Bandit 1200

GAPS · Mar 26, 2006

Im making the move from my beloved 98 Bandit 1200 to an FJR. Has anyone here ridden both and if so, what is your impression/comparison of the two? After todays ride, tearing it up on some tight New England twisties, I worry the B12 will be sorely missed.

orestes · Mar 27, 2006

Hi Gaps

I'm sure you'll miss the Bandit. I was going to sell mine (2001 40,000 miles) but I had no takers so I've carried on using it through the winter. Its kept all the salt etc off the FJR and its been a lot of fun riding through narrow kentish lanes. Its a bit of an indulgence but I can see myself keeping it for another couple of years yet.

Dave

rogdeb · Mar 27, 2006

Yup, we miss ours ('98 bandit), but only cause of the memorable rides and it's a little lighter than the FJR.

Other than that, apart from the seating position, there's really no comparison IMHO.

FJR is a much better machine for touring.

Sorry -------- "sport touring"

Fieldsher · Mar 28, 2006

I still have my 01 B12s. Intended to replace it with my 04 FJR but it's much better for local rides where I can get stuck in stop and go summer traffic and not melt. A bit quicker handling IMO. Fewer vibes too. For distances, there's no comparison. Wouldn't sell it for the US $3500 it's worth.

George