires have a decisive influence on driving behavior. The question of the intended use is particularly important when choosing a rubber. If you value longevity and don’t always pretzel on the last groove around the corner, you should buy a touring (sport) tire. Sporty, ambitious drivers who surf through the curves on the rest and do not attach much importance to mileage should better opt for an adhesive sports tire. Here is an overview of the most important current tires from the major manufacturers and their approvals for the big bikes listed. Information on other models (for example for motorcycles such as the Yamaha XS 1100, for which none of the current tires is approved) is available directly from the tire manufacturers (see below for contact details). Interested parties will also receive clearance certificates there if it is a question of entry in tire models or sizes not previously listed in the vehicle registration document. For this purpose, an attachment acceptance (§19 Paragraph 2) of the relevant tires must take place at the TuV.

Avon: Phone 0180/5676760, www.avon-motorradreifen.de, Bridgestone: Phone 06172/408255, www.bridgestone-mc.de, Continental: Phone 0511/93801, www.conti-moto.de, Dunlop: Phone 06181 / 6801, www.dunlop.de, Metzeler: Telephone 089/149080, www.metzelermoto.de, Michelin: Telephone 0721/5303349, www.michelin.de, Pirelli: Telephone 089/149080, www.pirellimoto.de

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