im looking to upgrade from my ninja 500 to either a 650r or a 636. i know the 650r is upright and the 636 is more or less the sports style. coming from a 500 i know how it feels to sit upright, but i was wondering if you guys can comment on the sporty leaning position.

is it uncomfortable on long trips? i probably will use my bike for mostly 45min rides, but here and there i'd like to do some moderate day trips and don't want to kill my back. i know the upright position can also be bad for the spinal cord, so any 2 cents would be appreciated!

thanks,

 

I know people who have done iron butts on the 636, they can be quite comfy. But spending all day in the sports position will leave you a little stiff. You can change your position also, I generally sit upright on my ZX7, but you can only have one hand on the bars when you do it. Bottom line, if you love your ride, you can tough it out, just dont expect to be quite as comfortable.

 

I know the 05 636 is super comfy...12-14 hours a day on the bike without saddle sores...

 

^^^Iron Butt, LMAO

 

hmm, I pulled a 2200 mile 3 dayer on the 10r with my suspension set up. I hurt for a fricken week! If you are after long hauls, the older KZ's did well and they have some pep to them. The 500 is a too plush of a ride I think. Once sprung correctly, it looses its cruiser theme shortly. Not sure if the 650 is anymore comfy than the 500 already is. good luck.

edit: the F model were really comfy and had some pep. Check that out as well. I was averaging 17k a yr on my 88 ninja 750 (yes again, an older ride)

 

I ride a 2005 ZX636, and I have been pleased with the comfort. Of course it's not like sitting in a comfy chair, and yes, you are leaned over, but I was pleasantly surprised at the comfort level it does offer. It has a nice wide seat, and although it is a racy position, it's not like you're doing a handstand or trying out to be a contortionist. You could also invest in a gel seat or something if you are really concerned, but really, you can only ride so long on any bike before you need to stop and take a break. Even if it's just to re-fuel. I would recommend the 636 any day. Good luck with your decision.

 

my 636 hurt, untill....... lol..... i did some rearset relocators. moved the pegs up an inch and back an inch. way comfy now

racing rearsets would do the same trick