hi phil,you will love the fazer 600 but if its the bike in rotherham on ebay it seems a little expensive when it deffo does need a new cam chain,the chains are cheap but its not cheap on labour to fit or easy to do yourself if you havnt done them before!
i paid 1050 for my 98 fazer 600 and it needed nothing,its not got stainless exhaust but the original is still good so il ugrade later
as for things to check on all all bikes id recomend you look for signs of it been crashed(most bikes have been on the floor at some time but look for major damage and bent frame,wheels,forks etc)also check the expensive to replace items such as brake discs,tyres,chain,and if you cant do the work yourself look at leaking forks,pad thickness,service history etc etc as it can soon add up to do the smallest job if you have to pay someone!
there is some great bikes out there at the right price just dont rush to buy the 1st you see,this one might be a good buy if you can get chain changed at good price(ask your local bike shop for quote) but possibly trailer/van it home to be same cos if chain snaps its big expense!
good luck and have fun

iv been riding road bikes  for over 20 years now and iv only just bought a fazer 600(1998) after problems with my back on 'sports'bikes,the fazer is an excelent bike,comfy,handles great,cheapish,good on fuel and easy fast enough but smooth with it,it would be an excelent first big bike or even for seasoned riders,like others have said the bike will only go as fast as you the rider make it,a smaller bike to get a bit of experiance would be a good idea if you can get one at the right price and if insurance is cheap but you will soon get 'bored' with a 125 so if you can get insurance at a good price on a fazer id say go for it and just be sensible and steady,maybe you can get a restriction kit of some form to start with?
whatever bike you decide on give it a good check over with engine been the obivious thing to check but also check the expensive parts ie brake discs,tyres,chain and sprockets etc,good luck with your test and have fun

fair point rich,il keep an ear open for the fan if it get dry and warm enough!

hi all im after a few bits for my 98 fazer 600,small rear rack,double bubble or touring type screen(or screen riser)stainless exhaust headers,headlights(glass only if possible?)and the cam end covers(small 'round' parts 2 on each side of engine)in alloy not plastic black
cheers mark

thanks for the offers guys but just collected my 98 fazer lowish miles,full service history etc and a bargin at £1000 just need a new disc before mot later in year and id like to fit a nice shiny stainless exhaust on it
 

hi guys im looking for a mark 1 fazer 600 in good standard (ish) condition with mot etc doesnt need to be perfect but dont want a pile of rubbish! idealy in yorkshire area if possible,cash waiting for the right bike,cheers mark

cheers,iv changed a few sets of manifolds in my time and they either go smooth or pain in the bum with seized nuts,bolts etc etc
iv just sold my last bike(got 50% of money and rest when he collects in week or so) and just waiting for ballance of cash before i look proper at a 'new' fazer but arnt russhing into buying as want get a good one
cheers mark