Thinking of a ZX9R - what to look for??

Well, it's almost time to grab another bike again, it's been almost 6 months since I sold the Zed and I am missing riding like nothing else!

My budget is going to be approx $5-6K, and I have short listed a few models to check out, the ZX9R being one of them.

My question is that I have never ridden one of these before, and before I go and test ride bikes I wanted to get some opinions of them, and what to look out for when inspecting one? Also, I guess, what are known to go wrong with these babies etc etc.

Of course I know the opinions expressed will be biased being on a Kwaka web site, but hey, it's a good place to start!

Two that have piqued my interest so far are:

http://www.bikesales.com.au/all-bikes/private/details.aspx?R=3156393&__sid=12C4CA4C69DF&__Qpb=true&Cr=3&__Ns=p_IsPoa_Int32|0||p_RankSort_Int32|1||p_HasPhotos_Int32|1||p_Make_String|0||p_Model_String|0||p_YearMade_Int32|1||p_PriceSort_Decimal|1||p_PhotoCount_Int32|1&keywords=&__N=1432%20604%201429%201428%20748%20687%2079%204294967215%204294962248&SearchAction=N&PriceFrom=748&PriceTo=687&seot=1&__Nne=15&trecs=12&silo=1400

and

http://www.bikesales.com.au/all-bikes/private/details.aspx?R=3256504&ref=Item&__Ns=p_IsPoa_Int32|0||p_RankSort_Int32|1||p_HasPhotos_Int32|1||p_Make_String|0||p_Model_String|0||p_YearMade_Int32|1||p_PriceSort_Decimal|1||p_PhotoCount_Int32|1&__N=1432%20604%201429%201428%20748%20687%2079%204294967215%204294962248&__Nne=15

Re the Streetfighter one, I know it's "different" but bikes like this have always had an appeal to me, hence I used to ride a Zed.

Anyway, have at it!!

Cheers,

BM

i like that fighter...looks pretty good..

I have read some issues with earlier models like the 98 with the gear box where it would jump out of gear when you punch it. Also issues with carbies freezing. Havent read much on later models like what you have listed though.

The streetfighter is heaps different, I think it would look hot in solid green IMHO

They burn well mate!

Go the 9

The first one you have listed is a goer. E1 that looks to have been cared for. No major issues with them at all. Earlier C models had a bit of a soft gearbox (3rd?) that Madkaw detailed how to fix in an article that used to be on this site.
The second bike you have listed has a history and build article over on ASF.
Personaly though I would have a good look at the first one and items to check are standard - bearings, consumables, service history etc. All 9's have a soft frame though and you should pay particular attention to the head stock area for cracks to welds or even just paint. Run your finger along the inside of the frame under the tank and look for cracks along the inner of the main spar or "shoulder" because even a drop off the side stand can cause damage through flex to this area. (Damage is normally through abuse and not commonly a fault of design)
Nines absolutely rock for a road bike and you would not regret getting a good example like the first one you have listed.

that reminds me of a vid i was watching on youtube a few days ago...
love the look of the streetfighter 9



Gotta Love The 9 Mate

Judging by that video you would think they cant go round corners. Noice bike but shit boring riding

Yeah, I kept waiting for him to at least do a wheelie or a stoppie. Good song though...

Just looked at this thread...

Did you buy them both??? cause both links now say unavailable?

I have read some issues with earlier models like the 98 with the gear box where it would jump out of gear when you punch it. Also issues with carbies freezing. Havent read much on later models like what you have listed though.

The streetfighter is heaps different, I think it would look hot in solid green IMHO

i get the same problem with my ninja with the gar box between 1st an 2nd

... Earlier C models had a bit of a soft gearbox (3rd?) that Madkaw detailed how to fix in an article that used to be on this site...

Actually it was me that did the article

...original copy here http://users.tpg.com.au/mjcowey/gearbox.html

i get the same problem with my ninja with the gar box between 1st an 2nd

Try a more positive up shift, it is possible to get a bit lazy with the foot if it still happens the the selector might need an overhaul

If you get one I'd highly recommend a damn big alarm, a big chain and somewhere to anchor it!

viewtopic.php?f=46&t=32554

I've had my 98 for 2 1/2 years, and touch wood, has been the most reliable vehicle i have ever owned, i've taken it from 31000 to 52000 and she hasn't skipped a beat ever, except for a dodgy wiring job which outed my headlight, but that was a quik fix. I've done 530 kms in one hit and it just loves it, thrives on open roads and loves the twisty stuff!! You certainly won't be disappointed if you pick/have picked up a good one!!

Hey, All. I have just come back to this forum after a few years away and I have jst gone through the same thing. I sold my Z1000 12 months ago and have just bought a 2000 ZX9R for $5k. Awesome bike, strong motor, very comfortable and look forward to putting heaps of miles on it. I don't think that you will regret it at all.

I looked at other bikes but the ZX9 seems to be better value for money.

Just my 2c.