I blame ALL of you. . .

[gymkhanaJOSH]

If you put a pricetag on the ex500 drop me a PM. I might be interested.

[ThisBitch]

Ok.. so I have a 650R and did many, MANY miles 2-up (including the legendary Mohawk hairpin ride ). The bitch loved the passenger handles and the bike is a blast to ride, very comfortable an plenty powerful to keep up with the big boys.

[DaveZX6r]

Where is a good place to get new sprockets/chain? Also how difficult are they to install. I may try this, if it's not enough it's just more to add to the description if I sell it.

Very easy, you need a chain riveter/breaker and a torque wrench to retighten the front sprocket nut. Set the swingarm on a stand and remove the rear wheel. Take of the rear sprocket put on new one. Pull front sprocket cover off, remove old sprocket put on new one, make sure you use a new one of the bent locking washers. Break the old chain, put on the new one and rivet it. Replace rear wheel and set slack. Done.

If your thinking of selling it don't bother with the sprockets it won't get you any more money, and will run you at least 100 bucks, more likely 150 if you get a decent chain. That money would better serve you going towards a new bike.

[gymkhanaJOSH]

I've been looking at the 650r and z1000 since someone mentioned it earlier. I think I'm in love with em.

[SRTie4k]

You don't necessarily need a new chain if you're simply going -1 in the front. I bought an AFAM -1 front sprocket for about $17 and got it installed while reusing the stock chain. I've since put about 2000 miles on it and have not seen any abnormal chain wear.

[duganc1717]

Where is a good place to get new sprockets/chain? Also how difficult are they to install. I may try this, if it's not enough it's just more to add to the description if I sell it.

If your going to do the -1 CS sprocket Street and Competition is your best friend. I've called them as late as 5pm and still had my parts the next day.

That being said, I don't think going w/the -1 CS sprocket is going to completely transform your bike. Will it help, yes.

I just bought a 03' SV 650S and it seems like a very nice bike.
Maybe something you should consider. They are reasonably priced, easy on tires, and pretty reliable from what I've been told.

[Dichotomous]

If your going to do the -1 CS sprocket Street and Competition is your best friend. I've called them as late as 5pm and still had my parts the next day.

That being said, I don't think going w/the -1 CS sprocket is going to completely transform your bike. Will it help, yes.

I just bought a 03' SV 650S and it seems like a very nice bike.
Maybe something you should consider. They are reasonably priced, easy on tires, and pretty reliable from what I've been told.

pretty reliable is an understatement, it held idle (badly though) with a bolt holding open one of my valves, plus I timed it exactly wrong when putting it back together and it still rode fine for 1000mi or so before I fixed it, no problems at all now. that al started at 30,000mi too. they are known for losing the front cyl during the rain sometimes, but still ride with the other firing..... crash well too with that cage of a frame, just dont wheely them long or kittens will die

[hqp921]

pretty reliable is an understatement, it held idle (badly though) with a bolt holding open one of my valves, plus I timed it exactly wrong when putting it back together and it still rode fine for 1000mi or so before I fixed it, no problems at all now. that al started at 30,000mi too. they are known for losing the front cyl during the rain sometimes, but still ride with the other firing..... crash well too with that cage of a frame, just dont wheely them long or kittens will die

I loved my SV, but needed something with more oomph and comfort for touring and two-up.

I still miss my copper beast every now and then. I did suffer the SV325 a couple times, stupid front cylinder... But all in all, a great bike. Great all arounder.



- HP

[802er]

Where is a good place to get new sprockets/chain? Also how difficult are they to install. I may try this, if it's not enough it's just more to add to the description if I sell it.

I just picked up an RK chain/sprocket set from jcmotors.com, they seem to have some of the best pricing around.

[Baggey22]

So I just got back from Williston. Got the new Breaking Benjamin CD (it's excellent) went to the Texas Roadhouse with my g/f and two friends (also excellent) OH and I also went to Roadside Marine (once again. . . .excellent) They had "my bikes" all lined up one right after the other. First I sat on the ZX6r, holy crap. . . not my style of bike. The foot pegs being so far back kinda turned me off.
Next was the ER6n. Nice bike, very comfy, but there wasn't anything in front of me. I didn't like not having the fairing. So naked bikes aren't for me.
Finally the 650r. . . . OMG it was amazing. Great stance (very similar to my EX500), was very easy to move (like roll forward and back in the "spot" it was in), and when my g/f sat on it she was quite comfy as well.
I still haven't decided if I want to get a new bike OR put money into the EX500. The only problem is I can't ride a 650r to help me make my decision. They only had brand new ones at the store and I doubt they'd let me test drive something brand new. They had two in stock, both 2009. They were "leftovers" from this year. I sat on the red one and they have a black one still in the crate. I'd like the black one because then I don't have to buy a new jacket/helmet to match it. Just wear what I've got.
So anyone have a 650r they want to let me test drive? Help me feed my addiction?

I just warn everyone now, I'm terrible at making decisions. . . this thread may last a while.

[Doc]

What money are you going to put into the EX?

[hqp921]

I just warn everyone now, I'm terrible at making decisions. . . this thread may last a while.

Well...

What are YOU honestly looking for in a bike?

When you can answer that question, you can look for a bike that fulfill's your needs.

However, knowing that a vehicle purchase can sometimes be emotional, your needs may fly out the window and you'll just buy whatever you find absolutely sexy.

I have a car and bike that suits my needs and wants. I still walk away from my car, turn around and think, "Damn, that's mine." Same for the bike, though admittedly, with the VFR it's not as strong as when I had the SV. But to be fair, the SV was my first "real" bike... It was actually from this decade and would start every morning w/o complaining...

From what I gather from your initial post, you want a bike w/ scoot on the straights... honestly assess if that's what you need or want right now. In terms of going fast in the twisties, as others have mentioned, you might need to tighten up the nut behind the gas tank...

That said, however, I think the Ninja 650r would be a pretty good upgrade for you... (haven't ridden one myself, but a friend has one and I saw it in person -- nice looking bike!)

- HP

[Baggey22]

What money are you going to put into the EX?

A few posts back I was talking about doing -1 front +2 in the rear and doing a full exhaust on the EX instead of buying a new bike. Just to get some more power out of it. This is a less expensive alternative and I would also continue to pay very little on my insurance. I can't even imagine what I'd pay a year for bike insurance on a newer 650r.

[Doc]

A few posts back I was talking about doing -1 front +2 in the rear and doing a full exhaust on the EX instead of buying a new bike. Just to get some more power out of it. This is a less expensive alternative and I would also continue to pay very little on my insurance. I can't even imagine what I'd pay a year for bike insurance on a newer 650r.

IMHO that is a very good option. I know it is easy for me to say with a 998 in the garage.

I had a 1981 GS500e that I rode for 3 years and I still didn't learn to ride that as well as I could have. I am still learning to ride my Hawk better. I will never be able to ride my 998 to 1/2 of it's ability.

You should go to the track this weekend and check out the EX racers.

[duganc1717]

**cough*cough**

[DaveZX6r]

the muzzy full stainless systems are great! I have one on my zx6r and love it. If your gonna do an exhaust get that one /\

[Baggey22]

Does that exhaust require rejetting or anything?

[e30addict]

I still haven't decided if I want to get a new bike OR put money into the EX500.

Buy the 650. It will walk the 500 in straight line, feel much better in the corners, be more comfortable and you won't have to fiddle with carbs anymore.

Full coverage on mine is $400/yr in MA. To the insurance companies it's a EX series bike (not a Ninja or ZX). I'm convinced this helps the rates.

[Doc]

Does that exhaust require rejetting or anything?

To get the best gains, Jetting and a more free flowing air filter would be best.

We can do it this winter in "Doc's Shop"!

[mrobistow]

Being a 05 ZX 636 rider. I can tell you that I really enjoy it. it has a lot of mid range that most of the other 600 class can't cope with. as well as being a little lower to the ground for you short people. As for the power.. well you have followed me, or attempted to try.. lol
So you know it is there.
Also, i am looking to get a ZX-10 this winter , so mine will be available soon.

[fjrrider RI]

the kawa 650r is real sweet bike. I have my eye on trading my baby 250r up for one. The important thing about what to buy is how do you intend to ride mostly? Got my fjr1300 to commute on and the 250 to play with near home. Decide what your are going to do with it then test ride one to make sure you like the ergonomics.

[DaveZX6r]

Does that exhaust require rejetting or anything?

Slipons don't, but pretty much any full exhaust will change your afr, and should be jetted.

[OreoGaborio]

A full exhaust, jetting & filter would get you a little hp, but not a whole lot... The EX doesn't really respond to bolt-on mods a whole lot... Changing the sprockets will probably give you a more noticeable change, power delivery wise.

BUT it'll definitely look & sound nicer & be a little lighter

[Baggey22]

What is actually involved in jetting? I'm going to Mass this weekend and I could get that exhaust on Saturday/Sunday.
Would it be terrible if I put the exhaust on this week (I have break so I have lots of free time Monday-Thursday) and rode the season out (if jetting is difficult)
OR
Can someone assist me this week sometime in jetting it and doing sprockets?

I'm just trying to feel out all my options

[Doc]

I won't be around this weekend. But would be happy to help.

Jetting is pulling the carbs, opening them up and replacing the Jets and needles. You need to buy a jet ket and a K&N or other more free flowing air filter too.

I wouldn't just bolt up the exhaust... you COULD but it might not run all that great.