OK long story short. I bought a 96 SJR new in 96. It has 3k miles, have not ridden in 4 years. (Well 20miles a year to lube the cylinders and blow out the carbon) It was bought as an investment (only 500 made). I had put the Yosh RS3 exhaust on it to match Miguel’s race bike, ($1k) and picked up a new second look seat cover (only 50 made) for the SJR. The bike had sat under a cover in a climate-controlled garage. The tires were beginning to show some cracks and the O-rings on the chain were cracking and falling out.

So I took it in to get new Dunlops and a new chain, tune up etc. Well the Technician took the bike out when the Service was complete and Hit a DEER with the bike!! Totaled it, split the engine in half, wadded up the whole bike. The Buck dressed out at 230# , 9 point in felt. The Technician was scraped on both arms, and his left leg from his butt down. No broken bones. Freak accident.

Now the problem, their insurance will only give $4,500. They said since they cannot find any around, they will use the prices of a 96 CBR F3. Now this does not seem quite fair. I realize my sentimental value means nothing but, since it is totaled, then the price should reflect what you could buy one for today, in excellent condition. Since there were only 500 made 10 years ago, I doubt there are many left to be bought period. I have been unable to locate any. The insurance guy says if I find what some have sold for (96 not the 98) they will be willing to adjust their price.

I am not in any hurry to settle for that price. I feel it is worth at least what I paid for it 10 years ago and can only see the price going up as there becomes less and less of them around. I have all papers, etc. Including the replica helmet and leathers and a painting of Miguel and the SJR commissioned for RJR when the sponsorship began. Autographed by Miguel Duhamel and Lee Bivens. It was all a great collection but now is lacking the centerpiece.

Any words of wisdom or help would be greatly appreciated. I know it seems like I rambled on but I am very disappointed.

 

Oh man... I'm sorry to hear about that. I wanted one of those bikes pretty badly. I've got a 96 F3, Pearl Yellow and Purple, but not the SJ Edition. I hope you can find what you're looking for. Has the tech that wrecked it offered to help out at all?

 

Sorry man. I dont think you should rest until you have an offer atleast somewhat close to the original price. Its not your fault the bikes totaled so why should you have to take the hit?!

 

No he has not offered, but apoligized several times. That is what their insurance for. Now don't get me wrong he feels really bad. He said any other bike other than this one. Even a new one could be replaced. Just a freak accident. Glad he was not seriously injured, nothing permanent. I just need a good estimate, higher the better for me!.