Author Topic: Debating 05 B12, need your help. (Read 7503 times)

redbeard · « **on:** April 30, 2005, 01:18:06 AM »

Hey all, I've been browsing here the last couple weeks trying to gather info on a potential upcoming bike purchase. I'm looking at SV1000, DL1000, and the Bandit 1200. The SV's don't feel as comfy both seating wise and fit wise. The DL doesn't have the look that appeals to me.(Sorry Vstromer's) I really like the look and feel of the 05 B12, but I am having a hard time finding alot out about them, cause they are too new for much to have been written about em I guess. Do any of you guys have the scoop on them? I have been riding since I was 12yrs old, and am now 38. I have had all sorts of bikes including dirt, dual, cruiser, and street in just about every flavor. My last bike was a HD that I sold 2yrs ago to come up with the money to buy a car for my wife. Until now I have been suffering through not having a cycle, but that suffering is soon going to end. My last ride was a cruiser, and to be honest, I'm looking for a change. I want something that has sporty performace, open road all day comfort for rider and passenger, and of course long lived dependabiliy. The previous Bandits seem to fit my criteria, just wondering if the 2005 is living up to it's heritage. I realize this is a Bandit site, so I'm sure I'll hear some "go for it's", which is alright, cause I'm leaning towards it, but I'm hoping for some words of wisdom from anyone who knows if the 05 has any particular problems or shortcomings. Or on the other hand if it seems to be winning praises. Also what if anything besides the paint job has been changed from the 03 and 04 models. Sorry to drag this out, but I need a bike, and want to make sure I get the right one. From lurking the board I've seen that you guys are very knowledgeable, informed, and more than willing to helpfully dish out advice. Please throw some of that stuff my way. If I do get it, you can also advise me on what kind of oil to use:)

Red01 · « **Reply #1 on:** April 30, 2005, 02:12:59 AM »

Anything you read in the mainstream press about an '01 (or newer) B12 will apply to the '05. (Except the oil burning issue that was solved mid-way thru the '02 model run.) The only changes from '01 to '05, besides colors, are as follows:

'02 put the clock in the tach with the fuel gauge so it is visible all the time. '01 has it as a selection in the odometer/trip meters.

'02.5 reverted to old style pistons to cure oil consumption problems.

'04 larger muffler welded to mid-pipe (earlier models had a bolt-on flange between the muffler and mid-pipe), catalytic converter on CA models, headlight switches off during startup to reduce load on battery, 4-way emergency flasher and high-beam passing switch (passing switch has been on EU market models all along)

GO FOR IT!

txbanditrydr · « **Reply #2 on:** April 30, 2005, 12:36:24 PM »

I would have to say that what ever you read on this board about the 2G - 1200 Bandits will apply to the 2005 model as well. It has all the power and comfort (seat issues not withstanding - YMMV) that everyone has raved on. The 2005 model looks GREAT to me and I have had no quality issues with the bike at all..... now I did have some dealer prep issues that were resolved to my satisfaction.

All of the upside comments pertain - looks, value, low insurance costs, power, comfortable riding position, ease of maintainance, durability yada yada yada. Also, great aftermarket part/upgrade selection and affordable performace mods.

The downsides for some include buzzyness in the fairing, less than stellar stock suspension (though your riding style may not require immediate upgrades) and many do not like the OEM tires.

I have not had the extensive riding experience on other bikes to offer up a fair and balanced opinion but I am very happy with the 2005 Bandit and will recommend it to anyone. It is by far the best value for your new bike dollar. Good Luck with your decision.

PeteSC · « **Reply #3 on:** April 30, 2005, 01:50:08 PM »

Can't add much to the above.....

People have put 1000 mile days on the Bandit.
A little bit of $$ goes a long way to improve it, or tweak it to your needs.

You may want a better seat for two-up.....and many passengers prefer a backrest, which limits you to a Corbin, or a Holeshot rack with backrest, or a GIVI topbox with backrest.

Get a good deal on the stock bike....and be willing to spend a little $$ in aftermarket stuff, and you'll have a bike you'll be happy with for years.....

billythefish · « **Reply #4 on:** April 30, 2005, 03:52:05 PM »

i've just recently moved onto a bandit 12 after a short time without a bike (last bike was a TL1000R).
i had the same sort of questions as you but i decided to go for the bandit in the end, i have to tell you it does everything i want and more.
puts a smile on my face whenever i ride it

this was taken tonight just before being put in garage.

redbeard · « **Reply #5 on:** April 30, 2005, 07:24:17 PM »

Thanks for the replies, you guys are a great help. My local dealer would be selling this bike to me for 6900 plus 150 freight. Does $7050 sound about right with MSRP at $7400? I know some don't like the paint scheme for the US model (suzuki's blue and white racing colors) but I think it looks pretty sharp. The bike and it's reputation are selling themselves to me, I just don't want to make a bad snap decision simply because I want another cycle again so badly. Another selling point is definitely you guys and this board. I have searched around the board and see that I would be able to get advice on everything from maintenance to mods to gear to apparel. This community you have going here is truely something to be proud of, kudos to all of you. Anyone want to talk me out of becoming a new B12 owner, or can I continue to let my mind run wild in anticipation?

Steve · « **Reply #6 on:** April 30, 2005, 07:44:31 PM »

The price sounds OK. Not bad, not good. At least get the (complete) 600 mile service (with valve adjust) included in the purchase price and noted on your invoice. Ask nicely and then insist if they don't come easily. The service only costs them a few bucks in parts and shop time. When I picked my bike up from the first service all the take out parts were in a bag taped to the h-bars, there was no doubt the work had been done and I had a full set of tune up parts with only 600 miles on them.

The sooner you get it, the sooner you go riding! I'm kinda partial to blue & white, and like you said they were (are?) Suzuki campaign colors.

Billy, that is a fine looking scooter you have there! Looks great with the flyscreen!! I believe that is the mutt's nuts!

Steve

PeteSC · « **Reply #7 on:** April 30, 2005, 08:29:54 PM »

To me, the '05 Blue and white looks better in person.

All the bikes you mentioned are great bikes, and good values.
Buy what floats your boat!

Depending on what part of the country you're in, you may find a new '05 cheaper a little drive away.
Do a search on Cycletrader.com, just to get an idea how much they CAN be discounted. Usually, a big dealer in Toledo has them for around $6500. A couple other dealers on CycleTrader are in that range....usually.
$7000 for a current model b12 is 'OK'.
You might still be able to find a new '03-'04 leftover somewhere for a lot less.

redbeard · « **Reply #8 on:** April 30, 2005, 09:13:58 PM »

Yeah, I checked every dealer in reasonable driving distance, and $7000 is the cheapest I can find. Also no dealers near here have any holdovers. I could probably get one for a couple hundred less if I drove 400 miles to get it, but with the price of gas and the hassle of running halfway around the country would offset any savings in purchase price. If I decide to get it, I'll probably try getting the first service thrown in, or some gear like a helmet for both me and my wife or something like that.

victor55 · « **Reply #9 on:** May 01, 2005, 05:32:45 AM »

Stop shagging around Redbeard - go to the B12

Swamp Rat · « **Reply #10 on:** May 01, 2005, 09:15:49 AM »

Leaning towards the comfort side of the spectrum, might I suggest the Yamy FJR 1300? Gobs of power and some serious all day comfort. If I don't get a Road King that's going to be my next bike. No time soon mind you, too much other crap to get paid off first.

B6Matt · « **Reply #11 on:** May 01, 2005, 11:19:59 PM »

TheKillerB · « **Reply #12 on:** May 02, 2005, 12:30:47 AM »

Quote from: "B6Matt"

Quote
Stop shagging around Redbeard - go to the B12

What he said. (Somebody get me a Vegemite sandwich.)

Just don't pull one of these: new bike crash. How can somebody be THAT hapless on a bike? The cameraman's final comment says it all.

What a genious. Wife beater, jeans, no helmet/gloves and has no clue how to ride a motorcycle. Perfect formula for disaster (aka head-on into a tree).

Since this is about whether to buy a B12, I'll say that my dad bought his last year (brand spankin' new 02) and absolutely loves it.

BBurton · « **Reply #13 on:** May 02, 2005, 02:07:22 AM »

Quote

I want something that has sporty performace, open road all day comfort for rider and passenger, and of course long lived dependabiliy.

Man...can't believe that people think the DL1000 is ugly!!

If you haven't ridden a new K5 DL1000 then you should. All it took for me was 1 ride and I was hook line and sinker. I had an 03 B12, REALLY liked that bike alot, but wanted a bike that could do it all. Also, the DL1000 will be a better 2 person bike than the Bandit IMHO,as well as other previous Bandit owners that I talked to on the V-Strom board. The Bandit is an awesome bike, cheaper too!! Can't go wrong with either bike.. stay away from the SV1000, it is a sportbike first and foremost!

Steve · « **Reply #14 on:** May 02, 2005, 04:31:26 AM »

Quote

the DL1000 is ugly!

Hey, you said it!

Maybe it has to do with the plastic hippo hands, or the twin torpedo tubes under the seat.

Whaddaya park it under a tree, so you can climb up and jump off onto the seat?

As they say, beauty is in the eye...

Oh well I am fond the the naked SV-650, and even the mags say it is ugly.

Steve