Which TA to buy?

[sweaty sock]

Having got good feedback about swapping to a AT from a VFR, the question is which one? I know which VFR suits me- no fuel injection glitches or silly linked brakes and VTEC- but which AT gives a good balance of weight, power and ride-ability. And which is most reliable, and easy to work on as I do my own servicing? I know, it's all a matter of opinion, but I favour light and simple...

[Kjell Lindberg]

If it's an AT you are looking for, then find the best possible example for the money you have.

I'm an old Git, so I personally like the oldest the most, the RD03 (1988-1989), or the RD04 (1990-1992).

The RD03 is a little trickier to find aftermarket parts for, and some OEM spare parts are non obtainable these days.

If you go for the newer ones, RD07 or RD07A (1992-2003), then there are no major changes through the years, bar livery and "adjustments" in suspension, ignition and a pair of throttle position sensors.
I think the RD07A also have a slightly revised top fairing.

Anyhow, all of them have been used (and some have been abused) so find the best possible example, regardless of MY.

Good luck!

[Lord Stig]

If you're really considering a TA (rather than an AT - different forum) you're potentially thinking along the right lines for lightness and simplicity. The earlier 600 fits that bill the best (up to 1994 single disk models the lightest), with the 650 apparently slightly harder to work on (e.g., air filter under the tank) but around as light once the exhaust and catylist (not present on the 600) are changed. The current 700 has most of the complexities you mention, so probably not a good bet.

Both main varients of the AT (RD04/RD07) are simple and easy to work on (albeit with the addition of a fuel pump over the 600 or 650 TA), although the RD07 with its slightly more easily accessible air filter and possibility to balance the carbs without removing the tank probably is slightly better for your purposes. Also a few kilos lighter.

They are all good though, so as Kjell says, go for the best you can afford. Age is not a factor, condition is.

[MCsanandreas]

yep,go for condition of bike not age. i hear rumors that the pre1996 bikes are a bit better built as they are Japanese not Italian built.

[sweaty sock]

Cheers gents.