Just traded in my 2002 1200 Bandit for the new 1250. So far I have done 380 miles in 2 days. The new Bandit is smoother on the road, faster accelerating (even short shifting below 4500 revs while running in), less engine vibration and significantly better handling. On the old one the front got a bit vague when pushed into bends briskly - safe but a bit unnerving 'til you got used to it. It would also wallow and weave a bit in bends even with suspension adjuted for my weight. The new one is better on standard setting probably due to firmer supension and stiffer frame. Steering is sharper dropping into corners and standing up on the way out. So far measured 140 (UK miles) for 13 (UK/Euro) litres. I think this is about 36 per UK gallon. Despite the 4500 rev limit I have taken it briefly up to 105 and up to 5000 in the higher gears. My only minor complaint is that low speeds on a near closed throttle the engine seems to hunt a bit, not like my old Bandit on carbs. Run in I think this will be a very rapid, very civilised missile. I do long tours in France and the UK and next year going down to Greece and Crete. This is going to be a brilliant all-rounder.
Upgrades/Accessories: None so far. Will look out for a less restrictive can and see if a power Commander come available in due course
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