The Honda Owners Club

I had a short ride on the new Bandit 1250 today.

For the money, it's a cracking bike. I was able to do a back-back comparison with the old Bandit 1200.

Power - no comparison - the new one has oodles more torque and, with one more gear, is a superb long distance tourer. Keep it in the lower gears and it's a match for most bikes (OK, maybe not yours Smiffy)

Handling. I was comparing it with Normas 1200 with a new Maxton rear shock. The new bike was equally responsive and much better than the old shock would have been. So they have done something to make it better.

Ride. The new bike felt lighter than the old one. Bars were a bit further back and not as wide. The screen worked fine for me - on motorways or twisties.

Comfort. As always, the seat needs a bit of sorting - but it's OK. I had it in the lower setting and it was good for my feet reaching the ground.

Others. Mirrors vibrated less than Normas - but then it does have 25,000 miles less. Throttle was a trifle more "twitchy" at low speeds but I find that's the same for all fuel injected bikes. It has a big easy to read digital speedo and the rev limit seems lower. Still some vibes but not as much as the old one.

Would I buy one? Yes if I didn't have my FJR. Got back on that and it was a different world.

Hi Alan i`ve just brought a new 1250 bandit and i`m picking it up on the 14th of this month. I think you are right what you say about it but what a hell of a bike fantastic value for your money
all the best Richard