First (BMW) adventure bike opinions requested

[ops.normal]

Hi all

I've been riding for several years and have a CBR600 F4, a nice wee ship that has done a good job. However I'm keen to get out amongst the gravel and do some much more serious touring than the commuting and day trips I do on Charlie Rocket, the honda.

I've been putting together bits of research for the last month or so, and trawling trademe trying to get a feeling for whats out there and what it'll set me back. It comes down to a couple of questions that a spreadsheet of stats won't answer.

For the Beemer riders out there, I'm trying to get a feeling for how capable a touring and gravel/very light off road machine the f650gs is - either the standard machine or the Dakar version, and whether there is an appreciable different between them.

Secondly - from an inline 4 point of view - should a single cylinder ship put me off long days, or should I be trying to find a parallel twin 650gs in my price range?

The guts is I'm unsure whether to get a higher Kms 650gs and build up some experience (read, potential for dropping it on gravel is high) or fully commit to something much more serious - maybe an 1150gs. If I went for the big machine, I'd have to sell the Honda to fund it, whereas I could probably hold both for a year if I can keep acquisition below 5 or thereabouts.

Apologies to the Suzuki 650 fellas, I've read good things but have European blinkers on ;)

Any thoughts and feelings would be most appreciated. Cheers!

[blackdog]

Skip the f650 and move straight on to a GS. I imagine you will be far less disappointed that way.

[ops.normal]

As in the 1150? Just re-read my post, to be clearer I should have mentioned only looking at gs models, not the road bikes :)

I reckon the 800gs would be the machine for me, but no second hand ones around that fit the dollar profile :(

[Gremlin]

raftn should be along in due course, this would be something right up his alley, as he's been through a similar thing, has a G650GS I think? He reckons it's a pretty perfect choice I believe.

What you have to do is decide what you want to do. The single cylinder choices are a bit smaller and lighter, still able to punt along the road but not be a handful in the more adventure type stuff. Certainly when starting out, the last thing you want to try and deal with is a big bike with the extra weight etc. Even big bikes will be fine in gravel with the right tyres etc. When getting more adventurous expect to drop the bike in the tougher bits (it always goes wrong at some point - if not multiple points) so you'll want to be able to pick it up afterwards and carry on.

You also don't want to look at something fun (believe me, the gravel gets boring and easy after a while and you go looking for more fun) and pull back because you're riding something too big.

I have a R1200GS Adventure, basically the monster of the adventure bikes, which most would avoid for rougher stuff as it's a handful, but then I do a lot of road etc as well... no luxury of 2 bikes here. If it was a gravel play bike I'd definitely look at something more in the 400-650 range.

[blackdog]

As in the 1150? Just re-read my post, to be clearer I should have mentioned only looking at gs models, not the road bikes :)

I reckon the 800gs would be the machine for me, but no second hand ones around that fit the dollar profile :(

More research required on your part then. An f650 is most def dual purpose. I have never heard of a 650gs, perhaps you are thinking of the cs650 scarver?

And yes, if you can find a gs800 that would be an excellent machine to see you through the first couple of years before stepping up if you think you need to. Alternatively just buy a 690 enduro and really live a bit.

[GSers]

Go with the GS they are very capable machines once you get used to them. I think you will find that the 650 rolls in around 200Kgs or there abouts and the big bikes around 245Kgs When they are rolloing you dont notice the weight so much. Most offs are at low speed. One thing they dont like is wet grass and mud once the weight gets away on you they take a lot of holding up.
Keep an eye on trade me there are a few deals going on out there at the moment. They are still good at 100 000kms
BUT I WOULD SAY THAT

GSers

[ops.normal]

Skip the f650 and move straight on to a GS. I imagine you will be far less disappointed that way.

My apologies - I got confused: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-458315512.htm

Figured you were talking about the gs models but wanted to confirm :)

Thanks for added info to date!

[raftn]

Hi all

I've been riding for several years and have a CBR600 F4, a nice wee ship that has done a good job. However I'm keen to get out amongst the gravel and do some much more serious touring than the commuting and day trips I do on Charlie Rocket, the honda.

I've been putting together bits of research for the last month or so, and trawling trademe trying to get a feeling for whats out there and what it'll set me back. It comes down to a couple of questions that a spreadsheet of stats won't answer.

For the Beemer riders out there, I'm trying to get a feeling for how capable a touring and gravel/very light off road machine the f650gs is - either the standard machine or the Dakar version, and whether there is an appreciable different between them.

Secondly - from an inline 4 point of view - should a single cylinder ship put me off long days, or should I be trying to find a parallel twin 650gs in my price range?

The guts is I'm unsure whether to get a higher Kms 650gs and build up some experience (read, potential for dropping it on gravel is high) or fully commit to something much more serious - maybe an 1150gs. If I went for the big machine, I'd have to sell the Honda to fund it, whereas I could probably hold both for a year if I can keep acquisition below 5 or thereabouts.

Apologies to the Suzuki 650 fellas, I've read good things but have European blinkers on ;)

Any thoughts and feelings would be most appreciated. Cheers!

Always a hard choice, many options available to you. I went with the single 650gs, you can read my review of it here..

http://rogerfleming-raftnn.blogspot.co.nz/2011/11/bmw-gs650g-bike-review.html

I am getting close to 10000-kms now and am more happy than ever with it, for me being new to gravel it has been ideal. It is a hoot on the road as well, very easy to ride. My personal thought is to get your skills up on a smaller single like the 650 before jumping into the bigger bikes. Welcome to the world of adventure riding.....it is very addictive.

[Kokopelli]

We have an F650GS, the twin in the garage. It's my wife's bike. She had an F650GS, the single before. The twin is much more capable and not much heavier than the single. The twin is also cheaper and easier to maintain. However, if you want a really nice BMW, buy an Airhead GS :-).

[Oscar]

Basically it all depends what your definition of adventure is.

I bought an F650GS Dakar in 2002, and was somewhat dissapointed.
Based on the riding we do, I'd classify it as a gravel capable road bike.
Ironically, the larger two cylinder F650/800 is much more capable off-road.

[dmoo1790]

Basically it all depends what your definition of adventure is.

This comment hits the nail on the head. It _sounds_ like you won't be doing anything too off-roady. If so, then you want a bike with good road characteristics and don't need to worry about off road drawbacks. So can you live with less top end from a 650 single? If yes, then you'll have just as much fun on twisty roads as you have had on the CBR. I moved from a CBR1000RR via a DRZ400 to my 690 and the 690 is just as much fun on a twisty road as the 1000 and it doesn't scare me as much. :) If you think you'll miss the top end of the CBR600 then you're better off with the F800GS.

[Ender EnZed]

We have an F650GS, the twin in the garage... The twin is also cheaper and easier to maintain.


Ironically, the larger two cylinder F650/800 is much more capable off-road.

This is news to me, would anyone care to elaborate?

[blackdog]

Someone needs to mention the budget, before we can make any realistic recommendations anyway.

http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/triu/triumph_tiger_800xc%2011.htm

[Oscar]

This is news to me, would anyone care to elaborate?

The single cylinder F650GSD has a mediocre power to weight ratio, was top-heavy and is quite peaky for a big single. The fuel injection on mine made it idle too high, which made it a handful on greasy downhills (the fact that the rear brake had a habit of overheating didn't help this problem :gob:).

The 800 twin isn't much heavier, and its additional power (and better bottom end)makes all the diference.
Simon Crafar actually said that the F800GSA was a better bike than the 990 Adventure...

[ops.normal]

These are exactly the things I've been weighing up :)

Someone asked about budget - if I sold the Honda in a rush I could get maybe four and a half for it (2000 model with 35 km). I could dedicate another 4 to the project - changing jobs at the mo so tying up more than 9 total in bikes would get me twitchy.

I really like the look of the 800gs, even the 800xc tiger is fair game - unfortunately these bikes aren't old enough to be close to my reach. Someone rightly pointed out the size of an 1150 or 1200 gs, and I think theyre spot on - would be daunting to try to learn a new skill set on such a machine.

I leaning towards a cheaper, high Kms 650gs to cut my teeth on and confirm that the adventure stuff is for me (pretty academic, but gotta be sure :P) and then in a year or two when I'm not a complete newbie I can look to wind up on an 800gs or similar.

If I take my time hunting for the right one at a good price, it'll tick all the boxes and be easy to shift when I'm ready to upgrade. The whole process will be good fun too - I'm 6'2 but have never ridden anything other than sports bikes. Looking forward to it all.

[sidecar bob]

I spoke to a BMW dealer about buying an 1150gs & all he said was, spend the extra & buy a 1200gs.
It is the best bike I have ever owned by a fair stretch.

[Box'a'bits]

I know you said you would prefer BMW, but.. there are plenty of cheap Dr / KLR / DRZ / TT bikes out there that will allow you to go much further for far less. Please don't get too blinded by the BMW branding / marketing. The older F650GS / Dakars are economical to run, but are heavy (190kgs +) & expensive (you pay a premium for the branding) compared to any similar bikes.

If you insist on getting the F650GS, get the Dakar - the 21 front wheel is well worth it. Another option might be the G650X Challenge

If you want to learn to ride gravel / adventure - light is right.

But as you've already found, everyone has an opinion.

[Frodo]

I had an F650 and now have an Aprilia Pegaso Trail (similar heritage to the BMW but with a Yamaha motor).

The main issue I find with these bikes is that they're too small for pillioning, both in terms of chassis and horsepower. Otherwise they are fine on the open road and on gravel - I rode from south of Jackson Bay (Haast) to Nelson Lakes in one day and would hapily do it again. I think nothing of a 5-600km day.

But if I had the choice now, I'd get a F650 twin or F800.

[_Shrek_]

6'2 an't short :laugh: I've had the 650Gs & now on my 2nd 1150Gs both good bikes, but as you are new to the adventure side I would say go for a 650Dr, KLR 660XT all lighter than BMW's & cheaper after a year, go & get 1150Gs or 1200GS great for off road when you get use to their size :sweatdrop but they do go place's :whistle:

[clint640]

(read, potential for dropping it on gravel is high)

I know you don't want to hear this, but given the above, why buy the heaviest, most fragile & most expensive to buy parts for bike in it's class? The pose value of a BMW evaporates pretty quick when you've got a bunch of DR & KLR riders standing around pointing, laughing & taking photos before they help you pick it up :yes:

If onroad comfort is a higher priority then the F650 does make more sense as it excels at that.

Cheers
Clint

[Oscar]

I know you don't want to hear this, but given the above, why buy the heaviest, most fragile & most expensive to buy parts for bike in it's class? The pose value of a BMW evaporates pretty quick when you've got a bunch of DR & KLR riders standing around pointing, laughing & taking photos before they help you pick it up :yes:

If onroad comfort is a higher priority then the F650 does make more sense as it excels at that.

Cheers
Clint

You called?

http://oscar.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Whangamomona-to-Kaipara-Oct/DSCN1426/105427600_hr7n2-M.jpg

http://oscar.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Whangamomona-to-Kaipara-Oct/DSCN1427/105427677_eoBKW-M.jpg

heheheheheh

[Transalper]

lol, 2000 F650GS is the only bike I ever owned which I grew to hate. The Dakar version probably would have been a bit better with the big wheel. Horrid shuddery thing to ride unless you kept it buzzing.... but I got sucked in by the advertising hype and grin it gave me on the short sealed road test ride I got.
Might as well kept using my CBR1000F on gravel instead (except I broke that on the seal).
Went from that to the 600 Transalp and now even my pillion is happy... me too!
Better gravel, better sealed road, better two up ability. Don't pull at the seat of ya pants like the DR650 does going through the gears though.

[ops.normal]

I'll admit the marketing team at BMW do their jobs well, and there's probably a good bit of sucker factor there - they are obviously good bikes with plenty of guys happy with them, but whether they are ideal for this job is another question.

If the plan is only to hold a bike for a year or 18 months, which (if not a Beemer) is likely to hold its value best? Totally different question I know, but very interested to see what you all think...

Cheers!

[Transalper]

If you anything like me you'll reach a point and say stuff it, and get what you wanted back in plan A.... in which case go for the 2000+ F650Dakar.
They're a bit awkward to stand on (you get a bit bow legged around the tank bulb that's not actually the tank) but for seated adventures remembering it suits nice smooth stuff better, like you say lots of people do seem happy with theirs.
Otherwise if you buy cheep enough, what ever you get wont have much value to loose.
Unfortunately you need to start somewhere to create a base line for comparison to go more or less technical terrain from.

[Devil]

A surprising amount of you seem to be confused about the BMW GS range, and consequently you're causing confusion with the OP.

If the name starts with GS, its a suzuki.
If its followed by GS, its a BMW :P

Just to clarify for the thread starter:
An F650GS - if made in the 90's or early to mid 2000's - is a single cylinder 650. It also comes in a dakar version with the difference being it has 21" front spoked wheel as opposed to the standard 19". Recently, this bike was tarted up and re-released as the G650GS, and the G650GS Sertao (the 'Dakar' version).
The NEW F650GS is an 800cc parallel twin, sharing an engine (albeit in a detuned state) with the F800GS.

As sidecar bob mentioned, if you want to look at one of the big boys - the R1200GS really is a leap ahead of the R1150GS (R series are all the big boxer twins).

Perhaps see if you can borrow the F650GS single and see what you think, before you commit to a whole lot of money on one.

I have an R1200GS Adventure too, and LOVE it. I do plenty of road riding and its a sweet toy in this department. It is definitely heavier and less agile than the 650's offroad however.

[JATZ]

What about a Tenere ?...

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-460634334.htm

just putting it out there :innocent:

[Gremlin]

It is definitely heavier and less agile than the 650's offroad however.
The bike's ability is only limited by the rider's imagination (and stupidity)
<a href="http://s210.photobucket.com/albums/bb236/_Gremlin/20120331%20-%20NGARNZ%20Poronui%20and%20Tukino/?action=view&amp;current=DSC03583.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb236/_Gremlin/20120331%20-%20NGARNZ%20Poronui%20and%20Tukino/th_DSC03583.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" ></a>

[Crim]

Perhaps see if you can borrow the F650GS single and see what you think, before you commit to a whole lot of money on one.

Great idea that, see if you can have a spin on a range of 650's and then work out wether BMW is worth twice a DR or KLR to you, if I was you I would go cheap and cheerfull to start with - amazing how many people on this website have had bigger, more expensive bikes and then gone for a DR - biggets bang for your buck out there! (I love my KLR but it is bloody heavy to pick up which I seem to have to do quite often:facepalm:)

[Devil]

The bike's ability is only limited by the rider's imagination (and stupidity)

You'd know.

:P

[dmoo1790]

The bike's ability is only limited by the rider's imagination (and stupidity)

And maybe by sand, Gremlin? Huh? Huh? ;)

[clint640]

Just to clarify for the thread starter:
An F650GS - if made in the 90's or early to mid 2000's - is a single cylinder 650. It also comes in a dakar version with the difference being it has 21" front spoked wheel as opposed to the standard 19". Recently, this bike was tarted up and re-released as the G650GS, and the G650GS Sertao (the 'Dakar' version).
The NEW F650GS is an 800cc parallel twin, sharing an engine (albeit in a detuned state) with the F800GS.
.
We do know all that, & it was pointed out, it's just that we can't be buggered explaining BMW's farked up, arse about face, inconsistent naming conventions in every sentence regarding their 'non R' GS series bikes :brick::p :)

A well set up DR will hold it's value pretty well. Also keep an eye out for the rarer XR650L which is similar but a better fit for a tall guy. Or if you like a bit of tinkering, buy Jatz's Tenere for the ultimate in cool. :sunny:

Cheers
Clint

[Devil]

You're ugly and your mother dresses you funny.

[JATZ]

A well set up DR will hold it's value pretty well. Also keep an eye out for the rarer XR650L which is similar but a better fit for a tall guy. Or if you like a bit of tinkering, buy Jatz's Tenere for the ultimate in cool. :sunny:

Cheers
Clint

I forgot about those XR thingys, and I wouldn't recommend mrs J's tenere to someone just starting out.

the link was one of the new tenere's

[Gremlin]

You'd know.

:P
Yes, I have a very good imagination. :yes: :innocent:


And maybe by sand, Gremlin? Huh? Huh? ;)
I have a proven track record when it comes to sand. I drop my bike. :facepalm:

[Oscar]

We do know all that, & it was pointed out, it's just that we can't be buggered explaining BMW's farked up, arse about face, inconsistent naming conventions in every sentence regarding their 'non R' GS series bikes :brick::p :)

A well set up DR will hold it's value pretty well. Also keep an eye out for the rarer XR650L which is similar but a better fit for a tall guy. Or if you like a bit of tinkering, buy Jatz's Tenere for the ultimate in cool. :sunny:

Cheers
Clint


A well set up DR650, XRL650, XR400 or DRZ400 will be cheaper, way better off road, only slightly worse on road and waaay cheaper than a F650GS. Hell, a well set up 25 year old R80GS is better than an F650GS...and I've owned every bike I've just mentioned, except for the DR650 (and I've spent a considerable amount of time riding other peoples Dr650's).

As for cool, I'll see your Tenere, and raise you my R80:

http://oscar.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Favourites/IMG1961/1113529195_nk43D-M.jpg

[Crim]

A well set up DR650, XRL650, XR400 or DRZ400 will be cheaper, way better off road, only slightly worse on road and waaay cheaper than a F650GS.

You seemed to have missed "the world's most powerful dual sport motorcycle" (KLR if you were wondering)

[Gman71]

I know you don't want to hear this, but given the above, why buy the heaviest, most fragile & most expensive to buy parts for bike in it's class? The pose value of a BMW evaporates pretty quick when you've got a bunch of DR & KLR riders standing around pointing, laughing & taking photos before they help you pick it up :yes:

If onroad comfort is a higher priority then the F650 does make more sense as it excels at that.

Cheers
Clint

Don't believe him. Those DR fuckers are NEVER around to help you pick up a BMW. Just laugh. Trust me.

[Padmei]

Great idea that, see if you can have a spin on a range of 650's and then work out wether BMW is worth twice a DR or KLR to you, if I was you I would go cheap and cheerfull to start with - amazing how many people on this website have had bigger, more expensive bikes and then gone for a DR - biggets bang for your buck out there! (I love my KLR but it is bloody heavy to pick up which I seem to have to do quite often:facepalm:)

Totally agree. When I got interested in adv riding I thought a BMW was a great way to start but when I saw I could buy a new DR or KLR etc for the price of a 2nd hand modern GS I ended up getting a new KLR. In hindsight I should have bought a cheap KLR/ Dr/DRZ till i learnt how to drop them without breaking too many parts.
BMW parts are bloody expensive & they aren't anymore reliable than a Jappa nor are they more stable:pinch:.

You don't lose much on a cheaper adv bike but can lose shitloads on an expensive adv bike.

If I could quote Warewolf 'Get what bike .... ummm something about sleeping or sumthing':facepalm:

Edit: oscar you're a prick!

[Oscar]

Totally agree. When I got interested in adv riding I thought a BMW was a great way to start but when I saw I could buy a new DR or KLR etc for the price of a 2nd hand modern GS I ended up getting a new KLR. In hindsight I should have bought a cheap KLR/ Dr/DRZ till i learnt how to drop them without breaking too many parts.
BMW parts are bloody expensive & they aren't anymore reliable than a Jappa nor are they more stable:pinch:.

You don't lose much on a cheaper adv bike but can lose shitloads on an expensive adv bike.

If I could quote Warewolf 'Get what bike .... ummm something about sleeping or sumthing':facepalm:

Edit: oscar you're a prick!

Ain't it something - you settle into a great BMW bashing thread and these cheap-arsed KLR preecks turn up and start telling us how powerful their bikes are:facepalm:

So powerful that they're capable of hauling all the milk crate luggage that fits:laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh:

[pomgolian]

Depends on your budget 8k wont buy you much or an old a pre-bashed expensive to own F650 look at something like a DR or KLR newer and parts & mods a whole lot cheaper. I worked at a BMW dealer in the UK the early GSs constant hassle & costly to fix.

[Eddieb]

Buy a cheap DR or KLR and get it dirty and hold onto your F4 while you decide if ADV is your thing. Or, for a little more refinement, road manners and pillion comfort at the cost of a bit of off road ability in the knarlier stuff get a Honda Transalp 600/650 V twin. All can be had for not much more than 4K but the KLR may suit a little better than the DR due to your height, it's taller and wider.

You'll have as much fun, if not more while learning than on an expensive Beemer and then you can decide if you want to chop the CBR in for a full time ADV bike. You'll know how dirty or not you want to get and what will suit those needs. I think every ADV rider I've seen that started on an F650GS Dakar appeared to struggle on them.

(Current DR and ex 3x BMW GS owner.)

[Padmei]

Ain't it something - you settle into a great BMW bashing thread and these cheap-arsed KLR preecks turn up and start telling us how powerful their bikes are:facepalm:

So powerful that they're capable of hauling all the milk crate luggage that fits:laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh:

HEY!!! We may be cheap but we our KLRs don't have any power so there:angry2:

[ops.normal]

Agree wholeheartedly with your logic Eddie. I now think I'll be test riding a few more bikes to get a proper feel for what is out there. Allows for the most informed decision making in the end :)

[Kokopelli]

As for cool, I'll see your Tenere, and raise you my R80:

http://oscar.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Favourites/IMG1961/1113529195_nk43D-M.jpg

Points deducted for side panels, there shouldn't be any.

[JATZ]

Points deducted for side panels, there shouldn't be any.

Yebut, points gained for the classic TT in the back ground :sunny:

[Oscar]

Points deducted for side panels, there shouldn't be any.

Yeah, the sidepanels are optional extras, as is the headlight fairing.
I've taken both off and added a single (orange) seat.

261840

[Oscar]

Yebut, points gained for the classic TT in the back ground :sunny:

It's since had a mate added:
261839

[Kokopelli]

I am just jealous. On top of that the carb cleaner is getting to me. I am in the process of sorting he Bings, on the G/S. Hopefully, I'll be putting stuff back together next week, instead of just pulling it apart.

[Kokopelli]

It's since had a mate added:
261839

That was dream bike. A friend had one, so I got to ride it every now and then. That was in '81, seems like yesterday....

[Oscar]

That was dream bike. A friend had one, so I got to ride it every now and then. That was in '81, seems like yesterday....

1981? People were trying to bust my head over a Rugby tour.
Then I got married.






















I've had better years...

[Kokopelli]

I've had better years...

Do the ride to Mahia, that will make you feel better :-).


I've just spent 2 1/2 hours on one stupid carb. That has go to be a vote for a single.

[Padmei]

I've just spent 2 1/2 hours on one stupid carb. That has go to be a vote for a single.

I spent that long trying to get the carb out of my single. Give me some bings blowing in the wind anyday

[Woodman]

1981? People were trying to bust my head over a Rugby tour.
Then I got married.


I've had better years...


Was a great year. The ABs won the series.

[tri boy]

1. Get drunk.

2. Approach adv bike you have purchased.

3. Kick it from the left side, and watch it slam into the ground.

4. Struggle to pick it up, and place on side stand.

5. Inspect for damage.

If there is nil damage, (scratches are not considered damage), then celebrate by drinking more booze.
If there is damage, then you picked a prissey lil show pony.
Idiot.

(Triumph scramblers are exempt from the above guide).

[That looks like fun]

1. Get drunk.

2. Approach adv bike you have purchased.

3. Kick it from the left side, and watch it slam into the ground.

4. Struggle to pick it up, and place on side stand.

5. Inspect for damage.

If there is nil damage, (scratches are not considered damage), then celebrate by drinking more booze.
If there is damage, then you picked a prissey lil show pony.
Idiot.

(Triumph scramblers are exempt from the above guide).


You should stick to winding up blondes mate :innocent:
Tested our mates bike on Monday :scooter: No oil leaks and we can both still walk, just :facepalm:

[GSers]

I've just spent 2 1/2 hours on one stupid carb. That has go to be a vote for a single.[/QUOTE]

Or Fuel Injection you know we are now in the 21st Century :yawn:

GSers

[Crim]

1. Get drunk.
2. Approach adv bike you have purchased.
3. Kick it from the left side, and watch it slam into the ground.
4. Struggle to pick it up, and place on side stand.
5. Inspect for damage.
If there is nil damage, (scratches are not considered damage), then celebrate by drinking more booze.
If there is damage, then you picked a prissey lil show pony.
Idiot.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zibj7KnjClk&feature=plcp&context=C4cb46cbVDvjVQa1PpcFNkMJfxvUnS10WSbb6iYMZX Or4Bp5ku0qc%3D

Which is why I bought the kwaka!

[Rosie]

Or Fuel Injection you know we are now in the 21st Century :yawn:

GSers

Yep, none of that time-wasting "maybe we can fix it" BS with fuel injection :D
Either it goes :sunny: or it doesn't :bye:

[tri boy]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zibj7KnjClk&feature=plcp&context=C4cb46cbVDvjVQa1PpcFNkMJfxvUnS10WSbb6iYMZX Or4Bp5ku0qc%3D

Which is why I bought the kwaka!


Summed up perfectly.
KLR/DR/XR/XT

Nuff said;)

[dino3310]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zibj7KnjClk&feature=plcp&context=C4cb46cbVDvjVQa1PpcFNkMJfxvUnS10WSbb6iYMZX Or4Bp5ku0qc%3D

Which is why I bought the kwaka!

i feel like doing that every time i see a Kwaka, i like the bit at the end when he cant get it back up, thats why i brought the XR

[Crim]

i feel like doing that every time i see a Kwaka, i like the bit at the end when he cant get it back up, thats why i brought the XR

tell me about it, she is a heavy old lump - and I just took her down for her first 6 months warrant :crybaby: she is growing up :crybaby: before I know it she'll be leaving home getting a job and sending me money

[Padmei]

tell me about it, she is a heavy old lump - and I just took her down for her first 6 months warrant :crybaby: she is growing up :crybaby: before I know it she'll be leaving home getting a job and sending me money

Jeez you've had it pretty good having it for so long & not getting wofs before

[Crim]

Jeez you've had it pretty good having it for so long & not getting wofs before

no they have always been 12 month ones (ATGATTATLBOPAW) - or were you taking the michael?

All The Gear All The Time And The Little Bits Of Paper As Well

[ops.normal]

Hi all

Bit of an update - sold the CBR (market value stings) and am chasing a Dakar in CHC.

I haven't ridden or even sat on the Dakar version, so am trying to track one down at a dealers just to confirm the fit is acceptable, and then we should be away laughing. Some have said the ride is less confidence inspiring than the standard version, due the narrow front tyre's contact patch combined with forks more prone to diving. If I can find a Dakar to take for a spin (without flying to CHC with a stack of cash and hope) then I might put those fears to bed.

Incidentally, rode the F800GS and it shot straight to no. 1 on the wishlist. There's an ex rental one on TM at the moment, but I've yet to find anyone (myself included) who is optimistic about ex-rentals.

Cheers :)

[Gremlin]

Don't be afraid to ask the loons that are KB. I've visited someone before to show him a 1200GSA, as no dealers had one, so he could try it out for size.

I'm sure someone near you will have the same bike you're interested in, just so you can see what it's like.

[JATZ]

Ex rentals...

Mrs J's first adv bike was an ex rental F650. It had about 120,000 k's when she got it and over 140,000 when she got rid of it. It always ran well (when it was upright) and never gave any trouble. My F650 had some minor issues and it had far less k's on it.
Hers was always serviced by trained profesionals, on time, and well looked after, I guess they have to be if the company wants top dollar from the customer.

[Transalper]

Ex rentals...

Mrs J's first adv bike was an ex rental F650. It had about 120,000 k's when she got it and over 140,000 when she got rid of it. It always ran well (when it was upright) and never gave any trouble.....
ha ha, I seem to remember a chain wrapping round stuff and a locked rear wheel in front of me once. A little bit spectacular as she slid to a stop with the back stepping out.

[_Shrek_]

ha ha, I seem to remember a chain wrapping round stuff and a locked rear wheel in front of me once. A little bit spectacular as she slid to a stop with the back stepping out.

& a team effort getting it back on the road to finish the day :Punk:

[ops.normal]

If there happen to be any Dakar guys in AKL who wouldn't mind me having a bit of a nosey, that'd be a big help at this juncture :P

[Crisis management]

If there happen to be any Dakar guys in AKL who wouldn't mind me having a bit of a nosey, that'd be a big help at this juncture :P

Can't help with the bike but I have ridden the same model Dakar and hated the seating position, very much locked in place with knees bashing the tank, hard to standup (tank again) and a general all round pain in the arse as you couldn't move back and forwards on the seat to shift weight. I'm 5' 10 so if you're over six foot you better try sitting on one first. :sick:

How come no ones mentioned the best adventure bike in NZ, the 640 adventure? :bleh::bleh: There has been one on Tardme lately (not mine) for 10k which I thought was a bargain!



After all that, just about anything with wheels does as an adventure bike for gravel roads and hard surfaces, my R80 (venerable 1983 model) goes as fast on gravel as most round here, I got beaten by an XR400 recently but it was close! If you can find a bike with an 19" front, thats all you need. Cheap and unbendable are the only criteria for a starter adventure bike (light weight is incredibly handy too).

[Oscar]

Can't help with the bike but I have ridden the same model Dakar and hated the seating position, very much locked in place with knees bashing the tank, hard to standup (tank again) and a general all round pain in the arse as you couldn't move back and forwards on the seat to shift weight. I'm 5' 10 so if you're over six foot you better try sitting on one first. :sick:

How come no ones mentioned the best adventure bike in NZ, the 640 adventure? :bleh::bleh: There has been one on Tardme lately (not mine) for 10k which I thought was a bargain!



After all that, just about anything with wheels does as an adventure bike for gravel roads and hard surfaces, my R80 (venerable 1983 model) goes as fast on gravel as most round here, I got beaten by an XR400 recently but it was close! If you can find a bike with an 19" front, thats all you need. Cheap and unbendable are the only criteria for a starter adventure bike (light weight is incredibly handy too).

I was sorely tempted by that 640ADV - 1800kms on it at 10 grand..wow.

[Crisis management]

I was sorely tempted by that 640ADV - 1800kms on it at 10 grand..wow.

You can have my original, impecable 640 for only $14,000..... never been dropped, somersaulted, drowned in rivers or thrown down teh road.........................much. :innocent:

To the OP, have you been to BMW experience (I think that's what it is called) in Kingsland, talk to the older rotund gentleman, there is nothing he does not know about BMWs and GS's in particular. Oscar knows him and may actually know his name?

[ops.normal]

Yep. I've had a yarn to the chap at Experience, very knowledgeable. Rode an F650GS parallel twin today...nice bike, but not totally enamoured with it. I don't know if it's just me being hamfisted and coming off a sports bike, but it felt a little strange tipping into turns, like it would have a bit of a think about it, maybe a wee tiny wobble as I got to the lean angle I wanted. Probably just me...

Will continue searching in earnest anyhoo - this is by far the most research I've done before buying a bike - sadly the deeper I look, the deeper the rabbit hole goes. On the odd occasion I just want to take the blue pill :P

[Oscar]

You can have my original, impecable 640 for only $14,000..... never been dropped, somersaulted, drowned in rivers or thrown down teh road.........................much. :innocent:

To the OP, have you been to BMW experience (I think that's what it is called) in Kingsland, talk to the older rotund gentleman, there is nothing he does not know about BMWs and GS's in particular. Oscar knows him and may actually know his name?

Henry Plowright?

[Transalper]

Your're right about the more you research the deeper the rabbit hole, especially while you have no adventure experience as a base line to go from. Your second adventure bike should be a little easier to choose.
Just to add another 2c on the wheel size, seems like I've heard a lot of people, or was it one person over and over again... say that there is a very limited choice of tyres if you go 19" where as you have a lot of options in road vs mud orientations if you go 21" (like the Dakar).

On the fork dive and different turn in rates, you simply get used to it.
When I change tyres (worn to fresh or road to knobbs etc.) I find I sometimes initially tip in a bit quick on the first couple of corners needing to thus un tip a bit. It's a kind of wobble I guess but it's more me getting a feel for it again and usually only the first couple of corners.
You can spend money to lessen the fork dive under braking but most people I know never bothered.

[NordieBoy]

How come no ones mentioned the best adventure bike in NZ, the 640 adventure?
Couldn't stand it. The tank went too wide too soon (same as large IMS for KLR) and got in the way of my knees.
Not to mention the vibes! :shit:

Was one of my dream bikes 'till then :no:

[Crisis management]

Couldn't stand it. The tank went too wide too soon (same as large IMS for KLR) and got in the way of my knees.
Not to mention the vibes! :shit:

Was one of my dream bikes 'till then :no:

You're a philistine, you've clearly been riding the DR for far to long, I even went so far as to demonstrate the crashability of the bike for you and you're still an unbeliever!

This is worse than religous wars....... :blink:

[Oscar]

Not to mention the vibes! :shit:



Please remove the "I like thumpers" tag on your header.:facepalm:
When are you moving to Ponsonby...?

[NordieBoy]

Please remove the "I like thumpers" tag on your header.:facepalm:
When are you moving to Ponsonby...?

Thumper vibes are good. Teeth vibration and filling removal isn't.

[JATZ]

How come no ones mentioned the best adventure bike in NZ, the 640 adventure? :bleh::bleh: There has been one on Tardme lately (not mine) for 10k which I thought was a bargain!

If that had popped up back in January I would probably be riding it now ! :blink:

I had a wee go on Warewolf's one and while it was set up all wrong for me (he's a short arse) I did like it. certainly less viiibbbyyy than the Big and it doesn't need any after market big tank and suspension mods

[nooles]

You can have my original, impecable 640 for only $14,000..... never been dropped, somersaulted, drowned in rivers or thrown down teh road.........................much. :innocent:

To the OP, have you been to BMW experience (I think that's what it is called) in Kingsland, talk to the older rotund gentleman, there is nothing he does not know about BMWs and GS's in particular. Oscar knows him and may actually know his name?

The older Rotund gentleman is now selling a hot looking LC4 Adventure, has he seen the light:laugh:
Listing #: 472552691 , with panniers and bugger all k's

[Night Falcon]

Thumper vibes are good. Teeth vibration and filling removal isn't.

Ive never ridden a 640 A...but I did hear once they can do a figure 8 on a concrete floor whilst idling with the side stand down, so thats kinda special.... almost like a graceful ice skater :corn:

[Crisis management]

The older Rotund gentleman is now selling a hot looking LC4 Adventure, has he seen the light:laugh:
Listing #: 472552691 , with panniers and bugger all k's

You're right, nice bike too, all these low kms 640s' are finally coming out of the sheds and hopefully being ridden. Interestingly enough, I was following Mr Plowright thru Onehunga this afternon on his GS800, small world eh? Last time I saw him was on one of Mike Brittons far north rides a couple of years ago.

[clint640]

Couldn't stand it. The tank went too wide too soon (same as large IMS for KLR) and got in the way of my knees.
Not to mention the vibes! :shit:

Was one of my dream bikes 'till then :no:

That's why they make the 640E. 18L is enough for NZ, pop the 12L on to go even slimmer for gnarly stuff.

The vibes die off a lot once you've got them run in properly, get a 100 thousand k's or so on em & they're smooth as :laugh:

Clint

[jim.cox]

Rode an F650GS parallel twin today...nice bike, but not totally enamoured with it.


BiteMyWallets just dont do it for me.

I tried the original F650 when they first came out. Much the same reaction - nice enough, but...

I ended up with a adnoH instead - a bit rougher, but more go, and a much much bigger grin factor

Just my $0.02

[NordieBoy]

That's why they make the 640E. 18L is enough for NZ, pop the 12L on to go even slimmer for gnarly stuff.

The vibes die off a lot once you've got them run in properly, get a 100 thousand k's or so on em & they're smooth as :laugh:

Clint

Yep. The ergos on Topo's 640E with the 18L tank were very similar to the DR with 18L IMS tank.

It was Warewolf's paint shaker I rode.

[ops.normal]

Hey all

I'm possibly heading off to pick up a Dakar next week - but I'd really like to have a sit on one before I blast off....if anyone has one in their garage and wouldn't mind me taking 5 mins to check it out it'd be much appreciated :)

PM's if it's a possibility.

Cheers!

[_Shrek_]

Hey all

I'm possibly heading off to pick up a Dakar next week - but I'd really like to have a sit on one before I blast off....if anyone has one in their garage and wouldn't mind me taking 5 mins to check it out it'd be much appreciated :)

PM's if it's a possibility.

Cheers!

just a thought!! what about dropping into these guy's,

Ardmore Motorcycle Rentals, 37 Campbell Rd, Maraetai, Auckland, ph 09 5341805

[ops.normal]

Oh spot on. Good thinking, Batman :D Will give them a bell!