V-Strom 1000 vs BMW R1150GS Adventurer

[costa]

Hi all. This is my first post and I'm glad to have found you all!

I am planning a route that will take me first to Cuba (a ride to raise money for HIV/AIDS patients there) and then to Caracas. From there, I will be working my way down to Salvador de Bahia, Brasil.

I need to replace my bike and have pretty much narrowed it down to the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 and the BMW R1150GS Adventurer. I know some will say there is no comparison, but there is also about a $6500 price difference new (less used). I don't mind spending the money for a BMW, but then again I don't mind NOT spending it either
Both seem pretty equal in many ways. Image is meaningless to me....I don't care if the bike has Suzuki or BMW as long as its reliable and sturdy.

Some questions:
1. There will be alot of rough roads along the way. If equipped with equal tires, which is best for those conditions?
2. It troubles me that the Beemer only wants high test. Especially in Cuba, gas quality and octane is questionable. Will the BMW take crappy gas if need be?
3. Would you say that there are more Suzuki or BMW places internationally along the way? Which is easier to get spare parts for in a pinch?


Any thoughts would be welcome.
Gracias mis amigos.