 |
|
19 Jul 2004
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Prague Czech Republic
Posts: 121
|
|
|
F650 ADVENTURE ?
anybody know if bmw are planning to produce an adventure version of the dakar650? big tank? kickstart? proper pannier,s better suspension .the 1150 adventure was a great success so why not a 650 version ?look at how many rtw travellers use the 650/dakar.just a thought.
|
22 Sep 2004
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: May 2001
Location: Central Portugal
Posts: 315
|
|
|
You could always build your own. With companies like Touratech and Wunderlich selling all the necessary parts, it would be a good winter project.
__________________
\"Bon Chance\"
|
22 Sep 2004
|
|
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: British Columbia
Posts: 246
|
|
|
I think the suggestion above is a good one - nothing like building your own bike to get things just the way you want.
On another note, I think that BMW views the 650 Dakar as on par with the Adventure, as in it being a more dirt/ travel worthy version of the regular GS. The main difference would be the lack of any increase to the fuel capacity - a much lamented oversite on their part. I think the Dakar would have sold much better with an extra 2 gallons of capacity.
|
29 Nov 2004
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Berkeley, CA, USA
Posts: 10
|
|
|
I am currently try to decide if to go with the 650 Dakar to travel light and underpowered or if to more robust, power and heavier.. and when I started adding all the extras that I had to install in the 650, larger tank, guards, lights, bags, enforcementes, radiator screens, it made me think that I would rather buy a few years older of the 1150. Shame because I kind of like the 650 Dakar much better.
So, I am still wondering what to get. Any thoughts on this? 650 or 1150
------------------
|
29 Nov 2004
|
 |
HU Founder
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Dec 1997
Location: BC Canada
Posts: 7,324
|
|
If you're travelling solo, I highly recommend the 650 over the 11xxgs, it's much lighter, easier to deal with in the rough stuff, easier to pickup, and maintenance and tires are cheaper etc.
The only advantage the 11xxgs has is more power on the highway, and although you do spend a lot time there, it's not enough better to make up for the other times for most people. If you're doing a RTW record or something then the power is great, but for normal stuff, it's just not needed, or worth the extra weight.
I rode an R80G/S, which has LESS power than the 650, rtw with a passenger, and it was more than adequate for power. The only advantage the R80/100GS's have over the 650 is a little more room for a passenger.
Try picking up a fully loaded R11xxGS (or even an UNloaded one!) and you may find the decision of which way to go is easy...
------------------
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
__________________
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
Inspiring, Informing and Connecting travellers since 1997!
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
|
29 Nov 2004
|
|
HU Founder
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Dec 1997
Location: BC Canada
Posts: 7,324
|
|
Re more fuel capacity for the 650 Dakar - a bigger tank is nice, but generally not needed, and mostly just adds a lot of weight.
I know people that have gone rtw with a large tank, and said after it was a waste of money, the one or two times it was good they could have just carried a jerry can instead.
I have a big tank on my R80G/S and while nice, it's NOT critical. If you have the money, fine buy one, but if you're on a tight budget, forget it, just carry a jerry can somewhere.
Remember - you are probably on a ROAD - and the average car has no greater range than the average bike, so there HAS TO be a gas station for the cars that the road was built for. For the VERY rare time when there isn't, you'll find that jerry cans are readily available.
------------------
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
__________________
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
Inspiring, Informing and Connecting travellers since 1997!
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
|
29 Nov 2004
|
|
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: British Columbia
Posts: 246
|
|
|
Also worth thinking about is the fuel economy. The 650 gets some +/-30% better milage. With fuel being an (increasingly) large cost factor on long trips this bears some consideration.
|
29 Nov 2004
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Brisbane, QLD, Australia
Posts: 139
|
|
|
Hi, I'd like to jump in on this thread to get an opinion on the F650 for travelling 2-up.
Grant, I agree with your comments above and elsewhere on this site about smaller/lighter bike being generally better for travelling for a whole range of reasons. I would like to take my F650 Dakar to Europe next year for about 4 months travelling including camping. May include western Russia and Turkey - to be determined. I would have no doubt about the Dakar for riding solo with gear, but I have this nagging concern about 2-up with panniers & topbox including camping gear.
What do you think, is that asking too much of the 650? Note that power & speed are not my issue, do I risk handling problems or frame/suspension problems?
Regards
Skillo
|
30 Nov 2004
|
|
HU Founder
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Dec 1997
Location: BC Canada
Posts: 7,324
|
|
Skillo, power and speed are not the issue, agreed - the main difference is purely one of comfort - will SHE be happy on the back of the 650? If you're big folks, probably not - if smaller, could well be ok. Do at least a couple of long hard days two up with all your gear and the decision should be easy. And remember it's mostly her decision... although you may decide against too! There is a big difference two up between the 650 and 11xxGS.
------------------
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
__________________
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
Inspiring, Informing and Connecting travellers since 1997!
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
|
30 Nov 2004
|
|
HU Founder
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Dec 1997
Location: BC Canada
Posts: 7,324
|
|
I should add that there have been no reports of frame breakage or handling problems two-up with the 650. 
------------------
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
__________________
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
Inspiring, Informing and Connecting travellers since 1997!
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
|
30 Nov 2004
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Brisbane, QLD, Australia
Posts: 139
|
|
|
Thanks Grant, there are plenty HU stories about travelling 1-up on the F650 classic, GS & Dakar, but I cannot remember reading any travellers going 2-up on these bikes. This just made me wonder why?
Actually we both like the Dakar to travel on (for up to 6 hours/day or more) and we fit on it quite well, although it is very cosy. But thats with small-ish soft panniers and no top box, for 2 or 3 days with no camping. I will have to fit hard paniers and top box for 4 months of travel, so this may change the way we think. We took a 1100GS for a spin to size it up and although the 1100 definately cruises better over 100kmh and obviously more room, my pillion says she is more comfortable on the Dakar!
Only one way to find out I suppose, fit up some hard panniers and try it all out at home, then re-assess....
Skillo
|
30 Nov 2004
|
|
HU Founder
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Dec 1997
Location: BC Canada
Posts: 7,324
|
|
Skillo, keep us posted - we'll be interested to see your results!
One important factor is the size and weight of the two of you, so if you could let us know that with your assessment it would help others make the same decision.
thanks,
------------------
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
__________________
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
Inspiring, Informing and Connecting travellers since 1997!
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
|
3 Dec 2004
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Berkeley, CA, USA
Posts: 10
|
|
|
Thank you very much for your advise 650 vs 11xx, I will follow your recommendation and get a 650 Dakar.
My other dilema is if the year makes a big difference. Should I spend more money and get a 2004/5 or the 2001 that I have found that already is equiped with all the ideal things, guards, bags, with 12K would be ok?
Safe Driving.....
P.
------------------
|
4 Dec 2004
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: Idaho, USA
Posts: 212
|
|
Pablo, I doubt if it makes much difference regarding a 2001 vs a later model year F650 GS. However, there is a very active website for 650 GS enthusiasts, and you might post that question there for a better opinion than mine. The address is www.F650GS.com.
I know of a highly modified 650GS which has been transformed into about as close to a F650GS Adventure as possible, with off-pavement capabilities well beyond the Dakar. It isn't currently up for sale, but might become so in the near future. Drop me an email if you might be interested.
Mike
__________________
Mike
|
4 Dec 2004
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: San Francisco, CA USA
Posts: 373
|
|
Also, check out this site:
http://f650.com/
The 2001 model was the first year of the current model run and was notorious for having surging issues with the fuel injection. I would probably skip that year. If you do look at a used one, be sure to ride it thoroughly, and note any surging, I rode a used 2001 for sale from a local BMW dealer and the surging was horrible. It can be very difficult, if not impossible to fix. My understanding is that the 2002 and later years are much better, but some bikes still had surging problems. You don't want to inherit a problem like this.
The website above has more on the surging issue. I strongly considered the F650 for two-up travel also, but ended up buying a Transalp. Not because the Transalp was better, but I just happened to find a good deal on used one. For a single cylinder bike, the F650 rides like a twin, its very smooth and solid and it is definately proven as an rtw bike.
-Dave
[This message has been edited by davidmc (edited 04 December 2004).]
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|
helps answer the question - Why Go? Inspirational stories by veteran travellers Greg Frazier (5 times RTW), Peter and Kay Forwood (193 countries), Tiffany Coates (Mongolia Mayhem) and Rene Cormier (University of Gravel Roads).
Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers!
break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Show your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Motorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
Linear Mode
