View Full Version : Aprilia Caponord?
Ulsterkiwi
25th May 2016, 22:07
Aprillia Caponord 1200 (Travel Pack)
This bike looks to provide a lot of bang for the buck, especially at the runout prices going at the minute.
Can anyone provide some feedback on ownership?
Specifically:
reliability (particularly of the bells and whistles)
availability of spares
availability of aftermarket accessories
suspension, quite a few of the reviews I have read from overseas talk about it being too softly sprung
Cheers in advance for the sensible answers and thank you for the entertainment with all the others ;)
Ulsterkiwi
26th May 2016, 16:02
67 views and not one answer, not even to abuse me, this bodes well.......
Gremlin
26th May 2016, 16:38
Probably on run out as they haven't sold that well? :pinch:
You have the regular Caponord, the Travel pack (with panniers) then they also released the Rally, with 19" front wheel, spoked wheels, spot lights etc etc.
I was interested in it, but it would never replace my GSA, so never took one for a test ride. Soft suspension has pros and cons. It will sink and wallow, or soak up the typical rough roads we have...
nzspokes
26th May 2016, 17:28
What can it do the FA cant?
Suspension is superior over your current lot. The Multistrada in my opinion is over priced in this category making the Caponord a fitting and more affordable choice. I owned an FA myself for just over a year and love the bike. Had I kept it.. it definitely would have had and needed money spent on the suspension.... especially the rear shock.
From a Review. (which you are probably aware of)
The Aprilia Caponord is fitted with Aprilia Dynamic Dampening, which pairs a fully active rear suspension with a semi-active front fork to modify the settings automatically as you ride. The system measures the weight of the load, wheel speed, throttle and brake position, and input from sensors on the fork and swingarm to set rebound and compression damping up front and rebound, compression, and spring preload in the rear. Or, if you're unhappy with how the system is setting the suspension for you, you can lock it in one of four combinations of rider, passenger, and luggage.
James Deuce
26th May 2016, 18:24
It's an Aprilia. If it goes wrong, you're on your own.
It will go wrong.
AF1 Aprilia in the US can help you.
But no NZ dealer nor NZ distributor will help you when it goes wrong.
And it will go wrong.
Frodo
26th May 2016, 19:15
It's an Aprilia. If it goes wrong, you're on your own.
It will go wrong.
AF1 Aprilia in the US can help you.
But no NZ dealer nor NZ distributor will help you when it goes wrong.
And it will go wrong.
I'm on my third Aprilia for a total of about 140,000km. None of them went "wrong" (other than an oil leak on my current bike - leaking blanking plug fixed under warranty).
I'll ask a friend in the UK about his experience with his Caponord.
Or you could look in here: http://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?106-2014-2016-Caponord-1200
AllanB
26th May 2016, 19:43
If you like it buy it - fuck the internet opinions they are usually based on bikes from 1972.
James Deuce
26th May 2016, 20:46
I'm on my third Aprilia for a total of about 140,000km. None of them went "wrong" (other than an oil leak on my current bike - leaking blanking plug fixed under warranty).
I'll ask a friend in the UK about his experience with his Caponord.
Or you could look in here: http://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?106-2014-2016-Caponord-1200
Always the exception that proves the rule. How did you get it fixed under warranty in NZ?
I've had friends have dashes, ecus and clutches die in the first few months of ownership and they were on their own.
Ulsterkiwi
26th May 2016, 22:56
Probably on run out as they haven't sold that well? :pinch:
You have the regular Caponord, the Travel pack (with panniers) then they also released the Rally, with 19" front wheel, spoked wheels, spot lights etc etc.
I was interested in it, but it would never replace my GSA, so never took one for a test ride. Soft suspension has pros and cons. It will sink and wallow, or soak up the typical rough roads we have...
thats what concerned me
the travel pack version is being offered at $23k, $10k less than a base GS with nada accessoryizmos. Soft suspension I know all about, I had the stock setup on the FA after all. Mr Taylor sorted it but he took some $$$. The Aprillia is fitted with Sachs as OE. It concerns me that OE equipment like that is still considered to be soft. Its a touring bike not an off roader, why would it need soft suspension?
A test ride will harm nooone but I do wonder.....
Ulsterkiwi
26th May 2016, 22:57
What can it do the FA cant?
compared to my own personal FA? probably not a whole lot actually but you know how it is when you fancy a change?
Ulsterkiwi
26th May 2016, 22:59
Suspension is superior over your current lot. The Multistrada in my opinion is over priced in this category making the Caponord a fitting and more affordable choice. I owned an FA myself for just over a year and love the bike. Had I kept it.. it definitely would have had and needed money spent on the rear shock.... especially the rear shock.
From a Review. (which you are probably aware of)
The Aprilia Caponord is fitted with Aprilia Dynamic Dampening, which pairs a fully active rear suspension with a semi-active front fork to modify the settings automatically as you ride. The system measures the weight of the load, wheel speed, throttle and brake position, and input from sensors on the fork and swingarm to set rebound and compression damping up front and rebound, compression, and spring preload in the rear. Or, if you're unhappy with how the system is setting the suspension for you, you can lock it in one of four combinations of rider, passenger, and luggage.
yep have read a few now but appreciate the copy/paste. Agree on the Duc, they are all too expensive and other than the sport bikes which I would never ride do not look nearly as stylish to me as they are sometimes called. Lot of $$ for a look.
Have had the FA for a couple of years, front and back are not what Mr Suzuki put there.
Gremlin
26th May 2016, 23:02
the travel pack version is being offered at $23k, $10k less than a base GS with nada accessoryizmos. Soft suspension I know all about, I had the stock setup on the FA after all. Mr Taylor sorted it but he took some $$$. The Aprillia is fitted with Sachs as OE. It concerns me that OE equipment like that is still considered to be soft. Its a touring bike not an off roader, why would it need soft suspension?
A test ride will harm nooone but I do wonder.....
The thing is... suspension wears out. With Mr BMW your suspension isn't serviceable (on my GSA anyway)... you buy another set. This is BMW prices, so Ohlins was actually cheaper upfront and ongoing...
Only problem with that... gawd I love my Ohlins and riding anything else just doesn't cut it :love:
Ulsterkiwi
26th May 2016, 23:02
It's an Aprilia. If it goes wrong, you're on your own.
It will go wrong.
AF1 Aprilia in the US can help you.
But no NZ dealer nor NZ distributor will help you when it goes wrong.
And it will go wrong.
I was immediately concerned that I could get a mounting plate(from NZ stock) to match my existing top box for every bike on my list of possibles EXCEPT the Caponord. Maybe I am picky.
Have to say Aprillia seems to have some dedicated followers, they cannot all be wrong :no:
AllanB
26th May 2016, 23:02
The Aprillia is fitted with Sachs as OE. It concerns me that OE equipment like that is still considered to be soft. Its a touring bike not an off roader, why would it need soft suspension?
Depends on the rider really - half the magazine test riders look like fat buggers to me so their idea of soft may be perfect. Point in case a couple magazines have issued their recommended suspension settings for bikes - i'm a relative light weight and their recommendations for my ride are way too firm for me.
Ulsterkiwi
26th May 2016, 23:03
I'm on my third Aprilia for a total of about 140,000km. None of them went "wrong" (other than an oil leak on my current bike - leaking blanking plug fixed under warranty).
I'll ask a friend in the UK about his experience with his Caponord.
Or you could look in here: http://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?106-2014-2016-Caponord-1200
QED 10 chars
Ulsterkiwi
26th May 2016, 23:05
Depends on the rider really - half the magazine test riders look like fat buggers to me so their idea of soft may be perfect. Point in case a couple magazines have issued their recommended suspension settings for bikes - i'm a relative light weight and their recommendations for my ride are way too firm for me.
much sense do you make, lead me to the dark side you do.
Ulsterkiwi
26th May 2016, 23:10
so in the musings I am at the following list, its not an apples with apples, I grant you. The main things which link are: at least 90HP, hopefully torque for a fair bit and an upright ride with some legroom for my 1.94m frame.
New Aprillia Caponord with travel pack
New MT-09 Tracer (guy at the dealership says it needs resprung in the back.....from new......)
One or two year old DL1000 with some bells and whistles
2008 R1200GSA farkled to buggery, very low kms
Methinks I know what the Gremlin will suggest.
Gremlin
26th May 2016, 23:39
New Aprillia Caponord with travel pack
New MT-09 Tracer (guy at the dealership says it needs resprung in the back.....from new......)
One or two year old DL1000 with some bells and whistles
2008 R1200GSA farkled to buggery, very low kms
Methinks I know what the Gremlin will suggest.
Well, I'm slightly biased, but the 2010+ GSA did get more power, better performance, and I actually saw a few 2012/2013 GSA a few weeks ago on TM for $22-23k. Depends on your budget but that would probably be my pick. 2013 was the wethead GS, 2014 the wethead GSA, so anything just prior is the hexhead.
Otherwise, you're comparing new bikes to 2nd hand ones. Little unfair. Also, on Caponord you're getting active suspension, the others you aren't.
Bearing in mind the new DL1000 was about the same as a Caponord (or one slightly used), I'd pick the Caponord out of those two. I think nadroj in New Plymouth has an MT09, or MT07, and seemed to like it a lot. I'm annoyed that almost every new bike has had the accountant slice the suspension budget...
nzspokes
27th May 2016, 06:42
De-cork the FA, 130hp not hard to get. Few more $$ and get in the 140 to 150 range.
nzspokes
27th May 2016, 06:45
thats what concerned me
the travel pack version is being offered at $23k, $10k less than a base GS with nada accessoryizmos. Soft suspension I know all about, I had the stock setup on the FA after all. Mr Taylor sorted it but he took some $$$. The Aprillia is fitted with Sachs as OE. It concerns me that OE equipment like that is still considered to be soft. Its a touring bike not an off roader, why would it need soft suspension?
A test ride will harm nooone but I do wonder.....
I would buy the Prilla without question If I could be assured of warranty and parts backup. A Tuono Factory is the bike I lust for. This is why I will probably end up with a BMW.
Ocean1
27th May 2016, 08:45
I would buy the Prilla without question If I could be assured of warranty and parts backup. A Tuono Factory is the bike I lust for. This is why I will probably end up with a BMW.
Question. Who is the importer / distributor for Aprilia? BMW?
nzspokes
27th May 2016, 09:08
Question. Who is the importer / distributor for Aprilia? BMW?
Fecked if I know.
DMNTD
27th May 2016, 10:21
Question. Who is the importer / distributor for Aprilia? BMW?
The very same person for the past 3 years
Ocean1
27th May 2016, 10:39
The very same person for the past 3 years
Aye, wasn't sure if it'd changed recently.
What other marques are in that family?
James Deuce
27th May 2016, 10:46
Fecked if I know.
They look after their main customer base very well.
DMNTD
27th May 2016, 12:51
Aye, wasn't sure if it'd changed recently.
What other marques are in that family?
From memory: MV Agusta, Aprilia, Triumph, Moto Guzzi, Gas Gas, BMW...there are a few more I think but I've been out of the game for a bit now
Ocean1
27th May 2016, 13:29
From memory: MV Agusta, Aprilia, Triumph, Moto Guzzi, Gas Gas, BMW...there are a few more I think but I've been out of the game for a bit now
Aye, Husqvarna too I think. For what it's worth.
And yes Jim, they're not bad on the triumph stuff.
DMNTD
27th May 2016, 14:24
Aye, Husqvarna too I think. For what it's worth.
And yes Jim, they're not bad on the triumph stuff.
+ Husky too
Gremlin
27th May 2016, 15:10
+ Husky too
Add Piaggio last time I checked?
Ocean, BMW wasn't a while back, then changed to them.
DMNTD
27th May 2016, 16:40
Add Piaggio last time I checked?
Ocean, BMW wasn't a while back, then changed to them.
Ok...Vespa as well then ya chunky monkey but I thought we were talking about motorcycles :whistle:
Ulsterkiwi
27th May 2016, 19:01
took the caponord for a test ride today. Very nice, sounds amazing! Heaps of power, 110 on the Hutt motorway, 3rd gear and it felt bored with me, kind of "cmon, you gonna ride or what?" Bars are quite wide but make it very easy in urban. Very shiny brand new tyres on it so I didnt really push it on corners but its an italian, of course it will love them.
Taking Mrs UK back tomorrow to try the pillion experience.
To further confuse the issue I also rode a Honda VFR800 Crossrunner. The Vtech is interesting. I like fours, the V seems to give best of both worlds. A gnarly Vtwin sporty it is now but for very different reasons I also like it. Also getting the Mrs test.
too----many----choices-----
AllanB
27th May 2016, 20:08
With a reasonable spending budget a buyer is indeed very spoilt for choice in the motorcycling world presently.
Have fun - the ones you are looking at a all fine bikes - it's just personal preference now.
Addo007
27th May 2016, 20:36
took the caponord for a test ride today. Very nice, sounds amazing! Heaps of power, 110 on the Hutt motorway, 3rd gear and it felt bored with me, kind of "cmon, you gonna ride or what?" Bars are quite wide but make it very easy in urban. Very shiny brand new tyres on it so I didnt really push it on corners but its an italian, of course it will love them.
Taking Mrs UK back tomorrow to try the pillion experience.
To further confuse the issue I also rode a Honda VFR800 Crossrunner. The Vtech is interesting. I like fours, the V seems to give best of both worlds. A gnarly Vtwin sporty it is now but for very different reasons I also like it. Also getting the Mrs test.
too----many----choices-----
Did you consider the vfr1200 crossrunner or just the 800? I know the 1200 sports tourer is an awesome motor so I would imagine the bigger crossrunner would be too.
Ulsterkiwi
27th May 2016, 20:42
Did you consider the vfr1200 crossrunner or just the 800? I know the 1200 sports tourer is an awesome motor so I would imagine the bigger crossrunner would be too.
ah you see, now that has just muddied the water even more......a 1200 AND its a shaftie, no more chain crap.....hmmmmm
Addo007
27th May 2016, 20:47
ah you see, now that has just muddied the water even more......a 1200 AND its a shaftie, no more chain crap.....hmmmmm
And Honda reliability... Definitely worth a look. Not a bad position to be in though, plenty of options and all of them pretty good.
Ulsterkiwi
31st May 2016, 14:15
Well I spent a weekend with Mrs UK coming with me to ride bikes two up. We even considered some very different bikes to the original list, including but not limited to ST1300 and FJR1300.
Mrs UK very much liked being on the back of the Aprilia, comfortable and secure. When we took out a demo DL1000 we got approximately 2kms when she asked me to turn back to the showroom. Bit of a difference!
The VFR800X was high on my list, I am not a wee fella, there was little to no room left for the chief. Strike that. The 1200 version I have ridden before. It was ok but the model I rode had real fueling issues which sort of spoiled it for me. Relatively speaking its weight is not so manageable as others.
The Africa Twin got a try, as did the Duc Multi. The AT is clearly a very good bike, I do not desire or need a proper off road bike and the saddle is not to my pleasing, then Mrs UK tries to get on and is not keen, same with the Duc.
Here is the kicker, we were stood there, contemplating an excellent deal being offered on an ST1300, very tempted. The wife (who rides herself) "ok so forget all the smaller bikes you have looked at, thats not you, also, are you ready for the steady safe and reliable? the predictable and steadfast? Plenty of time for that later, why don't you extend yourself a bit and get something different with a wee bit of mongrel, then rethink in 3 or 4 years again?" I love this woman!
Deposit paid on the Aprilia. I hear the warnings about support. What is life without taking a few risks eh?
The Caponord has a bit of Latin passion that I haven't experienced in any vehicle I have ever owned. Its not like buying bikes is good financial planning is it? I like AllanB's advice, I like it and I am buying it. Will report back when I get a few kms under my belt.
Paul in NZ
31st May 2016, 14:36
Good onya - I like the look of them as well...
pritch
31st May 2016, 15:16
While reading the thread I was thinking of putting you in contact with a couple of Aprilia owners but it seems you figured out what you wanted. Enjoy.:yes:
Gremlin
31st May 2016, 15:37
Well given that you've strayed (a little) from the original topic, did you try a BMW? Depending on budget (or what price you're prepared to stump up) the BMW seats do generally review well for pillion comfort. If you're not a wee bloke, and you need space, then something like a GS or GSA may suit... I'm 6'3 and the GSA is the first bike I've had to be careful when parking, it's that big, but then the size comes with space.
None of that chain crap either :laugh:
Paul in NZ
31st May 2016, 15:41
Did you consider the new triumph 1200 twins? They look very capable...
Ulsterkiwi
31st May 2016, 17:06
Well given that you've strayed (a little) from the original topic, did you try a BMW? Depending on budget (or what price you're prepared to stump up) the BMW seats do generally review well for pillion comfort. If you're not a wee bloke, and you need space, then something like a GS or GSA may suit... I'm 6'3 and the GSA is the first bike I've had to be careful when parking, it's that big, but then the size comes with space.
None of that chain crap either :laugh:
Well I guess the original topic was highlighting I liked the bike but have heard reservations about the brand in the NZ context. I guess internet forae tend to concentrate issues. I bet a BMW GS forum would be filled with long lists of problems.
Yes I tried a BMW, an 1150GS and a 1200GS. I wanted to like the 1150 but I couldn't. The 1200 provided something different but not the difference I wanted. I should add these were second hand bikes as the new offerings are WEEEEELLLLLLL outside of my budget. There is part of the problem, a salesman happily tells me noone worries about kms covered or the year of a BMW, which was odd because I was the customer and I was worried about it. Of course the bikes are designed to go for big distances but the deal on offer was to spend the same money but get a bike with half or more of its working life already used up. So space aside that didn't make any sense to me.
I am not dissing the marque, if I had the money I would be looking at them seriously, I don't so I didn't, if you get me :rolleyes:
Ulsterkiwi
31st May 2016, 17:06
While reading the thread I was thinking of putting you in contact with a couple of Aprilia owners but it seems you figured out what you wanted. Enjoy.:yes:
yes I did but thank you anyway!
Ulsterkiwi
31st May 2016, 17:08
Did you consider the new triumph 1200 twins? They look very capable...
If you mean the T120 or the Thruxton et al, no I didn't, not my cup of tea.
If you mean the Tiger/Explorer are they not triples? Yes I contemplated but didn't ride one.
Gremlin
31st May 2016, 18:34
There is part of the problem, a salesman happily tells me noone worries about kms covered or the year of a BMW, which was odd because I was the customer and I was worried about it.
Don't worry. You can be sure it would be a factor for that very same salesman if you were trading it in with high km :laugh:
In terms of forums, everyone gripes about issues, or things that break. How many do you see posting up threads saying my bike never breaks down etc (mainly because you'd be asking for it then).
Long as you get something you enjoy :msn-wink:
nzspokes
31st May 2016, 18:51
Yes I tried a BMW, an 1150GS and a 1200GS. I wanted to like the 1150 but I couldn't.
You should have tried the BMW S1000XR. :shifty:
Weapon.
Ulsterkiwi
31st May 2016, 18:54
Lol send the $$$ and I will happily reconsider
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Gremlin
31st May 2016, 18:58
Lol send the $$$ and I will happily reconsider
But you get what you pay for :lol:
Those efficient Germans outsourced the manufacture of my headlight to the Italians. It broke. The replacement (under warranty thank goodness) arrived pre-broken in the exact same manner, despite excessive amounts of packaging. The 2nd replacement with minimal packaging was perfick. Really, Italians and electrics? :(
Dunno if I'd be buying a whole bike made of Italian stuff :killingme
Ulsterkiwi
31st May 2016, 20:49
But you get what you pay for :lol:.......................
Dunno if I'd be buying a whole bike made of Italian stuff :killingme
true
BUT
if they were truly that bad, would they sell any? Companies making "better" products have gone bust before now.
Like I said before, pretty sure the "good" marques have their horror stories. I was at a ride on Sunday where a fella was riding a 1290 KTM, that was his second, the first one had so many problems that KTM couldn't sort out they had to give him a new one. The Austrians and Germans lay claim to efficiency. According to the Swiss, they are both amateurs.
When I actually have the thing for a while we shall see :msn-wink:
Gremlin
1st June 2016, 01:45
Like I said before, pretty sure the "good" marques have their horror stories. I was at a ride on Sunday where a fella was riding a 1290 KTM, that was his second, the first one had so many problems that KTM couldn't sort out they had to give him a new one. The Austrians and Germans lay claim to efficiency. According to the Swiss, they are both amateurs.
Good point, mate had that with a 1190R Adventure. 2013 was in the shop 26 times in the first year, so they cut him a deal to replace with a 2014 and it was much happier.
I did ask what he was thinking getting another :eek:
Ulsterkiwi
10th June 2016, 10:08
So, I intend to write a more in depth review later with some more kms clocked up but just by of an update.....
In my limited experience this is a heck of an enjoyable bike to ride. By far and away its the most comfortable thing I have ridden over a decent (>150kms) distance. I have to experiment with the suspension set up as its currently ex factory except s few turns of rear pre-load. That said, it felt very good on the roads I have ridden to date.
I picked the bike up on Saturday past, on Wednesday I left it back for the 1000km service. I have done my commute (140km round trip) a couple of times and at the weekend in the stellar weather Mrs UK and I headed North (the BH being on her CB500X) We did the paraparas, Raetihi, Ohakune (stopping for eclairs) then a stop over with family in Taihape. Next day was a straight run down SH1. Easy as, no sweat and fun.
The run to Whanganui got some heat in the tyres to break them in. A note about those, Dunlop Qualifiers are the OE. 180 wide on the rear. Without trying too hard I have used all the tyre. There is a 6inch rim on this baby and doing some reading around it was supposed to come with a 190 tyre OE. I think I might go that way when replacing to give myself a tad more rubber.
SH4 was excellent as always. This is a big V Twin, quite the change from my IL4 GSX. Fuelling in the low revs is not happy but keep em up and the muffler growling and everything is well in the world.
The fuel gauge is odd, seems to get low very quickly then hang around there for a long time. 350kms is pretty easy, for a 24l tank I would expect that! Fuel consumption was not a primary focus so will look at it again.
I got a California Science screen for it. For the first time in my life I have a screen working the way its supposed to. 100kmh with the visor up and its all good. I can actually hear the engine much better, love it. Plus not cleaning bug guts from my visor every stop is a nice change.
Brakes are awesome
Gear box is nicely positive
switch gear is differently laid out but falls to hand (or finger) ok, its just a matter of relearning.
I would like the clock and odo/trip stuff to be a separate display not a scrolling one but its easy to change with rocker under my left thumb so no drama.
riding modes, mostly in touring, all good. Sport, oh yes, we will have fun......
Traction control, didn't experience it, probably a good thing, means its not too intrusive.
It looks very good.
Getting some toys added, the factory heated grips, bars and lights and an ECU map update. Looking forward to a deep and meaningful relationship.
Banditbandit
10th June 2016, 10:51
Aprillia Caponord 1200 (Travel Pack)
This bike looks to provide a lot of bang for the buck, especially at the runout prices going at the minute.
Can anyone provide some feedback on ownership?
Specifically:
reliability (particularly of the bells and whistles)
availability of spares
availability of aftermarket accessories
suspension, quite a few of the reviews I have read from overseas talk about it being too softly sprung
Cheers in advance for the sensible answers and thank you for the entertainment with all the others ;)
I'm sure the bike is excellent ...
But the name "Caponord" to me brings up visions of Fast Chicken ...
Paul in NZ
10th June 2016, 11:05
Argh - stop it - I'm Jealous already...
Ulsterkiwi
10th June 2016, 11:34
I'm sure the bike is excellent ...
But the name "Caponord" to me brings up visions of Fast Chicken ...
indeed, there is some controversy as to what it translates to. The offering I like is "Big Boss"
In any event my wife has named it the Ice Wolf, not that she goes for the dramatic or anything.
And yes, the bike is very good.
I know you are not being disparaging of the bike, just querying the name choice but funnily enough there were those who were quite disparaging of my TNAB. Boring, old, underpowered, badly suspended, heavy, ugly, uninspiring, typical Suzuki recycling, shit, low quality. All these were words used to describe the bike. Yet when I decided to change, some have said "why would you change from the reliable Jappa?" I sort of don't give a shit really, it was mine and I enjoyed it. I suspect the same will be the case with the......Ice Wolf/Chicken
Ulsterkiwi
10th June 2016, 11:35
Argh - stop it - I'm Jealous already...
You will see it around sometime, yell out if you do.
Gremlin
10th June 2016, 13:34
If you have enough clearance between swingarm/hugger/anything else, consider a 190/55 tyre. You'll get contact patch from the extra width while still keeping a nice profile for cornering. Only thing is, it's quite a different sized tyre to a 180/55, hence the clearance proviso.
Ulsterkiwi
10th June 2016, 14:23
If you have enough clearance between swingarm/hugger/anything else, consider a 190/55 tyre. You'll get contact patch from the extra width while still keeping a nice profile for cornering. Only thing is, it's quite a different sized tyre to a 180/55, hence the clearance proviso.
yep, understand the proviso. Consulting the Aprilia forums it seems to be a workable and very successful solution. I was very surprised to see the whole (180) tyre being used as I genuinely didn't think I was pushing that hard. Thankfully a 190/55/17 is readily available in the model tyres I would like to consider, Angel GT, T30, PR4 etc
Gremlin
10th June 2016, 15:34
yep, understand the proviso. Consulting the Aprilia forums it seems to be a workable and very successful solution. I was very surprised to see the whole (180) tyre being used as I genuinely didn't think I was pushing that hard. Thankfully a 190/55/17 is readily available in the model tyres I would like to consider, Angel GT, T30, PR4 etc
Not all 180 tyres are created equally (or any size really). Some have a very flat profile, or the edge of the tread doesn't really "wrap around". I remember buying my ZX10R, the previous owner couldn't get it close to the edge, I did it easily on the OEM tyre, went for a curvy 190 and finally got close to the edge of that...
I'm even certain for my GSA, that the PR4T rear is slightly more flat than a regular PR4 in the same size (T I was running off the edge, reg I'm just on the edge, but the front shows more lean...). Never predictable stuff ;)
Banditbandit
10th June 2016, 16:42
indeed, there is some controversy as to what it translates to. The offering I like is "Big Boss"
In any event my wife has named it the Ice Wolf, not that she goes for the dramatic or anything.
And yes, the bike is very good.
I know you are not being disparaging of the bike, just querying the name choice but funnily enough there were those who were quite disparaging of my TNAB. Boring, old, underpowered, badly suspended, heavy, ugly, uninspiring, typical Suzuki recycling, shit, low quality. All these were words used to describe the bike. Yet when I decided to change, some have said "why would you change from the reliable Jappa?" I sort of don't give a shit really, it was mine and I enjoyed it. I suspect the same will be the case with the......Ice Wolf/Chicken
As a real bandit rider (Not disparaging the TNAB GSX1250FA) I can appreciate that ... I just opened the throttle to those people and dare them to keep up ..
(Don't get me wrong - I know the Bandit will not keep up with any modern litre sports bike .. but most fuckwits can't ride them that fast .. there's plenty who can tho' ...)
nzspokes
31st July 2017, 21:53
Well I spent a weekend with Mrs UK coming with me to ride bikes two up. We even considered some very different bikes to the original list, including but not limited to ST1300 and FJR1300.
Mrs UK very much liked being on the back of the Aprilia, comfortable and secure. When we took out a demo DL1000 we got approximately 2kms when she asked me to turn back to the showroom. Bit of a difference!
The VFR800X was high on my list, I am not a wee fella, there was little to no room left for the chief. Strike that. The 1200 version I have ridden before. It was ok but the model I rode had real fueling issues which sort of spoiled it for me. Relatively speaking its weight is not so manageable as others.
The Africa Twin got a try, as did the Duc Multi. The AT is clearly a very good bike, I do not desire or need a proper off road bike and the saddle is not to my pleasing, then Mrs UK tries to get on and is not keen, same with the Duc.
Here is the kicker, we were stood there, contemplating an excellent deal being offered on an ST1300, very tempted. The wife (who rides herself) "ok so forget all the smaller bikes you have looked at, thats not you, also, are you ready for the steady safe and reliable? the predictable and steadfast? Plenty of time for that later, why don't you extend yourself a bit and get something different with a wee bit of mongrel, then rethink in 3 or 4 years again?" I love this woman!
Deposit paid on the Aprilia. I hear the warnings about support. What is life without taking a few risks eh?
The Caponord has a bit of Latin passion that I haven't experienced in any vehicle I have ever owned. Its not like buying bikes is good financial planning is it? I like AllanB's advice, I like it and I am buying it. Will report back when I get a few kms under my belt.
I see a Prilla on TM, What happened?
Ulsterkiwi
31st July 2017, 21:56
I decided to change. Can't justify more than one bike so time to move her on. Not a fault of the Aprilia in any way.
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nzspokes
31st July 2017, 22:06
I decided to change. Can't justify more than one bike so time to move her on. Not a fault of the Aprilia in any way.
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Are you getting a Harley?
Ulsterkiwi
31st July 2017, 22:15
Lol I will never say never because that's just tempting fate but no, not a Harley. Mr Goss at Motomart cut me an unrefusable deal on a very very tidy low kms liquid cooled 1200GS. Never thought something of that standard would be in my budget, turns out "never" doesn't cut it.
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Gremlin
1st August 2017, 00:13
Lol I will never say never because that's just tempting fate but no, not a Harley. Mr Goss at Motomart cut me an unrefusable deal on a very very tidy low kms liquid cooled 1200GS. Never thought something of that standard would be in my budget, turns out "never" doesn't cut it.
Well I won't say "I told you so" :innocent: Just make yourself aware of the stanchion recall if you haven't already.
Ulsterkiwi
1st August 2017, 07:35
Well I won't say "I told you so" :innocent: Just make yourself aware of the stanchion recall if you haven't already.
Yes, am aware of it. Mr Kewwig has welcomed another addict with all manner of information [emoji849] Mr Goss gave me a copy of the touratech catalogue, its like selling drugs.....
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nzspokes
1st August 2017, 12:21
Yes, am aware of it. Mr Kewwig has welcomed another addict with all manner of information [emoji849] Mr Goss gave me a copy of the touratech catalogue, its like selling drugs.....
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Not sure if this is better or worse than a Harley......
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Ulsterkiwi
1st August 2017, 12:30
Not sure if this is better or worse than a Harley......
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weeeelllllll, I kinda said this earlier back in the thread, no matter what one chooses to do, there will always be an expert who can point out the error of my ways ;) I think you know deep down that this is not the same as getting a Harley......
Either way I don't care what anyone else thinks, I am really enjoying the Bavarian and in a very different way to the Italian, too young to settle down just yet :2thumbsup
Gremlin
1st August 2017, 19:30
Not sure if this is better or worse than a Harley......
:eek5:
You better be talking about modifying... the bikes themselves are way better. That said, Harleys are what, bit of chrome, exhausts. Adventure bikes are worse than crack... plus you go out and keep dropping it, damaging all the parts you put on, so you buy more parts, or replace the factory parts with better aftermarket parts...
Then you total up a few years later, and mods plus servicing = original value :crybaby:
nzspokes
1st August 2017, 21:46
:eek5:
You better be talking about modifying... the bikes themselves are way better.
Both are Twins, rides wear the matching brand gear, both have lots of recalls.......:laugh:
Ulsterkiwi
1st August 2017, 22:36
Both are Twins, rides wear the matching brand gear, both have lots of recalls.......:laugh:
My TNAB had two recalls, the Aprilia had three in one year, its a twin. I only know one man who rides a BMW and wears BMW gear and I would never ever question him doing so because he is not a man I would ever want to piss off. :no:
Gremlin is right about aftermarket stuff, the only reason I didn't do more on the Caponord is fewer of the manufacturers offer stuff for it. I seem to recall a guy on here with a TNAB who has done quite a bit of work coaxing more power out of his machine, lots of toys and add ons that Mr Suzuki didn't include. He seems to be happy and really enjoying it, which is pretty much all that matters. Pity I can't remember who he is.....:rolleyes:
Navy Boy
3rd August 2017, 16:02
I've just had a read thorugh this thread. Good for you UK on going with your gut and getting the Caponord and now the BeeMer. I owned an original Caponord back in 2002 and enjoyed it a lot. It's one of those bikes I should not have sold but as always I was tempted by something newer/shinier/different (Delete as applicable).
I've owned a number of BMWs and enjoyed putting Miles/Kms on them all. They are distinctive and the sorts of machines that get under your skin. Let us know how you get on with the GS - I owned one of the original 1200GS models back in 2004. It had its issues but was a cracking machine to ride.
Ulsterkiwi
6th August 2017, 17:00
I've just had a read thorugh this thread. Good for you UK on going with your gut and getting the Caponord and now the BeeMer. I owned an original Caponord back in 2002 and enjoyed it a lot. It's one of those bikes I should not have sold but as always I was tempted by something newer/shinier/different (Delete as applicable).
I've owned a number of BMWs and enjoyed putting Miles/Kms on them all. They are distinctive and the sorts of machines that get under your skin. Let us know how you get on with the GS - I owned one of the original 1200GS models back in 2004. It had its issues but was a cracking machine to ride.
Thank you kind sir. Truth be told, if I could afford it, I would keep both, they do different things differently. I haven't gone off the Aprilia and its still a fabulous bike. In my humble opinion its very underrated and I do not understand why Aprilia have not pushed them harder nor sold more than they have. There are a few forums you can read about the Caponord experience. While like every forum you will see a concentration of issues, there is an overwhelming majority of contributors from around the globe saying "how did we get so much bike for this money?" Not many would argue Aprilia are leaders with sport bikes, so clearly they know a wee bit about building bikes.
The Bavarian is something quite different, years of development and refinement have gone into what the model is today and it shows. A friend said to me recently "people will mock you for having this bike, that's only because they haven't ridden one." I am really pleased with it, for very different reasons I was pleased with (and still enjoy) the Caponord.
Navy Boy
9th August 2017, 14:41
Quite :headbang:
I'm lucky enough to own more than one bike and the thing I love most about riding them is that they're all that bit different. My Moto Guzzi is a lot different to my H-D Street Rod for instance.
Enjoy the GS. As your friend said - Those that mock often do so out of ignorance.
stevo2001
28th September 2017, 07:41
My 2001 Aprilia falco is about hit 100,000 kms and I've replaced the clutch slave cylinder,starter clutch bearing and both brake switches and that's it other than tyres etc. I love it. But got rear ended while waiting at a red light a couple days ago. I fear they will write it off. I brought it new. Definitely will be looking for another Aprilia probably a Tuono .
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Ulsterkiwi
28th September 2017, 14:28
My 2001 Aprilia falco is about hit 100,000 kms and I've replaced the clutch slave cylinder,starter clutch bearing and both brake switches and that's it other than tyres etc. I love it. But got rear ended while waiting at a red light a couple days ago. I fear they will write it off. I brought it new. Definitely will be looking for another Aprilia probably a Tuono .
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sorry to hear that, at least you are still around to consider the next bike!
Tuonos are fabulous bikes.
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