The Perfect Bike
I don't wish to sound too cynical but looking around on this and other sites I'm beginning to get the impression that some potential overland travellers are choosing bikes on the grounds that they have a huge aftermarket back up offering all the parts you need to overcome the manufacturers shortcomings. Not only does it cost a small fortune to do the essentials such as a fuel tank that holds more than 10 litres and suspension that doesn't collapse but a second fortune can be spent on all the gismos that make it look like a dakar competitor.
It seems to me that just getting on it and riding it is a thing of the past where BMW and Honda (and probably others) made bikes that were virtually ready to go and you could even fix them at the roadside (no, I'm not talking about carbs vs. FI). Yes, I'm well aware that these ancient models now have a long list of essential mods. that you must fit before setting out, however, I know from my own experience that most of these are far from essential on a well maintained bike.
Money is usually the missing ingredient for anyone planning a RTW and it seems a shame that it's become more about the bike than the journey.
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