Wise choice to buy a 1993 FZR 600R for first bike?

[xazraelx]

I've recently been looking into getting a first bike. I'm scheduled to take the MSF course in one month, and have been shopping around for cheaper, used bikes in my area. Mostly I was looking at the 250cc ninjas, as they are plentiful and moderately priced, but occasionally I'll find a bike that I think is almost suspicious of the price range...This FZR was one of them. I don't want to get a first bike that will break down on me every month, and my usages for it will consist of back and forth to work and school, about 15 miles tops. I don't mind learning minor mechanical fixes, or doing them, I know my way around a car, but certainly cannot be called proficient. Just groping out for thoughts on whether or not this seems a good deal.

So I found an FZR 600, 1993, that looked to be in moderate condition. The miles aren't listed, and in my email I forgot to ask after them. I will send a reply momentarily asking after the miles. Here's the original posting:

1993 Yamaha FZR 600r for sale we are selling this bike for $800.00 or trade for a 87-1989 or newer chevy s10 running or not running.
The bike does run and a new battery comes with it. All it needs is the front and side fairings for it. No helment comes with it so if you buy it you will need to have your own helment. It has a chip in the paint at the seat where it has fallen over in the building. Other than that if you have any questions please email (edited out) and we will answer any questions about it You will have to bring a truck or trailor to get the bike. Not insured at the moment. And has no tag. Thank you.

So I sent this email, please keep in mind I am a newbie to bikes, so I'm kind of groping out when I ask for information =)

Hello...I'm quite interested in purchasing this motorcycle, just wondering about a couple things. You mention the bike does run, do you have any idea as to the condition it is in, mechanically? Or any issues that you are aware of, a simple fix or no? Cosmetically, you mentioned the lack of the front and side fairings...do you still have those, or are they completely gone? Also, is the title clean, and do you know when the last inspection was completed? Thank you, Also, if you have any additional pictures of the bike, that would be great as well! Thanks!

And my replies were as follows:

It needs a new throttle cable or needs to be tuned up as far as i know, we do not have any of the fairings, the last time it was inspected i do not remember we took the inspection sticker off to redo the forks on the front, the title is clean and has never been switched over into my name but it has been signed and we do know a notory so we can get it notorized. It has been repainted by me and i polished the wheels out. the No Limit Motorsports in gastonia you can buy all new pieces at discount prices.

Followed by:

Here are some photos of the front so you know what i was talking about with the front fairing.

Here are the pictures I have received:
http://picasaweb.google.com/xazraelx/Mo ... directlink (I couldn't figure out how to add them individually, so I just saved them and linked...sorry)

Thanks for any input...I'm really looking forward to the coming learning experience.

[ANCIAL]

find out if the engine will turn over and try to start see if he knows if it has been laid down really hard check the frame real close. and i definitely suggest you have the vin ran with local law enforcement just in case. if you know someone with bike work experience take them wiht you to check it out. there are a lot of mods that can be done to these bikes so i wouldnt worry about the body and stuff make sure the drive train is sound or as close as possible check the post on what to look for when buying an fzr at the top of the topics list

[thatkid]

It's not a bad price for a bike. Especially right now when everyone is jacking up the prices of their 20 yr old piece of crap. You don't NEED side fairings or a front one for that matter to run it. What you will need is a new chain and sprockets and the carbs will have to be synced. Make sure the tires are good, check the brake pads, etc. Make sure there is no rust in the tank, no oil pools on the ground. No oil drips on the bike. Look for damage on the covers to make sure it wasn't laid down. Remember to factor in safety gear to the final price.

The bonus of the FZR is that is was made for almost 10 years with no real changes so almost all years are interchangeable. There are an abundance of parts floating around if something does go wrong. Plus all the information you could need is on this site and everyone here is pretty helpful. The FZR is a super easy bike to work on. While it does have its quirks it is a great first bike. Not to mention you'll get a lot more mpg than a newer bike and the insurance is a whole lot cheaper.

[slayermd]

I believe that the FZR is a great starter bike. The ergo is not too aggressive but still sporty and comfortable for long rides. The power is respectable for the street too. I was lucky enough that when I bought my first bike (96 FZR) it was in great shape. So to answer you question, yes the FZR is pure awesomeness (when nothing is wrong with it). But if you don't mind handling a wrench of two then the FZR is your bike.

Plus, you have a sweet FZR community that will help you with any problem you have here.

Good luck with you endevours!

[megaloxana]

Definatly, I never rode a motorcycle before when I bought my FZR. Five years later I'm still riding it and loving it!

[sweekster]

It's not a bad price for a bike. Especially right now when everyone is jacking up the prices of their 20 yr old piece of crap. You don't NEED side fairings or a front one for that matter to run it. What you will need is a new chain and sprockets and the carbs will have to be synced. Make sure the tires are good, check the brake pads, etc. Make sure there is no rust in the tank, no oil pools on the ground. No oil drips on the bike. Look for damage on the covers to make sure it wasn't laid down. Remember to factor in safety gear to the final price.

The bonus of the FZR is that is was made for almost 10 years with no real changes so almost all years are interchangeable. There are an abundance of parts floating around if something does go wrong. Plus all the information you could need is on this site and everyone here is pretty helpful. The FZR is a super easy bike to work on. While it does have its quirks it is a great first bike. Not to mention you'll get a lot more mpg than a newer bike and the insurance is a whole lot cheaper.

+10

Click here for some additional insight on the FZR

[95FZR600]

This would be a great starter bike. What else have you found out about it?