Getting back into motorcycling after an 8 years' break. Test rode a 2006 Ninja 500 yesterday and liked it a lot. Mostly looking for a commuter bike and some weekend rides - not heavy duty touring. My friend is selling a 94 VFR with some really nice Givi bags. Not sure what I should go for. I think the VFR overall is a better bike, but it is much older, heavier and maybe just a better touring bike. I am worried about the age difference. I used to have a 650cc standard before and the Ninja is even stronger than that bike. What are your thoughts? Do you think I will outgrow the Ninja?
Dani
Older VFR vs. Newer Ninja 500?
- jstark47
- Site Supporter - Silver
- Posts: 3538
- Joined: Fri Feb 03, 2006 2:58 pm
- Sex: Male
- Years Riding: 16
- My Motorcycle: '12 Tiger 800, '03 Trophy 1200
- Location: Lumberton, NJ
Dani- that seems to be kind of an apples and oranges comparison. VFR is around 100 hp, Ninja is half that... maybe. VFR is a midweight sport-tourer, Ninja is kind of a dressed up standard. If you've any concern about being rusty after 8 years off, I think you've made the right decision to start with the Ninja. Good luck
2003 Triumph Trophy 1200
2009 BMW F650GS (wife's)
2012 Triumph Tiger 800
2018 Yamaha XT250 (wife's)
2013 Kawasaki KLX250S
2009 BMW F650GS (wife's)
2012 Triumph Tiger 800
2018 Yamaha XT250 (wife's)
2013 Kawasaki KLX250S
Update: Got the Ninja. Love it.
Pros: Great fuel economy (52-63mpg) and excellent range with a large tank, excellent power for my needs. Light enough. Good riding position. So far very reliable - ridden it 650 miles or so. Like the lime green classic kawa color.
Cons: a little buzzy at higher speed. I wish I had a fuel light or gauge or clock (mounted a formotion clock on it now)
Can't go wrong with this bike. Easy and forgiving for a beginner yet powerful enough.
Dani
Pros: Great fuel economy (52-63mpg) and excellent range with a large tank, excellent power for my needs. Light enough. Good riding position. So far very reliable - ridden it 650 miles or so. Like the lime green classic kawa color.
Cons: a little buzzy at higher speed. I wish I had a fuel light or gauge or clock (mounted a formotion clock on it now)
Can't go wrong with this bike. Easy and forgiving for a beginner yet powerful enough.
Dani