Just got back from my 40km break in ride.
Thoughts? Suspension is fantastic. Road feel is superb while not being jarring on bigger bumps. I've felt worse suspension on bikes costing many thousands more. I guess when you own a high end suspension company it pays off in big dividends. At this point, I'm not going to set the sag..which is rare for me. I usually do it ASAP.
This thing is sporty feeling...but not in the torture rack sportbike feeling. You sit on the bike and there's absolutely nothing to distract from the view it front..like there's nothing...just you and the task at hand.
The TFT display is incredible. All the info there as the thumb controls to scroll through the menu is easy. The programmable shift lights are very cool. During the break in period, the shift light and the tach itself light up red at 7000rpm. A slick touch. Cell phone paired easily, though I don't think I'll be using it. But I was able to play music and answer calls. The screen goes green with the caller ID showing up clearly. Answer or ignore the call with a touch on the handlebar button. It's very, very good. If this isn't the best display on the market, it's right there at the top. Unbelievable on a bike of this price.
This bike wants to PLAY! It's like a puppy dog with a ball in its mouth. Play with me! It's so light on its feet matched with superb suspension. Power is good..not thrilling..but super fun and allows you to cane it without getting into trouble while still inducing smiles. I'm limited to 7500rpm for now, so at this point I can't provide much more. For me? I think I might alter the gearing by 2 teeth so I have more snap out of corners. But that's just how I like to ride. It needs an exhaust and an open air box lid..and I think those 2 sounds will add tons to the experience.
With Sir O in the back of my mind, I was cautious in the bends gradually working my way up. I ride motard style (leg out and down), so I had an extra measure of safety if I got caught out, but no problems. I puckered the first time I committed to a fast 90 degree corner..but all was well. I did not back it in yet. I'm not there on this new bike yet.
I have girl hands, so I need to keep my hand all the way inboard for clutch use. Because of that, it's puts my hand out of position to work the turn signals easily. I think I'll explore a clutch lever with more adjustability.
Despite the hard riding (I use the Motoman break in method) the bike still delivered 4l/100km. It will easily do 3s.
Temp bar never got above 4 bars and I didn't hear the fan..something some peeps complained about. I insisted on the newest ECU map (V41) as the bike comes with V39. Not sure if this had anything to do with it.
Overall very very pleased so far. This bike is worth much more than its price and does feel premium.
Only 960kms to go before I can really let it rip!
