Hypothetically, what?

[Hitcher]

If Mr Insurance Assessor writes off the STeed, please provide your opinions on the following choices. Not necessarily for yourself, for the purposes of this exercise imagine you are a fuller-figured gent of mid-years, with a penchant for big distances (250km trips and about 35,000km a year), looking for reliability, versatility and general user-friendliness. Oh, and no spokes.

[Edbear]

Oh, and no spokes.



Well, that certainly narrows it down! :yes: Gonna be hard to go past another ST based on what you require. After all, why did you buy an ST in the first place? HAsn't Honda got a deal going on them? Mebbe a Blackbird for a change?:rockon:

[Madness]

ZZR-1200. The shops don't seem to be able to shift 'em. Pick one up cheep cheep and use the difference to build a garage.

/edit: Why not a Beemer? Certainly reliable enough and most models have ABS don't they?

[inlinefour]

Test pilot the lot and make your mind up from there...

[Clivoris]

Yeaah man. Its gots to be the ST agin. Maybe with a few personal touches.

[Coyote]

Kawasaki ZX10R

[Hitcher]

I use the terms "tourer" and "touring" a bit differently to some. By my yardstick a Blackbird/Hirebus/ZX14/ZX12/Triumph ST aren't tourers -- they're just bloated sprotsbikes with marginally better comfort. Would I want to do a Grand Challenge on one? I think not.

Oh, and luggage. For "touring".

[Coyote]

Suzuki FXR150

[Hitcher]

Suzuki FXR150
And your rationale for this stunning choice?

[Coyote]

And your rationale for this stunning choice?
Cheaper to replace

[Madness]

Kawasaki ZX10R

Is that with or without the stage 3 turbo kit?

[Coyote]

Is that with or without the stage 3 turbo kit?
Fine example of a rhetorical question. Well done. Rep coming your way

[Ixion]

Buell, but not the big Harleys? Beamer? Moto-Guzzi? Ducati ST4 ?

[MSTRS]

Take a (long) look at a GSX1400

[Big Dave]

The Buell.

IMO the best single motorcycle on the market for NZ conditions.

More comfortable for a passenger than the ST - Triumph or Honda (ask co-pilot - she rates it 'best ever')
Great luggage
Tours wonderfully - sealed or dirt roads.
Delightful engine full of character that doesn't need terminal speed to be enjoyable.
Outrageous cornering ability.
and just a barrel full of monkeys worth of fun to ride - best fun of any bike i've ridden - ever.

You need to 6'1" to get the best out of it - ?
For an ST rider, not much in the way of protection.

[onearmedbandit]

My vote went to the M109R. If you're getting a new bike Mr H, you should really get a new bike. The Buell looked too dual purpose to me, don't know about its long distance comfort. The Kawasaki looks like another clone bike (from what I've seen of it), and the GSX and FZ1S just don't appeal to me. So my money would be on the M109R, amazing bike to behold, from what I've been told apparently quite impressive to ride, and the fact it is unmistakable.

- BD just blew my 'comfort' theory regarding the Buell out the door.

[avgas]

Join up on the dark side, FZ's have center stands and 20v's!!!!!!!

[Colapop]

Sir, I would suggest you maybe narrow your search to a M109R, ST or the Buell. The Buell, although from what I've read is an excellent all round bike, may not be 'you'. I could see you on either of the other two options.

[2much]

I can't find the GSXR1000 option? I don't understand?

But seriously, here's my 2 cents... be warned that my opinions are very ill informed, very personalised, contain very little common sense and will probably change completely tomorrow.... so you best ignore them.

You're obviously very touring orientated, with that in mind I wouldn't recommend the buell as it's not an outstanding pillion bike, the gearbox is shit and desperately needs a 6th gear.

The meanstreak is an excellent bike, very sporty, capable cruiser with outstanding brakes and can be alot fun to ride. However, it's not that comfortable over long distance, the rear suspension is shit and the 1500 was gutless so I suspect the 1600 is much the same.

The Bandit? it's an old bike now, when was the last time they changed it? It's a bike that tries to do a bit of everything but is good at nothing.

The Boulevard? I know nothing about it except that it would probably look better after it's run into the side of a bus.

The Fazer is much the same as the Bandit except maybe even uglier if that's at all possible?

The ST is probably the best tourer out there. It's a very comfortable bike over a long distance 2 up., but it can actually still be alot of fun and is suprisingly capable when thrown through the twisties riding solo.

So imho, if your not man enough to step up and buy the GSXR1000 that you know you've always wanted.... then the ST would be the next best choice of what's listed there.

Before you make your final desion, please do yourself a favour and go take a new Triumph Sprint ST for a test ride first, you may be pleasantly surprised (until you here the extra price for the hard panniers). They're definately not in the same boat as busa's, Blackbirds and ZZR's

I can't believe I've just recommended a Honda! I hate myself right now.

[Hitcher]

Buell, but not the big Harleys? Beamer? Moto-Guzzi? Ducati ST4 ?
Too expensive for what you get, or not. And reliability? (Everything but the BMWs that is)

[2much]

- BD just blew my 'comfort' theory regarding the Buell out the door.

Ditto...

10 char

[terbang]

The bandit will leave you some change for all your hospital bills and new riding gear.

[Big Dave]

Too expensive for what you get, or not. And reliability? (Everything but the BMWs that is)


Harleys are very reliable. Ask Lou about the rental fleet.

>>not an outstanding pillion bike, the gearbox is shit and desperately needs a 6th gear.<<

All that's just wrong.
The geabox is clunky compared to a jap multi - a hot knife through butter compared to the m109.
It desperately needs nothing (if you want to ride within 40 of the speed limit)

i'll edit that - some of them desperately need a different front tyre - the Dunlop 616 on the front is shite. It's why they have copped such bad press - a pirelli on the front and it's magic.

[Hitcher]

Take a (long) look at a GSX1400
Too naked. If I wanted a naked bike I'd buy another ZRX1200R -- the best bike in the big naked musclebike class by a country mile.

[James Deuce]

You need to 6'1" to get the best out of it - ?


He's that and more. Suffice to say that the XXXXXXXXXL head should be a giveaway.

[Dragon28]

Personally, I would take a long hard look at the Buell.

I am over 6'2" and no lightweight, and when I rode one from Nelson to Gore (thanks Craig) (and back) they are just absolutely a great bike.

They handle like a dream and are really comfortable. Even after a reasonable haul like the trip I didn't have any sign of the old numb bum syndrome.

It rates as the next bike I am going to spend my hard earned cash on ... as soon as I can convince the wife that a new bike is a high priority.

[Big Dave]

He's that and more. Suffice to say that the XXXXXXXXXL head should be a giveaway.


'It ain't the meat - it's the motion.' - But i can't remember who sung it.

[Hitcher]

You need to 6'1" to get the best out of it - ?
For an ST rider, not much in the way of protection.
Is that anything like 182cm? All I ask in the way of protection is a screen that keeps the wind off my chest.

[roogazza]

BANDIT !!!! But you'll have to cut down on those BIG Breakfasts !!!!!

Gaz. :yes: :gob:

[Big Dave]

Is that anything like 182cm? All I ask in the way of protection is a screen that keeps the wind off my chest.

No - that's only 6'1/2" innit? (unless it's in a basketball programme - then it's 6'4") But it would do.

Cee Baileys do a tall screen.

There are some very good threads about the XB12X on http://www.advrider.com/forums/index.php
in the 'Beasts' section.

Anyway - here's hoping the ST is all just cosmetic and it's not an enforced decision.

[imdying]

I'm with Dave... this being NZ and all, adding some offroad capability to your touring could very well transform your pasttime.

[MSTRS]

All I ask in the way of protection is a screen that keeps the wind off my chest. Oh - and some panniers, comfortable for 2-up touring, etc
Something like this, perchance?

[Jantar]

From the list you provide I'd go with the bandit. But if the budget will stretch a bit then consider the Yamaha FJ1300 as an option.

(I'm a Suzuki man and I can't believe I'd suggest a Yamaha...)

[Hitcher]

BANDIT !!!! But you'll have to cut down on those BIG Breakfasts !!!!!
The 2006 Bandit reviews well. In fact very well. The most recent Bandit I've ridden was a 2002 model, that felt like it had a hinge in the middle somewhere. There have been two full upgrades since then. The SK6 is lighter, shorter and taller than the previous model and has an adjustable seat. Apparently the donk has had a bit of work as well. It's also the cheapest option out of my list of contenders. The ST1300 is the most expensive. All of the others are more or less the same price, unless I find a dealer willing to have meaningful discussions with a cash buyer...

And no, I didn't eat ALL of the pies.

[Hitcher]

Something like this, perchance?
Fuck off!!

[Hitcher]

From the list you provide I'd go with the bandit. But if the budget will stretch a bit then consider the Yamaha FJ1300 as an option.
The new FJR1300 certainly looks interesting. I wouldn't touch the earlier model -- sloppy build quality, particularly for Yamaha. I suspect Yamaha NZ will try and flog these for about $29,000, which is way too dear for what they are, expecially considering Honda is (or was) doing the ST1300 for $22,500.

[MSTRS]

Fuck off!!
What??!!! You no rike it cookie boy?
It's probably got an inbuilt latte machine an'all. I thought it'd be just perfect...

[sugilite]

As you appear to be a man of some character, I could see you on a bike of some character to match, which to me at least appears to be the Buell, with said tall accessory screen if course.
I can see it would add a whole new dimension to your touring activities with that rich vein of gravel road prowess just waiting to be explored.:yes:

[Hitcher]

What's that Buell web site address again, he asked rhetorically...

[TONO]

If Mr Insurance Assessor writes off the STeed, please provide your opinions on the following choices. Not necessarily for yourself, for the purposes of this exercise imagine you are a fuller-figured gent of mid-years, with a penchant for big distances (250km trips and about 35,000km a year), looking for reliability, versatility and general user-friendliness. Oh, and no spokes.

Your obviously very happy with the ST1300 and its configuration for your type of riding so get another one.:first:
The Triumph ST is very nice and comfortable, but the bloody luggage & accessories should be gold plated for the price.:second:
Your next step is really a Goldwing if you were to go bigger & more comfortable.:yawn:
The M109, Harleys etc you have your feet out in front of you...not my thing.
The Buell is really a fun toy.:doobey:
The only suzuki you could consider for your type of riding maybe a V-Strom DL1000 they are comfortable, have more pillion leg room than any other bike on the market, but you would have to put after market panniers on it.( front suspension is suspect under pressure)
Just my pennies worth.:blip:

[sugilite]

Look, for me to recommend a Harley based bike finds me questioning my sanity, but to point one to the website goes beyond the pale. Seriously though, that bike has changed my mind in regards to such machines.

[Hitcher]

The only suzuki you could consider for your type of riding maybe a V-Strom DL1000
Ahh, but they have spoked wheels. Do not pass Go, do not collect $200.

Whoops. My mistake, they don't. Hmmmm.

[Madness]

Hitcher I was thinking..... to post the poll you are obviously considering a change in stables for your next steed should the old nag be shot. Should the unthinkable eventuate perhaps a drastic change would be a good thing.

The Buell to me represents (from the list) the farthest point from the ST in terms of style. The XB12-X riding position and power delivery would be delicious on the Taka's, particularly having come from where you have.

You might end up simply riding from Kaitoke to Featherston and back all day, stopping for Lattés like the rest of us.

I'm voting Buell. Don't tell anybody.

[Hitcher]

I forgot that I had to vote myself to see the poll. Doh!

[Hitcher]

Dave, what's the headlight like on the Buell for night riding?

And how far does 16.7 litres of gas take you?

[Big Dave]

Ahh, but they have spoked wheels. Do not pass Go, do not collect $200.

Whoops. My mistake, they don't. Hmmmm.


What is your aversion to the wired ones?

The strom has a loyal following too.

[Big Dave]

Dave, what's the headlight like on the Buell for night riding?

And how far does 16.7 litres of gas take you?

Ahh! - There's something is does lack - Headlights are average or below. There are aftermaket solutions appearing now.

I get 250-260km before the warning light appears. It's quite fuel efficient (apparently).


http://www.badweatherbikers.com/cgibin/discus/discus.cgi

is another good resource.

[Hitcher]

What is your aversion to the wired ones?
Cleaning the fuckers. And corrosion. Apart from that I think they're just lovely!

[Finn]

No point asking this lot Hitcher, you'll get too many varied responses. Only you know what you want & need. Your gut feeling is to probably stick with Honda but you're just exploring other options. Am I right? Huh? Huh?

[Hitcher]

No, I'm not xenophobic when it comes to bikes. I've owned a Kawasaki and a Yamaha before, and love Mrs H's Suzuki. Hondas are good, but they're still bikes, just like the rest.

[Mooch]

Transalp with bags ?.
See all the other bits of NZ roads that the ST won't get to.

[pritch]

Transalp with bags ?.


Yeah that's not silly suggestion...

When I decided to buy a bike I had a firm idea of what I wanted. Apparently though, nobody made one: about 750cc, comfy seat, half fairing, decent tank range, oh and it should preferably be a Honda.

Then I saw a TransAlp in the shop and thought that it really did meet most of my criteria.

I'm happy with the Hornet but just maybe a TransAlp would be OK too?

[Beemer]

If Mr Insurance Assessor writes off the STeed...

Um, have I missed something here? Has a new - or previously undiscovered but related to the original accident - fault been found with your bike? I'm hoping it is that rather than another 'off' - so pray tell!

Interesting selection there. Andy would tell you to go for one of the BMW ST models, but please stay away from the cruisers. Really, tassles (I once got in trouble for calling them fringes...) on a man of your age is rather hard to come to terms with. You'd have to grow a ZZ Top beard for a start, and give up showering...:nya:

[James Deuce]

You've definitely missed something Beemer.

[Swoop]

From all of your previous posts regarding the ST, you appear well pleased with it.
Perhaps another ST is just what the doctor ordered, but with the addition of bullbars front and rear?:blip:

Beemer: see the thread Reversing lights? - you cannot be serious!

[Blackbird]

I use the terms "tourer" and "touring" a bit differently to some. By my yardstick a Blackbird/Hirebus/ZX14/ZX12/Triumph ST aren't tourers -- they're just bloated sprotsbikes with marginally better comfort. Would I want to do a Grand Challenge on one? I think not.

Oh, and luggage. For "touring".

Having done the Grand Challenge and Southern Cross on a 'bird, I don't see what your problem is with this type of machine, especially as these events would only represent a small percentage of your total riding anyway and would only incur a minor "inconvenience" with respect to comfort. Of all the bikes which you mentioned, the best compromise would be the FZ1 Yamaha: Upright seating position, blistering performance and superb handling; just ask Mr Angell. Perfect for your stated 250 km rides and the occasional big 'un like the Grand Challenge.

Your criteria of comfort, protection from the elements and luggage carrying ability sounds perilously close to the specifications for a car. If this is where you are leaning, could I suggest an MX5? This will leave you free to get a balls-out sports bike. Mrs B has had an MX5 for a few years and I rather enjoy thrashing it round the back roads.

I suspect that your final decision will largely be made with your heart rather than your head if you follow the approach of most other bikers anyway!

Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Geoff

[Paul in NZ]

Personally, a nice Ivory Calthorpe would be the vehicle of choice for the discerning rider but alas it has spoked wheels...

[Lou Girardin]

My vote is for the Bandit. (I would, wouldn't I), you can fang, tour, commute. Especially if you upgrade the susp. I haven't heard that the K6 has had any engine upgrade though, it's mainly cosmetic, has a longer swingarm and better fork internals.
The only thing you can't do is pose in a race suit on it.
My second choice would be a FJR1300, I've heard there's some good deals on these at present, call the Yammie dealer in Blenheim too. Wayne will look after you.
Second equal would be another 'onda. Make it a different colour this time though, the last one's not working for you.
You don't sound like a sprotbike kinda guy, not even an overweight sprotbike.

[Beemer]

Beemer: see the thread Reversing lights? - you cannot be serious!

Shite, I hadn't seen that - been too busy with work and our dial-up connection seems to be getting slower by the minute after using broadband at work!

Glad to hear you are okay, Hitcher, but it sounds like that ST is a bit of a jinx - maybe it IS time to go for something else! Good luck with the search.

[James Deuce]

Moto Guzzi California Classic.

I want one, so if you get one then I can check to see if it's what I really want.

[Ixion]

Personally, a nice Ivory Calthorpe would be the vehicle of choice for the discerning rider but alas it has spoked wheels...

I could definately see Mr Hitcher on a Sunbeam.

[beyond]

No GSX1400 there? mmmm.

You said to Mstrs that you need protection. Try condoms. :)

Seriously, there's some great small after market screens for the 14. The Buell hardly has a screen?

Anyways, great tourer, all day without a sore arse. Comfortable, great two up. Heaps of torque. 22 litre fuel tank. Goes like hell when you want it to. Loves the twisties. Massive amounts of reliable bike for the money. You can shove top boxes, side panniers and a massive bimbo on the back and notice no difference in pulling power and acceleration.

Screens? You're a motorcyclist. I don't use a screen and love the sensation of speed. Not much wind buffeting at all really and not to bad above 200kmh either. Just need to scape a few more flies of than usual once you're home.

Did I say I think the 14's a great bike?

:)

[Hitcher]

There's protection and then there's protection. As others have noted, if I wanted protection then a car, or a Goldwing would be the go. I just want something with enough screen to keep wind off my chest.

But I don't want a fully naked bike for a whole bunch of reasons. If I did, then it would be a ZRX1200R, in preference to a GSX1400.

[beyond]

There's protection and then there's protection. As others have noted, if I wanted protection then a car, or a Goldwing would be the go. I just want something with enough screen to keep wind off my chest.

But I don't want a fully naked bike for a whole bunch of reasons. If I did, then it would be a ZRX1200R, in preference to a GSX1400.

:gob: A ZRX1200R over a GSX1400!!!!????

Just kidding. Each to their own of course.

[scumdog]

but please stay away from the cruisers. Really, tassles (I once got in trouble for calling them fringes...) on a man of your age is rather hard to come to terms with. You'd have to grow a ZZ Top beard for a start, and give up showering...:nya:

Easy with the mouth there woman, some of us are rather fond off tassles (Putting them on the T-Sport as we speak) AND showers! (otherwise the boudiour is out of the picture)!

Do what YOU want MR H.

BTW H-D 'reliability' comments are rather passe' these days - went the way of valve radios and anti-macassars.

Figure out that last item you lot!

[terbang]

An antimacassar is a small cloth placed over the backs or arms of chairs, or the head or cushions of a sofa, to prevent soiling of the permanent fabric.

The name is attributable to the unguent for the hair commonly used in the early 19th century, macassar oil— the poet Byron called it, "thine incomparable oil, Macassar."

The fashion for oiled hair became so widespread in Edwardian and Victorian period that housewives began to cover the arms and backs of their chairs with washable cloths to preserve the fabric coverings from being spoilt. Around 1850, these started to be known as antimacassars.

They came to have elaborate patterns, often in matching sets for the various items of parlour furniture; they were either made at home using a variety of techniques such as crochet or tatting, or bought from shops.

The original antimacassar was almost invariably made of white crochet-work, very stiff, hard, and uncomfortable, but in the third quarter of the 19th century it became simpler and less inartistic, and was made of soft coloured stuffs, usually worked with a simple pattern in tinted wools or silk.

By the beginning of the 20th century, antimacassars had become so associated in peoples’ minds with the Victorian period that the word briefly became a figurative term for it.

[scumdog]

Ah, but did you know all that BEFORE you Googled it?

Or is your mind full of utterly useless information- like mine??

[Big Dave]

Ah, but did you know all that BEFORE you Googled it?

Or is your mind full of utterly useless information- like mine??


I think most long term married men know about anti macwahtsits.

[Hitcher]

A ZRX1200R over a GSX1400!!!!????
Ride one. You will be amazed.

[Hitcher]

I think most long term married men know about anti macwahtsits.
In the late 60s Holden went the whole hog and had full clear plastic covers to keep the naugahide clean. These things were like bulletproof. It always seemed a bit excessive for a car that would completely oxidise if left out in the rain for more than three days.

[OMG]

Just read about your bin, bad luck, esp after just getting it back. If it is written off, at least you have the fun of going shoppin.

[Edbear]

An antimacassar is a small cloth placed over the backs or arms of chairs, or the head or cushions of a sofa, to prevent soiling of the permanent fabric.

The name is attributable to the unguent for the hair commonly used in the early 19th century, macassar oil— the poet Byron called it, "thine incomparable oil, Macassar."

The fashion for oiled hair became so widespread in Edwardian and Victorian period that housewives began to cover the arms and backs of their chairs with washable cloths to preserve the fabric coverings from being spoilt. Around 1850, these started to be known as antimacassars.

They came to have elaborate patterns, often in matching sets for the various items of parlour furniture; they were either made at home using a variety of techniques such as crochet or tatting, or bought from shops.

The original antimacassar was almost invariably made of white crochet-work, very stiff, hard, and uncomfortable, but in the third quarter of the 19th century it became simpler and less inartistic, and was made of soft coloured stuffs, usually worked with a simple pattern in tinted wools or silk.

By the beginning of the 20th century, antimacassars had become so associated in peoples’ minds with the Victorian period that the word briefly became a figurative term for it.



LIke Doilies, Huh?:yes:

[scumdog]

LIke Doilies, Huh?:yes:

But grease-proof!

[madboy]

I don't know sportsbikes, let alone tourers...

Buy another bike, even if it is another ST. The old ones a slapper and can't wait to lie down everytime someone looks at it funny. Personally I like change for the sake of change, so I'd be buying a new bike of a different model. It's your wheels that need spinning, so work out what bike does that for you.

If you do decide your need to cater for your effeminate side, I've got an MX-5 on the market ;)

[riffer]

Well, I voted for the latest FZ1, having just seen it in the flesh at Sawyers this lunchtime. But I was torn between it and the Buell Ulysses.

Although its smaller, you may also consider the VFR800...

[Two Smoker]

Tough choice... In the end its about what YOU want from your riding experience...

If you want to do some slightly more "spirited" riding i would go for the Bandit or the FZ-1...

If you want to do touring like your last bike (which you talked very highly of...) Then look at another STeed or FJR1300

I would rule out the M109 as its impractical from pillioning, and i dont see it being comfortable on longer rides...

I wouldn't rule out the CBR1100XX, more "go", surprisingly comfortable, and considered one of the best pillion bikes... Failing that a K1200S

But then there is the Buell... Opening a huge new array of touring...

Decisions, decisions, decisions... Its a tough one Mr. H...

[WRT]

The SK6 is lighter, shorter and taller than the previous model . . .

There you have it, folks. It's both shorter and taller.

Based on specs and pics . . . and ignoring the price, I'd be looking at the BMW K1200S first. Then checking out the FJR1300. The VFR could be a go as well, but it seems a little . . . underwhelming.

[MikeyG]

What you really want is a GN250. Long live the GN.

Being serious now as you are taller than most there will be some bikes that are just not comfortable for you. Get out there and try them.

[Big Dave]

There you have it, folks. It's both shorter and taller.
.

The schrodinger's cat of motorcycles.

[Hitcher]

I have been tempted by something not on my poll list. I shall test ride and report back...

[James Deuce]

I'll bet it has headlights of doom.

[Madness]

And a word starting with the letter K on the tank?

[Colapop]

Well you make sure you do young man...

[Hitcher]

Here's hoping for a nice riding day tomorrow...

[FROSTY]

HITCH --take a FJR 1300 for a ride.Thats a real sports tourer.--I think someone on the sitte has one for sale

[sels1]

So you want a touring bike with some protection, no spokes, and luggage? Very comfortable? Built for the bigger-than-average-bloke? a bike the is easy to ride around town, great on twisties, laughs at rough road surfaces and gravel? Happily gets along at double the speed limit? Long range tank? The Triumph Tiger fits those requirements.
From the Triumph website:
"The Tiger is the great all-rounder. A bike Triumph have developed so that you can depend on it to get you, a pillion and enough luggage to stock a small department store wherever you want to go. An enduro-style bike with a gutsy, dependable 955cc triple in a quick-steering frame, the motor sits under a cavernous tank with a range of 200 plus miles. It’s as happy commuting as it is two up touring - custom-fit panniers stuffed to the gills. It’ll scratch down back lanes or hack hundreds of miles along roads that time forgot. Tiger. It’s earned its stripes."

Not that I am biased or anything

[Hitcher]

Not that I am biased or anything
Hmmm. Are you sure those things that look like spokes aren't spokes?

[James Deuce]

http://www.triumph.co.uk/usa/790.aspx

The earlier models had spokes. The latest gets cast wheels - with as many bloody spokes as they could manage to cast with out ending up with a die that looks like a Hardanger lace pattern.

[Hitcher]

Looks nice in blue...

[Str8 Jacket]

Looks nice in blue...

How did it feel to ride though?....

[Hitcher]

How did it feel to ride though?....
I will share all, once I've found a demo...

[Colapop]

That wasn't you I saw tootling around L/H today - on a very nice dark blue Hooondahhh??

[Hitcher]

Nope. Not me.

[Colapop]

Well now that you mention he did look slightly more ... svelt perhaps....

[Hitcher]

Pah! And hirsute?

[Colapop]

Groomed but yes facially folicled... I wouldn't say I got close enough for a DNA sample though...

[enigma51]

hitcher a few mags rated the buel above the tiger.

My pick would be the buel took a the 9r (which of course is the sports bike version) and loved it said if i ever want to change to a more comfartable ride i will pick a buel and the parts not exspensive either!

[Colapop]

Saw a Tiger in TSS today. Nice, I thought it looked very Motard-ish.

[Wasp]

oh man... you gotta have the bandit dude, just think how cool it'd look next to mine and bend-it's (like a mum with kids :doh:)

either that or the Buell or another STeed if you believe in the 3rd time lucky rule

[Hitcher]

I wouldn't say I got close enough for a DNA sample though...
Unlike Monica Lewinsky...

And the one I want to ride wasn't there on Saturday. Apparently somebody else is interested in it and had it for the weekend. I hope they didn't get it all wet. And what if they decide they want it. What am I going to ride then?

[Bonez]

I use the terms "tourer" and "touring" a bit differently to some. By my yardstick a Blackbird/Hirebus/ZX14/ZX12/Triumph ST aren't tourers -- they're just bloated sprotsbikes with marginally better comfort. Would I want to do a Grand Challenge on one? I think not.

Oh, and luggage. For "touring".
A CT110 should be ideal then..................:yes:

[Hitcher]

A CT110 is a vastly underrated piece of kit. Look no futher than the Postie's Challenge!

http://sbw.sportbikes.com/showthread.php?referrerid=&threadid=53178

[Madness]

Are you still waiting for Dr. House to make his asessment on the ST Hitcher?

[Hitcher]

Are you still waiting for Dr. House to make his asessment on the ST Hitcher?
Yes. I had (another) squiz at it yesterday in Motorad's lock-up whilst emptying its panniers. My educated diagnosis is that it is fucked. Hopefully Dr House will concur. I don't want it back. It saddens me to say that, as we had covered 32,000 fantastic km in our 18-months together, of which four were spent waiting for repairs to be completed from our off on Boxing Day. I hope it, or parts sourced therefrom, will bring happiness to other ST riders.

I may own another ST1300 at some future date, as they really are fantastic bikes, but not next.

[Bonez]

A CT110 is a vastly underrated piece of kit. Look no futher than the Postie's Challenge!Hense the hint as a suitable mount for the Grand Challenge.

[sels1]

Looks nice in blue...

Looks pretty good in Jet Black and Aluminium Silver too. And as Jim noted, 06 model has mags not spokes. Factory panniers availible too.


Check out these guys http://www.thunderbike.co.nz/ in Nelson. They hire Tigers out. Before I bought mine, we flew over for a few days holiday and hired one for 24 hours. Went for a 2 up cruise over hill to Takaka and I had time to have some decent time on my own on it too.
Happy to let you have a ride on my one if you can't get your hands on one soon.

[Big Dave]

We did 700+km 2 up on the Buell today. 'Twas most excellent.

I don't miss my Trophy at all. I arrived home today in better shape than would have on the Battlestar. Less weary and without any numb bumb or leg ache at all.

Averaged same sort of speeds too.

[Hitcher]

We did 700+km 2 up on the Buell today.
I think I'd have to ride that sort of distance to find a demo...

[Big Dave]

I think I'd have to ride that sort of distance to find a demo...

And it's very much a like it or loath it bike too.
Quasi eg didn't buy it at all at first.
Some of them behave pretty weird with the Dunlop front tyre - some don't.

I agree with sels too - you should try a tiger.
Only thing wrong with them is they come with a very mediocre rear shock as standard, but stick a decent unit in 'tarse and some fork springs and they make a mighty fine motorcycle by any specifications - but it does seem particulary well matched to your nominated.