Big Bandit
Written: May 17 '04
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Pros: Power at any rpm, comfort, value.
Cons: None so far
The Bottom Line: Get this bike if you don't plan to race but want loads of power when you twist the throttle.
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| adam1981d's Full Review: 2002 Suzuki Bandit 1200s |
I bought a brand new 1200S two weeks ago, and have driven 1200 miles already. I researched various models of bikes for over a year before deciding on the bandit. I chose the bandit because i wanted something with plenty of power and torque that was comfortable enough to drive 300 + miles per day. For reference i am a fit 6'3" @ 235 pounds, 22 years old, and have no delusions of needing a race bike to handle my limited riding skills. The bike i considered the most aside from the bandit was the fz1 like many other bandit purchasers. I chose the suzuki because i read that it is slightly less as a sport bike, but a better tourer than the yamaha.
First off the power and torque are more than enough for anybody who plans to ride anywhere other than a race track. In fact the bike had more than enough power even under 5500 rpm during the first stage of break-in.(Not that i don't enjoy the extra rev's now that i've got em!) Not sure exactly how fast it will go but i can attest to the fact that the bike pulls hard @ 130 mph.
I have done one 400 mile trip ( 200 each day over two days) with the bike which include some freeway stretches and the bike is quite comfy @ that distance. Even at my height the wind blast is not annoying as most of it is directed at the helmet and not the body. The seating position is a slight lean forward, but almost straight up and is very easy on the lower back. The pegs are low and not too far back. The seat height is quite high which i like but may not be the best choice for someone under 5'6" because the bike is fairly top heavy and may be hard to control at a stoplight or in a parking lot on tip-toes. When the speed picks up it is not hard to get into a tuck and out of the wind. This bike is very comfortable.
As far sport performance goes i cannot make a whole lot of comments because i have never owned a full-on sport bike to compare it to. My previous bike was a 1983 Honda Shadow, and the bandit is obviously light years ahead of it in terms of handling, braking, etc. It is sporty enough for my riding style.
For any one who is heavy like myself or plans to ride with a passenger adjusting the suspension to stiffer settings is a must. In the stock settings the bike was way less stable taking corners, and driving on the freeway on a windy day than it is now that i have changed both the preload and dampening.
I love this machine so far and do not regret my choice one bit. Probably a bit too powerful for novice riders, but a lot of fun for someone who knows what he/she is doing.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): msrp
Condition: New
Model Year: 2004
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Epinions.com ID:
adam1981d
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Reviews written: 1
Trusted by: 0 members
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