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Swampdog225
Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 - 01:28 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

1125CR Beats the Aprilia Tuono and Ducati Streetfighter

http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/8/4506/Motorcycle-Ar ticle/2009-Streetfighter-Comparo-III.aspx
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Carbonbigfoot
Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 - 02:10 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

HELL yeah! Good press rocks.
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Chadhargis
Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 - 05:42 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Excellent article!

I've not ridden the other two bikes, but I can vouch that their assessment of the CR was pretty close. I'm not sure I understand the comments regarding the switch gear. It works, and ergonomically, it's fine....so what's wrong with it??

Still don't get how anyone short of a professional racer could think the 1125 is short on power. Maybe I'll discover how on the track, but in street riding scenarios, it's got plenty.
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Swampdog225
Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 - 06:02 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Any press that puts the platform in a positive light is good press. You couple this, with Danny, RMR, & Buell winning a championship, and that is hopefully, the recipe for no more credibility issues with the brand amongst the non-informed. It is definitely my hope that this sheds more light on viability of an American Sportbike as a legitimate racing platform.
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Avc8130
Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 - 06:06 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Awesome article. I found their nit-picking of the controls a little over the top. The controls are a little "vintage", but they certainly function. Once you play with the Ducati controls you see what they mean. They have the IC functions built right into the left control. Excellent touch. Thank goodness I didn't buy my bike based on the controls. I would have a Ducati and I would need a $1000 valve check right now!
ac
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Ft_bstrd
Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 - 06:08 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Unfortunately, I can't ride looks. I can't ride sound.

Except for top speed, which I can't use very often on the street, it appears to me that the CR beat the Streetfighter.

They simply couldn't dump on the Ducati any more than they did.

I mean, it's a Ducati.
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Paulp1125cr
Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 - 09:55 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

that horsepower rating isn't what i have been reading. i read multiple times that it was 148hp at 10800rpm does anyone no for sure.
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Xbswede
Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 - 10:02 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

They are listing what was tested on their Dyno at the Rear wheel not crank as articles usually advertise.
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Marcodesade
Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 - 10:04 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Yeah, I hear guys on this site talking about APPROACHING 148 or so after doing all their tuning.
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Carbonbigfoot
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 12:03 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

“The Ducati’s overall handling was close to the Buell’s but just not quite as good,”


HHHAAAAhahaahahaha! Somebody in Italy must be choking on their pasta!!!!


R
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R2s
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 12:48 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Hey! I didn't here the phrase, Fuel injection issues. They do run nice now.
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Fresnobuell
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 01:18 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I do believe the article states the FI on the Buell is BETTER than the others.
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Blake
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 02:12 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Nice excerpt:


quote:

Never in a million years did I think the 1125CR could best the Ducati. But it did. And it isn’t because it’s the fastest or prettiest – because it’s not. Not even close. It’s top dog because it delivers the most important intangible sensation when riding: Fun. It handles so perfectly that you feel like the bike is an extension of one’s being. Its ergonomics are well thought out and while its engine isn’t the fastest, it still has character and delivers all the right sensations, albeit at a tad slower speed. In fact, our only real complaints are some very minor styling and fit-and-finish issues. So, if it’s the best handling, most fun, easiest-to-use Streetfighter that you’re looking for, look no further. Say hello to the 2009 Buell 1125CR.


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Blake
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 02:34 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

On the fuel injection:


quote:

“All of these bike's fuel-injection systems need a remap,” mentioned Atlas. “They all run too lean as delivered from the factory in order to meet noise and emission standards in America. But the ones that need it the most are the Aprilia and the Ducati.”


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Blake
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 02:38 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

On brakes, the Duc's monoblocks win hands down:


quote:

In terms of braking performance, the Ducati is simply on another level compared to the other bikes. The 4-piston Brembo monobloc calipers not only look the part but they perform the best too. Stopping power is audacious and, better yet, the sheer sensation you get through the brake lever anywhere within its pull is out of this world. Every vehicle should have brakes this good. (It’s a safety thing, right?)

In terms of braking performance, the Ducati is simply on another level compared to the other bikes. The 4-piston Brembo monobloc calipers not only look the part but they perform the best too. Stopping power is audacious and, better yet, the sheer sensation you get through the brake lever anywhere within its pull is out of this world. Every vehicle should have brakes this good. (It’s a safety thing, right?)




(Message edited by blake on September 08, 2009)
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Blake
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 02:46 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

On handling:


quote:

The Buell’s aluminum chassis also impressed. Like the Aprilia it had a very rigid feel, but due to its sharper steering geometry and short wheelbase, it is easily the most agile bike in this comparison. Push on the bars the slightest bit and it drops into the corner easily and very predictably. Mid-corner it feels just as planted as the others, but as mentioned before with its belt final-drive, it gives the rider enhanced levels of feel, making corner exit perhaps the most thrilling aboard the Buell.

“This could be one of the most entertaining motorcycles I have ever ridden,” admits Garcia. “I felt like I was riding a Yamaha R6 with a Twin motor and some weight added to it. The bike’s corner stability was insane! There was nothing I didn’t like about the way it handled. It does everything perfect from entry to exit.”

“Best chassis of the group,” affirmed Atlas. “It just plain does everything right. It’s nimble, yet solid feeling at lean, and the suspension actually responds to adjustments.


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Blake
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 02:47 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

On rear shock:


quote:

Like the Ducati, Showa suspension components are donned fore and aft. Not only are each of its three settings (spring preload, compression, and rebound damping) easy to adjust, its damping characteristics are perhaps a bit more sensitive to individual adjustments, making it possible for you to set up the bike for virtually any rider regardless of size or ability.


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Blake
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 02:48 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Most inane statement:


quote:

Thus, if you want to get the most out of the Buell’s brakes, you’re going to have to use them aggressively.


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Ruprecht
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 08:05 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Good press!
A bit surprised by the Dyno results though.
Not so much that the Ducati made higher peak numbers, but that the 1125 didn't put more of a gap on the Aprilia (especially from 6k-9k).
Also what's with the "rougher" curve?
Doesn't seem to match their actual riding experiences anyway.
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Hughlysses
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 08:13 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Thus, if you want to get the most out of the Buell’s brakes, you’re going to have to use them aggressively.

I suppose if you want it to go fast, you'll have to twist the throttle grip all the way too!
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Gentleman_jon
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 08:21 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I think that the success of the Buell on the track, and road tests like this, combined might have a synergistic effect on potential buyers, who might have previously considered Buells just too far out of the mainstream.

I know I am looking at the CR in a new light myself.


One a side note:

Thus, if you want to get the most out of the Buell’s brakes, you’re going to have to use them aggressively.

Actually, that is correct in that the 8 pot brakes are a bit wooden and insensitive in normal service that does not get them hot enough. They are fine on the track.

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Jdugger
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 08:29 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

> Thus, if you want to get the most out of the Buell’s brakes, you’re going to have to use them aggressively.

I've got to chime in here and agree with the reviewers.

My experience with the Buell front brake is when it gets hot, it gets sticky, the lever action firms up, and it becomes enormously powerful, progressive and predictable. I really like the 1125r front brake, but it takes riding the bike hard to "find it".

Now, I'll also say that on some tracks that are very braking oriented, one needs up upgrade the fluid. But, that's a pretty minor nit.

If you are gentle with the brake, we all know what happens. The pads deposit gunk, the rotor starts to pulsate, etc. Not good.

The 1125 brake wants to be *used*.
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Avc8130
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 08:36 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I have to agree with the reviewer about the brakes also. If you have ever ridden a Ducati, or even a Suzasakondaha with the newer radial brakes you would understand. The feel they provide is just amazing. They want you to squeeze harder because they just work so amazingly. The ZTL2 have little feel and really do not like "street" riding as much.

Still more original though.
ac
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Ft_bstrd
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 08:48 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Most of the "lack off feel" is attributable to the stock brake pads. Use Lyndalls or EBC-HH and they have plenty of good, predictable, and progressive feel.

Buell REALLY needs to change pad suppliers.
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Blake
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 09:33 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

If you have to re-explain a statement...

Characterizing the Buell ZTL-II brakes as feeling wooden is a real stretch. Unless my six pot brake is better than the eight pot version of the 1125R.

It always surprises me how some folks think a street bike needs to have racing type braking performance, especially in initial bite and overall effort. That's just not prudent for a street bike, way too much risk of an endo in panic situation.

For a street bike, you should have to squeeze the brake aggressively in order to get the most out of it. That's how I was reading the comment. If you can endo the bike using two fingers on the brake, I think the brake is far beyond wooden, which to me means that no matter how hard you clamp on the lever, the brakes won't bite.

Biting better when hot is desirable too, yes?
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Palmer
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 09:55 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

“The Ducati’s overall handling was close to the Buell’s but just not quite as good,”


HHHAAAAhahaahahaha! Somebody in Italy must be choking on their pasta!!!!


LOL

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Ruprecht
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 10:02 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I understand "wooden" to mean a lack of feel at the lever, not how much effort was required.
Other than braking harder and different pads, has anyone tried a different (different bore? radial for the adjustable ratio lever?) master cylinder?
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Jaimec
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 10:11 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Ya beat me to it...
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Chadhargis
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 10:11 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

The front brake on my 1125CR is damn powerful. In fact, I've had to learn to just baby it or else the damn thing stops NOW or I scrub off too much speed.

This is coming from a dual disk setup on my Gixxer 600 track bike with Vesrah race pads.

My only gripe with the ZTL2 is that it needs to be a little more linear. Using it is like throwing out a boat anchor with a short chain until you get the hang of it.
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Avc8130
Posted on Tuesday, September 08, 2009 - 10:16 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

When I 1st got my 1125 I immediately though the front brake was amazing and there couldn't possibly be anything better (coming off an SV650, twin disk 2 pistion calipers). Then I rode a Ducati 848.

The 848 brakes are better. Not because they stop harder (either will endo or lock the wheel). They are better because they feel awesome. They inspire confidence (and this is what reduces braking distance). You just WANT to use the brakes on the Ducati. The lever feel, the reaction of the calipers, everything about it just begs you to brake later and brake harder. It isn't something we can sit here on the internet and describe. If you don't believe it, you haven't ridden one.

ac
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