I never understood why people always talk about 600 ss bikes not having enough oomph "down low" I have a 2008 cbr600rr and this bike feels like it hauls arse off the line, I mean it does 0-60 in 3.3 seconds, how much faster do you need? I'd love to test ride the new 636 but I can't see it being leaps and bounds more powerful. I do love the fact that it has a slipper and a soft clutch. Also, the looks of the bike are nice.
Tom, you posted this a year ago but here's a tip when you've got a passenger to save your wrists; they can put their hands on the tank when you're braking, kinda like they're going to do a diamond pushup. Takes all that weight off your arms! Only problem is most ladies can be scared to take their death grip off your stomach, but if you can teach them it's so much better for rides! Cheers from California!
I love your camera-angle, because there are many other motorcycle channels where you see nothing of the bike, just straight above it, yours is ideal, you can see the horizon but at the same time as much as possible of the bike keep up the good work :)
Awesome choice man, really love the new 636. Just a word of advice, if your wrists are hurting, you should focus using your core muslce's to take the weight. Lock your knee's up against the tank and stomach muscles to keep your weight off your wrists more. This will also help you when you're out in the twisties too.
Sat on this thing in the dealership today. It's huge. I'm only 5'7, small build but hey! Don't worry before anybody gives me shit, I'm going for the Ninja 300, don't think I could handle this beast!
I have a 2003 636. Stock it was close to the limit for street use. Since I put a +3 rear on it, and modified it a little, its just a little too fast to really beat on. Once its properly tuned (im running rich now) It will end up being the perfect bike (performance wise where looking at about the same as the bike you are riding in the video). It has the low end that it needs but when you open it up its just enough to be a little scary but controllable. I dont see myself getting a liter bike now. If I ever get another super sport it will be the bike you are riding in this video when they go down in price some years from now. oh btw.. its has an extra 37cc's not 36... but im just being nit picky now.. those that know what im talking about know what you meant. also.. we cant test ride sport bikes at all in the USA.. you are really lucky that the dealers let you ride these bikes before buying them.
I think Kawi made the right decision for street bikes, lots of people complain about the power at low revs, but they gave up on a fantastic engine for the track! I bought my first 600 this year and my only complaint is how tempting it is to speed at all rpms! I just can't understand why people need more power on the streets.
He is actually on the Formula 1 street circuit at Albert Park, Melbourne. It's a street road around a lake 11 months of the year, the other month it is closed for the F1. @4:55, the building on the right are the Pit Lane garages.
Regarding the headshaking, be conscious of how tightly you're hanging on. Your sore wrists in conjunction with scary headshaking suggests stiff arms and a tight grip. Loosen your arms and be mindful that your hands are there to actuate the controls, not hold you up. Your abs/legs are your support. Consciously loosen your grip and ensure your elbows are loose and the headshakes will finish MUCH quicker and you wont be as sore. Safe riding mate.
Got yourself another sub. You may have changed my mind on a Ducati. Gonna have to flip through your videos see if you've ever rode one. Thanks for taking the time to upload this.
Balls of your feet on the pegs, and use the legs to grip the grooves at each side of the tank. That will allow you to keep your upper body more relaxed and forearms parallel to the ground. Enjoy the bike. It looks beautiful!
i agree, grip that tank with your legs that's what its designed for. ya see alot of riders riding around like a tri-pod on two wheels, grip with ya legs and drop ya elbows abit, it will also help with cornering and help reduce fatigue.
Hi, I'm 57 years old and am considering buying a motorcycle again. Way back in 1965, I rode a Honda 305 Dream and I liked it a lot. I'm considering buying either a 2015 Kawasaki ZX10 or the new BMW RR1000. Somebody told me those two motorcycles were too fast, but I can't imagine them being that much faster than the 305 dream I owned. I mean, the new bikes must be much heavier, therefor slower.
Great review man! It's good to see someone go over some of the "trim pieces" like the cluster features, traction control, etc... Most reviews are just some dude talking about track times.. I need to know about real world features since none of my local dealers let people test ride bikes, even licensed riders...
Makes me want one even more with it having more mid-torque. I own a 93 zx7 that gets 45city mpg and around 50mpg hwy stock(now has open exhaust, stage2 jets and float bowl mod). Kawi as come along way and was smart bring the 636 back.
I actually prefered to ride my zx6r without a s/damper it was far more agile and fun and I didn't mind the bars shaking a little as it lets you know you're really pushing hard and gave me a big grin. It only really did it on full acceleration over bumpy roads. Tyre choice is very important as well, bad tyres will give you the slappers more. My zx6 never went into a full tank slapper (unlike many Honda's I've ridden) which shows how stable the Kawa is. I only ever used Bridgestone SS as they got nice a sticky when pushing hard into the corners and found them very stable on the straights. Personally I think you bought the wrong bike mate from the way you ride and commute, you could have saved a lot of money and got a Suzuki SV650, perfect for what you need, loads of torque, good on juice and still a lot of fun. These Supersport 600's are purely for going nuts on at every opportunity and without offending you, you don't seem the type.
The 2013 ZX-6R with ABS has the "new" Kawasaki" electronic steering damper. The 2012 has an actual hydraulic steering damper mounted over the top of the fork tubes. I am aware of Honda's CBR600RR with it's own electronic steering damper.
I just bought this bike and loved your review. I'm from Canada however, and found myself yelling at the screen, "Holy shit dude get on the right side of the road!!!!" Agreed though this bike has power to spare. My buddy has Honda CBR600RR 2013 and it's an amazing bike too, but I almost continually beat him off the mark to 100kms.
The reason is its thirsty is because you have to break it in, be slower with your thrust and after about 3k miles your mileage will go up. Also your front brake is your most important brake learn to use that more just remember "Pull and Press" happy riding.
Good on ya Tom! on a Kawi 650r at the moment, but your new 636 really makes me want to add this to my garage. Love your video's, congrats on the new bike.
dude i finally talked my friend into letting me ride her gsxr600 the other day. i now totally see what you are talking about with a steering damper and how scary the power is, i definetly see why insurance is soo much money. that bike is crazy shit, sooo much fun. i hit about 95 coming into a downhill corner in 2nd gear, wow going that fast with the wheel coming off the ground and almost getting some tank slap going in a corner is pretty intense compared to my rebel 250.
Lol you understand that next year models of vehicles come out before the year that the model says? It's 2014 and I can go and get a brand new 2015 cbr 1000rr from the local street and trail without a problem.
hey tom! love this video mate never ridden a bike in my life but i am about 3 months off getting my learners.... after watching this video i honestly cant wait to start learning!
Depends. If you feel comfortable, and confident. Go for it. I started with the Honda 250cbr with abs. It's great. Although, already looking to upgrade after 1 season of riding.
I watched your other video on the test drive of the CBR1000RR. Cool video mate but what made you go for the 636? Was it price or feel of the bike. Cheers
Push the MODE and RESET button simultaneously for more than 2 seconds. Pushing MODE button again and the shift-up indicator light will change from, On, off, blinking (Fast & Slow), Bright, Dim... The shift-up engine speed can only be adjusted when the light is on. To adjust the shift-up engine speed, press the RESET button and the shift-up engine speed timing advances in 250 r/min (rpm) increments up to 16,000 RPM Then Returns to 10,000 RPM & Begins Advancing again. Same Procedure for 09' - 12'.
Fuel gauges dont work on bikes! My 250R used to say empty and I had another 150kms to go. Best thing is to use the trip meter and work out the range the bike will do. Low fuel light is fine I think.
You say it's a race bike with lights on it, truer for the 2012 ZX6-R and the competition. The torquier motor, softer suspension, specific brake tuning, TC and ABS all make it a bike for the road. Not that you couldn't do wonderful things on the track with it. But there's a video on here somewhere comparing the 2013 to the 2012 and how VERY different they are and not just the engine. Very convincing reasons to buy one, and I normally refuse these kinds of bikes.
Exactly what i do mate. I my self have an '07 ZX6R, no fuel gauge. Don't need one really. beast of a bike i love it. Not as many pretty road down here in Perth than you have up there though.
Not necessarily. You cant judge a bikes power on displacement alone. The supersport 600cc tom is talking about are all inline 4, they make alot of top end power and a decent amount of torque. The triple is a 3. It makes about even amounts of both. Dont worry about displacement as such, just look at power and torque figures and that will give you a good idea.
So between the 636 and the r6, why did you choose the 636? I ride a 07 cbr600rr and love it, but don't really know if I want a liter bike for my next bike just cause I don't really need that much power. So am considering another 600 or the gsxr 750 in the future years to come. and if I had to choose between a 600 it be the Yamaha or Kawasaki. So just wanting your opinion between 636 and r6.
drumingmachine This bike will not be able to be restricted down to an A2 license. You may only restrict it to 50% its total power. Else you'll not be able to also put that in the license of the bike itself. You can call your insurance and explain them the story and ask for written confirmation that you are insured etc. So then you'll be driving around with insurance, but without a license. So you'd get a fine and penalty of driving without a license when caught :)
You can avoid most situations. I've had a couple close calls, obeying the law and doing the speed limit. Most of which were from other drivers not seeing me making left turns or cutting me off. I took a motorcycle course that helped a ton for recognizing dangers and how to avoid them. Because of that most of them I saw coming long beforehand and could take action to avoid it. But that's not to say all are entirely avoidable.. If you're serious, sign up for a motorcycle course.
While I agree, the 300 is amazing (own one myself) I can't imagine the person that's willing to come down from the 636 to the 300 as their sole bike. But a great secondary bike absolutely!
Your arms are supposed to be loose btw. I know it's hard to do. I can't do it long either. But you should star working our your core more, because in order to steer the bike well you need to keep your arms loose. Most of you weight should be supported by your hips/etc. 636 looks awesome. Glad Kawasaki brought it back in 2013.
Tom, what microphone and camera set up are you using, I am trying to capture my voice while riding and get a good sound of the bike, identical to what your doing, pretty much what your doing, Just curious what the set up is. I have GoPro Hero 3, I presume it will work with that?
if you ride the freeway "legal "110 (WA speed sucks) limit does the fuels consumption reduce? So you can go on long cruise.... since your are always stuck from 1-2 gear on the streets not the optimal for a supersports right?
In your video with the r6 it sounded like you had way more fun in the city and on the highway on it than in this video with the 636. Coming from a ninja 300, what do you think is the better bike to upgrade to r6 or the 636. I will be doing both city and highway.
hey mate, awesome videos, I noticed you tested other 600 bikes before settling on this, between this 636, r6 and cbr which one is easier to handle (better cornering and more nimble) ?
Glad you're enjoying it man. I was always rooting for the Street Triple(and now knowing your wrist problem, I stand by that), but it looks like you'll have tons of fun on this. Just be safe. Also, those Utes are popular down there in aussieland from what I see :)
When people ride with you, you should instruct them on pushing on the tank when you are under braking so there's not so much pressure on you / your wrists
Sick video mate, the 636 is at the top of my list, as I hope to pick one up in the next 6-8 months. How much did you pay for it if you dont mind me asking?
looks nice but if i were to swap my 2012 650 v-strom for one of those i would likely want to ride it hard.... all the damn time can you ever relax and cruise on that? heard that the newer ninja 400 is fairly goof for cruising too how about that one? thanks
i have 2014 636 and i find the stock suspension way too soft. im 200lbs rider and the front is almost bottoming out. have 1.800km on odo and not even riding hard, the way i usually do. i just doubt ill manage to do somethin with the stock suspension without upgrading it.
I want to buy this motorcycle for April. My question to you is, did you buy an Ohlins stearing damper? I had a zx10 that came with one from the factory which was pretty much useless. I had to have the damper re-valved to work. Basically, if you buy a stearing damper from the factory directly, will it work? Or, do they all need to be "re-valved". Cheers mate... great video, and ride safe.
very nice bike mate, i am also looking towards getting a 600 at the moment, have been looking at an R6, ZX6R, just out of curiosity did you ever test ride a Triumph Daytona 675r? As i have heard extremely good things bout those.
Cool bike man. Happy about it? Already past running in period? Ever tested the Daytona R? Seems like biggest competitor for the 636.. Tested the Daytona R myself a couple of months ago, great bike, so will need to test the 636 in a few months to compare..
Love the way you have the camera set up! I may be picking up one of these or the 13' 600rr just because of how comfortable it is. What bike are you eyeing next?
What steering damper choose for this bike? I see two options, Gpr and Öhlins. Twice are overpriced imo. I have a Rsc hyperpro but I can't fixe it on this bike…
I have to disagree a little Tom. I do like the Kawa, very send 600,i do however prefer my Suzi 600. What I want to disagree on is the usable power range that you mentioned. on my bike, I usually putt putt around town at about 3 to 4000 rpm in 6th gear just to try and somewhat stay at the speed limit. However at that rpm, when I open throttle, it does launch forward, especially doing that rpm in Lower gears. So for me the Suzi 600 also scares the crap out of me but has a very, very good usable range. I'll see if I'm able to do a video response but no go pro on my side to use.
Nice vid Tom,by now you must have realised that shifting at 10k will not let you fully appreciate the bikes performance,it wants to be caned through all the gears man. 37cc extra by the way.
Another comment is that youre not supposed to lean on your wrists.You go down and youre hands are ALLWAYS at an angle.The fast position is when youre actually on the tank.When youre on speed (whatever you are on in the highway, you are not leaning on your hands, your just leaning forward and letting the wind take care of your positon. I dont mean to be mean, just to point out some stuff you say in your video. I would love to see one where you go to the track and actually learn to drive the bike!
I use to own a liter bike and I am going to tell you straight up its fun, a lot of fun, but i promise you will never even use the full potential of a 600. You may get bored of it but you being bored and the full potential of the bike is a huge difference.. Liters are scary if you dont tame them. 600 you can make mistakes and rip too hard on the throttle and no worry. Not trying to scare you away but I am talking from experience the only real difference is the weight, acceleration, and 15 km/h
Hi Tom, Looking at upgrading to a 600CC class bike. Just rode the 636 which was a pretty amazing thing. Anything to be aware of? Had any problems with them? Looking at purchasing one in white if all goes well :)
you mentioned "the dream bike", what is it??? and more importantly, have you tested it? and even more importantly, if you haven't, film it when you do. Stunning 636 btw! Stay safe.
Nice vid and it's great your really enjoying the bike bro!! You mentioned your wrist in the vid and it always helped me to ride more with my legs... It's awkward at first but if you grip the tank more with your legs and use your torso to support your weight your hands will relax more ;) Ride safe and enjoy bro.
Not a problem as it was I who first accused Riding with Tom of not knowing much about his own new Kaw 636, when all the time the web site I was visiting was misleading me. I guess they did that to draw attention to the 2013 ZX-10R.
Hey Tom, I'm just in the same boat as you were a while ago looking for my next upgrade from my Ninja zx-2r. I still have a little bit of work convincing the Mrs but I'm hoping to get one soon. Question: If you could go back and buy a litre bike now would you? I'm worried I'll get sick of the 636 too quick and want something a little bigger. You should come for ride with me, I'll take you up to King lake and through the Spur. Much better than the City.
I got the same bike but I wonder do you do only city driving? Because I have been driving like a maniac and still got 258 km with 12.5 liters of petrol. So with the full tank it is 300+ km. Still a very nice bike, real easy to drive and the abs and TC are a welcome additive.
I never understood why people always talk about 600 ss bikes not having enough oomph "down low" I have a 2008 cbr600rr and this bike feels like it hauls arse off the line, I mean it does 0-60 in 3.3 seconds, how much faster do you need? I'd love to test ride the new 636 but I can't see it being leaps and bounds more powerful. I do love the fact that it has a slipper and a soft clutch. Also, the looks of the bike are nice.
"On a liter bike it's freakin boogie time from 500 rpm" lololol
Tom, you posted this a year ago but here's a tip when you've got a passenger to save your wrists; they can put their hands on the tank when you're braking, kinda like they're going to do a diamond pushup. Takes all that weight off your arms! Only problem is most ladies can be scared to take their death grip off your stomach, but if you can teach them it's so much better for rides! Cheers from California!
Nice video. Picking up my 2017 zx6r in a couple of days. Upgrading from 2013 ninja 300. Can't wait.
my future bike, hopefully !
I love your camera-angle, because there are many other motorcycle channels where you see nothing of the bike, just straight above it, yours is ideal, you can see the horizon but at the same time as much as possible of the bike
keep up the good work :)
Awesome choice man, really love the new 636.
Just a word of advice, if your wrists are hurting, you should focus using your core muslce's to take the weight. Lock your knee's up against the tank and stomach muscles to keep your weight off your wrists more. This will also help you when you're out in the twisties too.
First service was about $220 AUD but I got it for free. No faults, everything has been great!
Sat on this thing in the dealership today. It's huge. I'm only 5'7, small build but hey! Don't worry before anybody gives me shit, I'm going for the Ninja 300, don't think I could handle this beast!
This bike really is a beast, it rides as fast as a lot of mid ranged 800cc sport bikes
I have a 2003 636. Stock it was close to the limit for street use. Since I put a +3 rear on it, and modified it a little, its just a little too fast to really beat on. Once its properly tuned (im running rich now) It will end up being the perfect bike (performance wise where looking at about the same as the bike you are riding in the video). It has the low end that it needs but when you open it up its just enough to be a little scary but controllable. I dont see myself getting a liter bike now. If I ever get another super sport it will be the bike you are riding in this video when they go down in price some years from now.
oh btw.. its has an extra 37cc's not 36... but im just being nit picky now.. those that know what im talking about know what you meant.
also.. we cant test ride sport bikes at all in the USA.. you are really lucky that the dealers let you ride these bikes before buying them.
May I ask why you would have the R6 for the track over the 636 ? Is it because the displacement restrictions for racing ? Thank you bro :)
I think Kawi made the right decision for street bikes, lots of people complain about the power at low revs, but they gave up on a fantastic engine for the track! I bought my first 600 this year and my only complaint is how tempting it is to speed at all rpms! I just can't understand why people need more power on the streets.
I read the 2013 Kaw Zx-6R has a new electronic steering dampener. So much for RidingwithTom's knowledge about his own bike.
Subbed, I have 2003 636 and this is what I think I need next :D !!!
Its very similar to the r6 in comfort, its a supersport they hurt. But im used to it now. Heat isnt an issue from the engine, its fine.
He is actually on the Formula 1 street circuit at Albert Park, Melbourne. It's a street road around a lake 11 months of the year, the other month it is closed for the F1. @4:55, the building on the right are the Pit Lane garages.
I love how he kept gesturing with his hand like he was talking to someone. That was great actually, really seemed like a review then.
Regarding the headshaking, be conscious of how tightly you're hanging on. Your sore wrists in conjunction with scary headshaking suggests stiff arms and a tight grip. Loosen your arms and be mindful that your hands are there to actuate the controls, not hold you up. Your abs/legs are your support. Consciously loosen your grip and ensure your elbows are loose and the headshakes will finish MUCH quicker and you wont be as sore. Safe riding mate.
Congrats on the new bike, looks sick!
Got yourself another sub. You may have changed my mind on a Ducati. Gonna have to flip through your videos see if you've ever rode one. Thanks for taking the time to upload this.
Balls of your feet on the pegs, and use the legs to grip the grooves at each side of the tank. That will allow you to keep your upper body more relaxed and forearms parallel to the ground. Enjoy the bike. It looks beautiful!
Pretty cool seeing the GP circuit without all the fencing and everything, looks so different.
i agree, grip that tank with your legs that's what its designed for.
ya see alot of riders riding around like a tri-pod on two wheels, grip with ya legs and drop ya elbows abit, it will also help with cornering and help reduce fatigue.
Hi, I'm 57 years old and am considering buying a motorcycle again. Way back in 1965, I rode a Honda 305 Dream and I liked it a lot. I'm considering buying either a 2015 Kawasaki ZX10 or the new BMW RR1000. Somebody told me those two motorcycles were too fast, but I can't imagine them being that much faster than the 305 dream I owned. I mean, the new bikes must be much heavier, therefor slower.
Really?!
Really? What I posted was a joke. I own a ZX10 and an older Hayabusa. But I did own a Honda 305 Dream a long long time ago.
great to hear an honest review from an everyday rider, this has swayed me into getting one as well!!!
Great review man! It's good to see someone go over some of the "trim pieces" like the cluster features, traction control, etc... Most reviews are just some dude talking about track times.. I need to know about real world features since none of my local dealers let people test ride bikes, even licensed riders...
Makes me want one even more with it having more mid-torque. I own a 93 zx7 that gets 45city mpg and around 50mpg hwy stock(now has open exhaust, stage2 jets and float bowl mod). Kawi as come along way and was smart bring the 636 back.
The sound of a 600 is orgasmic especially on the up and down shifts
Basically everytime
your the best motovlogger ever!
I used to have one with -1 +2 gearing, power commander and full yoshi system. Tons of torque equals tons of fun.
I actually prefered to ride my zx6r without a s/damper it was far more agile and fun and I didn't mind the bars shaking a little as it lets you know you're really pushing hard and gave me a big grin. It only really did it on full acceleration over bumpy roads. Tyre choice is very important as well, bad tyres will give you the slappers more. My zx6 never went into a full tank slapper (unlike many Honda's I've ridden) which shows how stable the Kawa is. I only ever used Bridgestone SS as they got nice a sticky when pushing hard into the corners and found them very stable on the straights. Personally I think you bought the wrong bike mate from the way you ride and commute, you could have saved a lot of money and got a Suzuki SV650, perfect for what you need, loads of torque, good on juice and still a lot of fun. These Supersport 600's are purely for going nuts on at every opportunity and without offending you, you don't seem the type.
The 2013 ZX-6R with ABS has the "new" Kawasaki" electronic steering damper. The 2012 has an actual hydraulic steering damper mounted over the top of the fork tubes. I am aware of Honda's CBR600RR with it's own electronic steering damper.
i just got the 2015 30th aniversary model its pretty badass tons of power for a 600 i love it, this bike will wheelie in 4th gear
+SIG Ninja non abs
they sold it to me and told me it had abs but it didn't I don't mind tho I'm used to bikes without it
+SIG Ninja 9k usd it was used with 2700 miles not a single scratch on it basically new
+SIG Ninja I just got a 2013 ABS with 800 miles for 8500 OTD
I just bought this bike and loved your review. I'm from Canada however, and found myself yelling at the screen, "Holy shit dude get on the right side of the road!!!!" Agreed though this bike has power to spare. My buddy has Honda CBR600RR 2013 and it's an amazing bike too, but I almost continually beat him off the mark to 100kms.
That's one thing I like about this over the other 600s, this stock pipe sounds nice..almost like it comes with an aftermarket one.
i picked up my Zr550 Zephyr for $1500, and turned out to be great.
you dont need a top of the line bike, as long as you are on one.
The reason is its thirsty is because you have to break it in, be slower with your thrust and after about 3k miles your mileage will go up. Also your front brake is your most important brake learn to use that more just remember "Pull and Press" happy riding.
I was thinking that you crashed this bike, since no videos of were coming. Good to see you not crashing it :D
Keeping a somewhat upright position with your upper body strength also helps.
Good on ya Tom! on a Kawi 650r at the moment, but your new 636 really makes me want to add this to my garage. Love your video's, congrats on the new bike.
dude i finally talked my friend into letting me ride her gsxr600 the other day. i now totally see what you are talking about with a steering damper and how scary the power is, i definetly see why insurance is soo much money. that bike is crazy shit, sooo much fun. i hit about 95 coming into a downhill corner in 2nd gear, wow going that fast with the wheel coming off the ground and almost getting some tank slap going in a corner is pretty intense compared to my rebel 250.
2013 Kawaski, and the video was uploaded in 2012...*mindblown*
Lol you understand that next year models of vehicles come out before the year that the model says? It's 2014 and I can go and get a brand new 2015 cbr 1000rr from the local street and trail without a problem.
brandon kirsch
Pfft course I knew that, testing you of course pfft..:P
Lolol
;)
hey tom! love this video mate never ridden a bike in my life but i am about 3 months off getting my learners.... after watching this video i honestly cant wait to start learning!
@chrono, thanks! Made the purchase if a white one yesterday plus some extras and finally read the manual.
I am in the same boat as you was, coming off a ninja 250 trying to decide between a Street Triple and a zx6r... Very hard decision
Depends. If you feel comfortable, and confident. Go for it. I started with the Honda 250cbr with abs. It's great. Although, already looking to upgrade after 1 season of riding.
I watched your other video on the test drive of the CBR1000RR. Cool video mate but what made you go for the 636? Was it price or feel of the bike. Cheers
Push the MODE and RESET button simultaneously for more than 2 seconds. Pushing MODE button again and the shift-up indicator light will change from, On, off, blinking (Fast & Slow), Bright, Dim... The shift-up engine speed can only be adjusted when the light is on. To adjust the shift-up engine speed, press the RESET button and the shift-up engine speed timing advances in 250 r/min (rpm) increments up to 16,000 RPM Then Returns to 10,000 RPM & Begins Advancing again. Same Procedure for 09' - 12'.
Fuel gauges dont work on bikes! My 250R used to say empty and I had another 150kms to go. Best thing is to use the trip meter and work out the range the bike will do. Low fuel light is fine I think.
Nice video mate, 636 looks gorgeous! Other than a steering damper are you thinking of doing anything else to it maybe?
You say it's a race bike with lights on it, truer for the 2012 ZX6-R and the competition. The torquier motor, softer suspension, specific brake tuning, TC and ABS all make it a bike for the road. Not that you couldn't do wonderful things on the track with it. But there's a video on here somewhere comparing the 2013 to the 2012 and how VERY different they are and not just the engine. Very convincing reasons to buy one, and I normally refuse these kinds of bikes.
Exactly what i do mate. I my self have an '07 ZX6R, no fuel gauge. Don't need one really. beast of a bike i love it. Not as many pretty road down here in Perth than you have up there though.
Not necessarily. You cant judge a bikes power on displacement alone. The supersport 600cc tom is talking about are all inline 4, they make alot of top end power and a decent amount of torque. The triple is a 3. It makes about even amounts of both. Dont worry about displacement as such, just look at power and torque figures and that will give you a good idea.
True. As long as your elbows are not fully stretched, you're fine. It is a matter of habit.
He was riding around the F1 race track 'Albert Park'.
Melbourne...
So between the 636 and the r6, why did you choose the 636? I ride a 07 cbr600rr and love it, but don't really know if I want a liter bike for my next bike just cause I don't really need that much power. So am considering another 600 or the gsxr 750 in the future years to come. and if I had to choose between a 600 it be the Yamaha or Kawasaki. So just wanting your opinion between 636 and r6.
Dude which did you end up choosing? I'm upgrading from a 2015 r3 and I'm looking into getting 13 636. But I love the look of a r6
drumingmachine This bike will not be able to be restricted down to an A2 license. You may only restrict it to 50% its total power. Else you'll not be able to also put that in the license of the bike itself.
You can call your insurance and explain them the story and ask for written confirmation that you are insured etc. So then you'll be driving around with insurance, but without a license. So you'd get a fine and penalty of driving without a license when caught :)
You can avoid most situations. I've had a couple close calls, obeying the law and doing the speed limit. Most of which were from other drivers not seeing me making left turns or cutting me off. I took a motorcycle course that helped a ton for recognizing dangers and how to avoid them. Because of that most of them I saw coming long beforehand and could take action to avoid it. But that's not to say all are entirely avoidable.. If you're serious, sign up for a motorcycle course.
thank god. there are still people with sense around. i don't get anyone who likes mark, hes the biggest squid ever, and he's even proud about it.
I love the sound when he first hits it after saying " riding with tom " lol
While I agree, the 300 is amazing (own one myself) I can't imagine the person that's willing to come down from the 636 to the 300 as their sole bike. But a great secondary bike absolutely!
Your arms are supposed to be loose btw. I know it's hard to do. I can't do it long either. But you should star working our your core more, because in order to steer the bike well you need to keep your arms loose. Most of you weight should be supported by your hips/etc.
636 looks awesome. Glad Kawasaki brought it back in 2013.
Tom, what microphone and camera set up are you using, I am trying to capture my voice while riding and get a good sound of the bike, identical to what your doing, pretty much what your doing, Just curious what the set up is. I have GoPro Hero 3, I presume it will work with that?
Awesome review. That's my dream bike. Can't wait for the day where I can afford to order a brand new one.
if you ride the freeway "legal "110 (WA speed sucks) limit does the fuels consumption reduce? So you can go on long cruise.... since your are always stuck from 1-2 gear on the streets not the optimal for a supersports right?
I would say the chicks per day rate or cpd is approx 12cpd
In your video with the r6 it sounded like you had way more fun in the city and on the highway on it than in this video with the 636. Coming from a ninja 300, what do you think is the better bike to upgrade to r6 or the 636. I will be doing both city and highway.
R6, best bike on earth
+A-town flyer 636 is the best 600cc super sport. that's why they are more expensive
Ok thanks
hey mate, awesome videos, I noticed you tested other 600 bikes before settling on this, between this 636, r6 and cbr which one is easier to handle (better cornering and more nimble) ?
Glad you're enjoying it man. I was always rooting for the Street Triple(and now knowing your wrist problem, I stand by that), but it looks like you'll have tons of fun on this. Just be safe.
Also, those Utes are popular down there in aussieland from what I see :)
When people ride with you, you should instruct them on pushing on the tank when you are under braking so there's not so much pressure on you / your wrists
Sick video mate, the 636 is at the top of my list, as I hope to pick one up in the next 6-8 months. How much did you pay for it if you dont mind me asking?
looks nice but if i were to swap my 2012 650 v-strom for one of those i would likely want to ride it hard.... all the damn time
can you ever relax and cruise on that?
heard that the newer ninja 400 is fairly goof for cruising too
how about that one?
thanks
i have 2014 636 and i find the stock suspension way too soft. im 200lbs rider and the front is almost bottoming out. have 1.800km on odo and not even riding hard, the way i usually do. i just doubt ill manage to do somethin with the stock suspension without upgrading it.
Was just wondering what kind of headcam do you use? great video and sound quality
I want to buy this motorcycle for April. My question to you is, did you buy an Ohlins stearing damper? I had a zx10 that came with one from the factory which was pretty much useless. I had to have the damper re-valved to work. Basically, if you buy a stearing damper from the factory directly, will it work? Or, do they all need to be "re-valved". Cheers mate... great video, and ride safe.
very nice bike mate, i am also looking towards getting a 600 at the moment, have been looking at an R6, ZX6R, just out of curiosity did you ever test ride a Triumph Daytona 675r? As i have heard extremely good things bout those.
Cool bike man. Happy about it? Already past running in period?
Ever tested the Daytona R? Seems like biggest competitor for the 636.. Tested the Daytona R myself a couple of months ago, great bike, so will need to test the 636 in a few months to compare..
Love the way you have the camera set up! I may be picking up one of these or the 13' 600rr just because of how comfortable it is. What bike are you eyeing next?
What steering damper choose for this bike?
I see two options, Gpr and Öhlins. Twice are overpriced imo.
I have a Rsc hyperpro but I can't fixe it on this bike…
Hey Tom, just found your page. Love ZX6R's, too much for a first bike or are they manageable for a rookie to get to grips with?
I have to disagree a little Tom. I do like the Kawa, very send 600,i do however prefer my Suzi 600. What I want to disagree on is the usable power range that you mentioned. on my bike, I usually putt putt around town at about 3 to 4000 rpm in 6th gear just to try and somewhat stay at the speed limit. However at that rpm, when I open throttle, it does launch forward, especially doing that rpm in Lower gears. So for me the Suzi 600 also scares the crap out of me but has a very, very good usable range. I'll see if I'm able to do a video response but no go pro on my side to use.
what is the difference between the 2013 and 2014 zx6r? besides the color difference, are there any real differences between the model years?
Nice vid Tom,by now you must have realised that shifting at 10k will not let you fully appreciate the bikes performance,it wants to be caned through all the gears man.
37cc extra by the way.
Great vid! BTW, is lane splitting legal in Australia? Which city do you live in?
Another comment is that youre not supposed to lean on your wrists.You go down and youre hands are ALLWAYS at an angle.The fast position is when youre actually on the tank.When youre on speed (whatever you are on in the highway, you are not leaning on your hands, your just leaning forward and letting the wind take care of your positon. I dont mean to be mean, just to point out some stuff you say in your video. I would love to see one where you go to the track and actually learn to drive the bike!
You need to go around Albert Park later on in the night (12:00-3:00am) so you have the track to yourself...It's fun ;)
I use to own a liter bike and I am going to tell you straight up its fun, a lot of fun, but i promise you will never even use the full potential of a 600. You may get bored of it but you being bored and the full potential of the bike is a huge difference.. Liters are scary if you dont tame them. 600 you can make mistakes and rip too hard on the throttle and no worry. Not trying to scare you away but I am talking from experience the only real difference is the weight, acceleration, and 15 km/h
Hi Tom,
Looking at upgrading to a 600CC class bike. Just rode the 636 which was a pretty amazing thing.
Anything to be aware of? Had any problems with them?
Looking at purchasing one in white if all goes well :)
you mentioned "the dream bike", what is it??? and more importantly, have you tested it? and even more importantly, if you haven't, film it when you do. Stunning 636 btw! Stay safe.
Nice vid and it's great your really enjoying the bike bro!! You mentioned your wrist in the vid and it always helped me to ride more with my legs... It's awkward at first but if you grip the tank more with your legs and use your torso to support your weight your hands will relax more ;)
Ride safe and enjoy bro.
Not a problem as it was I who first accused Riding with Tom of not knowing much about his own new Kaw 636, when all the time the web site I was visiting was misleading me. I guess they did that to draw attention to the 2013 ZX-10R.
which dslr do you use? i really liked the quality and how much sexier it made the bike look
Almost a month of the 636, any faults yet? Or all good? First service cost? Or when is it due? Ride safe! -Chris.
Hey Tom, I'm just in the same boat as you were a while ago looking for my next upgrade from my Ninja zx-2r. I still have a little bit of work convincing the Mrs but I'm hoping to get one soon.
Question: If you could go back and buy a litre bike now would you? I'm worried I'll get sick of the 636 too quick and want something a little bigger.
You should come for ride with me, I'll take you up to King lake and through the Spur. Much better than the City.
compared to an r6 or a gixxer frick yeah its way better for the street, kawasaki did everything right for this bike
I got the same bike but I wonder do you do only city driving? Because I have been driving like a maniac and still got 258 km with 12.5 liters of petrol. So with the full tank it is 300+ km. Still a very nice bike, real easy to drive and the abs and TC are a welcome additive.
Ah right, that's good. I'm thinking about Victoria since it's a little colder, my ideal temp is 18 degrees C. I'm from Cardiff!
Love your rises tom. You review bikes right. Nice pick on the new ride too!
Hey Man, When buying your Camera, did you ever Consider the Go Pro over the Drift? If you did what made you decide?
Love the bike, what were your thoughts on the Triumph 675?