I owned a 2002 748r, for me it was a nightmare, really bad around town despite being chipped and a gutted exhaust being fitted, the problem is that it is a track bike, the butterfly fueling system is at the heart of the problem, the fuel is just dumped into the large injector fine above 5k, **** around town.
So I sapped it for a 749s, much better, but now run the bike I love the most, S4R-comfortable, You can see where you are going, blood fast too-Recomended
I had a 748R and it was fantastic when you rode it with a bit of comitment but no good for around town or commuting. If riding fast is what you mainly do you will love it
Darren
PS wish I had took it to a trackday I bet it would have been fun
The 748R is basically a race homologation special. It'll never be particularly friendly...it isn't meant to be. There's only one way to ride them - FAST!
Proper set up by someone who knows what they're doing helps a gr8 deal but, at the end of the day it's no commuter.
Imo none of the 9**/748 or the new 999/749 range are ideal for commuting.
Obviously if you force yourself to commute on them its a different story... but i once commuted on my short term 748sp and i just coulnt take it, in traffic my arms were aching etc, but when it was clear in the morning it was fun opening up and hearing the thumper sound.
I bought a S/H 2002 748R last week after 1 year with a 2000 748bp. This bike handles and performs like a different machine, and looks good as well. It feels right but it only had 800 miles on the clock with 2 services and new belts! I have a lot more corner confidence on this bike, so no regrets so far!
A few thoughts.......... Have owned my 2000 MY 748R from new. As mentioned previously Take it to JHP to sort the fuelling, I tried every chip combination and JHP chip along with a set up by John was a revelation and completely transforms the bike, smooth power throughout with a nice top end rush.
Regarding the handling - my bike originally had Showa front and rear, I had this upgraded by JHP fitting Ohlins springs to the front and Ohlins rear shock. Again a total transformation. Interestingly, I later changed to Ohlins Forks and did not like the feel as much as the modded Showas.
Tyre wise I think Dunlops suit the bike best 208GP's for track use as they have a much steeper say super corsas etc. and sharpen the turn in no end.
If you want any more info re ownership give me a buzz for a chat my no. is 07970 658533. I've done most things to this bike including putting a rod through the side of the motor at 11,000 rpm (not recommended). Regards,