09-18-2017, 07:45 AM
Ulvetanna just responded to what I posted to him here. As it was before, however, he still has his "receive PMs" blocked. I can't respond to him via PM, so, again, I'll post my response here...
"What's the story behind your 'Ulvetanna' nic?
Anyway, yeah, the FZ-09 did nothing for me. The only good thing on that bike besides the light weight was the motor, but the fueling was awful, as were the brakes, suspension, and overall look.
The XSR900 is a completely different kettle of fish. Much better, firmer suspension, sharper brakes (track-worthy brakes, once you throw on some braided steel lines and HH pads), and no SuperMotard riding position.
Coming from a similar performance background as you do, and with a similar appreciation for the retro thing, I'm surprised you didn't look into the XSR900.
I've read nothing but good things about the new Z900, but I just can't deal with its looks. It's not as bad as the Z1000 or the Yamaha FZ-10, but it's still an eyesore to me. I like the look of the steel trellis frame, but that's about it. Otherwise, the instrument cluster, the green accents, the Transformer headlight, etc.?
Just can't do it.
In terms of the CB1100, I have to admit, your experience with it scares me, for I fear it would likely mirror mine, were I to buy one. I suspect that I would quickly—if not immediately—find it too heavy, long, soft, and slow. It has a very long wheelbase to go with soft brakes and suspension, and the motor hits softly.
I fear that for as much enjoyment as I would get from looking at the thing, the ride would alternately bore and frustrate me. I also suspect that it would prove to be no more comfortable than my XSR900; so, in the end, all I'd be gaining by swapping would be a prettier bike with a greater tank range, and more pride of ownership.
It really is a well built, gorgeous piece, though. Even now, I still can't help but be drawn to it. It has a serious hold on me."
"What's the story behind your 'Ulvetanna' nic?
Anyway, yeah, the FZ-09 did nothing for me. The only good thing on that bike besides the light weight was the motor, but the fueling was awful, as were the brakes, suspension, and overall look.
The XSR900 is a completely different kettle of fish. Much better, firmer suspension, sharper brakes (track-worthy brakes, once you throw on some braided steel lines and HH pads), and no SuperMotard riding position.
Coming from a similar performance background as you do, and with a similar appreciation for the retro thing, I'm surprised you didn't look into the XSR900.
I've read nothing but good things about the new Z900, but I just can't deal with its looks. It's not as bad as the Z1000 or the Yamaha FZ-10, but it's still an eyesore to me. I like the look of the steel trellis frame, but that's about it. Otherwise, the instrument cluster, the green accents, the Transformer headlight, etc.?
Just can't do it.

In terms of the CB1100, I have to admit, your experience with it scares me, for I fear it would likely mirror mine, were I to buy one. I suspect that I would quickly—if not immediately—find it too heavy, long, soft, and slow. It has a very long wheelbase to go with soft brakes and suspension, and the motor hits softly.
I fear that for as much enjoyment as I would get from looking at the thing, the ride would alternately bore and frustrate me. I also suspect that it would prove to be no more comfortable than my XSR900; so, in the end, all I'd be gaining by swapping would be a prettier bike with a greater tank range, and more pride of ownership.
It really is a well built, gorgeous piece, though. Even now, I still can't help but be drawn to it. It has a serious hold on me."
