Busa Reliability...

[Aughtsix]

I know I know, it's a Busa board, but I have $9800 riding on this question so please be objective.

Leaving the bike mechanically stock, and factoring in regular and proper maintenance, how is the reliability of the Busa as compared to the other reliability darling, the 1100XX. The Honda guys claim that their bike will easily go 75,000 miles without a problem, and they talk of people who have over 100,000 miles on them without event.

I've been predominantly a Kawasaki guy for as long as I can remember, and I'll probably always have a soft spot in my heart for the 12r, but it's just not as reliable as it could be. I had been thinking of picking up an '04 12r, but I've decided against it in favor of something non-Kawasaki - it's just time for a change. There's a new Busa Limited that I can pick up for $9800 OTD and it's really tempting (I can't find a black/purple anywhere close to Salem). I can also pick up a new '03 1100XX for $9300. Hence my question.

Help me out guys...

Steve

 

[Charlesbusa]

My 2002 Busa only has 11,000miles on it, no problems at all. But Big O has put over 50,000miles on his 2002 Busa with no problems at all. You can PM Big O to verify, since this is secondhand knowledge.

 

[WWJD]

That is an interesting and valid question. I feel the reliabilty really depends on how you WILL use it. In other words, if all I did was commute, change oil, have regular maintence done, I bet the bus would last a REAL LONG time. That said, Honda has a longer history of rock solid, yet boring, soulless machines. THAT said, I seriously doubt I could get as much easy diverisity out of the 1100XX - in OTHER other words, I think if I were to beat on the 1100xx they way I do my Busa, I think stuff would wear, parts would start to rattle and it would need MORE maintenance, just like a busa under the same circumstances. But the busa gives more of everything. I don't feel 1100xx and busa riders are the same people. I guess Honda offers up longevity thru sacrificed performance - it's a physics trade off that can not be beat. Decide HOW you want to use it and that will help narrow your choice

PS I'm at 13+k on my 03 and have no problems. 3 tracks days [which is like 3 months of abuse] lots of commuting, lots of hard riding twisties, hot take offs, on my 4th back tire already, couple tune up checks weren't needed [did them for track days] so far seems totally reliable.



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[RaiderDm]

Well, my '02 has 42K miles. So far I have had zero mechanical problems. I do have to replace my low
beam bulb once a year. 4 times a year I need a new rear tire. Every 6-7 months I need a front. I've
replaced the brake pads once. Ditto with the drive chain at 18K. The chain does need replacing again now.
The sprockets however are the originals... and STILL don't need replacing. I ride 60 miles round trip
to work. I ride 250 to 400 miles a weekend, hard enough to wear the tires to the edge. All in all
I'd have to say my BUSA has been the most reliable bike I've owned out of the 25 or so I've owned.
I hope this helps ya out.



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[Revlis]

Seriously? Ride a Busa, then Ride a Bird... You'll never buy the Honda. I love Honda, but it just cannot compete with the Busa in terms of ride quality and performance.

Reliability wise, Raider has over 50K miles not a single problem... Just like anything else, you take care of it, it'll take care of you. Honestly man buy the Suzuki extended warranty then ride the shid outta it, you'll never look back.

 

[Gpirelli]

I agree with Rev, I paid an extra $400 for a 5 year extended warranty. Although I don't think I'll have to worry about it, I think its worth it. Honda has always been known to build quality bikes, but between the Busa and the Bird, I think you're looking at about the same reliability as long as you maintain it properly. Although both bikes are in the same class, they are very different. Think about what you want in a bike. Good luck in your decision, and hopefully you'll end up on the Busa side

 

[Aughtsix]

Thanks guys, and if it tells you anything, I have a PO in my hand for an '04 Limited. I haven't even asked for a PO for the Bird. I guess the only question now is to go with the Limited or to keep trying to find a Black/Purple...

The last Suzuki I bought new was waaaaaay back in '81, so I'm more than a bit out-of-touch with them. That bike ('81 GS1100EX - black) was stone reliable though, even through tons of abuse. Sounds like that hasn't changed.

And I'm not much of an extended warranty guy. Even with Kawasaki I've never needed them. Usually I'll buy a new Arai instead - better insurance in my opinion.

Anyway, thanks again and keep those opinions coming;

Steve

 

[unIVgvn]

I HAVE OWNED MANY BIKES OVER THE YEARS AND FOR ALL AROUND RIDEABILITY,SPEED,RELIABILITY,AND JUST PLAIN
FUN.BUSA IS KING,I HAVE 40K ON MINE AND OTHER THAN CONSUMABLES AND THE ONE RECALL I JUST CHANGE OIL AND TIRES AND BOOGY.I HAD BEEN THINKING OF SELLING BUT JUST CANT LET GO OF IT.

 

[flyboy]

Here is my Black/Purple Busa...maybe this will make your mind up.

 

[Revlis]

Oh damn, Sorry Raider... Over 40K on your Busa...Although now it might be closer to 50k.... I took a shot in the dark cause last time I was riding with you it was about 36k on the clocks I think... Took a shot...

 

[Phatroy]

I have 74,500 on my 2000 Busa. Only one problem ever.
The paper fuel filters in the gas pump break up after
about 40,000 miles and start clogging the fuel injectors.
It happened at 40,000 and 70,000. Other than that I
ride her 114 mile a day to work and back and every
Saturday out at the twisties. She's still going strong.

 

[Aughtsix]

Flyboy - That black/purple is just gorgeous!

Steve