Suzuki launched the Bandit 600 in the early 90s as a "parts bin" special that brought together the engine, frame and brakes from other Suzuki models. No one expected much of it but somehow it captured the mood and sold very well and spawned a series of copycat models from rival Japanese manufacturers. It was (and still is) touted as an ideal "first bike" for those who had just passed their bike test (newbies in uk.rec.motorcycles speak).
Having had my interest in bikes ignited by seeing a Yamaha Virago 535 (stop sniggering) I took my test in 1996. I had perused the bike mags and had seriously considered buying a Virago but during my training it became obvious that something more mainstream was the right thing to buy. I thus ordered a red Bandit 600S (the faired version) for delivery in September 96 - a few months after taking my test. I nervously travelled to Romford by bus in my bike gear and collected P771 GMM (where are you now?). After a slightly fitful start I got settled and rode it home. What a great bike but then I guess your first bike is always great.
The Bandit is a very easy bike to ride. It has a slightly "sit up and beg" riding position but this is ideal for town riding. The bikini style fairing and small screen (of the S model) help to deflect the worst of windblast on dual carriageways and motorways. The engine is pretty gutsy and responsive but it's not in the sports bike category. You need to give it a decent amount of revs to get it going but it can certainly go. I remember the joy of exploring the Essex lanes on a sunny September Saturday and stopping at Matching Green to watch a local cricket match - ah fond memories. The Bandit and I enjoyed the country lanes on Sundays and were equally happy riding to work during the week.
Unfortunately early on in my shortish riding career I chucked the bike down the road while responding (poorly) to an impending threat of a collision in front of me. I ended up in hospital and the bike ended up at the bike dealers. Both it and I were repaired but my riding confidence was shot to hell. Thankfully I had enrolled in a post test follow up course that meant I had to ride it again. I was very nervous but spent an interesting day riding to Boxhill (where the Bandit had its share of admirers) and over to Guildford and then enduring the delights of a freezing M25 on a Sunday afternoon in January. Slowly but surely I got back into riding but I guess I never really fully trusted the Bandit again.
The Bandit 600S is built to a price but is nonetheless a good bike. The engine is very willing and the gearbox typical Suzuki - smooth and easy to use. The handling is on the soft side but still loads of fun and fine for both town and country riding. I'm not sure I'd want to do lots of motorway miles on one but then I dislike motorways full stop. If I hadn't been lucky enough to come into cash that allowed me to buy the VFR I'm pretty sure I'd still have the Bandit and still be enjoying it. Suzuki have subsequently updated both the Bandit 600 and 1200 models in order to keep up with the competition from the Yamaha Fazer 600 and the Honda Hornet 600.
After 3 years of ownership and the MOT test I decided to trade the Bandit in for a Kawasaki ZX6. The Bandit had languished a bit as my VFR800 had more of my attention. Nonetheless I still enjoyed my final ride to Watford. Dear P771 GMM I hope you are still putting a grin on someone's face and thank you for getting me into bike riding!
