n00b FZR 600 to 400 questions

[lazymaritimer]

I'm relatively new to the world of bikes. I got my license a couple years ago, but just bought my first bike this year. I wanted an FZR400 from the get go, and I thought it would be a fun bike to cut my teeth on. As it turned out though I couldn't find one, so I bought a clean 93 FZR600. After a couple months of driving it and getting used to it, I've grown to love it, but it still feels like it might be a bit more bike than I need. I never really open it up, and don't feel comfortable pushing it hard in the twisties although I am getting there slowly. I now have an opportunity to sell it, and buy an equally nice JDM 86 FZR400.
Now my question is something like this... I've never driven a 400, and although it's the bike I always wanted, I'm afraid I might feel like I'm taking a step backward. I do ride it to work a lot, I put the miles on whenever I can. I know 400's are NOT a good commuter machine, but no idea how much worse it would be than the 600. I'd like to try something that I could work a little harder and get some more confidence on, but again I don't know if I'd be gaining or losing. I know this is entirely subjective, but wondering if anyone could give me some opinions on what might be the advantages/disadvantages of making the move from 600 to 400. Ultimately I'd like to have a 400/600 swap of course.
Thanks!

[Burtonrider10022]

One thing I do know, is that here in the US the 400's are rare and command a premium due to that. If the price is right, and the bike is in good shape, what do you have to lose? You could potentially gain more confidence in the turns due to the superior handling and lighter frame, better gas mileage I would assume, a bike more in your prefered power band, and then even if you don't like it you can sell it to fzrBrandon because he has been chasing every single person with a 400 for sale since I joined the board .

Also, can you afford to buy the 400 w/o selling your well running 600? Just in case you don't like it...

[Brown Stain]

The 400 us a sweet bike. What it gives up in HP to the 600 it more than makes up for in handling. It's an incredibly fun bike. As for your concerns about commuting don't worry. Gonna be about the same as the 600.

[lazymaritimer]

Thanks for the reply! Just after I made my first post I found a 3TJ with a YZF600 swap... going to check that one out for sure! I don't think I'd miss the power that much, but if I could get a nice hybrid I'd pretty well have the best of both worlds.

[SouthendChris]

The 3TJ is a very rare beast indeed in the states. There were only ever 500 3TJ6's made and 500 3TJ7's. Yamaha UK cottoned onto the popularity of the 3TJ and we eventually got the 4DX (identical but no restrictions). None of the major 1WG parts fit easily (wheels forks subframe etc). they are like an aluminium framed foxeye bike - or YZF600 to you stateside guys.

Chris