‘…and I’d consider upgrading if the part-ex was better’
Age 45 Height 5ft 11in Current bikes Yamaha FZS600 Fazer, Yamaha Tracer 900, Suzuki GSX-R1000 K8
I had a KTM 990SMT and thought it was the perfect machine for my riding needs. And it nearly was, other than the shocking fuelling, so when Tracer came along it appeared to fit my requirements and also brought with it the Japanese reputation for reliability and ease of riding.
I tried one of the first Tracer models but was put off by the fuelling again, far too snatchy, however when the MY17 model arrived with promised improvements I tried it again and it felt better. Or maybe just years of riding the KTM made me realise what snatchy fuelling actually meant. The Tracer delivers supermoto style riding when you want it, pleasant relaxed cruising when you don’t. It sips fuel, handles reasonably well considering the bargain bin rear shock, stops fine and generally just gets on with the job, which is exactly what I wanted from it. It does feel a bit budget in areas, but considering its price you can forgive it the crap screen, gearbox whine, rock hard seat and appalling rear shock as it still makes you smile when you ride it.
I did consider upgrading to the GT, but not at current exchange prices as I was offered a very low amount for my bike in part-ex, meaning the upgrade wasn’t value for money and I’d be better spending some cash on a new shock because I have already added luggage and a new screen to my bike.