 Both
bikes handle above average, LML let down by POOR braking character
The two machines proved to be adequate handlers. The DTS-i as
well as the Graptor are both pleasing to pilot, and comfortable
to sit on as well as ride. Neither are overtly sporty with the
riding positions somewhere in between sports and commuter.
The slightly more sports-inclined Pulsar is better cushioned,
the longer wheelbase and length giving it the edge. This bike
handles with ease, and offers tenacious grip through its fine
MRFs, making it a trustworthy weapon to wield when in a sporty
mood. The Pulsar tracks rock-steady, corners cleanly, is flickable
and steers neutral.
The Graptor's frame runs aluminium look-alike braces in metal
down to the swingarm pivot and differs from the twin down-tube
unit on the Pulsar. It looks good, but is probably the reason
why this bike feels overly heavy at trickle speeds, and can
literally feel bogged down.
High-speed stability is decent and cornering as good as to be
expected, with the steering well weighted and vibration-free
despite the test bike that LML sent us having well worn rear
rubber. The suspension is well set and the bike does not waver
from its line, even when striking bumps mid-corner.
Braking on the 150 DTS-i is among the best to be experienced
on any two-wheeler in the country and we managed to go from
60kph to rest in only a fraction over 16 metres with no drama
at all. Conversely, we discovered the Graptor had a definite
braking problem, with its rear end losing all feel and playing
pendulum on each emergency stop during our brake testing runs.
This plays spoilsport with the rider unable to extract maximum
braking potential. |
July 2004 