My riding history - Have owned 8 different motorcycles in my 20 years of licensed riding. One of those 8 bikes was a 2003, Bandit 1200S. My best friend totalled that bike for me in Sept 06, I had approximately 13,000 miles on that Bandit. This review will be based on the '03 Bandit 1200S as compared to the '07 Bandit 1250S.
As of the 3rd day of owning the new 1250S, the biggest difference I have noticed in the bikes is the weight distribution (the new bike is a little heavier to pick up off of the kickstand). I only have about 250 miles on the new bike so reliability is a topic that I cannot rate with an objective point of view as of yet (but, so far there are no problems of any kind).
Performance, (New Bike) is equal to or better than the Old Bike. The fuel injection seems to be just noticably quicker than the carbed bike. The new bike has a six speed tranny, and 6th gear is just a touch taller than the older 5 speed.
Old - 5 Speed - 5th gear, 4,000 RPM = 70 MPH
New - 6 Speed - 6th gear, 4,000 RPM = 73-74 MPH
Comfort - is about the same as the Old Bike. The seating position has not changed and feet position is still the same. Both bikes see more two up riding than solo. The wife says the New/Old Bandit passenger seat is adequately comfortable.
Quality - Have not had the New Bike long enough to give a objective quality rating. Only miles and more miles will do that. But, seeing how this is an all new engine and chasis I did buy the extended warranty just to be on the safe side. On the Old bike I did not buy the extended warranty because the engine and chasis and the whole motorcyle had been in production for some time.
So far, this is an awesome choice for some one who wants a commuter and a sport bike.
I will do a Part 2 at about the 1,000 mile mark right after the initial servicing.
Reviews are provided on an "as is" basis with no warranty and should be considered entertainment only. Reviews should not be used for any purpose whatsoever, including but not limited to, making decisions about any referenced vehicles, products, modifications or other information.
