I want to preface this by saying that I'm a relative newbie (3rd riding season in Toronto), and by no means a motrocycle expert. I am just offering my personal experiences and opinions...
I currently ride a 2008 Ninja 500, and am very happy with it...it's my third riding season on this bike, and it has been great for me and the current skill level that I'm at. Anyways, on a whim, I decided to do a test ride of the all new 2012 Ninja 650 (Candy Green in colour).
All I can say is WOW! This is one impresssive machine, at least from my relative newbie perspective. In comparison to my 500, It was astonishing to me - the significant jump in torque, power, acceleration, between a 500cc and 650cc. The 650 just had instant response, and a super long powerband, and on no matter what gear you were in, the engine seemed to be optimized and ready for launch if you were so inclined to to roll on the power. The feeling was amazing - almost ELECTRIC to have that much power readily on tap. Yet at the same time, the bike seemed very controllable and rider friendly, and I was able to enjoyably ride it at a very measured pace. On my 500, there are definitely rpm ranges where I'd define the engine being in it's "happy place" - meaning the revs are just ultra smooth and I can feel the vibrations smooth out. But on the 650, the engine seems to be happy everywhere - I think this may have something to do with a modern, chip controlled, fuel injection system, as opposed to the carburetor system on my 500.
I know the 2012 650 is basically a brand new model, but I'm wondering if there are any members out there who have also riding experience on the new 2012 model or any of the previous 650R versions (2006-2009), (2010-2012). I am very curious to know your real world riding impressions and reliability of this bike? The online professional reviews that I have seen can only tell you so much. I am seriously considering purchasing this bike - can't stop thinking about it...so your candid thoughts and comments are appreciated...
