Thanks for the great review. I purchased a 2014 GSX 1250 FA/SE (with luggage, centre stand and vario screen) in Canada this past summer. I love it!!! Best value out there for a sport touring bike. After 6000 trouble free kilometers, I couldn't be happier. The engine is a jewel! Love the massive amount of torque it delivers, anywhere on the tachometer. I am making plans for a long tour this summer and I know my Suzuki won't let me down.
I have had my bandit 1250SA for 4 years. 7 tours around Europe, changed the suspension when 6 months old (progressive springs and rear shock Hagon) Loads mods added over years. Looking at the FA for next year, fairing give me a tad more protection on tours and most of goodies will swop over. been a Biker for 40 years and this is the best engine experienced. If you want race rep speeds and track days not for you, but a great torque laden beast. Not much need to go over 4K revs !!
+David Trotter what kind of front suspension did the original one have? I find my bandit 1200 air oil cooled 2006 has terrible suspension..did you change the exhaust as well?
+fidel catsro Hi Fidel. Terrible suspension. Well if you are keeping Bike get some progressive springs (as i said mine were from Hagon in UK) and rear shock. The original springs are in my attic as if i change for a FA model I would pop them out and return to stock, same with Hagon rear . They are not progressive at all, just a bit soft
+David Trotter really,yes its 7 yrs old now and done only 45k miles, still very trouble free except for a problematic ignition keyswitch that just doesn't turn easy even with a ton of lube added to it.. I dont understand why Suzuki blew it all away by having a great heavy fat bike then spoil it all with lousy cheapo uniform damping suspension..ok noted hagon is good, what about oil and exhaust do you have any favorites to mention?also do you reckon its wise to weld cooling fins on my 4 exhaust headers? I live in 30degC tropics and the air oil cooled engine can really heat up like a kettle..im thinking of doing this to cool things down in the engine room and improve overall efficiency of the giant air cooled motor
45 K still young then ! Suggest you find a bandit 1250 web site, look at UK bandit one, loads of info on it. Like everything was a 'budget bike' and the budget starts with things like suspension and toys ! Suspension can be sorted very quickly. As for aftermarket cans, so many to choose from. I have a 'Fuel' that is as good as new 3 years later. Trawl the owners forums !
+David Trotter fuel that is good? I have installed broquet fuel catalyst in the tank since 2010, what about engine lube oil brand, which is your favorite?
Bought a CBF 1000 a year ago. Mainly as a dependable long distance touring bike. But it is much more than that. It's the most universal Road Bike I've owned in 30 years of riding. Such a peach. Keeping it for good.
I bought mine in mid 2011 and have put over 47,000 miles on. Haven't had one single problem. For the money, it's an amazing machine. I did end up replacing the shock with an upgrade unit after the stocker wore out and have had the front completely rebuilt with Race Tech components. Now it's even more amazing, as the suspension in my view is the bike's weak point when new. Handling was good but a bit lazy and "divey" under hard braking when she was new with the stock components; now it's crisp, planted and spot on. And I still saved thousands over the competition. I have not done anything to the engine at all - there is no need. It's got all the silky smooth power and torque you could want and still delivers very good fuel economy and range. It's an epic all 'rounder that I enjoy every day. The New Ninja 1000 is coming onto the scene now and may well do certain things better than the FA, but frankly I don't like the new body work or the bags. But it is newer, and the new materials and technology will certainly appeal to many. I'll keep my FA, thank you!
and about what bike are you talking about?! did u realise you wrote a book about your bike without saying which one it is?! case u didnt noticed both of them are called FA!!
Driftuner My apologies! I was referring to the Suzuki GSX1250FA. Since my initial writing I have crossed the 50,000 mile mark and the bike just asks for more. I still think you'll be hard pressed to find a better value for the money. Ironically, I think they have stoped offering them here in the U.S. I think this comes from the fact that most want to lump this bike in with the likes of the Yamaha FJR, Beemer RT and the Kawi Concours, and let's face it, the GSX1250FA would be a bit overmatched in that shoot-out. Oh well, I love mine.
$8000? I would jump on it!! That is a steal for an all 'rounnder this good that is new WITH factory warranty! Just my opinion of course, and I might be slightly biased!
orangelion03 It's almost a year later, and I am wondering what you ended up doing. I still have my GSX1250FA. She has 60,000 miles on now and is just as strong as ever. I have not done any other mods on it either. Just keeping the oil, brakes and tires fresh. Still getting about 43 MPG too!
This video doesnt actually explain why the honda is an inferior tourer. He just says it doesnt have the same 'touring ability' but doesn't say how it comes up short. You don't NEED low down grunt for a tourer. The honda is so smooth and quiet which is what i like on a long ride. And i find the seat on the bandit a lot more uncomfortable. And the honda is lighter.
Do you have the Pan European in SAR? It would have matched engine capacity, thus the torque etc. etc. etc. If comparison fair, Honda would kick ass on any category (except price, of course)
Great review. I've spent three months on a Honda and although it's a decent city bike, like you say, touring is not its forte. I'l be looking at a Suzuki shortly.
Your description says CBR , Personally I like my cbf1000, round town it has just the right power...motorways I find it very boring and windy regardless of the screen settings.
I had the Suzuki....for about a month... Sold it and went back to a lighter crossover bike (Versys 650). Great engine, but the bike is heavy, and not suitable for mountain riding. Also, to change the oil and filter you need to basically dismantle the entire front end of the bike. At that point, a standard Bandit is much better.
I wish we could get these versions in the USA. The bike-makers have so segmented our markets that there are few affordable, big-torque all-rounders offered here. FJR -- too heavy, too expensive. VFR1200 missed the mark -- too heavy, too expensive, uncomfortable, small gas tank. R1200RT -- too complex, WAY too expensive, reliability issues. I just want a modern version of my pretty, comfortable torquey 1984 FJ1100 (with FI, modern lights, good luggage options.)
Don´t really know if it´s a fair comparison between a 1000 and a 1250 bike?? Well better to compare Yamaha FJR 1300 with the 1250 Suzuki! Don´t you think?
+Emkura Fura I bought mine at abt 14k USD in 2006..in Singapore all wheeles that uses and engine is really expensive to own like hell..now it will cost over 20kUSD
+LankyLoon55 for 100k UK pounds you can make youre own Britten 1000!! using a simple bandit engine with everything made from carbon fiber, it will kill everything else on the road even with only 98hp..
i'll take your review with a pinch of salt, reason being you've climbed the ladder of bike riding to the top, probelby road more bike than lester piggott rode horses, so the appeal of a fresh start has gone from you, me on the other hand i bought the honda, it's got to much revz and that's down to the preference of the rider, i changed the rear sprocket to a 39 tooth and calmed it down, it also came with a full system and gt kit, i find the mirrors annoying so i put extensions on them, at this time and present i am enjoying it, but like yourself it may be time to move on has my experience is gained. thanks for the review.
They speak English, ride on the wrong side of the road and spend something called rens which according to my math is worth about a dime. They use horsepower not those fig newtons meters. Don’t they have paper money? And, they think the Suzuki is better than a Honda. Is this bizzaro land?
Thanks for the great review. I purchased a 2014 GSX 1250 FA/SE (with luggage, centre stand and vario screen) in Canada this past summer. I love it!!! Best value out there for a sport touring bike. After 6000 trouble free kilometers, I couldn't be happier. The engine is a jewel! Love the massive amount of torque it delivers, anywhere on the tachometer. I am making plans for a long tour this summer and I know my Suzuki won't let me down.
I love my cbf1000. I love its smoothness. It glides everywhere. And has all the power you need.
I just bought a 2015 GSX1250FA and I have to say I love it. Torque everywhere. Newfoundland, Canada
Alan Andrews me too it's dare I say too easy to ride and bags of power I'm actually missing the soreness the fireblade used to give me.
Great real world review. We want more.
you guys make great content, i just wish you made it more often, keep up the good work. also you should do a video just about v-twin sportbikes.
Great review guys,
Very useful review. GSX1250FA will be certainly my next bike.
great work guys : )
Excellent review I hope you make more content, more often though. MCN take note this is how review's should be done none of that first look crap!!
I have had my bandit 1250SA for 4 years. 7 tours around Europe, changed the suspension when 6 months old (progressive springs and rear shock Hagon) Loads mods added over years. Looking at the FA for next year, fairing give me a tad more protection on tours and most of goodies will swop over. been a Biker for 40 years and this is the best engine experienced. If you want race rep speeds and track days not for you, but a great torque laden beast. Not much need to go over 4K revs !!
+David Trotter what kind of front suspension did the original one have? I find my bandit 1200 air oil cooled 2006 has terrible suspension..did you change the exhaust as well?
+fidel catsro Hi Fidel. Terrible suspension. Well if you are keeping Bike get some progressive springs (as i said mine were from Hagon in UK) and rear shock. The original springs are in my attic as if i change for a FA model I would pop them out and return to stock, same with Hagon rear . They are not progressive at all, just a bit soft
+David Trotter really,yes its 7 yrs old now and done only 45k miles, still very trouble free except for a problematic ignition keyswitch that just doesn't turn easy even with a ton of lube added to it.. I dont understand why Suzuki blew it all away by having a great heavy fat bike then spoil it all with lousy cheapo uniform damping suspension..ok noted hagon is good, what about oil and exhaust do you have any favorites to mention?also do you reckon its wise to weld cooling fins on my 4 exhaust headers? I live in 30degC tropics and the air oil cooled engine can really heat up like a kettle..im thinking of doing this to cool things down in the engine room and improve overall efficiency of the giant air cooled motor
45 K still young then ! Suggest you find a bandit 1250 web site, look at UK bandit one, loads of info on it. Like everything was a 'budget bike' and the budget starts with things like suspension and toys ! Suspension can be sorted very quickly. As for aftermarket cans, so many to choose from. I have a 'Fuel' that is as good as new 3 years later. Trawl the owners forums !
+David Trotter fuel that is good? I have installed broquet fuel catalyst in the tank since 2010, what about engine lube oil brand, which is your favorite?
thanks for the verry good review!
Nice review!
awesome review, best bike channel in the world!
Thinking of buying the 1250fa , your great video confirms my choice.
M Lee Swansea UKm
still riding the 1250? bought mine last June, absolutely love it.
Bought a CBF 1000 a year ago. Mainly as a dependable long distance touring bike. But it is much more than that. It's the most universal Road Bike I've owned in 30 years of riding. Such a peach. Keeping it for good.
Missed u guyz
I bought mine in mid 2011 and have put over 47,000 miles on. Haven't had one single problem. For the money, it's an amazing machine. I did end up replacing the shock with an upgrade unit after the stocker wore out and have had the front completely rebuilt with Race Tech components. Now it's even more amazing, as the suspension in my view is the bike's weak point when new. Handling was good but a bit lazy and "divey" under hard braking when she was new with the stock components; now it's crisp, planted and spot on. And I still saved thousands over the competition. I have not done anything to the engine at all - there is no need. It's got all the silky smooth power and torque you could want and still delivers very good fuel economy and range. It's an epic all 'rounder that I enjoy every day. The New Ninja 1000 is coming onto the scene now and may well do certain things better than the FA, but frankly I don't like the new body work or the bags. But it is newer, and the new materials and technology will certainly appeal to many. I'll keep my FA, thank you!
and about what bike are you talking about?! did u realise you wrote a book about your bike without saying which one it is?! case u didnt noticed both of them are called FA!!
Driftuner My apologies! I was referring to the Suzuki GSX1250FA. Since my initial writing I have crossed the 50,000 mile mark and the bike just asks for more. I still think you'll be hard pressed to find a better value for the money. Ironically, I think they have stoped offering them here in the U.S. I think this comes from the fact that most want to lump this bike in with the likes of the Yamaha FJR, Beemer RT and the Kawi Concours, and let's face it, the GSX1250FA would be a bit overmatched in that shoot-out. Oh well, I love mine.
Dennis M
Local dealer has a new 2011 ABS for only $8000. Tempted. Currently ride the crap out of a 2001 1200S.
$8000? I would jump on it!! That is a steal for an all 'rounnder this good that is new WITH factory warranty! Just my opinion of course, and I might be slightly biased!
orangelion03 It's almost a year later, and I am wondering what you ended up doing. I still have my GSX1250FA. She has 60,000 miles on now and is just as strong as ever. I have not done any other mods on it either. Just keeping the oil, brakes and tires fresh. Still getting about 43 MPG too!
i love my 1250FA.....great machine.
This video doesnt actually explain why the honda is an inferior tourer. He just says it doesnt have the same 'touring ability' but doesn't say how it comes up short. You don't NEED low down grunt for a tourer. The honda is so smooth and quiet which is what i like on a long ride. And i find the seat on the bandit a lot more uncomfortable. And the honda is lighter.
Both great bikes. I have the bandit.
i like the reviews but you guys should invest in an hd camera
360p
I am betting my 2001 vfr 800 does as good a job as either of these.64k and i still love it.The search continues.
Hedge hog nah I've had both,my 1250 Suzy is so comfortable for hours and bags of power out of that big engine on tap in every gear.
top marks cheers
Do you have the Pan European in SAR? It would have matched engine capacity, thus the torque etc. etc. etc. If comparison fair, Honda would kick ass on any category (except price, of course)
Great review. I've spent three months on a Honda and although it's a decent city bike, like you say, touring is not its forte. I'l be looking at a Suzuki shortly.
Why do you think it's not good for touring?
Come on mate. I'm really interested to hear why you think touring is not its forte. Seriously, i would like your opinion. Cheers.
I wanna know where he got those awesome camo pants.
Your description says CBR , Personally I like my cbf1000, round town it has just the right power...motorways I find it very boring and windy regardless of the screen settings.
Balanced and accurate.
How much does it cost to trade sheep or pigs for these bikes how much is a sheep dollar
I had the Suzuki....for about a month... Sold it and went back to a lighter crossover bike (Versys 650). Great engine, but the bike is heavy, and not suitable for mountain riding. Also, to change the oil and filter you need to basically dismantle the entire front end of the bike. At that point, a standard Bandit is much better.
Is he called HARRY by any chance?
The CBF 06-10 MY has the same engine tuned that the 10 MY. chris
WHAT ????????????????????
Is not Honda CBR 1000 Is Honda CBF 1000
there pigs on peteriol too same as the blade for less speed
I wish we could get these versions in the USA. The bike-makers have so segmented our markets that there are few affordable, big-torque all-rounders offered here. FJR -- too heavy, too expensive. VFR1200 missed the mark -- too heavy, too expensive, uncomfortable, small gas tank. R1200RT -- too complex, WAY too expensive, reliability issues. I just want a modern version of my pretty, comfortable torquey 1984 FJ1100 (with FI, modern lights, good luggage options.)
I wonder if you've built an interest in the FJ-09/Tracer 900
cheeky, *rolls eyes.
Don´t really know if it´s a fair comparison between a 1000 and a 1250 bike?? Well better to compare Yamaha FJR 1300 with the 1250 Suzuki! Don´t you think?
Suzuki is the best! 7 Years with no problems at all!
ohh 6:15 !
In USA dirt is not cheap tho
+Emkura Fura I bought mine at abt 14k USD in 2006..in Singapore all wheeles that uses and engine is really expensive to own like hell..now it will cost over 20kUSD
Just under £100 000???
Lynle55 ZAR (south african rand). Not sure why they have British accents though..
+LankyLoon55 for 100k UK pounds you can make youre own Britten 1000!! using a simple bandit engine with everything made from carbon fiber, it will kill everything else on the road even with only 98hp..
It's a CBF, not CBR
full throttle flags
ITS A CBF 1000
i'll take your review with a pinch of salt, reason being you've climbed the ladder of bike riding to the top, probelby road more bike than lester piggott rode horses, so the appeal of a fresh start has gone from you, me on the other hand i bought the honda, it's got to much revz and that's down to the preference of the rider, i changed the rear sprocket to a 39 tooth and calmed it down, it also came with a full system and gt kit, i find the mirrors annoying so i put extensions on them, at this time and present i am enjoying it, but like yourself it may be time to move on has my experience is gained. thanks for the review.
Why compare a 1250cc with a 1000cc. I never see tests comparing a 400 with a 600 or a 750 with a thousand.
have an 'old' gsf1250s costing $5000NZ 39k on the clock, excellent bike
i.imgur.com/vbrhfFJ.jpg
105,000 of what? Rand? They sound like Brits.
Okay never mind, hear him say Rand later in the video
haha I thought the same, deffo did not sound like South Africans
They speak English, ride on the wrong side of the road and spend something called rens which according to my math is worth about a dime. They use horsepower not those fig newtons meters. Don’t they have paper money? And, they think the Suzuki is better than a Honda. Is this bizzaro land?
LOL gruntier than a womans tennis finals! Imagine how this would trigged the 2021 soyboys and feminists