Is the R1 hard to ride?

Hey guys I've been reading alot of these posts and I'm starting to worry. I've been thinking of buying an 02 R1 but from what I have been reading I not so sure anymore. I've been riding for 12 years on a 1990 FZR 600 and a RZ350 both of which have way less power than an R1. I ride aggressive with both bikes and I'm wondering how I'd adapt to the R1. I've heard you guys talk about tank slappers and how the front wheel comes off the ground so much on the R1. These are things I really don't have to worry about on my bikes. I really like getting on the gas hard out of corners but on the R1 I guess you would have to be a little more cautious which might take away some fun. So I guess what I want to know is the R1 so dangerously fast it actually might be less fun to ride in the twisties? Any and all comments are appreciated!!

I rode a '93 CBR600F2 from about '94 to about ‘99; it was my 1st real sport bike. I grew up riding 3-wheelers and 2-stroke dirt bikes (80cc and 125cc). I have 10+ years on some type of two-wheeled machine. So by comparison, we have similar experience in riding. The jump to the R1 wasn't that big of a deal. Sure it had a lot more power than I was used to, but I adapted quickly. The power never scared me, it invigorated me. My R1 does things I always wished my F2 would do. I don't consider myself any kind of bad ass rider, but I do feel I can handle myself pretty good on two wheels. If you say you took that FZR to it's limits, then I don't see a problem stepping up to an R1. Especially a 2K2, they seem to be easier to ride than my '00 model. **** it dude, go for it. :thumbup

I agree go for it!!! R1 is very easy to ride, handling is superb, just respect it. :thumbup

You shouldn't have a problem. Just take it easy the first month and learn to ride her. After a while, you will get more confidence and see how much fun they are to ride!

I just got mine and i have not been on a bike every day use since i was a teenager and i so far find it can easily be controlled, just as ADAPTEC said Respect the beast, so u can stay in one peace.

My last bike was a YZF 600 (not an R1), then I got my 02 R1. It took me about a stop light or two to get used to the R1. It's so smooth, and has such usable power it won't take you long to get used to it. The front tire only comes off the ground if you want it too. I found on an R1, I can try half as hard as ride much better than I ever could with the YZF. Get an R1!!!!!!