I have a red (the fastest version) S1000R Sport sat next to my gen2 FZ1. Haven't made up my mind whether to sell the FZ1. The S1R is fantastic. Enjoying the ride immensely
Interesting. Would you say the Fazer does anything better than the BMW? Curious as to why you would have two bikes that to my limited knowledge sound similar, both aimed at the same niche, albeit the BMW being the more modern bike. I get the feeling that if I owned those two, the FZ1 would go to make room for something entirely different.
I've been riding the gen2 since 2006 and this year I just wanted a change. I ride all year round, commuting most days (unless ice, snow or very strong winds) and the FZ1 fulfilled that role and leisure riding too. But I had that inevitable feeling of wanting a new set of wheels. I was in lust with Speed Triples for many years and expected that to be my new steed until the S1000R appeared along with the usual press adulation. I wanted another naked, test rode the S1000R and it was love at first ride. The bike appeared in November and I've been running it in only when dry. I'm not a fair weather biker, just delaying the time the S1000R becomes covered in crud.
There's nothing inherently wrong with the FZ1, it's similar to the S1000R so in that sense, yes, I'm not sure why I'd keep it. It's quick and handles well enough but is old hat now. Sadly Triumph missed a trick too with the Speed Triple as that has aged - a new model to appear in 2016 apparently.
I wanted something new, exciting, fun, another all-rounder but more state of the art. The S1000R Sport fits the bill for me: handles supremely, sticks to the road, is incredibly agile and nimble, stunning acceleration, powerful brembos, lovely plush suspension. No one seems to be buying the base model S1000R so the dealers are stocking the Sport version: this comes dripping with electronics (DDC semi-active suspension, dynamic traction control, ABS, quick shifter, riding modes, heated grips, cruise control(!)).
Can't wait for spring when I'll have more chance to get to know this bike a whole let better in nicer weather.
Essentially, it was time for a change and the itch has been satisfied
Isn't this the whole point of motorcycling?