Choke cable snapped after 4 years.
The weight of the ER5 seems to be quite low down, so it is very easy to manoeuvre, I am only 5ft 2" and had no problems moving it around.
It also has a low seat, making it easier for me to touch the ground!
I generally garaged the bike from November until March, unless I had problems with my car, but it would start every Spring without fail. Initially I used an fuel additive as unless you drain all the petrol before garaging it, the petrol becomes a bit lumpy.
I used a 'Scottoiler' to keep the chain lubricated and in good condition.
I also had a headlamp fairing fitted as this cut down the strain on my neck on the motorway!
The fastest I went on the bike was 110mph, though not with sportsbike acceleration, however it managed fairly easily. Legal speed limits are easy and the acceleration is very smooth.
I have this bike for one year now, bought it used, 1999 year model with ~10000 miles on odometer. All in all I like it: it has very low fuel consumption (~4L/100km if you ride not too fast, around 100km/h), quite comfortable riding position and nice handling. It actually goes ~190km/h (120mph), without any mods. I also like its acceleration, but high gear roll-on from low-rpm takes ages, you have to down-shift a gear or two.
What about reliability, I can't be fully objective because I bought it used, but most parts seem to be medium quality: I had to change one rear shock absorber, which leaked, clutch and speedometer cables. After 8 years there is some rust and oxidation on metal parts, but not much.
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