Another Newb getting a round in

[Fausto]

Hi all.

Thought I'd better introduce myself as I picked up a Raptor on monday. It's a 53 plate red naked 1000 with 5k on the clock and in totally stock trim as far as I can tell. My previous bike was an Aprilia Falco which I absolutely loved but was just getting too uncomfortable (or should that be I was getting too inflexible). So the Raptor has a hell of a lot to live up to but first impressions are favourable. It will be interesting to compare the engines over time but my immediate impression is that the Suzuki engine is smoother but has less low down grunt. That may be down to the fact that I had lowered the Falco's gearing. Do any of you run 15T drive sprockets?

Anyway, lots to learn so fill up your glasses and make the most of me getting my wallet out

[snapdragon]

Welcome in Fausto brandy sour please

[snapdragon]

I think I may have given your game away on ridersite

[Fausto]

I'll go and have a look then but it's ok - there's no secret

[Red Mist]

Hi Fausto. How are you getting on with the Rap now that you've had a chance to do a few miles? I got mine at the start of Winter and spent the next few months wobbling round on icy roads. The first time I went out on a warm dry day was a revelation. It's just a lovely bike for riding where you want and as fast as you want. It's my first experience of a performance V-twin though, so I'd be interested to hear how it compares with others like your Falco.

[Fausto]

Hi Red Mist,

The short answer.... I'm loving it


But of course there's a long answer too.....

Now that I have a few ( although not nearly enough) miles under my belt I have a few thoughts on the beautiful red machine.
For the sort of riding I normally get in it is far more comfy than the Falco. No wrist pressure and I'm not on it long enough for a sore bum or cramped knees. That may be a different story on a long trip as I find the low seat puts my lanky legs into a very tight bend.

As for the motor, I'm still not convinced. It's certainly a very quiet and smooth engine for a V twin but almost too much so - a bit too much like an IL4. However I will be fitting a 15t drive sprocket soon and hope that I'll regain some of the low down grunt I am missing since the Falco went. (that had lowered gearing). I have to say that the Rotax engine in the Aprilias is an awesome one.

Overall though I love it. I love the way it looks and the way it handles and am really enjoying the upright naked bike buzz that will hopefully mean I put my life and license under far less risk.

[dizzyblonde]

As for the motor, I'm still not convinced. It's certainly a very quiet and smooth engine for a V twin but almost too much so - a bit too much like an IL4.
.

Thats because its a Suzuki, every Suzuki I've ever had has had a motor thats as smooth as a babies butt
My other half commented on how smooth it was, he thought it was an absolute dream, but then it will be Kawakrappis have the clunkiest box going, and he was comparing it to his ZZR1400!