I would've never guessed these 90s Japanese sports bikes would fall back into fashion again. That's terrific. The *best* era for color schemes and ruffle-duffels amongst brands.
I picked up a 2000 ZX12R not long ago. I’m so happy I found it in its condition rather than going with something new. It’s definitely a fun riding experience.
Things nearly always follow a 25-30 year wave before they become desirable again tbh. Mix of bottoming out in price so young people can get them shortly followed by the now middle aged people who did want them when they were young reliving their youth. So yeah, be warned - all those mid 00’s sport bikes we buy for cheap track bikes have got less than a decade left before they start getting expensive to buy. Some millenium bikes are already getting up there.
Nostalgia .... It's like inflation, $500 garage project bike that's been sitting for possibly decades, magically becomes a $5000 as is condition " Survivor " barn find with no paperwork. And it works every time Example ua-cam.com/video/9fWQtzcSeIE/v-deo.html
The zx9 was the sleeper pick of all in its segment back then, and still now. Feels, looks, rides WAY ahead of its time. And is much, much faster than the numbers show. They also so sound NASTY. In a way nothing new can.
SICK bike. Legendary bike. Classic example of a Kawasaki bike that was the "answer" to the class-leading Honda (CBR900). I've had several sportbikes and I still want a late-90's ZX9R. Also, just listen to all those wonderful mechanical sounds! You can hear intake noises, engine and exhaust, and also a really interesting gear whine sound when he sticks his head against the tank on full throttle. Very sexy.
For many reasons I love the older designs, the fairings look appealing in all the brands, the newer bikes aren’t head turners like these. Lovely bike u have Save it
Yes late 80s early 90s looks far more appealing than the angular sharp edged bikes today. And that zx9 in real kawasaki racing green is awesome looking.
Similar story to mine mate, I bought a 91 zzr1100 with 18000 miles as a winter project. Cleaned all the carbs out with my ultrasonic cleaner and did all the brakes suspension and steering bearings, basically recommissioned it and I can’t believe how good the bike rides for a 32 years old machine, so smooth and very powerful I just can’t keep off the thing, in fact I’m riding it more than my much newer bike. Great video, and I’m pleased to see and hear how much you are enjoying riding that bike.
I had '98 C2 ZX9R. Loved how it always power wheelied about 5-10cm's on 1st no matter how much you leaned on. Engine also overall beatiful. So well working gearbox. Mine had about 100 000km's on clock when I bought it. Ex police pursuit bike. It was ugly blue with white basecolor bits everywhere, but at least I knew that it's not revved by some squid constantly on some cityblock for 10mins. Still I was scared about the engines km's. I opened up and checked clearances and looked at the cams and head and thought, wow these are 100% in factory specs and if I would've handed parts to estimate them I would've said absolute max 50tkm. So I cleaned carbs and gave it a bit of tlc, put some braided lines etc. Painted it glossy black and polished lips of it's wheels and man it turned out looking awesome. Never any fault in the bike I had it. When I sold it my foolishness it had iirc 136tkm's and engine was still going strong. Only bad thing was that the steering geometry felt like it's track bike. It always wanted to turn too much inside, provoking rider to increase speed. Man I shouldn't have sold that bike..
Thank you for showing how good this bike still is! On real roads, it's still an insanely capable bike and incredibly confidence inspiring. I miss my 1997 ZX-9R!
This brought back some happy memories. I had one the year it came out in 94, I was in my twenties, same colour, I even had the same pillion grab rail fitted 😂 I toured all over Europe, the German autobahns were a scream, I left Porsche’s for dead. I adored it. Thanks for posting this video, thumbs up, subbed.
Wicked story thanks for sharing! I was hoping I’d hear some story’s like that. When I got the bike I could only imagine how much fam people had on these when they came out! Absolute golden era of super bikes bikes 🙌
Great video ! I owned a '94 in the exact same colours as this. I loved that ZX9R ! It did everything exceptionally well despite being overshadowed by rival manufacturers. That's how I came to find one, a year old but brand new in '95. I used it for commuting, touring 2up, and track days. It's amazing you found one in such great shape ! Well done.
The 90s were the Golden Era for sport bikes. Great bikes, magazines like Performance Bikes to keep you amped up, the bikes looked great, affordable... Just a fun time to be into sport bikes. Anecdotally, I had a Yamaha YZF 600 at first, but a new friend forced me (lol) to try his ZX-9 and it was all over ... It felt like Id imagine a jet fighter would. I went right out and bought a CBR900 and later, a ZX-9. I wish i had all of those back. Good times!
This motorcycle made my love motorcycles, i was 6 years old when i so 1st time in my life this bike, never pay attention to a bike before. still remember the moment the feeling that something has happened, and read NINJA. after that's every time I was looking in the street to see this bike again!
No way, literally similar age to me when I first saw one! Will never forget how that Ninja sticker looked in the sun! What a great time to be alive 🤷♂️
Nice to see the B model getting more of a following lately. With the current asking price of ZX7R it was bound to happen. Great content, keep it coming 👍
My 2003 ZX-9R (F2) in silver was my favorite sports bike of all time. Just a great all-rounder with a heart of a Ninja. That they are physically larger bikes is a boon to lanky/tall riders.
Me too. I have one...silver with charcoal lower, chrome graphics. I polished the wheel lips and it was sexy as hell and very capable. It's een down several times and looks nothing like it did, but I still track it to this day. Owned it for 20 years...wow
Wow. Memories. I had a '94 in the burgundy/silver scheme from new, and kept it 10 years. Fantastic bike. Comfortable, fast, classy looking bike. Weighs something, though ... Eventually I sold the ZX9R and bought a 2004 ZX10R which I still have, although it's getting tired.
I had a B3 96 I picked up in the early 2000's and absolutely loved and miss. You hit the nail on the head about feeling heavy when stopped or slow but nimble once you roll on the throttle. I had a Kawasaki dealership tell me they preferred this model over the C model because the newer version was a wheelie machine while the B3 model stayed planted. I had the bike tuned and it made over 150 HP at the rear.
Love the enthusiasm on this, clearly a well-loved machine. I’ve got a similar-looking 1996 ZX6R and it’s funny watching this with how much they carried over, how similar it all looks. Rortier engine though! Keep it up 👍
Wonderful, wonderful! 'Has this bike still got the 90s buzz?' Does that really need an answer? Ok......a resounding,.... Yes! Fantastic bikes. Never had a '9 but have ridden enough to conclude what a fabulous bike the ZX-9R is. Had a couple of '7s and while heavy and not as powerful, it was so stable with an amazing front end that was constantly talking to you. It loved long, fast sweepers. Both had really charismatic engines that had a lovely, 'mechanical roughness' to them. My '7 growled when it was ticking over. Lovely. When it appears we're knee deep in 270 parallels or 'bikes with beaks', it's like being in a warm room with too many people and walking out into the cool, fresh air outside. So refreshing. This was excellent. More please.
I owned one back in the late 90s in the candy, red silver and black colour scheme. I still feel it’s probably one of the most versatile bikes I’ve ever owned. My wife used to fall asleep on the back it was that comfy.
That maniacal laugh ha ha! Top stuff mate, really did feel like I was along for the ride. I had a great duel with one on the track a few years back with me on a 2006 BMW F800s. Sounds amazing and looks like it would be a good bike day to day.
haha Thanks very much for watching Timothy, great to hear from someone sharing the same enthusiasm! It would be an awesome daily commuter I think! Really comfy and such a fun bike to ride, loads of character!
Its one of the best riding sportbikes from the 90s. About 75.000km it does start to burn oil very fast. And they can tend to have a habit of poppin head gaskets. Nothings perfect, but the zx9r is close 😊
Totally agree! I used to think it was Al about speed ect but now I’m hunting for character and something a bit more than just outright performance! Makes a old video too 😉
James, mate, I loved the video! This was my 2nd sportsbike. I owned a B1 1994 and had lots of fun with it. Sold it and bought a 2002 ZX9R in green-black, new back in the day. Best bike for commuting, high-speed long trips, 2-passengers, EVERYTHING. Still have it and enjoy it as never before! Newer supersports with all these electronics? Naaahh, I will pass. Get your hands on 2002-2003 (ZX900F1-F2 last gen 9Rs) and ride it! Engine is unbreakable! It is even more fun than the B1. Keep up the good job and ride safe!
I used to ride sports bikes back in the 90's I loved them, still really like sports bikes, I ride Harleys now, just didn't want to kill myself and enjoy the ride more than the speed these days. If we are honest, as good as the newer bikes are, the mid-to lat 90's and early 00's sports have more than enough power and fun that is just enough or more power than most people can cope with even today, including myself.
Had two of these in the 90’s, storm from the east was the strap line. Soon as I clapped eye, as this thing was stunning my cheque book was writing promises. The 9 got caught between the big game changers of the blade and R1 and unjustly compared but was a better general road bike. When my black and grey model got nicked part of my heart died.
Love your videos mate, you love it lol, reminds me of the early 1990's hooning around with my mates in the Cambridgeshire fens on mopeds then 125s then TDRs and then EXUPs.... I am 49 this year and do not ride now but love your enthusiasm. keep them coming and get yourself over to Northern Ireland met my wife here in 1998 at a party lol, the roads here are the TT on crack.
Had a 93 L reg B1 in those colours back in the day It was ok but always felt a very second best to the fireblade in both kudos & the way it road. Amazing it had a relatively long production in various evolutions but basically the same bike until the end. Funnily enough I do keep an eye on their prices & you cant argue they represent alot of bike for little money still.
Just inherited an 01 9R. Been in a dining room for 22/23 years in the UK. It's now here on Vancouver Island. Only has 3000 miles on it. So its my brand new 23 year old bike......Sold my 10R to make room for it LOL.......Think I may keep it in the dining room.
I just recently got rid of my cbr 929rr 2001 Fireblade for a new gsx-s1000 the new bike should be faster but it was no where near as fast as the 21 years old Fireblade chucking the wheel up in 6th gear absolutely shocked I wish I had kept it now I’m pretty sure it was tuned or something lol great video 👍👍
I had the c1 version, wow what a weapon, may be a little heavy compared to some but that made it more stable. Rapid and fast, certainly couldn't ride it to its limit and my age didn't like the weight on my wrists, great bike tho.
I miss mine hence watching this and feeling sad I let it go. My first ride onit scared the s£&t out of me stepping up from a honda vfr 400. But I got use to it and loved it loads of fun. Had to do a fair bit of work to it like replace brake rotors, rebuild carbs, put a manual chain tensioner on it, Fitted new suspension, non of which made it any lighter.
Hi James nice to see the knee down on the roundabout at Risborough ? used to live at Studley Green so now the roads well, Very nearly went the Kawka route but ended up with 95 Blade Urban Tiger that i still have today, bikes of that time are a lot of fun still, ATB Wayne.......
My first bike was this exact bike, year and everything, and everything he's saying is 100% accurate. I would love to have another one for street riding. Only common issue I ran into at the time is the shift fork for the 1-2 shift went bad at about 12k miles. Diaphragm in the clutch went bad too. Other than that it was was pretty maintenance free. I did put in a dynajet carb kit that really made it come alive. Much like modern tuning does for new bikes. Not a lot of power gain but really smoothed it out quite a bit. It did need its regular valve adjustment at about 18k miles. It started ticking a little.
I lusted after this bike. Those intakes. So mean. I miss 90s bikes in general. Pure raw skill to ride, no modes, no abs, not even fuel injection. Actually the 7, I wanted the 7R. Like the '92, not this version. I should get one. Wonder how much.
Lovely to see content on bikes I lusted after when I was 12. Designed and destined for British A & B Roads. Does remind me of my ZX6R F2 I had almost 2 decades ago... and with the Micron can!
Love the old Kwakas, they really got it right with the weight reduction on the 98, 99 C1/C2. Perfectly balanced. People complained about the 6 pot brake calipers, but sintered pads solve the problem. Bullet-proof engine...
I’ve just bought this bike off James. Great to meet you mate ! Thanks for delivering bike. Keep up the good videos on here. All the best to you 🤘🏻 Colin.
I have the same year and color combo bike, the ZX9R was my dreambike, Love to se see it from someone else's perspective in the modern era, Keep sharing some more videos with it!
Great stuff, I bought a tidy Firestorm last year for next to nothing and I'm having a blast with it. It is by far the oldest and highest mileage bike I've ever bought (1998 with 24000 miles, now approaching 28K).
you can do it at home without the sync tool almost to 90% acuracy using your eyes a bright light and a screw driver .. a can of carb cleaner willl be nice aswell
I've had a 2001 ZX9R, (E1, (I belive the bike in the video is one of the C bikes)), for the past 8 years, I've done around 20k miles on it and so far I've serviced it once, (with the exception of cleaning the calipers and chain and doing all the needy parts etc), and the thing is still as fast and fun to ride today as the first day I got it. Back then, you could usually tell a bike by the common colours from manufacturers, (or a big logo), these days they seem to be mainly grey, look the same, sound the same and the only way you know what brand it is is by the logo on the key or something.
I would've never guessed these 90s Japanese sports bikes would fall back into fashion again. That's terrific. The *best* era for color schemes and ruffle-duffels amongst brands.
Zx7r, zx9r and Fzr600 exup fzr1000 🤩👍🔥🔥🔥
Bikes back then were all unique.
Today all cut from the same cookie cutter.
I picked up a 2000 ZX12R not long ago. I’m so happy I found it in its condition rather than going with something new. It’s definitely a fun riding experience.
Things nearly always follow a 25-30 year wave before they become desirable again tbh.
Mix of bottoming out in price so young people can get them shortly followed by the now middle aged people who did want them when they were young reliving their youth.
So yeah, be warned - all those mid 00’s sport bikes we buy for cheap track bikes have got less than a decade left before they start getting expensive to buy. Some millenium bikes are already getting up there.
Nostalgia .... It's like inflation, $500 garage project bike that's been sitting for possibly decades, magically becomes a $5000 as is condition " Survivor " barn find with no paperwork.
And it works every time
Example ua-cam.com/video/9fWQtzcSeIE/v-deo.html
90's bikes are epic no nonsense speed machine that you have to ride properly and they are all in funky shell suit colours.
Dont you have to ride all bikes properly even new ones?
This is the only video I've seen on UA-cam of a ZX9 where the driver is NOT AFRAID of turning the handle all the way.
The zx9 was the sleeper pick of all in its segment back then, and still now. Feels, looks, rides WAY ahead of its time. And is much, much faster than the numbers show.
They also so sound NASTY. In a way nothing new can.
I hope you will cover someday ZX7 ‘96-03. The best looking bike ever.
This ZX9 it’s a freaking handsome bike. Colour scheme just killing.
SICK bike. Legendary bike. Classic example of a Kawasaki bike that was the "answer" to the class-leading Honda (CBR900). I've had several sportbikes and I still want a late-90's ZX9R. Also, just listen to all those wonderful mechanical sounds! You can hear intake noises, engine and exhaust, and also a really interesting gear whine sound when he sticks his head against the tank on full throttle. Very sexy.
So many mechanical sounds!!! The intake noise when you get your head on the tank is addictive!! Buy one 😁
I was 11 years old when my dad would pick me up from school on a maroon and grey 94 model. I felt like the coolest kid in the world at the time.
Awesome, thanks for sharing!! I was only about 8 or 9 when my neighbour had one, I've wanted one ever since!
I have the exact same story except it was a 93 and it was my older brother, these days ive got a first generation zx10R
Had a 15K mile adventure on my '95 ZX9R in '99, awesome bike, sadly lost it in a fire in '07.
What a shame
For many reasons I love the older designs, the fairings look appealing in all the brands, the newer bikes aren’t head turners like these.
Lovely bike u have
Save it
Agreed
Yes late 80s early 90s looks far more appealing than the angular sharp edged bikes today. And that zx9 in real kawasaki racing green is awesome looking.
Q
Todays sports bikes are to much for the road they are track weapons, but these old litre bikes are much more fun and won't break the bank.
Love your enthusiasm for these old bikes. Also your real world angel on your test drives! Keep up the good work…
Thank you very much 🙌
@jamescrawshaw71 did he just call you a real world angel? 😇
Angle or Angel, I'm happy with both 😝@@spambunny123
@@jamescrawshaw71 either way cracking video bro
Thanks very much! Means a lot when I get comments like that, really appreciate it. 👍@@spambunny123
Similar story to mine mate, I bought a 91 zzr1100 with 18000 miles as a winter project. Cleaned all the carbs out with my ultrasonic cleaner and did all the brakes suspension and steering bearings, basically recommissioned it and I can’t believe how good the bike rides for a 32 years old machine, so smooth and very powerful I just can’t keep off the thing, in fact I’m riding it more than my much newer bike.
Great video, and I’m pleased to see and hear how much you are enjoying riding that bike.
Thanks for sharing awesome bikes!
I have a 99. Unbelievably fast.
I had '98 C2 ZX9R. Loved how it always power wheelied about 5-10cm's on 1st no matter how much you leaned on. Engine also overall beatiful. So well working gearbox. Mine had about 100 000km's on clock when I bought it. Ex police pursuit bike. It was ugly blue with white basecolor bits everywhere, but at least I knew that it's not revved by some squid constantly on some cityblock for 10mins. Still I was scared about the engines km's. I opened up and checked clearances and looked at the cams and head and thought, wow these are 100% in factory specs and if I would've handed parts to estimate them I would've said absolute max 50tkm. So I cleaned carbs and gave it a bit of tlc, put some braided lines etc. Painted it glossy black and polished lips of it's wheels and man it turned out looking awesome. Never any fault in the bike I had it. When I sold it my foolishness it had iirc 136tkm's and engine was still going strong. Only bad thing was that the steering geometry felt like it's track bike. It always wanted to turn too much inside, provoking rider to increase speed. Man I shouldn't have sold that bike..
Thanks for sharing, awesome!
Thank you for showing how good this bike still is! On real roads, it's still an insanely capable bike and incredibly confidence inspiring. I miss my 1997 ZX-9R!
My pleasure!
I have 5 of these B models now, just bought the one in this video! Fantastic motors, hugely underrated bikes!
No way!! That's awesome! What colours are the others?
I’m getting a serious hankering to get a 90s sportsbike… Great video 😎
Thanks mate appreciate that 🙌
That paint scheme is just the max! Exactly the 40y Ninja scheme, love it!
Same!
This brought back some happy memories.
I had one the year it came out in 94, I was in my twenties, same colour, I even had the same pillion grab rail fitted 😂
I toured all over Europe, the German autobahns were a scream, I left Porsche’s for dead.
I adored it.
Thanks for posting this video, thumbs up, subbed.
Wicked story thanks for sharing! I was hoping I’d hear some story’s like that. When I got the bike I could only imagine how much fam people had on these when they came out! Absolute golden era of super bikes bikes 🙌
Great video ! I owned a '94 in the exact same colours as this. I loved that ZX9R ! It did everything exceptionally well despite being overshadowed by rival manufacturers. That's how I came to find one, a year old but brand new in '95. I used it for commuting, touring 2up, and track days. It's amazing you found one in such great shape ! Well done.
Thanks for sharing!
The 90s were the Golden Era for sport bikes. Great bikes, magazines like Performance Bikes to keep you amped up, the bikes looked great, affordable... Just a fun time to be into sport bikes. Anecdotally, I had a Yamaha YZF 600 at first, but a new friend forced me (lol) to try his ZX-9 and it was all over ... It felt like Id imagine a jet fighter would. I went right out and bought a CBR900 and later, a ZX-9. I wish i had all of those back. Good times!
I agree! Used to love the mags!
Had Zx-9r 2002 model best bike I ever had.
Loved mine with a passion, this has spurred me on to complete it.
Awesome! Such great bikes.
The 90s bikes were much better looking than the modren ones today .
Superb clip ,I’m 60 years old and have a blue one with a polished frame ......love it 😂
Regards
Dave from Scotland
Very cool!
This motorcycle made my love motorcycles, i was 6 years old when i so 1st time in my life this bike, never pay attention to a bike before. still remember the moment the feeling that something has happened, and read NINJA. after that's every time I was looking in the street to see this bike again!
No way, literally similar age to me when I first saw one! Will never forget how that Ninja sticker looked in the sun! What a great time to be alive 🤷♂️
I have a 1999 zxr 900c2 completely standard and mint condition, fantastic ride and handles so well
Nice to see the B model getting more of a following lately. With the current asking price of ZX7R it was bound to happen. Great content, keep it coming 👍
Thanks very much
I had one of these, slightly tuned (pipe, filter) Ohlins rear. Little bit heavy but had a monster motor and was very comfy. Awesome bike.
It sure is! Absolute beast of a bike!
I really miss my 2000 Zx9r quick and comfortable 👍💯🔥🔥
90s bikes are the best
I've got a 04 ZRX 1200r and I love it I'm still hanging sometimes passing this new stuff
the power from those bikes was incredible!!😊❤❤❤
I've got a 99 600 srad, absolutely luv these old bikes
My 2003 ZX-9R (F2) in silver was my favorite sports bike of all time. Just a great all-rounder with a heart of a Ninja. That they are physically larger bikes is a boon to lanky/tall riders.
Couldn't agree more!
Me too. I have one...silver with charcoal lower, chrome graphics. I polished the wheel lips and it was sexy as hell and very capable.
It's een down several times and looks nothing like it did, but I still track it to this day. Owned it for 20 years...wow
I really like the dash on it. I think because it has more of race bike feel to it than the new bikes with their TFT's.
Completely agree! Ive got a video coming out in the next couple of weeks with the ducati 916, that got an awesome dash too!
Wow. Memories. I had a '94 in the burgundy/silver scheme from new, and kept it 10 years. Fantastic bike. Comfortable, fast, classy looking bike. Weighs something, though ... Eventually I sold the ZX9R and bought a 2004 ZX10R which I still have, although it's getting tired.
Thanks for sharing! Sounds awesome
I'm from HW its amazing to see my old roads..
Oi oiii 🙌🤣
I had a B3 96 I picked up in the early 2000's and absolutely loved and miss. You hit the nail on the head about feeling heavy when stopped or slow but nimble once you roll on the throttle. I had a Kawasaki dealership tell me they preferred this model over the C model because the newer version was a wheelie machine while the B3 model stayed planted. I had the bike tuned and it made over 150 HP at the rear.
Thanks for sharing and couldn't agree more! Great bike!
Fantastic bikes, I've got a C2 and absolutely love it.
I much prefer these bikes any day
I had a 2000 E1 till the end of last year when I was rear ended by a car. Even with 212000 km on it, it still went like a rocket.
I bought a ZXR750R -91 brand new. I loved that machine. Very stable with a lot of driving pleasure.
Very nice!
This makes me miss my 94. Such a good bike for its age
Love the enthusiasm on this, clearly a well-loved machine. I’ve got a similar-looking 1996 ZX6R and it’s funny watching this with how much they carried over, how similar it all looks. Rortier engine though! Keep it up 👍
Very cool!
As I said on another video, I love the fact that you are not scared and OPEN the bike, for the pure joy and the sound ! Lekker !
Thanks 🙌🙌
I had 3 zx7rs simply the best looking bikes ever
Beautiful! They're stunning
Still got mine 25 years on. Of all the bikes that have come and gone my zx7r stays.
@@NjH1781 and rightly so mate. I had two green one red. Stunning bikes.
@@peterthornton2396 my brother had a red and purple zx7r that thing made a unholy noise.
@@zedddddful stunning bikes mate
Wonderful, wonderful!
'Has this bike still got the 90s buzz?'
Does that really need an answer?
Ok......a resounding,.... Yes!
Fantastic bikes. Never had a '9 but have ridden enough to conclude what a fabulous bike the ZX-9R is. Had a couple of '7s and while heavy and not as powerful, it was so stable with an amazing front end that was constantly talking to you. It loved long, fast sweepers.
Both had really charismatic engines that had a lovely, 'mechanical roughness' to them. My '7 growled when it was ticking over. Lovely.
When it appears we're knee deep in 270 parallels or 'bikes with beaks', it's like being in a warm room with too many people and walking out into the cool, fresh air outside.
So refreshing.
This was excellent. More please.
Thanks for sharing that Mark! It really is a brilliant bike. Will have some more content up soon 👍
@@jamescrawshaw71 My pleasure, James. You're providing excellent content. Keep going, young man.👍
I owned one back in the late 90s in the candy, red silver and black colour scheme. I still feel it’s probably one of the most versatile bikes I’ve ever owned. My wife used to fall asleep on the back it was that comfy.
That maniacal laugh ha ha! Top stuff mate, really did feel like I was along for the ride. I had a great duel with one on the track a few years back with me on a 2006 BMW F800s. Sounds amazing and looks like it would be a good bike day to day.
haha Thanks very much for watching Timothy, great to hear from someone sharing the same enthusiasm! It would be an awesome daily commuter I think! Really comfy and such a fun bike to ride, loads of character!
Its one of the best riding sportbikes from the 90s.
About 75.000km it does start to burn oil very fast. And they can tend to have a habit of poppin head gaskets.
Nothings perfect, but the zx9r is close 😊
My era. My neck of the woods. A youth spent hammering those roads on TZR's, an FZR400RR and XR3i's. Happy days.
Yes Stuart! Thanks for sharing some great roads around there 🤜
@@jamescrawshaw71 I live in the USA now (NY) but my parents are still in the Northern Buckinghamshire villages.
I've gone backwards in my choice of bikes and haven't been happier, ergos are good and riding them on the road is so much fun 👍😀
Totally agree! I used to think it was Al about speed ect but now I’m hunting for character and something a bit more than just outright performance! Makes a old video too 😉
Looks like a ninja turtle, I want one
You've done a very good job of this ZX9.
Thank you
Bought 1st 96 green and white, now own the one you're riding as well...57 yes old owner of 2 and wouldn't trade them for the world...
Awesome thanks for sharing
I'm still working on my ZX9R B4 I bought it new 1997 R
James, mate, I loved the video! This was my 2nd sportsbike. I owned a B1 1994 and had lots of fun with it. Sold it and bought a 2002 ZX9R in green-black, new back in the day. Best bike for commuting, high-speed long trips, 2-passengers, EVERYTHING. Still have it and enjoy it as never before! Newer supersports with all these electronics? Naaahh, I will pass. Get your hands on 2002-2003 (ZX900F1-F2 last gen 9Rs) and ride it! Engine is unbreakable! It is even more fun than the B1. Keep up the good job and ride safe!
AWSEOME! Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching, really appreciate it! May have to give that bike a go!
I used to ride sports bikes back in the 90's I loved them, still really like sports bikes, I ride Harleys now, just didn't want to kill myself and enjoy the ride more than the speed these days.
If we are honest, as good as the newer bikes are, the mid-to lat 90's and early 00's sports have more than enough power and fun that is just enough or more power than most people can cope with even today, including myself.
Totally agree with that! 👍
I used to have one myself and it’s honestly one of the best bikes in my opinion. Seen this one for sale, such ashame :(
Awesome machine. Truly under rated at the time. Really enjoyed you giving it some through the twisties.
Very under rated! I don't think anyone knew how lucky they were haha! Absolute Golden Age
Had two of these in the 90’s, storm from the east was the strap line. Soon as I clapped eye, as this thing was stunning my cheque book was writing promises.
The 9 got caught between the big game changers of the blade and R1 and unjustly compared but was a better general road bike.
When my black and grey model got nicked part of my heart died.
for the algorithm!! recently found your channel and just exhausted all your vids. thanks for the upload!
Legend! Thanks for watching much appreciated 🙌
Love your videos mate, you love it lol, reminds me of the early 1990's hooning around with my mates in the Cambridgeshire fens on mopeds then 125s then TDRs and then EXUPs.... I am 49 this year and do not ride now but love your enthusiasm. keep them coming and get yourself over to Northern Ireland met my wife here in 1998 at a party lol, the roads here are the TT on crack.
Awesome thanks for sharing!! And for watching!! Will give Ireland a go this year if I can find then time, heard it’s the nuts!!
1998 zx 9…. So much fun …
I had the 600 version and loved it as it was my first road bike
Great bike not had mine long very good handling no tech to mess up your riding that may malfunction ,very good value for money and stylish.
Had a 93 L reg B1 in those colours back in the day It was ok but always felt a very second best to the fireblade in both kudos & the way it road. Amazing it had a relatively long production in various evolutions but basically the same bike until the end. Funnily enough I do keep an eye on their prices & you cant argue they represent alot of bike for little money still.
Very nice!
Always underrated in the litre war but all generations of 9r are quality real world bikes.
Agree!!
Such an iconic bike in that livery...got my eye on ebay now!
I've got this bike up for sale on eBay!! Happy to do a deal 👍
@@jamescrawshaw71have you got the link mate? 👀
@@richardseaton6390 www.ebay.co.uk/itm/204399935309
Had a 94. It was big and heavy but once underway it was quite a bike. The next generation in 98 was much better imo
Just inherited an 01 9R. Been in a dining room for 22/23 years in the UK. It's now here on Vancouver Island. Only has 3000 miles on it. So its my brand new 23 year old bike......Sold my 10R to make room for it LOL.......Think I may keep it in the dining room.
Awesome, thanks for sharing!!
I just recently got rid of my cbr 929rr 2001 Fireblade for a new gsx-s1000 the new bike should be faster but it was no where near as fast as the 21 years old Fireblade chucking the wheel up in 6th gear absolutely shocked I wish I had kept it now I’m pretty sure it was tuned or something lol great video 👍👍
I had the c1 version, wow what a weapon, may be a little heavy compared to some but that made it more stable. Rapid and fast, certainly couldn't ride it to its limit and my age didn't like the weight on my wrists, great bike tho.
I miss mine hence watching this and feeling sad I let it go. My first ride onit scared the s£&t out of me stepping up from a honda vfr 400. But I got use to it and loved it loads of fun. Had to do a fair bit of work to it like replace brake rotors, rebuild carbs, put a manual chain tensioner on it, Fitted new suspension, non of which made it any lighter.
Loved my 2000 ZX-9R very underrated bikes and when they are truly set up they are very very good. Mine was sorted out very nicer, wished I had kept it
Couldn't agree more!
@@jamescrawshaw71 did not get rid of my 96 ZX11, its a keeper:)
These motorsounds back then were something else
They sure were!
That’s the bike I fell in love with when I was 5 saw one parked and the rider saw me staring at it put me on it and let me rev it out
No way! Haha what a treat. Hope you’re gunna buy one now 🙌
Hi James nice to see the knee down on the roundabout at Risborough ? used to live at Studley Green so now the roads well, Very nearly went the Kawka route but ended up with 95 Blade Urban Tiger that i still have today, bikes of that time are a lot of fun still, ATB Wayne.......
Nice one! The blade sounds wicked! Thanks for watching 👍
My first bike was this exact bike, year and everything, and everything he's saying is 100% accurate. I would love to have another one for street riding. Only common issue I ran into at the time is the shift fork for the 1-2 shift went bad at about 12k miles. Diaphragm in the clutch went bad too. Other than that it was was pretty maintenance free. I did put in a dynajet carb kit that really made it come alive. Much like modern tuning does for new bikes. Not a lot of power gain but really smoothed it out quite a bit. It did need its regular valve adjustment at about 18k miles. It started ticking a little.
Awesome thanks for sharing! glad to of bought back a bit of nostalgia for you 👍
I have a C2 and love it!
I lusted after this bike. Those intakes. So mean. I miss 90s bikes in general. Pure raw skill to ride, no modes, no abs, not even fuel injection. Actually the 7, I wanted the 7R. Like the '92, not this version. I should get one. Wonder how much.
I agree! Great bikes to ride, I like no having abs on bikes, something about being able to find the grip limits yourself is so special.
Lovely to see content on bikes I lusted after when I was 12. Designed and destined for British A & B Roads. Does remind me of my ZX6R F2 I had almost 2 decades ago... and with the Micron can!
awesome thanks for sharing!! I agree too, such a dream bike when I was young
Love the old Kwakas, they really got it right with the weight reduction on the 98, 99 C1/C2. Perfectly balanced. People complained about the 6 pot brake calipers, but sintered pads solve the problem. Bullet-proof engine...
Agreed mate. Awesome bike! Spot on for some twisty roads or even a commute, super comfy, loved that bike!
I had this exact bike, bought it in october of 1995
Awesome!
Great content & channel! Love these classic bikes
Much appreciated!
great video ! love watching these old school bikes that I use to imagine having as a kid
Mate same here haha such good fun!
I’ve just bought this bike off James. Great to meet you mate ! Thanks for delivering bike. Keep up the good videos on here. All the best to you 🤘🏻 Colin.
Thanks Colin!! Hope you enjoy the bike 🙌🙌 Pleasure to meet you
@@jamescrawshaw71 love it mate 🤘🏻
I have the same year and color combo bike, the ZX9R was my dreambike, Love to se see it from someone else's perspective in the modern era, Keep sharing some more videos with it!
Couldn't agree more! Thanks for watching!
Great stuff, I bought a tidy Firestorm last year for next to nothing and I'm having a blast with it. It is by far the oldest and highest mileage bike I've ever bought (1998 with 24000 miles, now approaching 28K).
Thanks for sharing!
I had a 94, they were fast as hell! They came in second to the mighty ZX11!
Never tried one of those! May have to have a look!
2 Things I love. Buckinghamshire and the ZX9R ☺️
Haha cheers 👍
This bike was better than the 900rr but underated.
Agreed!
Y'all jus made my day
This thing looks amazing, thx for the video :D
I'm on my 2001 ZX9R ..got it brand new ..got 128000 miles !! Still runs like new ..it's all stock
No way!!!! That’s unreal, thanks for sharing
I have a 1995 honda cbr 1000f that needs carbs syncd. I love how nostalgic it is versus the new bikes today.
I agree!
you can do it at home without the sync tool almost to 90% acuracy using your eyes a bright light and a screw driver .. a can of carb cleaner willl be nice aswell
I regret selling my 1998 ZX7R. Just awesome bike
Such a lovely bike that!
I subscribed!!! Cause you cover bikes I love❤❤❤❤
It's in the best colours! Lovely bro, your very lucky to own such a good example.👊
Thank you 🙌
I've had a 2001 ZX9R, (E1, (I belive the bike in the video is one of the C bikes)), for the past 8 years, I've done around 20k miles on it and so far I've serviced it once, (with the exception of cleaning the calipers and chain and doing all the needy parts etc), and the thing is still as fast and fun to ride today as the first day I got it.
Back then, you could usually tell a bike by the common colours from manufacturers, (or a big logo), these days they seem to be mainly grey, look the same, sound the same and the only way you know what brand it is is by the logo on the key or something.
Couldn’t agree more! New bikes are cool, but never going to be 90’s cool! Well…..perhaps some of the new Ducatis they’re pretty nuts haha
Still more bike than 95% of street riders could ever get close to the limits it has.
Totally agree