They had the Bandit parked next to the Yamaha FZ1. They felt about the same sitting on them...thoughts on the FZ??
I took one for a long test ride last year. It's completely the opposite to the Bandit 1250. Some people will love it but I don't. The styling is fantastic - it looks modern and purposeful but the engine has been tuned for high BHP at the cost of usability. Below 6000 rpm I found it to be lethargic, above 6000 rpm, it took off like a scalded cat. It was fun but, for me, it meant that it wouldn't be in its power band for 70% of my riding. It has to be screamed.
The Bandit 1250 OTOH, is a totally different animal. It's looks aren't as radical and the power is way down but it's
how it delivers its power that makes a difference. With maximum torque available from 3,700 rpm, the Bandit will surge forward at any speed in any gear. To overtake, crack the throttle open and zap past. On the FZ1, drop two gears, make the engine rev hard, get everybody staring at you, and then zap past. It's not my style. The 1250 has practical all-round power while the FZ1 is really better on a race track than the average public road. The FZ1 will appear to younger bikers where paper specifications and pose-appeal are more important. The Bandit appeals to more seasoned bikers who appreciate the characteristics of a good all-round bike.
