CAGIVA RAPTOR 1000 (2000 - 2005) Review

Similar to a monster but with a more comfortable riding position (for me) - lower ride height than my old monster which suits better. No longer do I get pins and needles in my hands on longer rides. Front brake feel is a bit wooden compared to the monster but a new set of pads may improve feel

What an engine the TL 1000 is......sounds great and has more than enough torque to keep you satisfied

Build quality compatible with previous air cooled monster but required some paint correction near sump due to some paint lifting and some paint wear on foot peg hangers which was easily rectified. Was looking for another Italian bike that didn't require Ducati maintenence so when this came up it was a no brainer

A super buy due to the lack of Cagivas found in Aust but having owned 2 Mito's previously and a penchant to most things Italian on 2 or 4 wheels I was keen to sample a Raptor. Changed the oil and filter after purchase then cleaned and lubed the chain. Attended to the paint asthetics and will replace the old worn front Pirelli next. Only other expense is filling the tank with 95/98 ron

Pretty much stock and that;s the way I like it. Came fitted with a windshield and Remus Grand Prix carbon cans to enhance that V twin rolling thunder = superb. Fitted with Pirelli rubber (Angel GT and Diablo Rosso) which I'll stick with come time to replace. Basic spec but it is still a joy to hustle through the nearby mountain roads

The suspension lets the bike down its adequate for its time but suspension has moved on since the bike was made. I improved mine with a new rear shock and uprated fork internals.The brakes are great ...Brembos but as I said before keep the back brace cleaned regularily. Not a great bike for a pillion as its cramped and the bike has so much torque you will be constantly bashing crash helmets with the rider.

The engine is an absolute beauty.You can go down to 30 mph in top gear and then pull up to the top speed without hesitation, its very flexible. The engine got a bit of a reputation when it was fitted to the Suzuki TL 1000 of being a bit of a beast but the Cagiva has a different more friendly ECU mapping and I find it very easy to ride.

Very reliable in the engine department but let down by the finish of the engine casings and some the cycle parts. I have 2 Raptors and they both needed to have the rear brake caliper seals replaced and the brake master cyclinders replaced as they are very exposed to the elements but for an older motorcycle I guess this is just part of the general maintenance, the side stand design is absolutely awful so Im always extra careful when I park up.Apart from that no problems at all.

Cheap to run if you keep the bike cleaned regularily to prevent corrosion and the engine appears bulletproof. The main cost is fuel.

Always begging for a twisty mountain road. Suprisingly comfortable for a low saddle short wheel base bike and I'm 6"2. Not ideal for long hauls obviously, motor would be great, not so much sporty chassis (buy a Navigator or V storm). Unless your Missus is under 4 foot or you can't stand her, I'd advise against pillions

Torque Monster, Ample power anywhere in the rev range. Prone to a bit of spark plug fouling if started on choke and switched off before engine has had time to get to optimium running temp

No issues at all

Cheap to service, no problems. Bit thirsty on juice

She's bare bones, only got what you need

Brakes excellent feel and power for an older bike suspension typical italian stiff.

TL1000 tuned for torque, any gear any revs it goes

still looks good at 12years old

Do it myself.

Puig screen looks good and works.