S4 on track and a somewhat OT question: FZ6.
Nice to hear about the S4, Gabe. I'm playing with the idea of getting a track-dedicated bike next year, and that little freak looks like a good choice. I've seen a few used ones for sale. Now if I can only make the committment to travelling to the track days, I'd be all set.
Coincidentally, I was re-reading the MC-USA Reality Bike test today because I've got a friend who's interested in a sporty middleweight standard. Since he's not all that knowledgable, he's relying on me for advice. Poor sucker.
I first reviewed the MOfo comparo and they didn't have a high opinion of the FZ-6. It faired better in the MC-USA test, but still far from great. My question is whether the FZ6 is still reasonably good for a rider who's got a couple of years of experience on an older, smaller UJM and is not likely to push the bike to any great degree. The abrupt throttle response/EFI has got me a little concerned. It seems to me that Z750S is a better buy, even for the higher asking price, but it's an even bigger jump in power. This dude is very responsible and conservative, so I'm not worried about him doing anything stupid. The Z seems like it would be easier to ride, even given the higher power output. So am I right?
The SV-650 is running a distant third because he wants some decent wind protection and it's almost impossible to find a 599 around here.
Any other MO staff or MOrons feel free to jump in if you wish.