Hey,

I'm looking to buy a 93 CBR1000F. Who better to ask questions of than current and prior owners?

I currently ride an 89 ninja 500. Great bike for solo commuting, not so much for Two-up - it feels positively slow. Test rode a ninja 1000, but that was way too fast. I don't want to spend solo rides feathering the gas trying not to kill myself. From what I gather, the cbr1000f should be perfect - not fazed by an extra 120lbs of pillion, but also not constantly trying to bite you.
I've considered other options like a used triumph spring ST or a BMW f800gt, but both of those are going to be at least 5-6k. I don't want to spend quite that much, and I don't want a bike that breaks down frequently and is hard/pricey to work on. This basically narrows it down to an older Japanese bike.

Grateful for any and all feedbsck on these Q's:
- anything to look out for when buying? I've read a lot about cam chain noise, but as long as it goes away once the bike warms, it's fine, correct?
- is 60k considered a lot for a well-loved, well-mannered example?
- anything else you think I should know about the bike?

Thanks in advance!

 

Welcome to the forum DSA, you are correct on the cam chain rattle, 60k sounds pretty average for age, if well maintained all should be good, 100k+ with little problems is not unheard of.
You say you tested a Ninja 1000 and it was too fast, what year was it? A 1993 Ninja 1000 had a top speed of 153mph. I have a 93 model CBR1000f myself and they are still a quick bike in todays age, 160mph top speed for a standard bike is pretty fast in any time period and anyway you look at it, the CBR is faster and only has 3 less horse power than a Ninja that is 18 years newer and probably way less comfortable. .

 

Thanks for the reply!
The Ninja 1000 (it was a 2014) feeling fast was probably more a result of the way the power was delivered rather than outright hp or top speed numbers. The gearing and fueling made it very twitchy and easy to raise the front wheel. I wouldn't be surprised if the CBR was quicker pulling from 60 mph, but from what I've read/heard, it's far less...aggressive at lower speeds. I have no doubt that one can easily hurt themselves on a Hurricane if careless, I'm just hoping I don't need to constantly worry about rolling a touch too hard on the throttle.

As to comfort, yeah the N1K was very vibey even at lower revs. I did like the upright riding position, but didn't ride it long enough to assess the seat for long term comfort.

 

Hi DSA.

I had a CBR1000F as a first bike after passing my test, if you can find a good one it might just suit your needs.

The bike has quite a long wheel base, making it a very stable bike and comfortable. It is very heavy though, so do bear that in mind, especially with a passenger.

Find yourself a well loved example, the miles are not so important, what counts is how much the bike has been loved and maintained.

 

Bought it!

 

Congrats!!!

 

Welcome to the forum.



My CBR is the best bike I have ever owned. I have at times looked for another bike and was afraid that it might not deliver the all-around performance and pleasure of a Hurricane. They're not without their quirks and some parts are getting hard to come by. That being said, as with any older machine, maintenance is the key.


Love the bike and it will love you back


Enjoy

 

The CBR1000F is a great choice for an experienced rider looking for a liter-class machine. Reliable, great styling, and a nearly bulletproof motor that, while not sportbike powerful, has way more than enough power for nearly anyone and a fantastic flat torque curve that most other liter bikes in its class could only dream of.

You did well. Ride safe.