Here's a thought, wouldn't some mods to a '99-'07 put it right up there with the 2008
, making prior Busas over the top to all anyway?
Indeed but, the same mods to an 08 would yield even higher results. Now, if you already have a Gen I Busa that's that's fairly heavily modded, well, be happy with it. I am. Or, pay the bucks for a new one. Whichever suits you. I've put too much money in my 05, and have it just the way I like it, to trade it in now. Besides, I've got mine set up for track days/twisties etc and, a few extra ponies really won't help my style of riding. Anyone can go fast in a straight line!!! No offense to the drag strip guys here, of course!
If I bought an 08, I'd have to start all over again with engine, suspension, brakes, tires, controls, etc... For what I'd gain (this is just me personally, and may not apply to anyone else), it isn't worth it. Yea yea, I know, why set a Busa up for track days and twisties when you could just buy a 600/750/1K etc etc etc? Because, set up properly, the Busa will do everything well, from all day tours, to straight line acceleration, top speed runs, as well as knee drag at the track. I've found it's a waste for me to have 4 motorcycles sitting in the garage (like I had until last year) taking up space and costing extra on my insurance, especially considering the somewhat limited time I have to ride, and one bike takes care of all my high speed needs (ok, well, I also have a big cruiser for two up and long range stuff-VTX1800C).
If I didn't already have a Busa, or something, God forbid, happens to my 05, I'll likely be looking at an 08.
Oh and, getting back on track, the new Sport Rider magazine head to head test between the 08 ZX14 and the 08 Busa also put the Busa 10 rwhp above the 14. They said the Kawi is more comfy, but the Busa is quicker everywhere, albeit not by much. Both bikes hit the rev limiter at 186, but they said the 14 was creeping before hitting the limiter, as in, it appeared that it was nearing what would normally be it's unrestricted top end anyway. The Busa was still pulling hard when it crashed into the limiter.