Riding into old age

[Blackbird]

More than a few of us on KB are on the wrong side of "mature" in terms of age. Oh, ok then….. old farts. I’m 71, reasonably healthy and fit apart from knackered knees. Have been riding for 55 years apart from a shortish break when we first arrived in NZ in the mid-70’s.

I’ve had a few other interests and still do, but nothing has stirred the soul like riding a bike. Not riding would be pretty hard to take and the start of the downward slide as far as I’m concerned. Back in 2011, I made the conscious decision to stop riding like a twat and upskill with IAM. That decision was one of the best I’ve ever made and has undoubtedly extended my riding career, not to mention increasing overall enjoyment.

Ok, I’ve tidied up my riding and it’s now time to start thinking about the next steps to stay on two wheels for as long as I can. My GSX-S1000 is a great bike but it’s getting a tad heavy and slightly tall for me, especially as I’m a bit of a shortarse at 5’8” in old money and shrinking. Time to start looking at another bike which is significantly lighter and/or slightly lower.

Choosing a bike is a highly personal one based on what you want to use it for and whether you get a genuine emotional connection with it. I like the GSX-S a lot but don’t love it. It does its job well and has a hell of a performance but in-line fours don’t really do it for me any more. This time round, I still want great performance but more of an emotional connection plus the other criteria I mentioned in terms of weight and size.

The Chief Financial Officer, bless her heart, has given the nod to replace the Gixxer next year although I’ll probably wait until spring. In the meantime, I’ll chew over all the options out there. Right now, there are two bikes in the frame. The first is a Street Triple 765 R. The 675 Triple I had for 6 years was the best all-round bike I ever owned. The 765 fits all my criteria. The second possibility came from left field quite recently but the more I read, the more I love it. There’s still a bit of hooligan in me and I reckon that the KTM Duke 790 could fit the bill nicely. :devil2:

The next few months will be fun organising a test ride or two and I’m looking forward to the next phase of my riding career. Any other errr… mature KB members out there going through similar thought processes to extend their riding?

As the saying goes, you don’t stop riding because you get old, you get old because you stop riding!

[Laava]

I like the way you are thinking, the duke will be taller but lighter than your current ride, thats not to say the seat is the same so it could work. Mate there are so many awesome machines out there now, you can't really go too far wrong so long as you can get a decent demo ride...

[Blackbird]

I like the way you are thinking, the duke will be taller but lighter than your current ride, thats not to say the seat is the same so it could work. Mate there are so many awesome machines out there now, you can't really go too far wrong so long as you can get a decent demo ride...

The Duke is pretty similar in height but as you say, the seat shape makes a big difference and at under 170 kg, it's a heap lighter. You're spot on about choices. This time though, I'm going to make sure there's a great emotional connection. When I bought the 675 Triple, I would have bet you good money that the Ducati Monster or Thruxton Bonnie would have been ahead of it. However, within 15 minutes of jumping on it, I knew that i just had to have it! With the Gixxer, it was a bit of an impulse purchase although I certainly don't regret owning it.

[SaferRides]

I’m a good few years younger than you, but have had a difficult 3 months recovering from a back injury and riding the R1 hasn’t been the best therapy. I did have dark thoughts about buying a mate’s GS when he bought a new one, but resisted the urge to pick up the phone.

I do like what I’ve read about the new KTM and might try for a test ride. I expect that won’t be a problem at Boyds.

I’ve also thought about a Daytona 675, but I suspect the R1 could be my last sports bike.

[Blackbird]

I’m a good few years younger than you, but have had a difficult 3 months recovering from a back injury and riding the R1 hasn’t been the best therapy. I did have dark thoughts about buying a mate’s GS when he bought a new one, but resisted the urge to pick up the phone.

I do like what I’ve read about the new KTM and might try for a test ride. I expect that won’t be a problem at Boyds.

I’ve also thought about a Daytona 675, but I suspect the R1 could be my last sports bike.

Can understand that with the R1! Towards the end of my 8 years with the Blackbird, I found the forward stretch hard on the wrists and neck. Going to a naked (the Street Triple) was ergonomically far more pleasant for an ageing body and the wind blast at sane highway speeds was just fine. It actually helped to slow me down a bit in terms of speed. Ditto with comfort on the Gixxer. The only concession was putting on 20 mm lower footpegs as a concession to my knees and that worked perfectly. Totally at home with a naked bike now. Yep, I have the Gixxer serviced at Boyds and they look after me well. I'll get a test ride there, then nip across the road to test the Triple. That's where I bought the 675 from.

[jim.cox]

I'm awaiting the day when I can no longer start the ducati - its kick only.

But even then I have no plans to sell it - I'll push it to the back of the garage and save it for my grandkids.

In the mean time I'm pootling around on a DR-Z250 on a daily basis.

It doesn't hammer out of the corners in the same way, but its great round town.

Had I the money, I'd gladly add a 675-R Daytona to the fleet.

[babysteps]

MV Agusta Brutale/Rivale/Stradle?

So you don't have to drink the Orange Coolaid

[Blackbird]

MV Agusta Brutale/Rivale/Stradle?

So you don't have to drink the Orange Coolaid

:laugh::laugh: Nah - don't want exotica. Question mark over reliability? I live a long way from any major service centre too.

[Blackbird]

I'm awaiting the day when I can no longer start the ducati - its kick only.

But even then I have no plans to sell it - I'll push it to the back of the garage and save it for my grandkids.

In the mean time I'm pootling around on a DR-Z250 on a daily basis.

It doesn't hammer out of the corners in the same way, but its great round town.

Had I the money, I'd gladly add a 675-R Daytona to the fleet.

I'm not sure I could kick over a big twin now! Totally understand why you'd want to hang onto it though.

Yeah, smaller bikes are great fun in town and on the back roads. One of my neighbours has the Suzuki X-7 250 which I used to own. It hasn't been on the road for several years and would be a lot of fun to own again. However, I'm time-poor and just want to ride with what time I have spare. I used to love engine building and general tinkering but just don't have the time now.

[MD]

I too like your attitude and logic. Test ride heaps! That's not a chore.
Take a spin on a MT09 .You may be surprised how light, agile, comfortable and one of the price bargains of the decade and a triple. An awesome triple if I say so myself coming from a Triumph triple fan.

[F5 Dave]

A point re the nakedness of the old 675. A mate's has just the cowl. Mine has the flyscreen attached. Amazing what difference that makes if you are perfectly formed for riding motorcycles (5'8).

[slofox]

I have been working on the principal of only buying a bike I can pick up. I don't think I've ever had a bike I did NOT have to pick up at least once. :no:

Which is why in 2010 I bought a GSX-R600. 163kg dry. Insane performance potential. Fitted like a glove.

It is also a really easy bike to ride in any conditions. It's as easy commuting as it is on the highway.
It's done 96,000km now (had 9 on it when I bought it) but still goes the same as ever.

Yep I had a few repairs to do (2 more serious ones) but other than that, it has performed like a divine sewing machine - permanently performing perfectly.

I'm 70, been riding 50 years and will keep this one for a while yet.

But as Blackbird said - there ain't nothing like a bike.

[Blackbird]

I too like your attitude and logic. Test ride heaps! That's not a chore.
Take a spin on a MT09 .You may be surprised how light, agile, comfortable and one of the price bargains of the decade and a triple. An awesome triple if I say so myself coming from a Triumph triple fan.

Haha! Living in Coromandel, anywhere is a haul for a test ride :laugh: There are so many great bikes on the market but in my case, relatively few that have that "WOW" factor when you first look at them. I shall do my very best to be objective! I've ridden a Tracer and enjoyed it (a bit too tall) but not an 09.


A point re the nakedness of the old 675. A mate's has just the cowl. Mine has the flyscreen attached. Amazing what difference that makes if you are perfectly formed for riding motorcycles (5'8).

You're spot on! I had an Italian Barracuda flyscreen on my 675 and although I bought it for the looks, it was surprisingly effective. Did the annual 1600 km in under 24 hours Rusty Nuts ride on it and was the most comfortable of all the bikes I'd done it on.

[Blackbird]

I have been working on the principal of only buying a bike I can pick up. I don't think I've ever had a bike I did NOT have to pick up at least once. :no:

Which is why in 2010 I bought a GSX-R600. 163kg dry. Insane performance potential. Fitted like a glove.

It is also a really easy bike to ride in any conditions. It's as easy commuting as it is on the highway.
It's done 96,000km now (had 9 on it when I bought it) but still goes the same as ever.

Yep I had a few repairs to do (2 more serious ones) but other than that, it has performed like a divine sewing machine - permanently performing perfectly.

I'm 70, been riding 50 years and will keep this one for a while yet.

But as Blackbird said - there ain't nothing like a bike.

Your knees and wrists must be in better nick than mine - don't think I'd fit all that well on a 600 with the high pegs! Nice bike but I don't want anything faired having had lots of them earlier in my riding career. If I wasn't in IAM and covering long distances on their behalf, something like a KTM 390 would be ideal for my home patch.

[Swoop]

MV Agusta Brutale/Rivale/Stradle?
Blackbird said that "he wants to ride" NOT dick around fixing Italian crap all the time!:Punk:



Chuck a leg over the Duke and see how she fits. Otherwise the Trumpet is a known ride that is appreciated!

[Laava]

Blackbird said that "he wants to ride" NOT dick around fixing Italian crap all the time!
Sadly this is exactly true...I have 2 ducatis cos you need two if you want one to ride...
it is a damn shame the japs dont make a big bore thumping v twin with looks and style! I for one would buy one!

[AllanB]

Zimmer frame?

[Blackbird]

Zimmer frame?

Give it a year or two Allan :laugh:

[babysteps]

:laugh::laugh: Nah - don't want exotica. Question mark over reliability? I live a long way from any major service center too.


Blackbird said that "he wants to ride" NOT dick around fixing Italian crap all the time!:Punk:

I think you both should go watch a couple of reviews on the 2015+ models. They're not Ducatis...

[babysteps]

Sadly this is exactly true...I have 2 ducatis cos you need two if you want one to ride...
it is a damn shame the japs dont make a big bore thumping v twin with looks and style! I for one would buy one!

Suzuki SV1000??

[F5 Dave]

They do have Looks, and Style. I mean, not conventional good looks.
She's, 'nice'

:innocent:

[roogazza]

Can understand that with the R1! Towards the end of my 8 years with the Blackbird, I found the forward stretch hard on the wrists and neck. Going to a naked (the Street Triple) was ergonomically far more pleasant for an ageing body and the wind blast at sane highway speeds was just fine. It actually helped to slow me down a bit in terms of speed. Ditto with comfort on the Gixxer. The only concession was putting on 20 mm lower footpegs as a concession to my knees and that worked perfectly. Totally at home with a naked bike now. Yep, I have the Gixxer serviced at Boyds and they look after me well. I'll get a test ride there, then nip across the road to test the Triple. That's where I bought the 675 from.

Your Thread struck a cord with me Blackbird. I too did the 20mm trick with the pegs for my crook right knee . I have a buggered neck as well and approaching 70 ( in 4 months) I'm sadly thinking of doing something about the K6. Love the thing to death and have considered fitting bars. I only do 2 hrs max these days but fairly regular at once a week.
I have thought of going back to an old style CBX or GSX1100 from 1980 but they seem to be far too costly and buggered now days, but I do like the feel of them. I think a few road tests on 1000 nakeds is the plan in the new year. (even the S like yours although a couple of dealers thought I might miss the extra 30 hp and torque of the full salad ?).
A bit more comfort should keep me peddling for years to come . (I don't think at 6' and 92kgs anything smaller would suit and might look, miss matched ?).

[Laava]

Suzuki SV1000??
Love the SV1000 and have had V Stroms but an SV 1000 has budget suspension and appalling front brakes. So it does not compare with late model Ducatis at all. Not to mention that they stopped making it! Now if they made it again, more power, more refined susp, and modern electronics? It would sell bigtime!

[FJRider]

Sadly this is exactly true...I have 2 ducatis cos you need two if you want one to ride...
it is a damn shame the japs dont make a big bore thumping v twin with looks and style! I for one would buy one!

The TRX 850 was as close to a Ducati that the japs ever built (that we could afford).

But I'm 61 in a few months ... and I've started looking at "other" bikes. My work is full time but includes plenty of (paid) week days off. Plenty of time for rides of a different nature to what I've done on the FJ. I was fond of the long distance ... there was nowhere in the south island I couldn't get to on a day ride. A weekend ride got me around the south island ... on more than one occasion.

However ... there are a few roads to places I haven't been that the FJ can't take me. I have a height impairment issue though (I'm short) so I'm chucking a leg over anything that might be suitable. But at the moment ... there is no rush to change. Time is still on my side and I have plenty of the spare time.

And any excuse for a look around on a ride ... :cool:

[SaferRides]

Your Thread struck a cord with me Blackbird. I too did the 20mm trick with the pegs for my crook right knee . I have a buggered neck as well and approaching 70 ( in 4 months) I'm sadly thinking of doing something about the K6. Love the thing to death and have considered fitting bars. I only do 2 hrs max these days but fairly regular at once a week.
I have thought of going back to an old style CBX or GSX1100 from 1980 but they seem to be far too costly and buggered now days, but I do like the feel of them. I think a few road tests on 1000 nakeds is the plan in the new year. (even the S like yours although a couple of dealers thought I might miss the extra 30 hp and torque of the full salad ?).
A bit more comfort should keep me peddling for years to come . (I don't think at 6' and 92kgs anything smaller would suit and might look, miss matched ?).

I could be interested in your K6. :)

Yes, I rode a FZ1 on a trip a few years before buying the R1. It simply did not have the grunt of the R1 and the lack of wind protection was no fun when riding into a headwind for 3 hours.

The footpegs on my R1 are standard but it came with a set of Tourin bars, which I've actually dropped down slightly and are perfect for me (6'1).

[Blackbird]

Your Thread struck a cord with me Blackbird. I too did the 20mm trick with the pegs for my crook right knee . I have a buggered neck as well and approaching 70 ( in 4 months) I'm sadly thinking of doing something about the K6. Love the thing to death and have considered fitting bars. I only do 2 hrs max these days but fairly regular at once a week.
I have thought of going back to an old style CBX or GSX1100 from 1980 but they seem to be far too costly and buggered now days, but I do like the feel of them. I think a few road tests on 1000 nakeds is the plan in the new year. (even the S like yours although a couple of dealers thought I might miss the extra 30 hp and torque of the full salad ?).
A bit more comfort should keep me peddling for years to come . (I don't think at 6' and 92kgs anything smaller would suit and might look, miss matched ?).

I'm delighted that there are others around my age trying to future-proof their riding :2thumbsup . I find a bit of not-too-strenuous cycling helps my knees. My work with IAM keeps me on the road for about 6 hours at a stretch and with the lower pegs and trying to cycle regularly, I can live with those hours without too much discomfort.

Interesting comment by your dealers! When I switched from the Blackbird to the Street Triple, there was a nagging thought that it might feel "unmanly" with less horsepower. Nothing could have been further from the truth. With the lighter weight and almost flat torque curve, the performance up to and a bit above the legal limit wasn't that much different. Didn't take any of the enjoyment away at all. Besides, how long do we have the throttle pinned to the stop for on public highways? The only time I've absolutely nailed the GSX is trackdays at Taupo and Hampton Downs. Did my first trackday aged 69 so that's something else knocked off the bucket list :yes: . (Excluding riding like a complete pillock at dawn round the IOM TT circuit in 1969). Despite the Blackbird and GSX-S having around 145 bhp at the rear wheel, I still had more fun with the 675 Street Triple at 105 bhp!

All the best for your 70th and long may your riding continue!

[george formby]

Bucket list........

I'm in my fiddys so not eligible, yet, for this thread. Also, I consider myself to be ripe rather than mature.

I guess I'm at a time of life where as my body makes known it's problems the bank balance is giving better opportunities. To try and stay ahead of seizing up I dabble in off road now, trials bike and enduro. The trials bike is a keeper, the hairy arsed old 2t enduro which can cause altitude sickness and incontinence, probably not.

Their is method in this muddy madness. I want to ride all the fabled trails in the South Island, go fly fishing in a beautiful valley somewhere with me tent. Thats #1.

#2. Desert, I've never seen one. I would love to ride across the Simpson in Oz.

So, I'm waiting for the T7 to come out, it works with my time line. It's also a logical step from my venerable TDM.

That's the next few years covered. After that I suspect my riding will allow for something leccy powered. Technology should match my wants by then.

Mobility scooter.

[Blackbird]

Bucket list........

I'm in my fiddys so not eligible, yet, for this thread. Also, I consider myself to be ripe rather than mature.

I guess I'm at a time of life where as my body makes known it's problems the bank balance is giving better opportunities. To try and stay ahead of seizing up I dabble in off road now, trials bike and enduro. The trials bike is a keeper, the hairy arsed old 2t enduro which can cause altitude sickness and incontinence, probably not.

Their is method in this muddy madness. I want to ride all the fabled trails in the South Island, go fly fishing in a beautiful valley somewhere with me tent. Thats #1.

#2. Desert, I've never seen one. I would love to ride across the Simpson in Oz.

So, I'm waiting for the T7 to come out, it works with my time line. It's also a logical step from my venerable TDM.

That's the next few years covered. After that I suspect my riding will allow for something leccy powered. Technology should match my wants by then.

Mobility scooter.

Cool! Sounds like you've got it pretty much nailed in that you actually have a plan! I think the biggest problem would be giving up riding and not having some sort of backstop. It would be akin to retiring then keeling over because there's nothing to look forward to. My backstop is as per the attached photos. In March, my wife and I bought a new boat which was was light, easily handled by 2 oldies and virtually unsinkable. Going fishing is something we enjoy and can do together.

You mention the Simpson Desert. My old boss actually mountain biked across it in an endurance ride 5 years ago and this year at 65, he cycled the Canning Stock Route in WA. 1800 km in 21 days. He's the oldest person to have ever cycled it. He really knows how to enjoy his later years, although I'm not sure that "enjoy" is the right word :wacko:

[george formby]

Cool! Sounds like you've got it pretty much nailed in that you actually have a plan! I think the biggest problem would be giving up riding and not having some sort of backstop. It would be akin to retiring then keeling over because there's nothing to look forward to. My backstop is as per the attached photos. In March, my wife and I bought a new boat which was was light, easily handled by 2 oldies and virtually unsinkable. Going fishing is something we enjoy and can do together.

You mention the Simpson Desert. My old boss actually mountain biked across it in an endurance ride 5 years ago and this year at 65, he cycled the Canning Stock Route in WA. 1800 km in 21 days. He's the oldest person to have ever cycled it. He really knows how to enjoy his later years, although I'm not sure that "enjoy" is the right word :wacko:

Sums up what I enjoy about off road. I love that :eek5: feeling. Afterwards, over a beer.

[nzspokes]

Bucket list........

I'm in my fiddys so not eligible, yet, for this thread. Also, I consider myself to be ripe rather than mature.

I guess I'm at a time of life where as my body makes known it's problems the bank balance is giving better opportunities. To try and stay ahead of seizing up I dabble in off road now, trials bike and enduro. The trials bike is a keeper, the hairy arsed old 2t enduro which can cause altitude sickness and incontinence, probably not.

Their is method in this muddy madness. I want to ride all the fabled trails in the South Island, go fly fishing in a beautiful valley somewhere with me tent. Thats #1.

#2. Desert, I've never seen one. I would love to ride across the Simpson in Oz.

So, I'm waiting for the T7 to come out, it works with my time line. It's also a logical step from my venerable TDM.

That's the next few years covered. After that I suspect my riding will allow for something leccy powered. Technology should match my wants by then.

Mobility scooter.I'm with you on the Simpson.

Sent from my SM-G965F using Tapatalk

[george formby]

I'm with you on the Simpson.

Sent from my SM-G965F using Tapatalk

I was intending sharing the tent with my girlfriend. <_<

[F5 Dave]

Twos company. Three is a, um, awkward threesome.

[babysteps]

Love the SV1000 and have had V Stroms but an SV 1000 has budget suspension and appalling front brakes. So it does not compare with late model Ducatis at all. Not to mention that they stopped making it! Now if they made it again, more power, more refined susp, and modern electronics? It would sell bigtime!

It took less than $650 to get my SV 650 sorted

Racetech front internals
ZX-10R Rear
and a power commander

It's more than enough bike for our roads

[Navy Boy]

More than a few of us on KB are on the wrong side of "mature" in terms of age. Oh, ok then….. old farts. I’m 71, reasonably healthy and fit apart from knackered knees. Have been riding for 55 years apart from a shortish break when we first arrived in NZ in the mid-70’s.

I’ve had a few other interests and still do, but nothing has stirred the soul like riding a bike. Not riding would be pretty hard to take and the start of the downward slide as far as I’m concerned. Back in 2011, I made the conscious decision to stop riding like a twat and upskill with IAM. That decision was one of the best I’ve ever made and has undoubtedly extended my riding career, not to mention increasing overall enjoyment.

Ok, I’ve tidied up my riding and it’s now time to start thinking about the next steps to stay on two wheels for as long as I can. My GSX-S1000 is a great bike but it’s getting a tad heavy and slightly tall for me, especially as I’m a bit of a shortarse at 5’8” in old money and shrinking. Time to start looking at another bike which is significantly lighter and/or slightly lower.

Choosing a bike is a highly personal one based on what you want to use it for and whether you get a genuine emotional connection with it. I like the GSX-S a lot but don’t love it. It does its job well and has a hell of a performance but in-line fours don’t really do it for me any more. This time round, I still want great performance but more of an emotional connection plus the other criteria I mentioned in terms of weight and size.

The Chief Financial Officer, bless her heart, has given the nod to replace the Gixxer next year although I’ll probably wait until spring. In the meantime, I’ll chew over all the options out there. Right now, there are two bikes in the frame. The first is a Street Triple 765 R. The 675 Triple I had for 6 years was the best all-round bike I ever owned. The 765 fits all my criteria. The second possibility came from left field quite recently but the more I read, the more I love it. There’s still a bit of hooligan in me and I reckon that the KTM Duke 790 could fit the bill nicely. :devil2:

The next few months will be fun organising a test ride or two and I’m looking forward to the next phase of my riding career. Any other errr… mature KB members out there going through similar thought processes to extend their riding?

As the saying goes, you don’t stop riding because you get old, you get old because you stop riding!

Geoff

I'm glad to see that you're giving this plenty of thought. It is after all a very important choice to make. Quite apart from the two bikes you've mentioned I'd also give serious thought to the Thruxton 1200. Either the standard (As I've got) or the R model will suit your needs. They have TC and ABS as well as rider modes, all of which keep you feeling that bit safer however the bike's still a hoot to ride. Even with the standard exhaust system they sound lovely and have just enough 'throbbiness' to remind you that there's a lovely big twin pulsing away underneath you. I've spent some of the difference in the price between mine and the R model on suspension upgrades at KSS and it was money well spent IMHO. I'd urge you to at least try one before discounting them as not being suitable. ;)

[pritch]

I'd also give serious thought to the Thruxton 1200.

I've been watching the thread from afar so to speak, but interested all the same.

Triumph have announced that from 2019 there will be a new Speed Twin with a 1200 Thruxton spec motor and a normal seating position. Possibly more suitable for geriatrics than a Thruxton.

Lotsa time to read the reviews and arrange test rides though. Have fun.

[Blackbird]

Geoff

I'm glad to see that you're giving this plenty of thought. It is after all a very important choice to make. Quite apart from the two bikes you've mentioned I'd also give serious thought to the Thruxton 1200. Either the standard (As I've got) or the R model will suit your needs. They have TC and ABS as well as rider modes, all of which keep you feeling that bit safer however the bike's still a hoot to ride. Even with the standard exhaust system they sound lovely and have just enough 'throbbiness' to remind you that there's a lovely big twin pulsing away underneath you. I've spent some of the difference in the price between mine and the R model on suspension upgrades at KSS and it was money well spent IMHO. I'd urge you to at least try one before discounting them as not being suitable. ;)

Hiya Lee!

I have given serious thought to the latest Thruxton, believe me! They meet the "emotional appeal" factor, probably not the weight and height equation. I'm not discounting them at this stage and may try one if there's a demo available. However, it's hard not go past the head-bangingly insane Duke 790, at least on paper and the various videos. Jennie has the impression that a lighter, smaller capacity bike = far more suitable for an old geezer. Wonder how she got that idea? :innocent:

[Blackbird]

I've been watching the thread from afar so to speak, but interested all the same.

Triumph have announced that from 2019 there will be a new Speed Twin with a 1200 Thruxton spec motor and a normal seating position. Possibly more suitable for geriatrics than a Thruxton.

Lotsa time to read the reviews and arrange test rides though. Have fun.

Thanks Ron, it's a real first world problem, isn't it? :laugh:

[pritch]

Thanks Ron, it's a real first world problem, isn't it? :laugh:

Ah yes. A word of encouragement I received might help.

Recently I was renewing my passport so I needed to know my height, on checking the appropriate measurement I was startled to note that I'm over four inches shorter than I used to be. That didn't change no matter how many times I checked. As someone else pointed out though, the distance from my arse to the soles of my feet hasn't changed. Which would be very nearly correct.

Well, it made me feel a bit better.

[george formby]

Me dear old Dad, mid 70's has had a KTM 390 and 690 Duke. He didn't keep them long. 390 was a hoot but not enough oomph for distance and the 690 was a bit too head bangin. The reason he got rid of them was down to "mechanical" issues. The 390 sprung an oil leak after 2000mls and the 690 had a number of wee niggles in the first 3000mls. Loved the bikes, but. He had issues with a new multi strada, too. Starter motor would not disengage, side stand switch wire kept detaching itself, it went on.

He may just be unlucky, well, he is. Anyhoo, much to my amazement, he has ended up with a fairly early CBR 600 for his giggles. For exactly the same reasons you state, weight, seat height, comfort, engagement etc. (He owned one of the first MkI jelly moulds sold in the UK) I'm not suggesting you go down this track but it does live with 5 other bikes so he has his bases covered.

IMHO, Triumph... Moto 2 rep. :innocent: If their can only be one.

[nzspokes]

I was intending sharing the tent with my girlfriend. <_<

To be fair I was thinking of a solo run. And maybe hook up with a BMW rally.

[george formby]

To be fair I was thinking of a solo run. And maybe hook up with a BMW rally.

:clap: Having discussed this with the better half, desert adventures, she does not seem hugely enthused. 4wd support vehicles have been mentioned...

I would love to cross one of those big deserts in Aus, but not solo, too long in the tooth and a solid awareness of my shortcomings. Set up for success is my motto.

I should imagine it's a toss up between KTM and BMW as to who would have the best catering operation.

Oh, speaking of such things. Dakar, Jan 6th. Sorry OP, off topic.

[Navy Boy]

Hiya Lee!

I have given serious thought to the latest Thruxton, believe me! They meet the "emotional appeal" factor, probably not the weight and height equation. I'm not discounting them at this stage and may try one if there's a demo available. However, it's hard not go past the head-bangingly insane Duke 790, at least on paper and the various videos. Jennie has the impression that a lighter, smaller capacity bike = far more suitable for an old geezer. Wonder how she got that idea? :innocent:

A Street Cup perhaps? The Speed Twin looks to be a cracking machine too - Thruxton motor with a less leaned forward riding position and decent quality components seem to be a fabulous combination.

You truly are spoilt for choice :cool:

[cheshirecat]

Yep spoilt for choice all right.

Now with my pension - love saying that - been pondering bike options. Have a 94 VFR coming up to 200,000k, just fitted bar risers and a loud Delkevic can for some fun and annoy the ex(s). A dual-purpose maybe, cafe racer conversion, a classic SP1/2 perhaps. Problem is my VFR does it so well (its those gear driven cams on a gorgeous carb fed V4 and can't get around it. Yep too much choice.
Bye the way re the accountancy thread previous


https://youtu.be/7YUiBBltOg4

[Blackbird]

Yep spoilt for choice all right.

Now with my pension - love saying that - been pondering bike options. Have a 94 VFR coming up to 200,000k, just fitted bar risers and a loud Delkevic can for some fun and annoy the ex(s). A dual-purpose maybe, cafe racer conversion, a classic SP1/2 perhaps. Problem is my VFR does it so well (its those gear driven cams on a gorgeous carb fed V4 and can't get around it. Yep too much choice.
Bye the way re the accountancy thread previous


Hahaha - my Chief Accountant is a keeper, bless her :laugh:

[Laava]

A Street Cup perhaps? The Speed Twin looks to be a cracking machine too - Thruxton motor with a less leaned forward riding position and decent quality components seem to be a fabulous combination.

You truly are spoilt for choice :cool:
They getting some decent power out of them now? May need to trade the monster...

[Blackbird]

They getting some decent power out of them now? May need to trade the monster...

Yep, well up from the original 55 bp. Lovely bike in the classic cafe racer mode.

[Dadpole]

I wish you old farts would stop your demented ramblings. You have reminded me that tomorrow when I putter round on the XL, there will be a combined age of 104 years. :eek5:

[caspernz]

Interesting musings Mr James.
The practicalities of "maturing" and wishing to continue a favourite pastime are self evident for all of us I suppose. Plenty of choices of course. If you start talking about things like Suzuki Burgman then I know it's time to stage an intervention, pretty sure I'll get enough backup from the lads on here haha :bleh::wings:

PS. For a while I was feeling guilty about considering an ST1300 as a work bike, but after browsing thru this thread I feel more empowered it might actually be a wise choice...while I can still muscle it around :confused:

There was a certain Viking who commented recently my blog hasn't had regular updates this year. Yeah well, out there doing it as opposed to writing about it sums it up :laugh:

[Blackbird]

Interesting musings Mr James.
The practicalities of "maturing" and wishing to continue a favourite pastime are self evident for all of us I suppose. Plenty of choices of course. If you start talking about things like Suzuki Burgman then I know it's time to stage an intervention, pretty sure I'll get enough backup from the lads on here haha :bleh::wings:

PS. For a while I was feeling guilty about considering an ST1300 as a work bike, but after browsing thru this thread I feel more empowered it might actually be a wise choice...while I can still muscle it around :confused:

There was a certain Viking who commented recently my blog hasn't had regular updates this year. Yeah well, out there doing it as opposed to writing about it sums it up :laugh:

Hiya Rob! If I do start talking about scooters, will you be bringing round the same gang that de-programmes Scientologists? 😁.

Funnily enough, I've been imagining you on an ST completely showing up the squids on sports bikes how to really ride :innocent: . Thought your last blog post was absolutely to the point. I feel just the same.

[Navy Boy]

They getting some decent power out of them now? May need to trade the monster...

The 2019-model 900cc models appear to be getting more Bhp. I know that's the case with the Street Twin (Up to 64Bhp from the original 54) however it appears to have been achieved mainly by increasing the rev range as the redline has been raised and peak torque is made higher up the rev range too. The Speed Twin is one of the few 1200 models which appears to use the 1200 motor in the same form as the Thruxton. The others seem to use various versions, all of which have lower Bhp figures.

Having said that this is a bike where the Bhp figures have less relevance than you might think. I certainly don't wish for more power than the 96 my Thruxton has as the gearing is about spot on for real roads. In sixth I'm running 3500Rpm at 100 km/hr and that with an indicated redline of 7000Rpm. This means that the bike feels responsive at normal speeds and the bike has a lovely ability to get from point A to point B quickly and effectively plus overtakes are taken care of neatly too.

It depends which of the Monsters you're coming from. Certainly compared to my 2006-vintage S2R model with the air/oil cooled 803 motor the Thruxton feels to be plenty quick enough. It's not dissimilar to the 1100 Evo model (The last of the aircooled 1100s) which I rode a few years back. That was a cracking bike though the gearing would have been a touch too long for NZ roads IMHO.

[Navy Boy]

Interesting musings Mr James.
The practicalities of "maturing" and wishing to continue a favourite pastime are self evident for all of us I suppose. Plenty of choices of course. If you start talking about things like Suzuki Burgman then I know it's time to stage an intervention, pretty sure I'll get enough backup from the lads on here haha :bleh::wings:

PS. For a while I was feeling guilty about considering an ST1300 as a work bike, but after browsing thru this thread I feel more empowered it might actually be a wise choice...while I can still muscle it around :confused:

There was a certain Viking who commented recently my blog hasn't had regular updates this year. Yeah well, out there doing it as opposed to writing about it sums it up :laugh:

Rob

The ST1300s are a lovely machine and are perfectly capable of showing other bikes a thing or two - My experiences on the UK Ridesafe-equivalent course some years back proved this to me :rolleyes: A lovely motor and all-day ergonomics would make it ideal for your needs I reckon.

[nzspokes]

Interesting musings Mr James.
The practicalities of "maturing" and wishing to continue a favourite pastime are self evident for all of us I suppose. Plenty of choices of course. If you start talking about things like Suzuki Burgman then I know it's time to stage an intervention, pretty sure I'll get enough backup from the lads on here haha :bleh::wings:

PS. For a while I was feeling guilty about considering an ST1300 as a work bike, but after browsing thru this thread I feel more empowered it might actually be a wise choice...while I can still muscle it around :confused:

There was a certain Viking who commented recently my blog hasn't had regular updates this year. Yeah well, out there doing it as opposed to writing about it sums it up :laugh:

You have a blog?

ST1300? Why not got the whole hog and get a Wing?:eek5:

[nzspokes]

Can understand that with the R1! Towards the end of my 8 years with the Blackbird, I found the forward stretch hard on the wrists and neck. Going to a naked (the Street Triple) was ergonomically far more pleasant for an ageing body and the wind blast at sane highway speeds was just fine. It actually helped to slow me down a bit in terms of speed. Ditto with comfort on the Gixxer. The only concession was putting on 20 mm lower footpegs as a concession to my knees and that worked perfectly. Totally at home with a naked bike now. Yep, I have the Gixxer serviced at Boyds and they look after me well. I'll get a test ride there, then nip across the road to test the Triple. That's where I bought the 675 from.

Just a warning. When you go test ride dont walk up the street and test ride a Tuono 1100.

You would be spoilt for life.

[Moi]

Hiya Rob! If I do start talking about scooters, will you be bringing round the same gang that de-programmes Scientologists? 😁.

Somewhere I have a photo of you on a scooter... :scooter:

[Blackbird]

Just a warning. When you go test ride dont walk up the street and test ride a Tuono 1100.

You would be spoilt for life.

Not likely to happen Rob - not "fit for purpose" and I don't even like the looks.

[Oakie]

, go fly fishing in a beautiful valley somewhere with me tent. Thats #1.


Mmmm. Fly fishing. Anywhere in the Mackenzie Basin works for me.

[caspernz]

You have a blog?

ST1300? Why not got the whole hog and get a Wing?:eek5:

Sure, it's hidden in plain sight....

http://robvpnz.blogspot.co.nz

As for ST1300, apparently you've gotta be 60+ before you can buy one :innocent::corn: and I'll pretend you didn't mention Goldwing :shutup::confused:

[F5 Dave]

I rode a mate's ST13. After struggling to get it off the side stand from a slight off camber, I then pulled into the next gas station to check the tyres pressure as I was convinced that they were flat. They weren't.

[MD]

Got ya old age ride sorted!

The name alone inspires images of a renegade motorcyclist terrorising the Rest Home Residents on his Pride Sportrider chopper mobility scooter.

I bet Marlon Brando had one of these in his sunset days.

[F5 Dave]

I've seen one of those around. But 15k? Well even a lime scooter will do 27.

I'm thinking RZ350 engine with towering unsilenced expansion chambers :banana::scooter:

[pritch]

The 2019-model 900cc models appear to be getting more Bhp. I know that's the case with the Street Twin (Up to 64Bhp from the original 54) however it appears to have been achieved mainly by increasing the rev range as the redline has been raised and peak torque is made higher up the rev range too.

I've posted this before but it seems to be time for a repost. These guys went to some trouble to find out why the 900 was so umm breathless. They found the answer and a cure. It's quite possible that this video clip has resulted in a change to Triumph factory policy.

The increase in power shouldn't alter the characteristics much at all except for the power increase because the engine was artificially crippled.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRk6x_u3mBI&t=222s&frags=pl%2Cwn

[Old Steve]

I had an ex Police ST1100 when in Queensland and loved it, being primarilly designed for European touring (thats why they were called the PanEuropean) she was perfect for the QLD conditions - fairly straight roads, long radius corners and 300 to 400 km between towns. Just one thing worried me, I'm 5' 8" in old language and am restricted in my inside leg measurement so I found the ST1100 seat slightly high for me. But probably nothing a trip to MacDonald in Tauranga wouldn't fix. If you run them a bit higher than recommended on tire pressure and change the oil regularly then they give great service, like the Wing the engines are good for well more than 200,000 km. The ST1100 (and I must presume the ST1300) handle spectacularly, the V4 engine and low fuel tank give a low CofG, and at speeds not too far above the legal limit you get 500 + km out of a tank. And there are always ST1300s around in the bike shops and they're pretty reasonably priced too.

And easily detached panniers too, sometimes I'd ride without the panniers on and she was more a sports bike than a tourer. One guy on the ST forum used to ride his ST1100 to work, take the pannier off and use that as his business briefcase. The STs have a lot of positive features, shaft drive, gauges up on the bars, great fairings, large fuel tank, great brakes.

[caseye]

You go you young thing, old Steve!
Good for you me ol mate, been a while, ride on.
Happy New Year folks.

[george formby]

Got my eye on this.... Dunno if it really tells us very much.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nzCfJNnrB-c" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Blackbird]

Got my eye on this.... Dunno if it really tells us very much.



There's a few of those vids and they all seem to work out pretty even and a matter of personal choice. I'm leaning towards the Duke as it has "lunatic mode" as well :cool: . The 765 is the "safe" option as I know more or less what to expect having owned the 675. We'll see which has the biggest emotional appeal when I test ride them.

[tanken2]

I,m fast approaching 65 and decided I had to ride again , (had bikes only from yr 15 to 23 then a few more later , but none in last 20 yrs).What attracted me was a Royal enfield continental . Not fast , looks the part and allways wanted a british single thumper (and price new was not over the top. As I started looking for one all these other bikes appeared on trademe, always had a soft spot for Ducatis ans surprised some seemed affordable. Narrowed it down to an 848 , red, nice shape , good reviews. Getting on the bike after such along time reservations emerged , could I remember how to ride , would I stall it on first takeoff or worse still fall over. No problems everything just fell back into place, couldn't be happier . other than spending more than for the Enfield Which would have been red too.

[george formby]

Found it!

You need a V4.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jZsrnHUVLJ8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[husaberg]

Found it!

You need a V4.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jZsrnHUVLJ8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
av speed 207.58km/h
That's pretty impressive itas almost impossible for a girl to get a Transit diesel van under 10 minutes.:msn-wink:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KiC03_wVjc
Av speed 153.63

Fastest lap 2018
1. Lamborghini Aventador SVJ - 6:44.97s

Fastest bike
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inc9cGasgsA
I smell a rat hes hoofing it compared to the pensioner who claims to only be 20 secs slower over 26km's even allowing for the lower camera.