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19 Dec 2015
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Quote:
Originally Posted by XS904
Btw Ted, but off topic, how did you find Cambodia? We're off there is Feb to visit my son who's working over there.
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I'll PM you..
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Did some trips.
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Fix them for a living.
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19 Dec 2015
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Quote:
Originally Posted by *Touring Ted*
My reasoning works completely opposite. Workout where you want to go then take the bike that can do it.
For me, the bike is the tool for the job.. It's what facilitates my trip.
In my head I have places I want to go and things I want to see. I then research the roads (if any), the terrain and the distances etc. I then pick my bike accordingly, within my budget.
It's horrible to be restricted where you can go where you can't go because of what bike you're riding. The best places in the world are always off the beaten track, if only by a couple of km.
Next year I might be doing some tour guide work and then the perfect bike would probably be something as dull as a TDM900... But its the correct tool for the job.
To be that hell bent on a certain bike to have your 'adventure' dictated by it either makes you a fanatic (nothing wrong with that) or perhaps a little daft.
Unless of course you don't really want to go adventure riding. But then why would you be on an adventure travel forum !!!
I also think that if you really want something and you can afford it then go for it. Life's too short.
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Makes total sense to me, but I'd add one additional factor: time available to do the trip. Having read all the information on these forums, I'm now pretty convinced that if you have limitless time to travel then something like a Honda CRF250L is probably the ultimate RTW bike. But I actually have a CRF250L and much as I love the thing, I would not want to do high mileage road days on it!
Ultimately, yes, you could say "I don't have enough time available to cross a continent slowly in 250cc style, so I'll just do one country," and that's fine if that's what you want. But for me the challenge of going ocean to ocean and things like that is part of the fun. Yes, I like what I see along the way, and the roads I ride. But I also get a sense of satisfaction in looking back over a map of a long route and thinking "I did that." Don't know why, I just do.
So once you've figured out where you want to go, then you have to figure out how many miles a day you'd have to do to complete the route. If that number is fairly high, then ability to do high mileage highway days is a factor in bike choice in my opinion.
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19 Dec 2015
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Quote:
Originally Posted by XS904
Absolutely spot on. Too many people seem to be buying into someone else's idea of the perfect ride.
Buy what suits you and use it where you want to go.
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I think you're missing the point of a FORUM and why we are here. 
The OP asked for thoughts/opinions on the AT. This discussion has been useful & educational IMO ... and has spread to different bikes, some in the same class, some not. Getting "someone else's idea" is the whole point.
Would you have the OP make his choice of bike based on .... NOTHING?
No experience? No feed back from others? No alternatives presented. Forums are here for the exchange of ideas and opinions. If folks don't post at all ... HUBB would just vanish.
Yes, in the end the individual must decide on bike choice ... but it's always best to have done good research about bikes one is interested in. Good or bad, it's all part of it. 
(who knows, you might actually learn something!  )
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19 Dec 2015
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I've enjoyed this thread... it's given me lots of food for thought!
Ultimately, yes, we all buy the bike we want to buy, but no harm in a little bike chat in between rides if you ask me. And if I just wanted to hear a chorus of "the Africa Twin is definitely the best bike ever!" I'd have asked the question on the Africa Twin forum (which is actually growing into a nice little forum, by the way) 
Actually, a few weeks ago I was leaning heavily towards the Super Tenere instead, but a lot of things I've read lately have contributed to me now favoring the Africa Twin. Although no-one has said "yes, get the AT" - because how can they, no one has ridden it yet - a few of the things said on here has influenced me in the direction of getting the slightly more off-roady of the two. So it's been a useful exercise.
No offense to Super 10 owners though... I do hear they're fantastic bikes, and I think you're all very lucky to have one!
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20 Dec 2015
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Well,I think that is the point of a DS bike, a jack of all trades. It seems in regard to the Tenere anyhow lots found it overall better than the FJR they were riding in regards to comfort, that of course is subjective.
While I think a DS bike makes sense for overall world travel seeing people such as Sajaak and Nick do it on sportbikes certainly makes one wonder.
I guess in the end it just comes down to determination to get it dine regardless of ride, I mean how on earth did the couple on a hog think it was a good Idea to see the world on that big pickle barrel, but they certainly did. 
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21 Dec 2015
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I just bought a 2015 Tenere for two up road touring, the two big adventure bikes, GS and Tenere make the most comfortable bikes for this purpose. The AT fits into my way of thinking as a road touring bike for one person.
Lucky that I have other bikes for off road use.
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21 Dec 2015
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Shrekonwheels
Well,I think that is the point of a DS bike, a jack of all trades. It seems in regard to the Tenere anyhow lots found it overall better than the FJR they were riding in regards to comfort, that of course is subjective.
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No question the Tenere is the more versatile bike vs. FJR. But not much of a contest there. The FJR has some serious ergonomic problems. Long of leg riders will know this. I loved the power of the FJR but hated the lack of ground clearance, super HEAT and sharply bent knee due to no leg room.
I tested the FJR for 2 day at a Yamaha intro ... fun bike but not one I'd pay for. Any of the Big Trailies, IMO, are better as a travel bike, especially two up.
But put the Tenere' against the usual suspects in the class. That's subjective too ... but it's a closer thing. Most reviews rate the Tenere' down the order a bit with the GS, KTM and MultiStrada consistently rated higher in every category.
I'm not a BMW fan but must rate the BMW R12 GS near the top. KTM and Ducati have more power but something about confidence on bad roads with the BMW puts it out front in most situations. Not the fastest nor lightest but it just works so well on nasty roads. Off road? Good luck!
How much damage can you do in just 100 yds. of deep sand?
Last edited by mollydog; 21 Dec 2015 at 21:35.
Reason: pic
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21 Dec 2015
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Having downsized in recent years to bikes light enough to ride across ploughed fields that have been mulched with rocks, I didn't think I would be the slightest bit interested in the new Africa Twin.
However there's an extremely positive review by Alun Davies in the Jan/Feb 2016 issue of Adventure Bike Rider that praises the 'low seat, high ground clearance' and positively raves about the DCT in difficult off-tarmac conditions. Quote, "This is the most impressive big bore 'true' adventure bike I've ridden to date." The only criticism was its pillion carrying ability.
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"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)
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21 Dec 2015
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I have two friends who both work in a large dealership in the south, they went out to its launch and came back raving about the bike. They are of the opinion that they will sell shed loads of them at the price. It will be almost as big as the yamaha Mt range in their opinion. It looks fantastic and if you watch the video of the two riders coming down a mountain then it's off road abilities are pretty damn good.
I will wait a year or so and then see how it goes , in white /red/blue with gold wheels it is a very very pretty bike Imho 
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21 Dec 2015
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The more legit reviews I read, the more impressive the Africa Twin appears. As mentioned, the DCT gets great reviews for off road use. The Motorcyclist Video with Ari Henning is good, but does raise a couple questions. Others question ON road cornering security ... maybe they don't trust the 21" front?
I'll wait for comparos against other strong bikes in the class for a full vetting of this new Honda. Once put up against KTM Adv, BMW 12RGS/800GS, Tenere, Ducati Multi and Triumph 800XCX, chinks in Hondas armor may begin to appear. Initial reviews are always positive. Nit picks are yet to come. 
But for a 500 lb. bike it certainly seems good at this point. As of now looks to be the perfect travel bike ... if you want a big, fast bike. Very early days. 
Always Merry and Bright! 
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22 Dec 2015
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mollydog
How much damage can you do in just 100 yds. of deep sand? |
Why didn't they ride the virgin ground either side?
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"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)
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22 Dec 2015
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Contributing Member
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Tim Cullis
Why didn't they ride the virgin ground either side?
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Maybe there was a sign. "Keep off the grass"
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
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22 Dec 2015
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Join Date: Apr 2015
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mollydog
I tested the FJR for 2 day at a Yamaha intro ... fun bike but not one I'd pay for. Any of the Big Trailies, IMO, are better as a travel bike, especially two up
But put the Tenere' against the usual suspects in the class. That's subjective too ... but it's a closer thing. Most reviews rate the Tenere' down the order a bit with the GS, KTM and MultiStrada consistently rated higher in every category.
I'm not a BMW fan but must rate the BMW R12 GS near the top. KTM and Ducati have more power but something about confidence on bad roads with the BMW puts it out front in most situations. Not the fastest nor lightest but it just works so well on nasty roads. Off road? Good
How much damage can you do in just 100 yds. of deep sand?
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Reviews that *gasp* rate euro bikes higher than jap bikes? Nooooo
That is why I killed my magazine subscriptions years ago, regardless of how good a gap bike is and how poorly the Euros do, they always win a shootout.
In the real world I won't waste my time with such bikes, maintenance is more expensive as are parts which can at times be weeks out, regardless of how well they perform. Good luck with that.
The picture is death valley riding to the sliding rocks?
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22 Dec 2015
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I forgot to add the euro bikes are thousands more which should price point themselves out of the common Mericans hands. Price and fiscal responsibility should always be on the common mans mind. It is indeed a deciding factor in my mind.
For me the Tenere checked all the boxes I wanted, if it doesn't work for someone else that's ok. .
If I did not have a Tenere, the Frica would be close in my eyes.
I second riding on the lawn.
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22 Dec 2015
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Well the UK price is ten thousand four hundred pounds, my view is that as an every day bike, or for touring then it looks pretty good. As an rtw bike I'm not so sure..... Its too big and complicated. I agree with my two sales friends it's a big bike for Honda, they had to get it right as their range is a bit stale to say the least especially when compared with yamaha, it will sell shed loads unless there is a reliability gremlin hiding somewhere.
I mean if BMW can sell thousands of overweight underpowered bikes then why not Honda
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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.
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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.
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