Bandit Alley

MODEL SPECIFIC => SUZUKI BANDIT 250 & 400 => Topic started by: Phat Ham on June 29, 2005, 12:51:38 PM

Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Phat Ham on June 29, 2005, 12:51:38 PM
Hi I'm a newb to the motorcycle world, and after a little bit of research am thinking about a b4 as my first bike.  I have a few questions though.

From what I've read the b4 is on the small side.  I'm a skinny 5'11" with decently long legs.  Will I be cramped on this bike?

What's the general price range for these bikes ('91-'93)?  Is there a specific year that I should look for?  Any common problems I should look for?

What is the reliability of these bikes like?  Or moreso how much should I expect to spend on parts?  I'm used to doing my own wrenching on cars so I can probably do most of the labor myself.
Title: Re: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: interfuse on June 29, 2005, 02:38:53 PM
Quote from: "Phat Ham"
Hi I'm a newb to the motorcycle world, and after a little bit of research am thinking about a b4 as my first bike.  I have a few questions though.


It's a great first bike and you won't get bored of after one season.

Quote from: "Phat Ham"
From what I've read the b4 is on the small side.  I'm a skinny 5'11" with decently long legs.  Will I be cramped on this bike?


Nope, I'm 5'11" and 130 lbs. Fits me perfectly for riding. I could handle a slightly higher seat height for stoplights though.

Quote from: "Phat Ham"
What's the general price range for these bikes ('91-'93)?  Is there a specific year that I should look for?  Any common problems I should look for?


Anywhere between $1500 - $2500 depending on the bike and the location. Lots of these bikes have rusty tanks and carb problems.

Quote from: "Phat Ham"
What is the reliability of these bikes like?  Or moreso how much should I expect to spend on parts?  I'm used to doing my own wrenching on cars so I can probably do most of the labor myself.


Parts can take a while to arrive to the dealership. Seems like they don't stock much for the bike on this side of the ocean anymore.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: JmuRiz on June 29, 2005, 03:57:43 PM
:welcome:
I agree with what interfuse said.  I'm 6' with long legs and it suits me just fine.  Got it 2 years ago and haven't tired of it yet, sure you have to downshift to get it going sometimes, but that's the fun of it for me.
Title: Re: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Phat Ham on June 29, 2005, 04:49:51 PM
Quote from: "interfuse"
Lots of these bikes have rusty tanks and carb problems.
 Is there a way for me to check for both of these problems when looking at a bike?  Sorry I'm new to this whole "carburetor" thing.
Title: Re: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: PitterB4 on June 29, 2005, 04:50:44 PM
Quote from: "interfuse"
Nope, I'm 5'11" and 130 lbs. ....


Dude - get a sandwich!   :stickpoke:   People always call me skinny and I'm 5'10"/160.  

Some people do think the bike is a little cramped.  "Folded-up" is the term I've read.  I think that's mostly people who are used to bigger bikes.  For a noob - I don't think it will bother you.  

Bike ownership is at least somewhat expensive - moreso than I thought it would be.  As a noob... you need to plan good gear into your start-up budget.  Figure on $500+ over the cost of the bike to get a good lid, jacket and gloves.  I figure I'm averaging over $100/month on maintenance, mods and gear which would be WAY more if the wife would allow it!

They are totally fun bikes.  Being a decent wrench will make it that much more enjoyable.  They are getting pretty old afterall.

Good luck and....  :welcome:
Title: Re: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: PitterB4 on June 29, 2005, 05:03:51 PM
Quote from: "Phat Ham"
Quote from: "interfuse"
Lots of these bikes have rusty tanks and carb problems.
 Is there a way for me to check for both of these problems when looking at a bike?  Sorry I'm new to this whole "carburetor" thing.


A flashlight in the tank will do it.

Carb problems...  check for signs fuel has leaked out.  It should idle and rev smoothly.  If you are able, check the plugs.
Title: Re: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Phat Ham on June 29, 2005, 05:27:34 PM
Quote from: "PitterB4"
A flashlight in the tank will do it.

Carb problems...  check for signs fuel has leaked out.  It should idle and rev smoothly.  If you are able, check the plugs.
If I find a rusty fuel tank or a bad carb should I walk away or are these things that can be fixed?  If they can be fixed, how much will it cost?
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: millsi1 on June 29, 2005, 06:54:16 PM
im 6ft and dont seem to have any dramas!
Title: Re: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Maniac on June 29, 2005, 09:35:25 PM
Quote from: "Phat Ham"
If I find a rusty fuel tank or a bad carb should I walk away or are these things that can be fixed?  If they can be fixed, how much will it cost?


These are all things that can be fixed. Unless the rust in the tank is -really- bad, water tends to condense at the bottom of the tank. So it's a wise idea to inspect the bottom of the tank, check for bubbling in the paint or 'soft' areas that may indicate rust through.

Tanks can be coated, mine has been, definatly worth the cost. I'd actually recommend it even if the tank is fine, since it basically covers the inside of the tank in plastic. That way you won't have to worry about rust later.

Carbs are a little more tricky. Usually they can be fixed, but parts for our carbs are getting hard to find. Oddly enough you can probally find all the o-rings in the carbs at a hardware store, I got mine at Ace. Specialized stuff, though, you will have to order. Occasionally you'll see B4 carbs on Ebay, even rarer yet you will find a set of GSXR400 carbs, which are a tad bit bigger but also work (identical internals as well). I suspect that the carbs off the GS500E have identical internals as well, but I've never taken one apart (I personally suspect that the GS500E is using the two outside GSF400 carbs).

By the way, I'm 6' 2" and was 230lbs when I got my Bandit.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Red01 on June 30, 2005, 12:06:30 AM
Nobody mentioned the ignition boxes  :?:  :duh:
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Maniac on June 30, 2005, 01:08:24 PM
Well, yeah, the ignition box needs to be checked too... but thats pretty obvious because the bike doesn't have spark and won't run if it's bad.  :grin:
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: gsxr400 racer on June 30, 2005, 01:58:34 PM
Im 5'5" and need a stool! :stickpoke:
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Phat Ham on June 30, 2005, 02:18:32 PM
Thanks for the responses guys.

How much does it cost to coat the inside of the tank, and is it something I can do myself?

Are there any differences between the model years?  Is any specific year more desirable, or more importantly is there a year I should avoid?

I guess these bikes are getting pretty old.  I wonder if I'd be better off spending a little more and getting something like an sv650.  One thing's for sure it will be easier to find one.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: interfuse on June 30, 2005, 03:30:35 PM
I think the kreem tank liner kit cost me aprox. $30 and you can do it yourself.

1991 - 1993 are basicly the same. The 1993 has a slightly lower redline...

The SV is a totally different type of bike. Depends on what you're into. As much as I do love the torque on the v-twins, I'd rather be reving the snot out of an inline 4.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Phat Ham on June 30, 2005, 04:00:14 PM
Quote from: "interfuse"
The SV is a totally different type of bike. Depends on what you're into. As much as I do love the torque on the v-twins, I'd rather be reving the snot out of an inline 4.

The problem is I'm a newb so I don't know what I'm into.  I pretty much have to base my purchase on other people's opinions.  From what I've read the b4 seems like a great bike for a guy like me.  The only problem is I'm worried about maintenance with an old bike like this and they are really hard to find.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Spacey86 on June 30, 2005, 04:20:06 PM
Na you are not going to get stiff ridding a B4 i am 6'1" and well built, can travel nearly all day and still fell ok. Good luck with the B4 rideing
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: gsxr400 racer on June 30, 2005, 04:30:40 PM
as much as im anti sv you'd be better off to buy one if you can afford one they are a great beginner bike and a great track day and race bike for a beginner! and there is tons of aftermarket parts for one! :beers:
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: interfuse on June 30, 2005, 09:37:03 PM
Quote from: "gsxr400 racer"
as much as im anti sv you'd be better off to buy one if you can afford one they are a great beginner bike and a great track day and race bike for a beginner! and there is tons of aftermarket parts for one! :beers:


I agree. Even though I'm not a SV fan (I'd rather have a Honda Hawk GT650 any day) its easier to get parts for it and should cause you less hassles in the end. Mind you I still think the bandit is more unique and more fun to ride.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: PitterB4 on June 30, 2005, 10:06:11 PM
Funny.... I am an SV fan but I love the idea of having something really different like th B4.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Phat Ham on June 30, 2005, 10:52:00 PM
Quote from: "PitterB4"
Funny.... I am an SV fan but I love the idea of having something really different like th B4.

That's the thing.  From all accounts I've read the sv would be a great bike for me.  Initial purchase cost is more than a b4 but they are newer, easier to find, more parts, etc.  But something about the b4 just draws me to it.  Like it has more character or something.  Not that I've ever ridden either (or any "real" bike for that matter.)
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Maniac on July 01, 2005, 12:02:08 AM
The B4 definatly has more character than the SV, in my opinion. It's a prettier bike, and there is just something about an inline four screaming at 10,000RPM.  :grin:

That said, both are good bikes and I can see the draw of the SV. It's not a BAD bike at all, the V-twin is a nice motor with a very distinct sound and the aftermarket on the bike is a lot larger. From all reports it's a nice riding bike as well. The real problem I have with it is that just about -everyone- has an SV.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Red01 on July 01, 2005, 12:12:28 AM
Funny how it goes sometimes... the US moto press loved the B4 when it came out, but the (US) public didn't buy a lot of them. Likewise with the CB1 & Hawk GT. TheSV must have stuck a chord with the people though, since it is well loved by the press & public.

Go figure.  :roll:
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: echomadman on July 01, 2005, 06:36:50 AM
I find my knees hurt like hell after an hour in the saddle on the SV, i dont remember that happening on the bandit, i must puzzle a lot of car drivers as i drive down the road with my legs splayed out trying to get the blood flowing again.
This may be more down to my fitness levels/ old knee injuries than the ergonomics of the bike.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: mtbcrazy on July 01, 2005, 09:45:22 AM
Hey Phat Ham!

I got my Bandit earlier this year, and spent over $2,000 US fixing it (and it isn't done yet).  
I haven't ridden an SV, and have been off motorcycles for 10 years, but riding the Bandit is a BLAST and easy as pie.  It sits SO low that you have a fantastic-ly low center of gravity.

BUT, I'm used to riding a bicycle (road or mountain) and the center of gravity is way high on them, and my last motorcycle was a Moto Guzzi LeMans (Big and heavy) http://www.ronamber.com/guzzi.asp.

AND, the SV doesn't have that Ducati look to it.  So, although the bike cost over $3,000 to get on the road, I think it is worth it. (so far!)
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: interfuse on July 01, 2005, 11:09:09 AM
Quote from: "Red01"
Funny how it goes sometimes... the US moto press loved the B4 when it came out, but the (US) public didn't buy a lot of them. Likewise with the CB1 & Hawk GT. TheSV must have stuck a chord with the people though, since it is well loved by the press & public.

Go figure.  :roll:


The B4, CB1, and Hawk GT all became cult classics after they stopped being imported. There's Hawk at a motorcycle shop near me and they're asking $7,000 cdn for it!!!  I think a big part of why they didn't sell was cost. I think the SV's popularity is due to its price point. Its in the most bang for your buck class.

If you're looking for a newer bike that's similar to the B4, take a look at the honda 599. Other then it's archaic frame it's a pretty nice bike.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Phat Ham on July 05, 2005, 12:18:41 PM
What do you guys think:

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mcy/82275075.html

How much am I looking at to get the tank and feed lines fixed/replaced?
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: PeteSC on July 05, 2005, 12:37:03 PM
May be worth a look at that price.
  The 400 world is kind of small, and we have a handful of 400 users, somebody may 'know' the bike.

  There's no mention of miles....

   For the price, if it runs, it may be worth it.   If the gas tank is too far gone to fix, it may be a hassle finding another one...and won't be cheap.

  If you like tinkering on stuff, the 400 would fit the bill.   I'd hate to see you buy one expecting to get a trouble free daily rider.   The parts hunt can be frustrating....and working on them likewise.

  For less hassle...the SV would work, as well as a used Bandit 600, which may be a better all around bargain.  The B6 probably has a lot less character than the other two bikes, but would be great as a first bike.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: interfuse on July 05, 2005, 01:05:01 PM
Quote from: "Phat Ham"
What do you guys think:

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mcy/82275075.html

How much am I looking at to get the tank and feed lines fixed/replaced?


The price sounds good. It depends on where the tank is leaking and if the bike runs and shifts. If the tank's just leaking from the fuel tap it could be as simple as replacing a gasket. If the tank has rusted through you may have to source another tank. Fuel lines are cheap. I can't see lines costing you more then $10. You can pickup standard 5/8" fuel lines at most automotive stores and you won't need more then 24".

With any bike purchase check the brakes, tires, etc... fyi the front rotor is an expensive part.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: Phat Ham on July 05, 2005, 01:21:10 PM
Let's take the worst case scenario and say the tank needs to be replaced.  How hard is it to find one, and how much should I expect to spend?

I don't mind tinkering around on stuff; I rather enjoy it.  I don't really need this bike to be a reliable daily driver since I have a car for that.
Title: newb thinking about a b4 with some questions
Post by: interfuse on July 05, 2005, 02:39:58 PM
Quote from: "Phat Ham"
Let's take the worst case scenario and say the tank needs to be replaced.  How hard is it to find one, and how much should I expect to spend?


They pop up on ebay once every couple of months. If you don't mind painting this one sounds alright:

http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=10534&item=7984716844&rd=1