Viewing a 14 experience

[Leyther]

First off thanks for the welcomes, some of you I remember, some I have done deals with on the old site and some new members ...........Great!
As mentioned in my intro post I went to view a red / black 14 earlier today as I'm looking to chop my 04 RZ Busa in, in fact just got back.
What I can tell you is that a 55 plate 28k miles GSX1400 in used and I mean used condition is not worth £4250, Kin hell... I sold a 58 plate minter for that price. To give you an idea, the bodywork was generally good other than a crack in the tail panel, the engine was typical of a Suzuki used to commute in most weather conditions, (Filthy  and corroded) tyres had seen there best, chain oiled on the outside but rusty on the inside, it was wet at the sump bolt, possibly a stripped thread, the rear left shock also had similar issues. At this point I realised by looking deeper I was only going to find more I didn't want to see however, I am of a mind that there is nearly always a deal to be done so offered £3250. He asked if I was taking the piss? Nope, I detailed why I was offering this and what it would cost to replace tyres, c&s, possibly sump, deffo the shocks and possibly some spend on pads, oil and filter and other bits and bobs. Hmmm, lets look at your Busa first he says, we go over to my bike and after a minute or so of scratching his chin and gurning he says "well I gotta tell you that is stunning but the best I can do is a straight swap" No deal says I, he then offers his plus £100, at this point I tell him we are way off a deal so time for me to go, no worries says he, but if you change your mind?
60 mile round trip was a complete waste, in fact if it wasn't so funny I could have been put off 14s for good.
Watch for it appearing on the auction sites and if the price is over £3250 don't bother wasting your time, it really aint worth more. Its based in Preston, be warned.
For me, I suppose patience will be key.

[VladTepes]

Yeah sounds like he was a right knob-end and that you still offered him too much.  No-one needs mechanical dramas to worry about with a 'new' purchase when the highest priority is to get out there and ride the thing !

If you really want that paint scheme it might be worth finding a really good nick one (mechanically) and respraying it. Opens up your options.

If you keep a reign on the excitement levels (not always easy) and are prepared to wait a good one WILL come along at the right price. Patience is key.

You could start by putting a wanted ad here... http://gsx1400owners.org/forum_test/index.php?board=13.0

Best of luck !

[DanGSX]

Even at £3250, you were giving him way more than what you should have been offering. He should have snapped your offer up.

It's always disappointing viewing a bike and it's not how you expected. For example, when I was searching for my first 14, I went to view one down south somewhere. 5k miles on the clock, so you'd expect it to be mint - I got there and immediately noticed dents in the tank, a strange white 'filller' on the bottom of the downpipes, corrosion everywhere - including the front forks. Just general evidence of poor care.

The old guy started her up, then immediately started twisting the throttle back n forth, revving like a chav in McDonalds car park. It was at that point I turned my back.

Felt terrible and disappointed on the way home, then noticed a black 14 come onto the market, 35k miles....I thought that's a bit high mileage, but I went to see it anyway - Turns out it was in way better condition. Almost standard, but with upgraded rear shocks - Ticked all the boxes for me really.

Good luck finding one though mate, IT WILL turn up.