Suzuki Bandit 1200 ?

[J.R. Bob Dobbs]

I'm considering a Bandit 1200s as my third bike. Do any of you have experience with this bike? I know it performs well and has high technology fo r the money, I'm looking at a barely used one for about $5500.

My primary concern is maintenance (valve adjustment interval etc) and overall reliability. Looks like a real bear to get to the plugs etc to do the maintenance. There's also lots and lots of hydraulics on this bike, lots of potential things to fail. I do all work on my bikes myself and am a competant mechanic.

I'm probably spoiled by my Nighthawk 750 "maintenance-free" engine which never needs opening and has a history of reliability. I just dunno much about the Bandit, though I do have the specs. I know I can buy two nice used Nighthawks like mine for the same money....is it worth the $$, will I regret trading my sweet Honda for a hooligan Suzuki?

[JCS]

Is it worth the money? Depends on what you want to do with it. Not the best for twisties. Not bad at all but not the best. I know a lot of people that sport tour on these and rack up big mileage. Pretty comfy. Compared to your Honda you will have massive torque and power. Responds well to mods. Holligan bike? Oh yeah!

These have a somewhat low tech bullet proof motor in them. I've been told that they are not too bad to do your own wrenching on. Get the factory manual and you should be good to go. I don't know the valve adjustment intervals.

There was some (2002?) that had some ring problems. Should have been corrected under warranty. I have also heard some models had issues with low output on the headlights. That is about the only complaints I have heard. Most owners like them a lot.

[skoebl]

I would looooooove to have a bandit 1200. In fact, when I'm through with my GS, that's exactly what I'm going to get


The only thing I have to be sure of now is to kick myself in the foot every time my mind says "suuuure, you're ready for a bigger bike"....


Definitely not yet

[J.R. Bob Dobbs]

Tnx for the heads-up on the headlight issue, not the first I've heard of this. Still not convinced about the big zuk's ability to reliably go 50k+ miles as easily as the Honda should. That's the only issue in my mind.

Well, that and spending 2x what my Nighthawk is worth for about 45% more torque and 33% more HP. How long before I crave even more....don't want it to become an unending quest.

[JCS]

50K is not an issue on these motors. As far as needing more torque, the first time you roll it on to pass someone your question will be answered. Just make sure you have it pointed where you want to go!

[flynrider]

Well, that and spending 2x what my Nighthawk is worth for about 45% more torque and 33% more HP. How long before I crave even more....don't want it to become an unending quest.

I've been thinking about a similar move, but realistically my Nighthawk has all the power I really need for street use. When I'm in a hurry, I often tap into to all the hp she's got, but I'd have a hard time justifying my need for more. I've taken a few rides on my friend's Bandit and the straight-line accelleration is definitely more fun, but looking in the rearview he wasn't that far behind me on my Nighthawk.

That said, I've had a difficult time controlling myself at the dealership. I've got the money to take a Bandit home, but I'm really loving the virtually maintenance free Nighthawk engine. If I never have to shim valves again, it'll be too soon.

[J.R. Bob Dobbs]

Flynrider, I share your feelings exactly (except I haven't ever ridden a Bandit).

[jmillheiser]

if the bandits 115 hp is not enough for you then check out the triumph speed triple (130hp) or yamaha FZ1 (150hp) both are open class naked bikes like the bandit. there is also the honda 919 which is like a newer version of your nighthawk and about 120 or so hp

[Mintbread]

I'm considering a Bandit 1200s as my third bike. Do any of you have experience with this bike? I know it performs well and has high technology fo r the money, I'm looking at a barely used one for about $5500.

My primary concern is maintenance (valve adjustment interval etc) and overall reliability. Looks like a real bear to get to the plugs etc to do the maintenance. There's also lots and lots of hydraulics on this bike, lots of potential things to fail. I do all work on my bikes myself and am a competant mechanic.

I'm probably spoiled by my Nighthawk 750 "maintenance-free" engine which never needs opening and has a history of reliability. I just dunno much about the Bandit, though I do have the specs. I know I can buy two nice used Nighthawks like mine for the same money....is it worth the $$, will I regret trading my sweet Honda for a hooligan Suzuki?

The Bandit engine is low technology at its best. It is a watered down gsxr engine that has remained virtually unchanged since the bikes debut in 1996. The lots and lots of hydraulics you mention consist of the front and rear brakes and a hydraulic clutch which I think is magnificent and is less of a drama than a cable version as far as maintenance goes.
I have owned a '96 Bandit 1200 and currently own an '03 1200 and happen to think they are about the best bike on the road.
Have a look over at http://banditalley.com/v-web/bulletin/bb/index.php to find out how other people like their Bandits.

[J.R. Bob Dobbs]

When I said lots of hydraulics I was referring to the number of seals, 6 pistons front, 1(2?) rear, clutch master and slave, that's tons of seals to give out eventually. Will I really keep it that long....doubt it

Thanks for all the inputs (and the link) keep em coming