THE RIDE VERDICT
WE ABSOLUTELY LOVE these. A mental (but controllable) motor, sweet handling, cool looks and everyday practicality would all make it a winner anyway. But add in bargain prices and low running costs, and you’re laughing all the way.
True, the suspension is basic and, also true, the finish isn’t the best. But you can sort the suspension without spending a fortune, and a little care and attention will keep it tidy enough until either you sell it on, or invest some cash in new paint on the swingarm in particular. It’s the kind of bike you can leave more or less standard and it’ll do anything you
“With bargain prices and low running costs, you’re laughing all the way”
want it to, but it also has the potential to be even better with some carefully considered (and relatively easy) modifications to the suspension and the brakes in particular.
It’s been such a good seller that there are plenty of them to choose from, so you can afford to be picky. And because it’s so popular, it’s well served by the aftermarket, helping to bring servicing costs down even further.