the most rounded alround bike???

[1/32 man]

I realise most bikes are a compromise in various aspects of their performance but is there a machine that, in your opinion, covers most of the bases well?

Thinking about the cumbersome heavy bus that I currently ride.

TIA

[Black Knight]

Yamaha XSR900-but not the 2022 model,too fugly.

[TheDemonLord]

I realise most bikes are a compromise in various aspects of their performance but is there a machine that, in your opinion, covers most of the bases well?

Thinking about the cumbersome heavy bus that I currently ride.

TIA

Ironically - the 1250FA would be one of my picks for most well rounded bike. Comfy, Plenty of power and Torque, stable but still can have some fun on, space for a Pillion to ride easily.

[Dadpole]

VFR750 gets my vote anytime. A bit long in the tooth though.

[george formby]

VFR750 gets my vote anytime. A bit long in the tooth though.

Speaking of long in the tooth. My TDM fits the question. Tour's, scratches, good on gravel, lovely sound track and comfortable but it's positively geriatric.

Must be summit in the current Yamaha twin and triple range which ticks most of those boxes.

[Laava]

Dl650. Capable of 2up touriing with luggage, scratching on the back roads and ideal commuter. Cheapish, and all the extras are available. Plus easily onsold and retains a reasonable resale value

[roogazza]

Still running a gsx1400, first ride in 4 mths last week ! But hey, the weather is warming up a bit now.

The 14 suits this old fella at 73 ! Not big in HP but strong torque which is what you want at my age.
Bike number 56 since age 15 !!!! :yes::woohoo:

[pritch]

As we age the requirements change. Young blokes are happy to ride around on a a bike only marginally more comfortable than a crucifiction. No thanks.

The Hornet and the VFR were excellent all rounders: quick, comfortable, and a good tank range. The Ducati suffered in tank range. The Speed Triple is not ideal for a pillion but otherwise makes an excellent light tourer.

If I was to buy another new bike with no regard to price I'd consider a Triumph 765, or if in less of a hurry a Speed Twin. Should reality intrude though a CB500F would be enough for me now. The Honda 650 and 1000 equivalents look good too.

The full fat version of the Yamaha 700 also has appeal, I just wish it looked more like a motor bike. Same comment applies to the 900. I don't like the look of the Yamaha retro. Yamaha should take a look at the retro Kawasaki 900, that 's nicely done.

[Berries]

The last model GSXR750. Perfect for the commute, long distance work and fanging it.

Not so good on gravel.

[sidecar bob]

I call my BMW R1200GS a Swiss army knife, it does most things fairly well, and some things exceptionally well. A compromise but a good one.

[husaberg]

AF CR500 on wets

[F5 Dave]

I was going to say Tiger, many variations. But CR500 sound sensible.

[Blackbird]

I've had some great bikes but most have been a compromise in some respects. The one which fits the best all round description would be my 2009 Street Triple (standard model, not the sportier versions). First of all, it was light and had a relatively low seat height - perfect for someone in his 60's at the time and relatively short legs. Performance-wise, it handled well and could keep up with pretty much anything in a real life environment and the flat torque curve meant that you weren't dancing on the gear lever all the time. Ergonomically, it was perfect and it was the most comfortable of all the bikes I did the Grand Challenge 1600 km in under 24 hours event on. Fuel range was generally 270-300 km which was fine and the engine was bulletproof - a wonderful howl when it was opened up.

[george formby]

AF CR500 on wets

I was thinking a tard will do just about everything, had the new GG 700 in mind. Front tyre wear seems to be exceptional.

[release_the_bees]

I've had some great bikes but most have been a compromise in some respects. The one which fits the best all round description would be my 2009 Street Triple (standard model, not the sportier versions). First of all, it was light and had a relatively low seat height - perfect for someone in his 60's at the time and relatively short legs. Performance-wise, it handled well and could keep up with pretty much anything in a real life environment and the flat torque curve meant that you weren't dancing on the gear lever all the time. Ergonomically, it was perfect and it was the most comfortable of all the bikes I did the Grand Challenge 1600 km in under 24 hours event on. Fuel range was generally 270-300 km which was fine and the engine was bulletproof - a wonderful howl when it was opened up.

If you're sticking to sealed roads, then the Street Triple is hard to beat. I've got a 675 R model, and my experience is the same as Blackbird's. Most I've done is 1300 km in a day on it, and it was super comfortable.

I've done over 80,000 kms on my one, and overall, its proven to be super reliable. It still looks near new, so they're certainly built well.

[husaberg]

I was thinking a tard will do just about everything, had the new GG 700 in mind. Front tire wear seems to be exceptional.

I should have said Dunlop. K180's as that's what the US flat track bikes use.
the Aprilia 550 v twin always looked like fun


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9LT3DqzKQo

Some Aussie guy that was doing around the world adventure riding used to buy the XR400SM as they kept making them after they stopped making the XR400 he used to put it in dirt wheel trim.
I remember looking serious at buying XR400 when they first came out. I thought they were almost the perfect bike...

[Gremlin]

An adventure bike for me. I love my GSA, done a lot on it, but appreciate not all can swing a leg over. She ain't small.

Long legs for the typically rough roads, they soak it all up while everyone else is trying to stay in the seat after the last bounce. Tyre options for anything from sand to long stretches of seal. Good ergos for hours in the seat, plus easy standing for stretching while on the move. Above average fuel capacity (or for some, downright fuel tankers) for more freedom away from fuel stations.

City work, well, its like taking a superbike to a go kart track. Not much fun, but can be done.

I've ridden a CB919 (as mentioned above) for 15+ years. Bit more cramped than the GSA, still very flexible, has it's place. Done a lot of commuting on it, also have luggage for it, but I do enjoy the adv bikes in the country.

[Dadpole]

After opening this particular can, I doubt the OP will get all the worms back in... :wait:

[BMWST?]

After opening this particular can, I doubt the OP will get all the worms back in... :wait:

i just changed this thread into a picture association game

https://www.bressingham.co.uk/media/71322/steam-train-boiler-explosion-2.jpg

[F5 Dave]

I should have said Dunlop. K180's as that's what the US flat track bikes use.
the Aprilia 550 v twin always looked like fun

Some Aussie guy that was doing around the world adventure riding used to buy the XR400SM as they kept making them after they stopped making the XR400 he used to put it in dirt wheel trim.
I remember looking serious at buying XR400 when they first came out. I thought they were almost the perfect bike...
I rode a demo XR400 a mate had out. After my KDX it felt like landing a block of flats. I was glad when I finally stalled it and couldn't start it so we swapped back. I learnt I'd cut my bars too thin and my front brakes could be better, but XRs are dreadful. At least on the dirt.
Actually I'd learnt that 15 years before with my XR250.

[Laava]

Dont get a DL650 whatever you do! The guys on the R6's will carve your arse up on track, the KTMs will spray your face with dirt, off road, as they force you into the scrub and the GOldwing 1800’s will out class any aspirations you might have about touring. Then in town, all the office ladies on their scooters will squeeze right by you in the traffic! Awful at everything? You bet!
Get a monkey bike!

[george formby]

I rode a demo XR400 a mate had out. After my KDX it felt like landing a block of flats. I was glad when I finally stalled it and couldn't start it so we swapped back. I learnt I'd cut my bars too thin and my front brakes could be better, but XRs are dreadful. At least on the dirt.
Actually I'd learnt that 15 years before with my XR250.

:laugh: Had a similar experience going from a CRM to a XR 400. I blame the XR for creating the theory that 4t dirt bikes are heavy and have willful disregard for going where you need them to.

First ride I dropped it within 100mtrs trying to lift the front over some rocks. Oh no, not doing that, it said, and had a nap.

I kicked it heaps of times then tried to get it started..

[Autech]

Ironically - the 1250FA would be one of my picks for most well rounded bike. Comfy, Plenty of power and Torque, stable but still can have some fun on, space for a Pillion to ride easily.

Its funny as I was thinking about buying one of these this morning for an all rounder. So before I even looked at what he rode I was going to suggest a 1250 lol.

[F5 Dave]

Oohh, but while we are at it. What kind of oil should he run in this all rounder? And how should he run it in?


[steps quietly away]

[george formby]

Oohh, but while we are at it. What kind of oil should he run in this all rounder? And how should he run it in?


[steps quietly away]

Well, if it's Japanese just syphon some oil from the big re-cycling container at the local tip and thrash it.

If it's a Euro then nothing less than the oil milked from bee testicles and no revving over 3000 rippums for the first 50'000k.

[Gremlin]

the Aprilia 550 v twin always looked like fun
I demo'd one probably around 2008, think it was the SXV550, and it also had a race pipe.
First task was errands around the lower Auckland CBD. The crackle of the exhaust bouncing off the buildings and everyone staring made me glad I had a tinted visor.
I got on the motorway and headed to East Tamaki. Realised the seat was actually a piece of wood masquerading as a seat before I got to Mt Wellington, dang it was uncomfortable.
Definitely a hooligan toy, would make the Duke 790/890 etc feel composed and mature in comparison. Took it out Clevedon way that night for a play... hit reserve before I got to Clevedon (probably <100km on the tank), went back to Whitford, it was closed, had a very gentle ride to Botany, refueled, and went home. It just wasn't going to work for me.

I did pull off a stoppie, and by pull off, I mean miraculously save an over the front situation at one traffic light... Nodded at the courier beside me, when it came down after what felt like a few minutes near the balance point, while I looked at the ground contemplating my life choices. While the courier stared, I was again glad I had the tinted visor...


After opening this particular can, I doubt the OP will get all the worms back in... :wait:
More interesting debate (about motorcycles) than most of the threads... :whistle:

[nzspokes]

Everybody needs to own at least one DR650.

[Hoonicorn]

nothing's gonna be a comfy armchair on 2 wheels for long hauls and an agile stable trail bike and a cheap commuter and a weekend toy.

Compromise would be either a Yamaha MT-07 or Suzuki SV650. All the power you need for the streets and the occasional track day, add a tank bag and its a commuter, add the Dold pack-rack and its good for a weekend journey.

But when someone says "what's a good all-rounder?" they usually go off and buy the opposite, like that awful, overpriced* BMW F900R (https://www.bmw-motorrad.co.nz/en/models/roadster/f900r.html) roadster because its keyless, has heated grips and has a huge display
plus the brand prestige. :shifty:

*overpriced in NZ as it sells for the same price as an MT-09 in most other parts of the world.

[nzspokes]

I had a 1250fa and it was a great bike with some suspension work.

These days I would think an MT09 is a great option. Very light, great power and super reliable.

[1/32 man]

Thanks for the replies so far chaps.
I am glad I was able to initiate a motorcycle discussion here on KiwiBiker.

My mate who urged me to join Ulyssses and get out riding more made a comment that prompted me to trade the Triumph Street twin on the Suzuki bandit.
"I like bikes with panniers" was his line. It made me think...the Bandit had Givi hard panniers, better weather/wind protection, more power and performance.
I did the deal and have done added 4000km to the original 28000. Since purchase I added a new set of Michelins RP4s(cost factor) Adrenalin R exhaust can and generally cleaned it up.

NZSpokes what suspension work did you do to your bandit? and where/who did the work? I have adjusted the forks setting and softened the rear shock as I am a lightweight.

Thanks again
1/32 man

[R650R]

The best alround bike is anything you’ve owned long enough to not care about what happens to it. Just about anybine is capable of going anywhere or being parked anywhere once the erm paint works a bit weathered....
Plus on for GSXR pretty indestructible.
In fact one of the joys of motorcycling is taking a bike where it’s not supposed to go...
Emilio Scotto took a Goldwing through Central American jungles....
Million Dolkar Bogan taking his Harley on beach and 4wd tracks...
MDB and David monkey bikes across Nullarbor plains....

No matter what the bike is it’s 90% rider and 10% the bike as to what it’s capable of.

Anyhow best is probably any of modern adv bikes but with road tyres fitted.

[Navy Boy]

I was thinking that this sort of question used to be something that Mr Honda could provide an easy answer to (900 Hornet or CBF1000F perhaps). However in recent years I'm thinking that Suzuki seem to be really owning this type of thing. The VStrom 650 I owned a few years back is probably the closest I've come to such a machine.

It wasn't the best at anything but as a machine to fulfil your needs rather than your wants it was ruddy brilliant.

Other candidates IMHO would be a Multistrada 950 or possibly an MT-09.

Good question though :niceone:

[Swoop]

The correct answer is: Honda Africa Twin.

[beyond]

I've ridden many bikes over the years. So far the best all-rounder I've owned and kept for any length of time was the GSX1400. Loved them so much I traded my K2 for a new K7 and ran up 100,000km on the two of them all up.
Torque is awesome, sprint times great and two up riding no issue. It's an amazingly well handling machine once you dial in the right suspension settings and I even did a track day on it no problem.
Because I've been off bikes for 11 years after selling my K7 in November 2011 for various reasons, I've now bought another bike. With the blue brigade everywhere, :Police: with instant on radar and speed cameras worse than the paparazzi, the riding scene has changed dramatically.
Hundreds of horses and massive amounts of torque are great if you can use it without getting into trouble, but those days are long gone.

I am now happy to own and ride a new Triumph Speed Twin 900 and so far are loving it. Its quick enough for me now, handles nice and is also good two up. Yep, sure I would love another GSX1400 but I'm done paying for Ardern's lunch and Grant Robertsons pies.
The Speed Twin has a nice sound, enough stonk to overtake quickly when needed and is a nice to look at machine. :niceone:

[1/32 man]

Thanks for all the replies to my question.

Today sees the delivery of my new to me 2016 Suzuki GSX-s1000.
Goodbye sweet bandit 1250 and hello sweeter GSX.

[Laava]

Nice one! My mate has one. Had the low speed throttle jerkiness programmed out and he loves it.

[Blackbird]

Thanks for all the replies to my question.

Today sees the delivery of my new to me 2016 Suzuki GSX-s1000.
Goodbye sweet bandit 1250 and hello sweeter GSX.

This is my long term review: https://geoffjames.blogspot.com/2018/11/2015-suzuki-gsx-s-1000-long-term-review.html . Hope that you enjoy yours!

Cheers,

Geoff

[1/32 man]

Thanks Geoff....that was a good read.
Have I seen you on the GSX S1000 forum?

[Blackbird]

Thanks Geoff....that was a good read.
Have I seen you on the GSX S1000 forum?

Thank you! I doubt that you've seen me on the GSX-S forum unless they were old posts as I sold the bike and left the forum in March 2019. That was when I switched to the KTM 790.

[1/32 man]

OK, thanks again for the link to the blog.

Safe rides