 |
|
26 Dec 2003
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: San Francisco, CA USA
Posts: 373
|
|
|
F650 Dakar - two-up - opinions?
I am considering the F650 Dakar for a trip through Asia, and I am looking for some opinions on how suitable this bike is for two-up riding.
I know the R100GS and the R11xxGS may be more suitable for two-up, but the R100/R80GS seems too old for my limited mechanical abilities and the R11xxGS is too heavy and expensive.
Even though there may be better two-up bikes out there, would the F650 Dakar work sufficiently for two-up touring? What are some of the limiting factors of using this bike for two-up and can they be overcome?
-Dave
|
27 Dec 2003
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: MaeSot, Thailand
Posts: 95
|
|
We met Ralph Dixon at the Oz HU meeting and he had ridden Oz to Uk on an F650 funduro. I don't think he had any problems and the Dakar is probably more suited??
His website is:
http://www.weride4ms.org/
__________________
“… all that is required for evil to triumph is for good men (and women) to do nothing ...”.
|
28 Dec 2003
|
 |
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2002
Location: Abu Dhabi
Posts: 887
|
|
We did Jordan to the UK, 4 people, on an F650 and an 1150GS. The 650 is OK for smaller, lighter riders but I'd recommend the 1150 for 2 larger adults. The 1150 is not heavy at all when it's moving! 
|
28 Dec 2003
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: May 2001
Location: Central Portugal
Posts: 315
|
|
|
I had the standard 650GS for a short time. The bike was fine two up, although we didn't tour on it, we did a couple of longish journey's and it was comfortable and handling was fine. As long as you don't intend blatting along the autobahn it would be OK. Not sure how robust the subframe is on these bikes. If you intended fitting ali' panniers it would be worth thinking about strengthening it, especially travelling two up with all your gear and a few spares.
Also worth considering something like a 'Transalp' There a little better two up, being a twin so smoother. The penalty is little more weight.
__________________
\"Bon Chance\"
|
28 Dec 2003
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: San Francisco, CA USA
Posts: 373
|
|
|
The Transalp seems like a great bike, except that Transalps and Africa Twins are not available in the USA. It seems like the only other option in the USA as far as non-single cylinders go is a big BMW.
Living in California, which may be the largest motorcycle market in the world, it truly amazes me that we don't have at least the Africa Twin or the Transalp. I guess Honda figures that we just want big cruisers over here...
-Dave
|
28 Dec 2003
|
 |
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2003
Location: guildford, surrey, UK
Posts: 138
|
|
hi
Ive got a Dakar, currently touring central America with BMW top case, Touratech ali panniers and touratech tank bag with side panniers.
I couldnt imagine having someone else on the back as well. think it would be too heavy and a strain on the suspension, especially on the rougher roads.
I chose the 650 becuase I am travelling alon and wanted to be sure I could pick up the bike after a spill. for two up thats less of a problem and in that situation I would defeintely have gone for the bigger bike
but just my opinion of course. hope it helps
richard
------------------
Richb
http://www.postmaster.co.uk/~richardbeaumont/60684/
|
29 Dec 2003
|
|
Contributing Member
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Valleyview, Alberta, Canada
Posts: 9
|
|
|
David:
For what it's worth, We put on aprox. 6,000 km in Australia riding 2 up with luggage, neither my wife or I are small people. I already owned the bike and thought we might as well try it, I was satisfied with the performance other than the front end was a bit lighter so I couldn't stick with the sport bikes in the corners. I was happy enough with it that I bought another one for here in Canada to replace my R1100R that my son wrote off when he hit a deer. We did a 5,000 km trip 2 up thru B.C.(T. U. meet in Revelstoke) last summer and are headed to Mexico with it in January. Most of the riding has been done on pavement though and I'm not sure how it would stand up to prolonged heavy loads on rough surface. Ride safe.
Chuck
__________________
Woodchuck
|
30 Dec 2003
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: London, UK
Posts: 15
|
|
|
I've just completed a ride from London to Singapore on the 650 Dakar. It is a good bike for one person, but I think it really would struggle with 2 up plus luggage, especially if you are looking to take on some of the more interesting roads.
Richard (Kiwi)
------------------
|
5 Jan 2004
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: Oxfordshire, UK
Posts: 180
|
|
|
I did some road based touring on an F650 with my wife on the back. Neither of us are skinny runts. The subframe seems tough, and with the suspension on full preload the steering wasn't too light (much less so than with an R100GS's standard suspension). However, while going around a moderate corner up hill at about 50mph the back sagged way to far and the centre stand dug into the road, flicking the back out sharply. I kept it upright, but it wasn't fun.
|
5 Jan 2004
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: Oxfordshire, UK
Posts: 180
|
|
|
And to add to that, the R100GS with standard suspension and a passenger (or too much luggage) can be pretty terrifying too. I just put an Ohlins rear shock on mine, which has completely sorted it. However, I still think that the newer GS (with it's telelever and ABS) is by far the safest bet for 2-up touring.
|
11 Jan 2004
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Winchester, Hampshire
Posts: 202
|
|
|
Hi, I rode 2 up from UK to Oz on a 1961 350 AJS in 93 to 95 so I think an F650 would be fine, maybe not as comfortable and fast as an 1150GS but then again it wont be as heavy or cumbersome either. Regards Chris
|
13 Jan 2004
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: B.C. Canada
Posts: 209
|
|
|
Hi Dave, Where are you planning to ride in Asia? Many countries in South East Asia rent bikes very cheaply,and it saves the shipping costs.. In Thailand you can rent a decent Transalp or TDM 850 for $30us a day. It also depends on what type of riding you want to do. Most offroad in SE Asia is really dirt bike territory, and even a Dakar might be too big in the mud. I've ridden the F-650gs and it is a great all round bike, but it does suffer a bit two up. Cheers, Cameron
------------------
|
13 Jan 2004
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: San Francisco, CA USA
Posts: 373
|
|
|
Hi Cameron-
I don't think renting is very practical for me as I will be riding from Europe to Australia over a one year timeframe. And my daily budget in SE Asia will be about $20USD/day. I have rented bikes in SE Asia in the past, and yes, I think it is a great way to go for shorter trips. I did not know you can rent Transalps though!
One another note, thanks for all the responses. It sounds like two-up on a Dakar may be possible? I mean, could a Dakar be ok for two-up with some modifications, like a good rear shock and a custom saddle?
I still don't really understand what would limit the Dakar. It seems like the power could be lacking, but adequate. And the comfort...perhaps a custom saddle? Or would the bike just be too "top-heavy" with two people plus gear?
Other than some extra power and perhaps a couple inches of extra saddle length, what other factors make the twins a better choice over the big singles?
Dave
|
13 Jan 2004
|
 |
HU Founder
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Dec 1997
Location: BC Canada
Posts: 7,324
|
|
Dave, to answer your last question first - not much!
Power and room to move around is about all the REAL difference for two-up.
It's ALL relative - people have toured two-up on just about everything and thought it was fine - then they get something bigger and more powerful and wonder how they ever survived on the old bike. BUT they did, and had a good time. People on R11xxGS's wonder how people survive two-up on R80G/S's - but we do fine.
Ride what you like and are comfortable with and can afford - and have a great time!
RE rear shock - NOT an Ohlins - their reliability on F650's generally is suspect. Contact Works Performance in LA and see what they can do for you - tell them I sent you.
RE Top heavy - try a Triumph Tiger sometime and there will be no further comments about Dakars being top-heavy - and people have toured happily on Tigers.
------------------
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
|
27 Feb 2004
|
|
Contributing Member
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Valleyview, Alberta, Canada
Posts: 9
|
|
Dave:
An update on the F650 with 2 up in Mexico, We put on 6500 kms, about 500 of that on dirt, gravel and sand, the Dakar handled it all well except when we hit a bad pot hole on pavement and threw the chain, after we got it back on I made sure I wasn't running it too loose and set the preload on the shock up to max and we had no further problems. the chain and sprockets were about shot when we finished but as there was 22,000 km on the origional chain it was probably to be expected. We have installed a Corbin seat and both of us find it much more comfortable than the stock seat.
I am going to try a 1 tooth smaller sprocket on the front this time, the consensus on www.f650.com was that it mkes it a bit more pleasant on dirt roads and doesn't make much difference at highway speeds.
Regards
Chuck
__________________
Woodchuck
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 2 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 2 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
