Hi guys, I just bought a 954rr. I still have my 600F3 though.

It's a great machine, but I was wondering something.

It seems that the 954rr's dry weight is about 20-30 lbs lighter than my old F3 (steel frame).
So I thought that the handling would be about the same.

But the 954 is much less flickable than the F3. It takes much more effort to avoid pot holes and to prepare a corner entry. The difference is almost comparing my F3 to a scooter.

On the other side, taking a corner is more stable than the F3. Well, in about every situation it is more stable.

I wonder which factor affects the handling that much.
-is it the kind of tires ? pirelli something vs michelin pilot
-is it the bigger wheel base ?
-is it the improper rear tire size ? (the girl who had it put 190-60-17 instead of oem 190-50-17)
-is it the steering damper ?
-or is it just the way the bike is ?

 

I went to a 954 from an F3. Both fitted with Michellin Pilot Powers (this was a few years ago).


The 954 was better in every way. So, I'd say that it's probably tires, or tire pressures.

Oh, and welcome to the fam'.

 

Check tyre pressures and has the profile weared flat on the tyres, suspension settings and steering damper settings. The 190/60 tyre on the rear should make it lighter to turn. I have rode my 954 whit 180/60 and 195/65 rear tyres and it steers like a thought. Even little bit to light.