[bklee]

Hello – I currently have a Ninja 250 that I’m learning on. My wife will eventually use this bike full time, and I will be getting my own. I’m thinking I want an EX500 or Ninja 650R. The reasons are twofold – I would like a bit more power and also would like the option of carrying a passenger. I like the 250, but not sure if it would be the best with a passenger with the smaller frame and engine. What do you guys think? BTW – I’m 5’8″ and about 175lbs.

[Gary856]

Depends on the location (surface streets or freeway), distance (cross town or cross country), terrain (flat or hilly), traffic (light or heavy), etc.

[megaspaz]

sv650. The ex500 is a dungpile to ride. The 650R is a nice bike, but afaik, its aftermarket support isn’t at the same level as the SV. But given the choices between an ex500 and a 650R, I’d take the 650R. I wouldn’t use the ninja 250 for 2 up riding, unless you just want to putt around the block to your local starbucks.

[eternal05]

The Ninja 250 is NOT a 2-person bike. I’ve done my fair share of putting around with two people with that thing, and it’s no fun. The weight of even a 115lb woman will completely upset the bike. Even my lighter, taller DR-Z handles passengers better.

[bklee]

It would be a combination of in town and regular highway riding (maybe once in awhile freeway, but not much)…..flat terrain and moderate traffic levels….

[bklee]

Thanks for the info – I was thinking it might be a bit small myself….I’m really open to either the Ex500 or 650R….price will probably play a factor and I might try to pick up a cheaper Ex500 for now and then in a year or two upgrade….

[ShamRock229]

I have a 650r and I love it…I’m about 210 and it still has plenty of juice for another passenger. It has a pretty standard riding position and it isnt too heavy, so it would be easy to handle even with another passenger. Its a very torquey bike, a good balance of sport riding and commuter riding.

[Gary856]

For a second bike I’d go for a 650 over a 500. Not only do the 650 have better performance, bikes like SV650/Ninja650r are much newer designs than the older generation GS500/EX500, and you can see/touch/feel the newer-ness.

Second gen SV650 and Ninja 650r are fuel injected – nice to have.

[eternal05]

+1 to newer-ness

[ShamRock229]

+2 to the newer-ness

The 650r is my first new bike and it’s comforting to know that youre the only one that has handled the bike. Plus the EFI is totally sweet, my last bike was a zx6 with a carb…needless to say, i was using the choke alllll the time. With the EFI, it automatically adjusts itself to the proper setting and gives it better mpg (not that im comparing a 4cyl to a 2 cyl, i just mean in general). If youre lucky, you could get a GREAT deal on a new 2009 that a dealer is trying to get rid of to make room for the 2010’s.

[bklee]

Hey there – Thanks for your advice. I decided on the 650R, and I was able to pick up a new carryover 2009 for under 5K. Thanks everyone for their input!

[ShamRock229]

Congrats! I know youre going to enjoy it!

[eternal05]

Congrats, and hope you enjoy the living snot out of that bike

[Overtime]

Grats! 650r is a blast

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