New Suzuki Bandit test: the remedy for the crisis ?
Times are hard for everyone … and especially for us, poor French bikers. Fortunately, Suzuki has thought of our portfolio and our pleasure by unveiling this latest version of its legendary Bandit 650.. Comfort test !
A smart investment…
Between the soaring yen which drives up the price of our machines, the price of gasoline which plays with our nerves and the tax collectors dressed in blue harmoniously distributed on the edge of our roads, it is clear that our power to purchase is at half mast…
But should we deprive ourselves of our pleasure which is the motorbike? Certainly not, and Suzuki offers us a very relevant solution with its famous "6 Bandit". However, just after switching to 650 cm3 and liquid cooling, the Bandit is already experiencing its first facelift..
The perfect opportunity to take stock of this classic among classics, which will celebrate in 2010 its 15 years of presence at the top of sales.
A little fresh
This 2009 vintage of the Bandit is therefore content to evolve only aesthetically, by small touches. Suzuki would indeed be wrong to change a recipe that works as well !
First surprise: the historic roadster gives way to the sirens of modernism and abandons its round headlight in favor of an ecu-shaped optic. Another notable change: the tachometer has been completely redesigned and now includes an engaged gear indicator.
The engine also receives an all-black treatment for the most beautiful effect, alternating glossy and matt. Other elements evolve more discreetly, like the new diamond-shaped mirrors, the more angular front fender, the full tank scoops, the saddle and the rear light..
It is up to everyone to form their opinion on these modifications. For our part, we regret this exhaust silencer still huge, which weighs down the right profile of the machine. In addition, be aware that, in addition to the fire engine red of the machine in our test, the Bandit is also available in more discreet colors: navy, black and metal gray..
Sacred equipment
Despite its very attractive price, the Bandit 650 is far from being a cheap machine. It even sports a complete equipment that a lot of much more expensive machines would envy it. !
For example, there is a hydraulic clutch control which offers a remarkable feeling. We also take advantage of two crutches: a lateral and a central one very practical to maintain his motorcycle.
The dashboard is readable, elegant and very complete. In addition to the engaged gear indicator there is a clock, fuel gauge, odometer and two trips. We also have a warning button that is still missing on many competitors. In short, all it needs is the water temperature.
But Suzuki has also taken care of the practical aspects by providing a good place under the saddle for the locks, two diabolos to hang luggage and an efficient passenger handle..
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