2007 Kawasaki Mean Streak review from United States of America

Hose clamps that affix exhaust covers come loose and whir. Easy to fix.

I have the Special Edition Mean Streak 1600, featuring spark black finish on tank and fenders, with flame accents in silver and persimmon, black and persimmon seat, persimmon wheels and frame, black engine, black exhaust covers.

I've been riding for thirty years. My last bike was a BMW R1100S, and before that, a Suzuki 1200GS Bandit.

This is my first cruiser-type bike, but in my opinion,the dimensions of the Meanstreak are really a cross between a sport bike and a cruiser. The power is more than adequate, and you can scorch most cruisers (all Harleys!).

Braking is very good. The bike handles much better than I thought it would, and the seat is low enough (27") that even a short guy like me can plant both feet on the ground at every stop (something I couldn't do on the BMW!).

Brake and clutch bars are adjustable for throw, and the right settings make long rides a joy. I added a Memphis Shades windshield 15" that fits the bike quite well, and a short sissy bar. I also added small, black nylon saddlebags, which are adequate and seem to enhance the sport/cruiser look I'm after.

On the negative side, while riding on a hot summer day and having to wait at a stop signal, you get considerable heat on the inside of your right leg - coming off the exhaust pipes. Also, the flat black exhaust system covers (chrome pipes are underneath) are held in position by a mickey-mouse arrangement of hose clamps. The clamps eventually loosen up, slip out of position and start whirring and rattling. You have to wait for everything to cool before you can re-position them and tighten with a screwdriver or 10mm wrench. It's the only flaw I've noticed so far.

On the plus side, the bike drives beautifully and loves hard turns. Throttle response is fast. I have a sportbike background and appreciate what the Meanstreak will deliver when you drive it hard. Frankly, it handles much better than the BMW R1100S, and is about as agile as the Suzuki 1200GS Bandit I used to have in Hawaii.

On my wish list, I wish this bike had a real fuel gauge instead of an idiot light that comes on at 100 miles -- when you still have 60 or 70 to go before going dry.

Would I recommend the MeanStreak? You bet! This is a dream ride.

Phil Hoffman.