“Having ridden my brother in laws 929 when it was first launched, I always said to myself I'd own one someday, when they began to drop into my price range I found an extremely clean, low mileage example and picked it up. For a 17 year old bike the build quality is spot on, very few blemishes on the frame and swingarm, the only points of annoyance are very slightly corroding brake caliper bolts (a common flaw but acceptable for where they are) and a few small points of corrosion on other insignificant fasteners. I changed the standard can to keep it clean and bought a reasonably priced new Fuel exhaust end can - makes a beautiful sound and looks the part with stainless steel sleeve and carbon tip. The only other mods I have done are to refresh the brake lines with goodridge braided ones - for peace of mind if nothing else (plus in black they don't look far off standard). Also I have lowered the gearing -1 tooth on the front sprocket and +1 tooth on the rear, this makes a marked difference in acceleration without being daft - unless you track ride a lot there is little need for tall gearing to knock past 150mph, I'm very pleased with the results and would definitely consider it on another bike. I currently have Dunlop Sportsmart2 tyres fitted and have never once had any moments, I wanted to keep some element of wet grip despite me not really looking to venture out in all weathers. Tempted to try stickier rubber next time as tyres always seem to be evolving. I was inclined to fit a steering damper when I first bought the bike but after going on a few rides thought it wasn't really necessary, the bike will only shake its head on full throttle over cats eyes when overtaking but is never more than a slight shimmy which I see as good communication between bike and rider. Again if I were track riding this view may change as I would imagine there would be more violent changes in direction (along with full throttle) which potentially could induce the start of a tankslapper, for me on the road the bike has always behaved.
Overall I would highly recommend a 929 to anyone as a first big bike - it is a pussycat to ride but still has decent power to take control on the road. The problem these days is that compared to other modern machinery it is relatively low powered and lacks the electronic gubbins that attract buyers money, I would be interested to try out a 954 Fireblade as the fuelling is supposed to be smoother with slightly more grunt but until then I'll keep this one as clean as I can and take it into modern classic territory - hopefully the value may start to creep the right way!!!”
“Awesome bike. Slightly dated technologically but looks and rides fantastic!
Tons of useable power throughout the range, but more friendly than previous models.
I commute on mine through the year, it's never missed a beat even in the worst British weather. Magic for weekend rideouts and track days as well.
Great lights, great brakes, even has some decent storage space under the saddle. Given the age even a low mileage model is really good value.
Highly recommended.”
