Also consider
HondaVFR800F
(2014-current)
105bhp 55lb·ft 242 kg
Why you want one The VFR was updated in
2014 with heated grips, ABS and TC and a braced
swingarm. Blighted by a high £10k price though.
Why you don’t Honda looked to the classic
VFR800Fi for inspiration and that means the new
model instantly appeared dated.
Watch out for Seized hubs, but on a bike as new
as this, you should be pretty safe.
Target price £7000
YamahaTracer 900
(2015-2017)
113bhp 65lb·ft 210kg
Why you want one Putting the MT-09’s triple in
a touring bike was a stroke of genius. Fun to ride,
light and brimming with spirit, it’s a great do-it-all.
Why you don’t The suspension is budget and
way too soft. A high-speed weave when loaded is
a common complaint from owners.
Watch out for The build quality is reasonable
but the shock loses its damping very rapidly.
Target price £6300
Suzuki GSX1250FA
(2010-2016)
97bhp 81lb·ft 257kg
Why you want one Basically a Bandit 1250
with a full fairing. It is remarkably effective thanks
to its storming motor and adjustable-height seat.
Why you don’t It isn’t the sexist of bikes, its
handling feels more 1990s than 2010s and you’ll
always know you bought on price, not spec.
Watch out for The build quality is poor. Buy a
low-mileage one and use lots of anti-corrosion.
Target price £6000
BRAKES
Onlythe2016-onwards
PerformanceSportmodel
featuresupratedbrakeswith
BremboM50calipers anda
Brembomastercylinder.Nissins
arestillprettygoodthough
RANGE
TheZZR’s 22-litre tank
isgoodforaround
200 milesofriding
ENGINE
TheoriginalZZR1400was
launchedin 2006 witha
smaller1352ccmotor
RIDEABILITY
An ECU re-flash or fuelling
module fitted will improve economy
figures as well as throttle response
UPGRADES
The Performance Sport
models add an Öhlins
shock and Akrapovic
exhaust. They’re worth a
small used premium