The best bargain bikes

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The best bargain bikes
triumph

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The best bargain bikes

The best bargain bikes
Nobel Prize Laureate

Many motorcycle brands are generous and generous when it comes to making proven models even more attractive by means of various bonuses. An award-worthy and noble approach, believes the MOTORRAD jury and awards ten particularly distinguished candidates.

Thomas Schmieder

10/09/2003

For Nobel Prize winner Albert Einstein, the matter was clear: “In the midst of difficulties there are good opportunities.” It is not much different when buying and selling motorcycles. When a super sunny summer is coming to an end and one or the other dealer still has a shop full of new machines, the quote from the ingenious physicist takes on a whole new meaning. Anyone who takes heart and chooses a tried-and-tested motorcycle can expect low prices, classy extras and useful additional offers in many ways.
Most dealers leave ?? before the long dry spell in the cold season ?? talk to yourself about prices. Fear of bargaining is unfounded, because various brands vie for buyers’ favor with attractive special conditions. Lower prices and expensive accessory packages for free may still be based on studies from previous years. On the other hand, it took a little more thinking in the marketing laboratories to present customers with a second set of tires, free safety training, an annual MOTORCYCLE subscription and vouchers for refueling or hotel accommodation.
A little research and comparison generally helps when looking for the Nobel planer. Especially in the field of super athletes, the Gretchen question arises as to whether you can rely on the strengthened and
more radical model year 2004 is waiting or looking for a tried and tested and affordable-
geres 2003 model crashes. Becomes current Aprilia Retire the previous RSV mille including the classy R version, Honda parted ways with the 900 Fireblade, Kawasaki with the nine ninja. With all due respect for the spectacular performance weights of the successors? one day we may miss the great everyday qualities of the “old people”, such as the good seating comfort in the front and rear of the 143 hp ZX-9R. Where from now on a full 1000 cm3 will dominate, the expiring cars may save one or the other thousand. The same applies to Suzuki for the 2003 vintage GSX-R 600 and 750. However, the importers have not officially announced any price adjustments for their previous flagship bikes. The local dealer does this if he still has an early retired model standing around. So it can be worth paying a visit to the dealers in the area.
After years of declining new sales, not only gray importers, but also many official agencies even have 2002 or even 2001 models around, across the entire range of motorcycles. Depending on the type of machine, these may be motorcycles for which only the decorations or colors are no longer up-to-date,
but technically there is no difference to the latest variant. The situation is different for models that have not been cleaned and that comply with the Euro 1 emissions standard that was valid before April 2003. Such machines are under time pressure, they must be approved by the end of June 2004 and
may not be sold again afterwards. From July 2004 on are with
In a few exceptions, only new motorcycles can be registered with pollutant values ​​below Euro 2.
So some evergreens will probably be available as favorable opportunities at the end of spring because they fail to pass the Euro 2 hurdle. Specifically, at Kawasaki, for example, the EL 252, EN 500, GPZ 500, KLE 500, KLR 650 and GTR 1000 machines are no longer in the range, as are the unconventional Drifters VN 800 and 1500 as well as the very successful ZR-7 including the half-shell sister S. then to discontinued models. At Suzuki, the Euro 1 homologated long forks VL 125 Intruder, VL 800 Volusia and VL 1500 Intruder LC come under the wheels.
Hardly any “snapper” can be made under such auspices at Honda, because the world’s largest manufacturer has been working successfully on its environmental offensive for a long time. Practically all current models comply with Euro 2, only the CB 500 and CB Seven Fifty are out, and you can still find some of the workhorse Africa Twin and the F6C from 2003. “But these are negligible numbers,” said Honda press man Aaron Lang.
There is one simple rule when it comes to price negotiations: who owns his new vehicle
wants or has to finance usually has to pay the specified list price. The retailer pays heavily for sensationally low financing interest rates, so that there is hardly any leeway for a price reduction. An elegant solution can be demonstration machines, some of which are inexpensive in stores, often with very few kilometers on the clock. And always with a full two-year warranty, of course.
It is not uncommon for demonstrators to have a nice addition to the equipment. BMW, for example, is giving a voucher of 1000 euros for accessories or driver equipment for an additional payment of 300 euros in the so-called »Co / oL campaign«. Those who raise 500 extra euros can use the extensive program for three times the sum. The only condition when purchasing any machine from the complete model range: It must be registered for the first time before August 31st. Moto Guzzi tried a method popular in the automotive industry in the summer: buying up used vehicles above the value derived from the Schwacke list in order to boost new business. The Guzzi dealers took used vehicles in payment for 1000 euros above the recommended dealer purchase price.
Our list of ten models across all segments proves that stinginess can be really cool, which are not cheap, but cheap and good in their own way, i.e. inexpensive in the original sense. Our contenders for the alternative Nobel Prize, so to speak. Because the bottom line is that buying a two-wheeler is not about saving as an end in itself, but about fulfilling a dream. Or, to quote Albert Einstein again: »When finally, if not now ???

triumph

The Nobel Prize in Economics goes to England. The reason: Triumph has lowered the prices of many models, the Sprint ST was about 740 euros cheaper. And the 2004 model, available from the end of October, has ?? as well as the tigers ?? as standard with a carrier system, cases painted in the vehicle color and heated grips valued at over 1000 euros. Your three-cylinder? powerful, cultivated and economical? won the drive rating in the comparison test of the sports tourers. The chassis also leaves little to be desired on public roads. In addition, there is the high suitability for everyday use, for example due to the unmatched payload of almost 260 kilograms. Fare well: The Sprint RS, half-disguised sister of the ST, is being discontinued. 150 copies of the »Final Edition« come to us in British Racing Green, including a front spoiler for 10,100 euros. What ST and RS lack in the last bit of emotion, the legendary Speed ​​Triple has plenty. The single-sided swing arm and the sonorous and powerful 120-hp triplet are identical, the cool design with the beautiful frame construction is seductive. The seating position and driving experience are in a class of their own, and the chassis set-up is tough but warm. The road sweeper costs 650 euros less than a year before and receives a front spoiler, radiator and pillion seat cover and windshield for 2004 at no extra charge. well done.

Triumph Speed ​​Triple

In-line three-cylinder, 956 cm3, 88 kW (120 PS) at 9100 rpm, 100 Nm at 5600 rpm, aluminum bridge frame, weight * 221 kg, country road consumption * 5.0 liters / 100 km, vmax 240 km / h, price 10990 euros. Comparison test in MOTORRAD 11/2002. Strengths: performance, stability, handling * MOTORCYCLE measurements

Yamaha

Yamaha has instructed its dealers to sell the 2003 models of the FZS 600 Fazer, YZF-R1 and XJR 1300 at “particularly attractive prices”. Furthermore, all buyers of a new TDM 900 receive a free case, each of which swallows a full-face helmet and goes well with the line. The third generation of the twin in the middle received injection, G-Kat and a secondary air system from 2002, the 86-hp unit runs cleanly and very economically. Thanks to good handling and great brakes from the R1, the all-rounder performed well in the top test ?? 633 points in MOTORRAD 12/2003 – even better ?? and from model year 2004 also with standard cases ?? the FJR 1300 competes. The power tourer won the comparison test in issue 16/2003 with 722 points, the powerful engine impresses with its powerful torque, turbine-like revving and low pollutant levels. Only a sixth gear that saves fuel at high speeds is still missing today. However, has Yamaha improved on the subject of ABS and since model year 2003 has only offered the “A” version with an anti-lock braking system that is functionally lagging behind the competition. In addition, the “new one” has a storage compartment in the side panel and finally an easily accessible headlight range adjustment. Those who want to do without ABS can still find 2002 models in stores that add an annual subscription and a route planner from MOTORRAD in addition to the suitcases. They officially cost 13,805 euros, but there is certainly still room for negotiation.

Yamaha TDM 900

In-line two-cylinder, 897 cm3, 63.4 kW (86 PS) at 7500 / min, 89 Nm at 6000 / min, aluminum bridge frame, weight * 223 kg, country road consumption * 4.2 liters / 100 km, vmax 208 km / h, price 9755 Euro. Comparison test in MOTORRAD 12/2003. Strengths: fuel consumption, braking, suitability for everyday use * MOTORCYCLE measurements

Yamaha FJR 1300

In-line four-cylinder, 1298 cm3, 105 kW (143 hp) at 8000 rpm, 134 Nm at 7000 rpm, aluminum bridge frame, weight * 283 kg, country road consumption * 5.9 liters / 100 km, vmax 245 km / h, price 14,495 euros. Comparison test in MOTORRAD 16/2003. Strengths: high performance, comfort, cardan, ABS, suitability for everyday use * MOTORCYCLE measurements

Buell

Everything stays different? That question raises the Buell mandatory on. Individual optics, a Harley-V-Two that has been strengthened to 84 HP anyway? Of course, air-cooled, gasoline in the frame, oil in the swingarm, exhaust under the engine. There was hardly anything conventional about this bike, especially not the brake disc with six-piston caliper at the front, not even the toothed belt drive or the most radical geometry with an ultra-short wheelbase and an extremely steep fork. That doesn’t make the Firebolt a handling miracle, especially since the series tires were not chosen very cleverly, but a fascinating and polarizing driving machine. As a bonus, there is a second set of tires that can do better, Dunlop D 207 in RR specification, and a voucher for a safety or race training session to get the rubbers to the right place. In addition, an annual subscription to a motorcycle magazine of your choice is tempting. One more tip is needed for this?

BUELL Firebolt XB9R

V-twin-cylinder, 985 cm3, 62 kW (84 PS) at 7400 rpm, 86 Nm at 5600 rpm, aluminum bridge frame, weight * 206 kg, country road consumption * 4.8 liters / 100 km, vmax 209 km / h, price 10733 Euro. Top test in MOTORRAD 13/2002. Strengths: fuel consumption, braking, charisma, freedom from banking * MOTORCYCLE measurements

Ducati

Va bene, cheap homes were Ducati never. But the ST 4 S ABS was a little sensation at Intermot 2002. The sporty brand, of all things, is expanding its sports tourer series with a model with an anti-lock braking system (which can be switched off). Compliment! But before the ABS begins to regulate on a non-slip road surface, there is a risk of rollover? see MOTORRAD 10/2003. After all, Ducati donated the 2003 models for only 50 euros additional payment suitcases worth 696 euros and an overnight stay for two in a MotoRoute hotel. The way there is entertaining thanks to the classy 90-degree V2 and stable chassis. The 50-euro deal applies to the entire ST family: if you do without ABS, you save 1000 euros; if 105 instead of 120 hp is enough, you pay 2000 euros less for the ST 4 »without an S«. The two-valve, 83 hp and economical ST 2 officially costs 10150 euros, but prices should still be discussed. Because all 2004 STs, including the new ST 3, have a fresher look, better ergonomics, a thicker padded bench and better wind protection.

Ducati ST 4 S ABS

V-twin-cylinder, 996 cm3, 88 kW (120 PS) at 8800 rpm, 98 Nm at 7000 rpm, steel space frame, weight * 234 kg, country road consumption * 5.4 liters / 100 km, vmax 245 km / h, Price 14,250 euros. Comparison test in MOTORRAD 26/2002. Strengths: performance, braking, range * MOTORCYCLE measurements

Moto Guzzi

Only externally a cruiser? the California EV is a classic and very active touring motorcycle with plenty of chrome trim. To underline this claim, there is the Cali EV Touring at the price of the standard EV, i.e. for 12,750 instead of 13,350 euros. Your free accessory package includes painted Hepco-Becker cases, handlebar covers, heated grips and leg shields. The moderate 150 mm rear tire and a good center of gravity ensure light-footed handling. The characterful and melodious two-valve V2 pulsates as ever and has met the Euro 2 emissions standard with G-Kat since the 2003 model year for the front wheel disappears. Be careful if you still have old Metzeler ME 33 and 55 tires on: they are almost a safety risk when wet. The Bella Donna rolls on the Bridgestone BT 45 in a more trustworthy, handy and precise manner.

Moto Guzzi California EV Touring

V-twin-cylinder, 1064 cm3, 55 kW (75 PS) at 6400 rpm, 95 Nm at 5000 rpm, double-loop tubular steel frame, weight * 268 kg, rural road consumption * 4.9 liters / 100 km, vmax 184 km / h, price 12,750 euros. Test in MOTORRAD 4/1999 (basic version). Strengths: payload, handling, suitability for touring * MOTORCYCLE measurements

Suzuki

Refuel nicely. Not that the DL 1000 V-Strom is a drunkard, but Suzuki is still giving new customers 20 Shell fuel vouchers in motorcycle-friendly denominations of 12.50 euros each. So for 250 euros free petrol. Buyers of the SV 1000 S, which only came onto the market this spring, will also receive this. Here and there, the 90-degree V-Zwo originally from the hapless TL 1000 is used, the beefy 98 in the DL and fiery in the SV 120 hp developed. The V-Strom sees itself less as a travel enduro than as an all-rounder suitable for everyday use. Tight suspension travel, cast wheels and a lack of engine protection clearly indicate the direction of travel. Thanks to its relatively low weight, a casual, relaxed seating position and a fuel-saving overdrive with a 22-liter tank capacity, the 1000 meter masters curvy terrain and mammoth stages alike. It is just unnecessary that the oversized silencers bring the rear to the width of a car with retrofit cases. Sister SV is much more emotional when driving, but the deep handlebars and the lack of seating comfort for the pillion disturb her.

Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom

V-twin-cylinder, 996 cm3, 72 kW (98 PS) at 7600 rpm, 101 Nm at 6400 rpm, aluminum bridge frame, weight * 237 kg, country road consumption * 5.1 liters / 100 km, vmax 200 km / h, price 9730 Euro. Top test in MOTORRAD 7/2002. Strengths: transmission, brakes, range * MOTORCYCLE measurements

Aprilia

Can a motorcycle that costs extra be a bargain? In the case of the Caponord Rally Raid, definitely yes! For exactly 1000 euros more than the standard model, it offers an impressive plus in features. This includes a second set of tires, coarse Metzeler MCE Karoo for unpaved terrain, as well as two-tone paintwork, engine protection made of aluminum-carbon mix or a butted aluminum handlebar in elegantly milled risers. A set of suitcases including carriers and various protective bars increase the suitability for long-distance travel, a thick, padded, two-part bench increases comfort on long journeys, which requires longer legs. There is particular added value in the chassis. The spring travel has been increased by 20 millimeters at the front and rear, making the spring elements more responsive. On the Rally Raid, the Sachs shock absorber with expansion tank is completely adjustable, and the 50-millimeter fork is at least in rebound and compression. The unchanged 60-degree V2 from Rotax is very well coordinated with the G-Kat and has a shorter gear ratio for off-road use. Even if the empty weight of five and a half quintals does not necessarily invite you to walk through deep sand, the nimbus of adventure is priceless, and if you are not impressed by this, you can confidently use the standard version, which is 310 euros cheaper than a year ago.

Aprilia Caponord Rally Raid

V-twin-cylinder, 998 cm3, 72 kW (98 PS) at 8250 / min, 95 Nm at 6250 / min, aluminum bridge frame, weight * 268 kg, country road consumption * 6.0 liters / 100 km, vmax 220 km / h, price 11389 Euro. Driving report in MOTORRAD 13/2003. Strengths: Equipment, suspension and seating comfort, handling * MOTORCYCLE measurements

BMW

Give me the ball: Now you can still secure a potential collector’s item and ideal fourth vehicle? high conspicuity factor included. Because the C1 scooters have not been produced since autumn 2002. The scooter with Telelever and G-Kat is not subject to helmet requirements thanks to the high-security cell and belts and is optionally available with ABS. The BMW branch in Bonn, for example, sells used cages that are 35 percent below the new price, i.e. from 3640 euros, from leasing operations even for half the original price. The 200 has only 176 cubic centimeters, but more reserves than the small, annoying 125 single, which sounds very loud.

BMW C1 and C1 200

Single cylinder, 125/176 cm3, 15 hp at 9300 rpm (18 hp at 8500 rpm), 12 (17) Nm at 6500 rpm, aluminum space frame, weight * 201 kg, consumption * 4.5 (4th , 7) liters / 100 km, vmax 106 (112) km / h, price 5600/5850 euros. Test in MOTORRAD 10/2000. Strengths: Safety * MOTORCYCLE measurements

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