[ulster exile]

I'm totally new to biking so forgive my ignorance to start with...

Bought my YBR125 on 17th August this year (seems like years away!) and ever since have been looking for options on my post-DAS bike. I've been building a shortlist - liking street style bikes and being a short-arse at 5'4" (hubby says 5'3") can't do too tall, although I'm willing to get it shortened if needs be. Can't do anything sporty, since the hobby has seriously exacerbated my carpal tunnel syndrome so can't be in a riding position with too much stress on my wrists.

Anyway, long story short, but it's only tonight that I've come across the MT-03. Not heard/read anything about it in weeks of looking on t'internet for good bikes in the 250-650cc range before now. Never seen anybody recommend it, so wondering if there's a reason why?

Seems like a nice bike if looks are anything to go by, read a few reviews (including the old thread on here) so why is it not more popular amongst the folk who like the naked/street bikes?

TIA!

[ShoKz]

my friend has it, he loves it

it has tonnes of torque, is also a wheelie machine.

my friend was doign stopies on it and wheelies within a week of buying it.

only down side to it is that has got alot of electrics, a alarm etc, so not a bad thing. I would strongly recomend one, they can be very loud with a arrow exaust on them!

maybe not the most pillion friendly bike in the world, but it doesnt stop me going on the back! and riding it

insurance is pretty good aswell, and it looks proper good.

here is a pic i took one night

[JimR]

ulster exile, on Sep 29 2008, 08:07 PM, said:

I'm totally new to biking so forgive my ignorance to start with...

Bought my YBR125 on 17th August this year (seems like years away!) and ever since have been looking for options on my post-DAS bike. I've been building a shortlist - liking street style bikes and being a short-arse at 5'4" (hubby says 5'3") can't do too tall, although I'm willing to get it shortened if needs be. Can't do anything sporty, since the hobby has seriously exacerbated my carpal tunnel syndrome so can't be in a riding position with too much stress on my wrists.

Anyway, long story short, but it's only tonight that I've come across the MT-03. Not heard/read anything about it in weeks of looking on t'internet for good bikes in the 250-650cc range before now. Never seen anybody recommend it, so wondering if there's a reason why?

Seems like a nice bike if looks are anything to go by, read a few reviews (including the old thread on here) so why is it not more popular amongst the folk who like the naked/street bikes?

TIA!

Nice bit of kit ... there is a Girl in my area who has one ... she loves it (even the wacky looks ... sorry I like old stuff) her comment was 'it does what it says on the tin...... and some
regards Jim

[RavenHawk]

I've been wanting to find one (and an MT-01 too), but looks like the MT-03 is Europe only, and the MT-01 is Europe and Canada only (I'm in the USA).

[ulster exile]

Cheers for the replies guys - appreciated

As a 'first big bike' option, wheeles/stoppies aren't on the top of my list, nor are pillion options as the OH has his own bike. Still, also good to hear about the alarm & insurance!

I'm liking the "Girl's" opinion too - that counts for a lot she wasn't a short-arse, was she

The position of the bars compared to the seat look good - so it has a more upright position (sit up and beg?) which is what I need with my wrists.

As long as it's manouevreable enough for city riding, but does alright on a motorway/A roads for longer-distance travel, I'd be happy.

Sounds like I can add that to the list of ones to have a gander at in the flesh, along with the ER6n and SV650.

[harrness]

ulster exile, on Sep 29 2008, 08:07 PM, said:

I'm totally new to biking so forgive my ignorance to start with...

Bought my YBR125 on 17th August this year (seems like years away!) and ever since have been looking for options on my post-DAS bike. I've been building a shortlist - liking street style bikes and being a short-arse at 5'4" (hubby says 5'3") can't do too tall, although I'm willing to get it shortened if needs be. Can't do anything sporty, since the hobby has seriously exacerbated my carpal tunnel syndrome so can't be in a riding position with too much stress on my wrists.

Anyway, long story short, but it's only tonight that I've come across the MT-03. Not heard/read anything about it in weeks of looking on t'internet for good bikes in the 250-650cc range before now. Never seen anybody recommend it, so wondering if there's a reason why?

Seems like a nice bike if looks are anything to go by, read a few reviews (including the old thread on here) so why is it not more popular amongst the folk who like the naked/street bikes?

TIA!

Hi

I have a 2006 MT03 had it for 2 years now, great bike. I have been riding all kind of bikes for over 30 years, one before the MT03 was a Honda CBR600, very fast but bland. The MT03 is great fun even on a short trip. Power delivery takes a bit of getting used to. I have had more fun on the MT03 than any other bike. I highly recommend it.

If you are in Northern Ireland contact Hursts for test ride, you wont be disapointed.

Harry

[ulster exile]

Cheers for the info!

I'm in Birmingham at the mo (guess I should update the profile eh?) but I've booked to go to the NEC motorcyle show to see and sit on some bikes to start with before I think about test rides (need a test first lol).

[JimR]

ulster exile, on Oct 1 2008, 05:23 PM, said:

Cheers for the info!

I'm in Birmingham at the mo (guess I should update the profile eh?) but I've booked to go to the NEC motorcyle show to see and sit on some bikes to start with before I think about test rides (need a test first lol).

the MT will be cool ... if your going to nec tell us what day & Helen & I will have a meet up with you .. chew the fat etc etc
Regards Jim

[ulster exile]

Cool Jim - will let you know nearer the time as we haven't decided on a date for definite (but said when we booked it would be Sat 29th). Thanks!

[JimR]

ulster exile, on Oct 1 2008, 07:56 PM, said:

Cool Jim - will let you know nearer the time as we haven't decided on a date for definite (but said when we booked it would be Sat 29th). Thanks!

sunday would be better 4 us .. I have to do refuse stuff early saturday ... but we could do later saturday ... depends on the trains .... I won't ride or drive to the NEC there's a fair chance you'll loose ur way home !!!
regards Jim

[Ryan09]

Has the xt engine doesnt it? so it would be reliable.
I really like it would get one if i didnt have my eye on a supermoto.
Cool looks aswell stands out in the crowd, go for it

[ulster exile]

Thanks Ryan. I certainly agree that in the looks department (for those that like type of bike) it is the business.

Jim - will let you know. Me and the OH will be riding in - it's a nice route from our house as long as you stay away from the M6!

[ulster exile]

Just had to update this as I sat on my first MT-03 today. (sorry Jim, we were supposed to go Sat, but plans changed at last minute when we ended up spending the weekend in Leeds - with 5 nephews *shivers* )

I'm totally in love with this bike and can't wait to pass my test to actually test ride one! Out of the bikes I sat on numerous times today (ER6N, lowered F650, Suzuki Gladius and Honda CB600) the MT-03 is definitely the favourite for my first big bike.

It's a compact and bijou kind of affair where the distance from the seat to handlebars is much shorter than the others meaning my arms don't feel stretched, although that could be due to the seating position which tips you forward a little. 6'3" hubby felt uncomfortable and reckoned he didn't like this position, but little ol' 5'4" me felt like I was sat upright.

Can't wait to try this bike out!

[ShoKz]

the cb 600 has the most power out of them all

[ulster exile]

Perhaps, but I can't see myself really needing all that much power. I want a bike to be nippy round town and in traffic and capable of getting me up to the speed limit comfortably on a motorway.

[JimR]

ulster exile, on Dec 2 2008, 06:48 PM, said:

Perhaps, but I can't see myself really needing all that much power. I want a bike to be nippy round town and in traffic and capable of getting me up to the speed limit comfortably on a motorway.

Too right if it suits you and can do the speed limits why do you need more ? Ok I know I have a 900 but it has very rarley gone over the speed limits but it can pull 15mph in top gear and accelerate away from cars in that state ... the old cars are droping gears to keep up ! The MT is not as good as that but will do everything you need it to do, you may have to drop a gear or 2 to keep the cars away or not depends on your riding style. If the CBR doesn't float your boat why buy one ? If your happy with it go for it !
regards Jim

[Imanupstart]

Think its a beautiful bike, its what I'm hoping to get when I pass my test (or a 250 ninja)

[ulster exile]

Jim - cheers my thinking exactly. in the future my opinions may change, but my focus at the mo is to learn to ride, not to go (really) fast.

Imanupstart - too right it's beautiful. Even more so in the flesh!

[oldgitonabike]

ulster exile, on Dec 2 2008, 07:11 PM, said:

Jim - cheers my thinking exactly. in the future my opinions may change, but my focus at the mo is to learn to ride, not to go (really) fast.

Imanupstart - too right it's beautiful. Even more so in the flesh!

This thread is short of a good picture for those that dont know the bike...quite a radical styling they have

[JimR]

ulster exile, on Dec 2 2008, 07:11 PM, said:

Jim - cheers my thinking exactly. in the future my opinions may change, but my focus at the mo is to learn to ride, not to go (really) fast.

Imanupstart - too right it's beautiful. Even more so in the flesh!

I am old or something (don't answer that one) there is no need to do 167.55555 mph (mine does 167.5555 mph in second etc etc .... thats what some people get off on) whats wrong with good old 70 (80 at a push) you tend to last a bit longer at those speeds (rather than 167.55555) and dont wear out Tyres & brakes so quick. I rode an R1 didn't like it at all (OK it was an early example back when it was new) riding position wrong & a bad flat spot in the mid range (just the area I would run the bike). but back to the point I would guess any 600cc bike would suit you all the way across (performance etc) bigger stuff may become a bit of a handful, my XJ being old has no credit to speed or performance (reliability yes it has a good for one thing). My other half is also vertically chalenged 5 2 with high heels on, she bought a ZZR250 and had real problems with it so gave up riding bikes .... to date she gets on the 900 by scaling the footrest but jumps on the Fizzy no probs
Regards Jim

[Slippery When Wet]

ulster exile, on Dec 2 2008, 06:48 PM, said:

Perhaps, but I can't see myself really needing all that much power. I want a bike to be nippy round town and in traffic and capable of getting me up to the speed limit comfortably on a motorway.

Hi UE,

I'm a 5'4'' female, ride a few different bikes but having read through this thread I think you will love the MT03. I nearly bought one as a daily commuter (6 mile from country into town, park at station) and for nipping around town at weekends. For town work, twisties, urban and rural A and B roads, its the dog's danglies. Nimble, fairly light, very manoeverable (certainly out U-eys an R6 ) and as you say an upright riding position, best for your wrists.

The only thing having read the last bit you wrote above is comfort on motorways .... not it's strong point. You will feel the full force of the wind on your chest, it's a totally naked bike so will be a colder, nore exposed ride than a faired bike. It's also a single, and a bit underpowered, I'm not talking about being able to do 150mph, but with top speed around 90mph, it's not the bike for motorway work. If you're just concerned about maintaining nat speed limit for 20 mile stretch of dual carriageway, then it would be fine, but not the best long haul work.

Now for the best bit .... you should be able to pick up a nearly new second hand one with a few extra goodies on, pretty cheap.

[RavenHawk]

Slippery When Wet, on Dec 10 2008, 05:10 AM, said:

Hi UE,

I'm a 5'4'' female, ride a few different bikes but having read through this thread I think you will love the MT03. I nearly bought one as a daily commuter (6 mile from country into town, park at station) and for nipping around town at weekends. For town work, twisties, urban and rural A and B roads, its the dog's danglies. Nimble, fairly light, very manoeverable (certainly out U-eys an R6 ) and as you say an upright riding position, best for your wrists.

The only thing having read the last bit you wrote above is comfort on motorways .... not it's strong point. You will feel the full force of the wind on your chest, it's a totally naked bike so will be a colder, nore exposed ride than a faired bike. It's also a single, and a bit underpowered, I'm not talking about being able to do 150mph, but with top speed around 90mph, it's not the bike for motorway work. If you're just concerned about maintaining nat speed limit for 20 mile stretch of dual carriageway, then it would be fine, but not the best long haul work.

Now for the best bit .... you should be able to pick up a nearly new second hand one with a few extra goodies on, pretty cheap.

All more reasons why I wish this bike was available in the USA.

[ulster exile]

Excellant review slippery and thank you for taking the time to write all of that! You're right, the bike has what I want. Little bit disapointed with what you've got to say about the motorway - although 95% of my riding is likely to be in traffic, I'm sure there will be a few longer trips on the cards (say 150 miles) occasionally depending on how often the oh feels he *has* to see his family lol. We'll have to have a think about that.

Thank you very much

[Willenium]

I rode an MT-03 back in 2006 while there was one on demo at a local dealer. Plenty of torque to keep you out of trouble and the power delivery is not too ferocious which makes it brilliant for newcomers to big bikes. Being a single cylinder engine, the power range is fairly limited and I was nearly spat over the front when the rev limiter stepped in. Top speed I saw on the clock was 139km/h.

The seating position is far more upright than a sportsbike and if you're not after monster speed then this is a pretty good bike to consider.

[ulster exile]

Thanks for your opinion Willenium, much appreciated

I'm loving this thread, not just for the great opinions people are giving me but also for that gorgeous pic posted by oldgitonabike!

Cheers all

[3chipsonmytank]

ulster exile, on Dec 13 2008, 09:56 AM, said:

Thanks for your opinion Willenium, much appreciated

I'm loving this thread, not just for the great opinions people are giving me but also for that gorgeous pic posted by oldgitonabike!

Cheers all

Ive had my mt03 since passing my test in March and having stopped loving it yet. great bike, absolutly perfect for town riding, A/B roadsare just made for this bike. great to razz through the gears and when you have you are still within "sensible speeds"

i have to agree with the others on the motorway riding, it can do it but it isnt fun,

mines been spot on since day 1 and if youre still after a bike to do what you have said earlier in the year then the MT is well worth it.

Happy christmas

ps youre right about that pic, its a bobby dazzler.

[mt-03bob]

Hi ya,
I have an '07' Orange MT-03 single seat,I've done 9400miles on her....not my first bike by any means but it's got something others just dont seem to have anymore and that's FUN.

We have our own club MTOC where you can get lots of help redarding mt-01 and mt-03.
you mite be unlucky and get a 'friday built bike' as those Italians can be a bit slack on quality control I've had my oil tank replaced twice paint flakes off as soon as you get the bike!! A massive oil leak occured after first service 600miles.

And the magnelli tacho gets condensation in it making it hard to see what speed your doing.... replaced that once already,need another one soon.
The tyres you get on it are crap in the wet (pirelli scorpions)sliding every which way can be scarry!!,change'em to BT-021 much better trye,dont know what the Michelins are like they are also on the bike sometimes.

I would recommend an mt-03 whether or not to a newbie I'm not sure it can be a lively little thing even to me sometimes as a found out spilling it (someone pulled out on me) doing only 27mph..rear peg goes into engine case,r/h footpeg bent,R/h & L/h Rad sheild smashed,scratched tank,handle bar bent brake lever broken.
Total cost of this spill £1100.00, not to mention the damage to me!! get all the crash bungs you can!!

As for the handle bars you mite find the vibes coming from them abit uncomfortable and you need to have big'ish hands to reach the clutch/brake lever,you can put shorter bars on 'Rizoma' with new levers are a good worthwhile upgarde costing only in the £230mark.

I'm not trying to put you off cause it's a great bike,but as you are short you mite save urself from dropping it if you get a shorting kit.
Just dont pay full price I think you could get 1 a new for £4500.00,
if you shop about and bargain hard, I payed £4650.00 o.t.r, plus I got carbon monoseat £145.00,fly screen £99.00(a must for the look) carbon rad shields £140.00 for free.
Or their are some nice secondhand ones around for about £3200.00 mark.

All in all these are things most riders put up on any bike,my Ducati was worst for paint coming off engine/frame.
MT-03's great for town and A-roads,small bits on m/ways and cheap to run being a single,fill up the 15 litre tank and you should get well over 130 miles,the reserve light comes on at around the 80-90miles and then you have at least 40 miles if you ride sensibly which can be hard sometimes!!
Insurance around £500 mark.
Get the new one for '09' yellow&black tank,black swingarm and forks A Lovely looking bike!! any questions??
MT-03bob. if you go down the MT-03 route... 'Welcome to the torque-sport revolution'!!

[mt-03bob]

RavenHawk, on Sep 30 2008, 07:01 PM, said:

I've been wanting to find one (and an MT-01 too), but looks like the MT-03 is Europe only, and the MT-01 is Europe and Canada only (I'm in the USA).

I'll send you one over the pond for a small fee if you want a Mt-03 or MT-01?
03 better too send in a crate weighs less he he!! plus you get the vat back!!

[mt-03bob]

ShoKz, on Sep 30 2008, 04:20 PM, said:

my friend has it, he loves it

it has tonnes of torque, is also a wheelie machine.

my friend was doign stopies on it and wheelies within a week of buying it.

only down side to it is that has got alot of electrics, a alarm etc, so not a bad thing. I would strongly recomend one, they can be very loud with a arrow exaust on them!

maybe not the most pillion friendly bike in the world, but it doesnt stop me going on the back! and riding it

insurance is pretty good aswell, and it looks proper good.

here is a pic i took one night

get your friend to rub some autosol on his exhaust pipes letting them go rusty tut tut!!

[RavenHawk]

mt-03bob, on Dec 29 2008, 12:13 PM, said:

I'll send you one over the pond for a small fee if you want a Mt-03 or MT-01?
03 better too send in a crate weighs less he he!! plus you get the vat back!!

Lol
Don't tease me!