Bandit Alley

GENERAL MOTORCYCLE FORUMS => GENERAL MOTORCYCLE => Topic started by: Jaq316 on March 26, 2006, 11:45:24 PM

Title: Bandit Ergo Question
Post by: Jaq316 on March 26, 2006, 11:45:24 PM

hello im looking for a bike to buy and i have been looking at bandits alot and i really like them....but i am 6'5 and was wondering if there is a size difference between the bandit 600 and the 1200 im looking at the 2000-2003 models. Also...if there are any other tall guys out there that ride bandits.....how are they? how do they compare to other bikes as far as ride comfort for taller guys?

Title: Bandit Ergo Question
Post by: Cargo7 on March 27, 2006, 01:20:04 AM

I looked at a number of motorcycles over several years - all the while riding a bike that had fallen out of favour ergonomically. It never was that good but starting to bug me more each season.

I picked a (2003) 1200 Bandit over the Yam FZ1 and Kaw ZRX1200 based mainly upon over-the-road comfort. I am 6'1 and 210lbs. I'm able to stretch out enough with room to move around on the very comfortable stock seat to allow over 600+ km days easily. The handlebars are high enough stock so that I don't have to overextend my neck by looking up as I would over a pure sports bike - nor are my legs jacknifed too much. The natural position leans forward far enough so that all my weight isn't resting on my back like a pure cruiser and I don't suffer from any helmet buffeting.

Bottom line is that the 1200 Bandit seems the best ergonomic compromise for me in a sport(y) machine. I can't really speak to the 600cc version. There are many other machines out there that would probably suit me just as well - but at a higher price. Best of Luck.

Title: Bandit Ergo Question
Post by: cb400bill on March 27, 2006, 08:27:40 AM

Ergonomically, the Bandit 600 and 1200 are the same.  Same seat, same frame geometry, same footpeg placement.

Title: Bandit Ergo Question
Post by: PitterB4 on March 27, 2006, 08:40:35 AM

Good writeup Cargo.  

Pete, the owner of this site and one-time frequent poster  :stickpoke: , is 6'7" (I think).  He admitedly has a first gen B12 but he's made some changes to it (seat reworked by Sargeant, Helibars...) and I think it fits him fine.  If you're worried about you legs being too folded up on longer rides, I've seen 12s & 6s with highway pegs, too.

Title: Bandit Ergo Question
Post by: Desolation Angel on March 27, 2006, 09:09:19 AM

Pete is 6'7"?  :shock:

Holy crap, Pete!  Listen very carefully...

Stop taking the vitamins.  Now.

 :stickpoke:

Title: Bandit Ergo Question
Post by: blackbandit on March 27, 2006, 10:05:41 AM

put a 55mm jack up kit on it
picks back end up and turns in quicker so you win both ways

Title: Bandit Ergo Question
Post by: scooter69 on March 27, 2006, 11:39:13 AM

Quote from: "blackbandit"

put a 55mm jack up kit on it
picks back end up and turns in quicker so you win both ways

Just be sure to get a touring windscreen with your height. Especially if you puck a jack-kit. I put a 35mm on mine (5'9") and WOW you get a lot more wind.

Title: Bandit Ergo Question
Post by: Paulie67 on March 27, 2006, 12:20:14 PM

FWIW THe Bandit also has the best Rear egros.... At least for my wifes comfort... I like the fit at 6'  260