I have been averaging about 1200 miles a month on the street on my 2007 KLX-250S and it has been great. However, it steers too fast for 70MPH for any period of time and I find myself spending more time on fast asphalt then I have in the past.

I have considered a 2009 Ninja 250R which is cheap to insure and frugal on the gas but, the superior suspensions of a super sport like ZX-6R are attractive. What I'm not sure about is the how comfortable it would be if I'm not draped over the gas tank (more upright). I have some back and neck issues so, something extreme like the Ducati is out. A sport tourer like the Conquest has tweaked my interest too. I know this is a Kawasaki forum but, should I really be looking at the ZX-6R or, should I consider something like a Honda CBR-600 or Interceptor? How would a Conquest fit into a sporty commute and work when I get aggressive in the twisty back roads?

Thanks!
Sid

 

The Neck and Back issues pretty much rules out all of the new supersports. If you are pulling 2000 mile weekends, then the connie would be great. A lot of members are still bragging on their ZZR600's for being comfortable. The 7s fell through on sales but heard good ride reports on that one. If you don't have to get new, then yes, the interceptor 700 was a good upright and comfy ride, so were the late F model ninja 750's. (Overly plush rides with outdated suspension though). I have not tried out the SV's or the Ninja 650, so I cannot make a good call on those. Keep us up to date on this. Good luck.

edit: Do not forget about the inexpensive Ninja 500. Mileage and comfort. Cheap suspension as well. Go 94- present models preferably because of the 17" wheels

 

I work with a couple of guys that have the Kawi 650...I tried it out and it is a comfortable ride and it is sporty enough

 

I've tried to warm up to the Ninja-650 and Versys but it just ain't happening.

I have tried the Suzuki 650F and SV-650 but, those suspensions are so out dates I just can't see spending the money. The ZZR-600 is a nice option but, insurance is very expensive. I threw a log over a Conquest today and it is just too big for me right now.

If I'm going to pay the big insurance premiums, maybe a bigger windshield fairing and a handle bar tweak on a Ninja ZX-6R are in order? Hmmm .... what else to consider?

 

you can raisers for the clip-ons and adjustable rear sets...also a corbin seat for added comfort...

 

That's along the lines of what I was thinking. I know a few guys that have done that with the BMW 800's.

 

i worked with a guy that had back surgery and that was his solution...

 

What about a dual sport like a KLR 650 or something? If you are used to that style of riding, I think it would be worth considering. Good luck!
Sid[/QUOTE]

 

I want something better for the street. A KLR-650 would be great for crashing through speed bumps and pot holes but, I want better street manners. Plus, the KLX-250S works for the pleasure rides around town and out to the trail. I can't imagine taking the KLX-650 through the rides I have done off-road on the KLX-250S. The little KLX was heavy enough ... wore me out ....

Actually, if I don't get a ZX-6R (or something similar) I will get a Ninja 250.

 

I have the 2005 Kawasaki Ninja ZX6R, and it's great. If you have back problems it might be too racy of a seating position for you. A friend of mine has the 2006 Ninja 250, and it is more of an upright style seating position. The only complaint is that it lacks power, (compared to the larger bikes), and he feels really small when traveling on the big 4 lane highways.