Hypothetically, what?

**imdying** · 12th June 2006, 20:06

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

**MSTRS:Me** · 12th June 2006, 20:06

Originally Posted by Hitcher

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** · 12th June 2006, 20:09

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** · 12th June 2006, 20:10

Originally Posted by roogazza

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** · 12th June 2006, 20:11

Originally Posted by MSTRS

Something like this, perchance?

Fuck off!!

**Hitcher** · 12th June 2006, 20:14

Originally Posted by 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.

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:Me** · 12th June 2006, 20:15

Originally Posted by Hitcher

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:Me** · 12th June 2006, 20:15

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.

**Hitcher** · 12th June 2006, 20:17

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

**TONO** · 12th June 2006, 20:18

Originally Posted by 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.

Your obviously very happy with the ST1300 and its configuration for your type of riding so get another one.

The Triumph ST is very nice and comfortable, but the bloody luggage & accessories should be gold plated for the price.

Your next step is really a Goldwing if you were to go bigger & more comfortable.

The M109, Harleys etc you have your feet out in front of you...not my thing.
The Buell is really a fun toy.

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.

**sugilite:Me** · 12th June 2006, 20:21

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** · 12th June 2006, 20:29

Originally Posted by WeeStromer

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** · 12th June 2006, 20:31

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.