Hi all and a big hello. I have been popping into this site for a while now and thought i'd better register. I've just got rid of a Triumph ST1050 and am pretty sure that the GTR is going to be my next bike. I test rode one the other day and was quite impressed how good it was for a big old bus. i've not not had a full tourer before, i've always had superbikes until the ST which i only had 6 months due to mechanical failure. I was just wondering what potential problems/common faults i should be aware of/look for when looking at a GTR. I will be buying a used bike probably 2008/9. Thanks in advance. Andy
Andy, welcome along. Hopefully pretty soon you will have a GTR. I have the 2008 model in black which I bought used through MCN classifieds.
Many people mention on here about seat height relative to your own height, that I suppose is something which you should consider. It may well be that if you are 'short', you may decide to fit a custom seat for comfort and to ensure you can comfortably reach the floor. I have to be honest with you, I cannot personally think of any problems or common faults with the bike. I think the paint quality is good, the build quality is excellent as is the performance.
No, thats it, you have me stumped, I cant think of anything!
Welcome Nogoslow .... I honestly can't find fault with the GTR at all ... simply a brilliant bit of kit !
I am sure everyone hear is pleased with their choice as you can see from the various threads there isn't much complaining done here ! Hope you don't wait too long till your purchase and keep us all updated !
Hi Andy and welcome.
There aren't many faults with this bike to be honest. The ones that I would mention:
1. Look for general wear and tear - e.g. on the pegs which will give an indication how much the bike as been used relative to the mileage. My on board display was changed so the bike reads as having 5.5k when its actually 35k
2. On the centre stand, put the bike in neutral and spin the rear wheel. You might hear a slight click which is fine. If you hear a clunk (this will be loud), stay away
3. Check the kipass. There have been issues with stuck switches. I guess this works or it doesn't. There's no way of telling if this is on the way out
4. Check that all recall work has been done on the bike. The dealer should be able to confirm this.
5. Related to 4, if you check the mounting for the panniers, you should see orange and not red
6. Remove the seat and see if you can see any obvious signs of rust on the tank. Mine has slight rusting, nothing major, but it is out in all weather
Can't think of anything else obvious.
Oh, and its worth getting the extended kawasaki warranty if you can
Thanks for the repies so far. I can't tell you how pleased i am to find a bike that seems to be (relatively) problem free. I bought the ST last october and it has been the worst 7 months of my motorcycling life. That bike was an absolute heap of junk and spent more time at the dealer than on the road. That bike has been returned and I am currently waiting for the dealer to refund my money in full (i rejected the bike under the sale of goods act) so that i can buy a GTR. Norman Bates, you mention the pannier mounting and seeing orange not red. I might be being a bit stupid but where am i to look for this colour difference. As for the other things mentioned. the bike i'm looking to buy is a 2009 silver gtr with 6K on it from a main dealer. It seems to be in really good almost mint condition, obviously i will check the bits you've mentioned before handing over my cash. Thanks again.
For the panniers, just look at the latching mechanism and it should be orange. Easy to spot.
Don't think there will be anything wrong with a 2009 model, but I personally would take the extended warranty.
Out of curiosity what was wrong with the ST?
God where do i start. I bought it in mid october from a main dealer.
Mid december, reg/rec and alternator replaced. Mid jan another reg/rec failure. Mid march another reg/rec. This time a genuine one was fitted (what was adealer doing using pattern parts). when i went to pick it up it didnt start, L/H swithgear replaced as faulty clutch switch blamed. Mid april broke down again,this time i sent it back as not fit for purpose. new reg/rec again, alternator and starter solenoid. dealer offered 12months extended warranty and breakdown cover if i had it back, finance company advised me to have it back. End of april went to collect it, didn't start again, R/H switchgear replaced as start button blamed. Early may cut out mid corner locking back wheel, turns out the crank has failed. this time finance company get me full refund. Long story shortened, you did ask ;)
Jeez, that sounds like a nightmare. Can't say I've ever had a bike that bad, but once you fall out of love with a bike it's time to change. I had a Varadero that just didn't behave and in the year only managed 2000 miles (compared to the 18000 - 20000) I do now).
I doubt the GTR will pose any issues. It is in a different league
Yes it has been a nightmare. Really turned me off bikes for a while. At least its gone and i'm not losing a penny. I'm just in limbo now for a few weeks with no bike and no money to buy another 'till i get my refund. Really looking forward to getting a GTR, totally different to anything i've had before but that is kind of adding to the excitement. I've gone down this route as i'm hoping to get the mrs involved with a few trips aswell. When we test rode one last weekend she found it really comfortable even though the test bike didn't have the top box which she likes to lean on. So that's good enough for me, 'er indoors is always the hardest to please.
You were very patient to keep the ST as long as you did! It sounds a nightmare. :o
Hello nogoslow,
I had a st1300 on a 57plate. Was quite content until i put a genuine topbox on it(after the Honda main dealer convinced me it was ok) rode it or should i say weaved my way to Switzerland and back.
It was dangerous, so i swapped it for a Black 57 plated GTR.
With a few mods to it, i now enjoy touring again and having a blast when i feel like it.
I am pleased, that i made the change.
Cheers B/F
Cheers all. I think I'm going to like it here ;D
Down side of the GTR...too fast too smooth handles like a dream , looks drop dead Gorgeous(like it's owner), drinks too...fuel...but then again it is 1400...Fekin heap of crap...!
Nogoslow .... you WILL love it here ! As everyone has said the GTR is just fantastic and when your money comes through, hopefully before the end of the summer ( ? ) you will be charging around with a huge smile on your face !
Sorry to hear about your ST problems, Like NB I have never had a bad bike but occasionally they pop up, as did yours !
Look forward to hearing your good news of arrival.