|
31 Jan 2016
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2016
Location: Lake Constance, Germany
Posts: 149
|
|
F700GS - Opinions
So, I spent a good chunk of yesterday wandering around a motorcycle fair. The idea was that all the major manufacturers were there and my good lady, who is working towards her license, could try all the current bikes out there under one roof.
From a size, weight, comfort and general fit point of view the F700gs put a big smile on her face, far more so than any other machine out there. Most were too tall or to heavy, even in lowered form.
So, the question is - are they any good? I know it's not got a big front wheel or spokes but I'm 90% sure that feeling confident on the bike and being able to flat foot it counts for a hell of a lot more to a new rider than a big front wheel. Neither of us aim for challenging off road routes specifically, but if the tarmac ends we want to be able to carry on.
I'm thinking we buy a used one, 20-30k on the clock, throw engine, sump and handlebar protection on it. A set of panniers, a set of K60s and we've got a decent, confidence inspiring machine that will keep up with my Tiger both on and off of the tarmac.
New or reupholstered seat also feels pretty dammed important? Stock screen any good? The ones we saw had a silly, tiny, fly screen.
Thoughts?
__________________
[ Tim | History - NW Italy/French Rivera, Swiss Alps, Morocco | 2016 - Greece > Albania > Macedonia > Kosovo > Montenegro > Bosnia > Slovenia > Austria ]
|
31 Jan 2016
|
|
Super Moderator
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: London and Granada Altiplano
Posts: 3,132
|
|
The F700GS and it's similar predecessor, the F650GS twin, are fine off-tarmac. I had two of them which I bought in preference to the F800GS—I valued the tubeless tyres over spokes and tubed tyres. I've taken them both on extended quite rough piste routes in Morocco.
The screen from the F800GS is a slight improvement. The one on my bike above doesn't win any awards for looks but is very effective and I ordered it from Eagle Screens in Australia.
As you can see from the photo, I've also got muffs fitted, TKC80 tyres, aluminium bash plate, engine bars and Metal Mule pannier rails/panniers.
The bench seat is awful, it feels like wood—even my KTM 690 Enduro is better. I used an Airhawk saddle but you could get the existing seat remodelled with gell or memory foam.
For more information check out the F650/700/800GS forum at UKGSer, see http://www.ukgser.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=272
__________________
"For sheer delight there is nothing like altitude; it gives one the thrill of adventure
and enlarges the world in which you live," Irving Mather (1892-1966)
|
31 Jan 2016
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2016
Location: Lake Constance, Germany
Posts: 149
|
|
Tim, you're a credit to the name Tim. As a fellow Tim I think I can say that with some authority! Thanks.
Your advice in various places / forums was invaluable when I was planning last year's jaunt to Morocco. So a second thanks for that.
Sent from my D6603 using Tapatalk
__________________
[ Tim | History - NW Italy/French Rivera, Swiss Alps, Morocco | 2016 - Greece > Albania > Macedonia > Kosovo > Montenegro > Bosnia > Slovenia > Austria ]
|
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)
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 Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes.
(ONLY US RESIDENTS and currently has a limit of 60 days.)
Ripcord Evacuation Insurance is available for ALL nationalities.
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!
Every book a diary
Every chapter a day
Every day a journey
Refreshingly honest and compelling tales: the hights and lows of a life on the road. Solo, unsupported, budget journeys of discovery.
Authentic, engaging and evocative travel memoirs, overland, around the world and through life.
All 8 books available from the author or as eBooks and audio books
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.
|
|
|