How much oil should my Fireblade use?

Q. I currently own a 954 Fireblade and am looking to upgrade to a 2008, 2009 or 2010 model, but I keep hearing from owners that they use quite an amount of oil.

My 954 never uses oil from one service to the next. Is Honda aware of this and is it a problem? It is putting me off purchasing a newer model.
Rob, Wigan
 
A. We’ve heard that some do like to drink oil and Honda say that 1 litre per 1000 miles is the upper limit of what’s “acceptable”.

As long as you keep an eye on the level and use the correct grade of oil, the only effect is going to be on your bank balance I guess. But as not all bikes suffer, you may well get one that isn’t thirsty.

At least you know one question to ask when looking to buy a bike.