 |
|
4 Oct 2011
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Cambridge UK
Posts: 107
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by oldbmw
I have never seen the MG Breva 750 mentioned here. yet they are lightish ( 189 Kg) not tall and have a low ( ladyseat) option. do 75mpg, and have a trouble free shaft drive. True not exciting performance, but they are reliable. biggest down side is the 18 litre tank as that barely gives 200 mile range before reserve.
Maybe someone knows more? I have never owned one but a riding companion has one and he is absolutely delighted with it, actually like going to work because it means a ride on the mg.
|
I would love a Guzzi to be a viable option (I own a T3 Cali myself) but I think it fails because if something does go wrong you may struggle to get hold of parts in a hurry...........or even reasonably fast for that matter.
__________________
This old world keeps spinning round, it`s a wonder tall trees ain`t laying down.
|
4 Oct 2011
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Garstang, Lancashire, UK
Posts: 82
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by MarkShelley
Versys?
|
Nope, she looked at one of those - didn't like it, seat too high and heavy.
Quote:
Originally Posted by oldbmw
I have never seen the MG Breva 750 mentioned here. yet they are lightish ( 189 Kg) not tall and have a low ( ladyseat) option. do 75mpg, and have a trouble free shaft drive. True not exciting performance, but they are reliable. biggest down side is the 18 litre tank as that barely gives 200 mile range before reserve.
Maybe someone knows more? I have never owned one but a riding companion has one and he is absolutely delighted with it, actually like going to work because it means a ride on the mg.
|
I was talking to a lady in the Ferry queue in Oban a few weeks ago who was riding a MG Breva. It did look like a good choice - will look into it.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Walkabout
Austin
The thread is following a rather familiar route in that the 650cc bikes have gone to around, or more than, 200kg while the 1200s weigh in as about 1/4 tonne beasts. Partly because of Euro emissions regulations and extras as standard, such as ABS, as I tried to show with the example of the new V-Strom. At first glance this will not go away anytime it seems.
But, it is said that Honda have a new "lightish" 700cc twin on the way, with a low seat. In fact they seem to be making a virtue of low seat height in their current crop of products such as the Crossrunner. It is rumoured that Triumph will come out with a 300cc "tiger cub".
But, for riding around Europe the 200-250 Kg bikes are OK, I would surmise, judging by the amount of such bikes in use. In other words, they sell. But, the standard seat height for the "new" XT600 is 895mm - I am referring to the XT660Z of course.
As per many other threads in here, when riding other than in Europe, you mention SA specifically, then consider not shipping your own behemoth and get whatever local bike is the machine of choice. That way you will find light, low-seat-height bikes that cost next to nothing to both purchase and run in comparison with so called 1st world costs. With the obvious savings made there you can afford to write them off over the trip; maybe donate them to some local worthy cause or sell at the going rate. At worst, write them off and walk away.
One of the more interesting ideas in some thread or other in here, is the rider who owns 5 different bikes in storage on the 5 continents, all suitable for the riding that he does in the different parts of this planet (and we haven't even started to deal with that question of how much knarly-off-road-riding you will do!)
ps How about a RE 500 single for the wife and Bonneville twin for you to deal with Europe??
|
Lots of food for thought - already thought about the buying or renting of bikes when we get somewhere but its just not the same as taking your own carefully prepared bike.
Knarly off road - not a lot if any really; although my wife talks about going to Pyrennees for some off roading incessantly - I blame Lois and Austin Vince - ever since we listened to one of their talks about RTW and the Pyrennees Up she has wanted off road bikes. We were very tempted by XT225/250 (as Lois) for a while but they are physically so small and frankly I dont want to be limited to 50-60 mph top speed - its not the speed really, its the lack of go when you want to overtake a lorry doing 50 already (I know, I know, take a chill pill, slow down, have a coffee etc etc - I like riding and I enjoy a bit of go and acceleration in particular)
What we are looking for are bikes that hit the spot with both of us ie light enough for my wife to comfortably manoeuvre, not a skyscraper seat, big enough tank for easy 200+ miles, enough go, and options for ready made luggage.
There's advantge in having two bikes the same but I need to be sure we are getting the right bike. Anyway there's no rush - next trip will be a Euro trip in May and June next year - the Transalp and Varadero will be fine for that - unless son #1 wants to sell his XT600e and I buy it off him.
|
5 Oct 2011
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Black Forest
Posts: 171
|
|
|
downsizing
Hi
in my opinion there is a very simple rule:
If your partner has a problem with a bike, because it`s heavy/tall and not very handy .... you are in trouble and you have a big problem.
On a long term journey try to make things as easy as possible and the above is just one part of your problems you encounter, believe me 
Our bike downsizing for my girlfriend ....
Suzuki DR 800 Big
cheap and nice, but 220kg and too tall
BMW F 650 GS Dakar
expensive and not very reliable, a pain to work on the bike, very good mpg, but still 193kg
Kawasaki KLR 650
cheap, easy to fix, pretty good mileage and big tank, the 175kg were much easier to handle compared to the BMW offroad for her. So far, the bike she liked the most 
KTM 690
expensive, needs tank extension and quite some modifications for travelling long distances, but ...
only 150 kg, powerful, the best capable bike offroad so far and she drove about 6500km so far and is confident to ride Transafrica with it, because it handles so light 
So, it all depends what you want!
I don`t care which bike I ride.... , the less trouble with bike and girl friend I have the better ..... Cheers 
Thomas
www.miles-to-ride.com
|
5 Oct 2011
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Austin
|
Well well, so the "Dakar F650GS" is reintroduced along with the base model of the G650GS. It wasn't out of production for so long really.
It has a fairly high seat, but not excessively so compared with some offerings, and BMW will provide lowering options at a price.
But, if the versys is too heavy, then what is not? (I think the versys can be lowered, at least by reshaping the seat?)
__________________
Dave
|
7 Oct 2011
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Cambridge UK
Posts: 107
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Austin
|
Is that not just the same as the Dakar version of the the previous F650GS?
__________________
This old world keeps spinning round, it`s a wonder tall trees ain`t laying down.
|
8 Oct 2011
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Linköping
Posts: 10
|
|
|
The Sertão sure sounds the same as the Dakar on the description, the only thing I don't know is if the rear wheel of the Dakar is narrower then the normal F650GS wheel.
My recomendation would be to take one old F650GS with a low seat for her and one F650GS Dakar for you, that way you get away from the beginners feeling of the bike, and you still have the same bike essentially. If you want to buy new you can ofcourse take the G650GS and the G650GS Sertão instead.
I have had both a F650GS singel with a low seat and a Dakar, for me the Dakar was better mainly because of the height, but both bikes are quite capable when it comes to light offroading, they will not be as fast as an endurobike ofcourse, but they can handle quite allot if you take it a bit slower. The biggest diffrence between what terrain bikes can handle is the tires, I had anakees on the F650GS, and when I drove in soft sand I got stuck reguarly. On the Dakar I had Heidenau K60, and they were allot better on gravel and sand, not good on mud thou. I haven't tried a more offroad oriented tire then that, it didn't seem resonable while touring because it wears to quick.
Just remember that the groundclearance isn't that high, especially on the normal 650GS. Beeing used to a Yamaha TT350 offroad, I used the skidplate on the F650GS on more then one occation.
|
5 Nov 2011
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Garstang, Lancashire, UK
Posts: 82
|
|
Well in the end we have got a nice brace of XT660r's. Cheap, light, Pokey enough, good reputation, loads of farkles available, easy to work on and pretty too. Very Pleased with them 
|
6 Nov 2011
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,598
|
|
|
It is good to hear the resolution of the query. often a thread just ends with no result. Thanks
|
6 Nov 2011
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by oldbmw
It is good to hear the resolution of the query. often a thread just ends with no result. Thanks
|
I agree with this principle, but it would be good to hear a bit about what your wife thinks about the XT660R, if only because the seat height is not much lower than the XT660Z in standard form. I would think it is higher than the previous Transalp that she rode, and the fuel tank of the XT is not particularly long range, again in standard form.
Maybe this thread can run a bit longer when you have done with farkling??
__________________
Dave
|
6 Nov 2011
|
 |
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: york
Posts: 265
|
|
|
Just make sure yours is the fastest
__________________
Anything can happen in the next half hour
|
6 Nov 2011
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: york
Posts: 265
|
|
|
The best colour.....,with the comfiest seat.....
__________________
Anything can happen in the next half hour
|
6 Nov 2011
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Garstang, Lancashire, UK
Posts: 82
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Walkabout
I agree with this principle, but it would be good to hear a bit about what your wife thinks about the XT660R, if only because the seat height is not much lower than the XT660Z in standard form. I would think it is higher than the previous Transalp that she rode, and the fuel tank of the XT is not particularly long range, again in standard form.
Maybe this thread can run a bit longer when you have done with farkling?? |
I will keep posting updates. Anne finds the bike a LOT easier to manage when manoeuvring or doing tight turns. The weight is carried lower than the Transalp and with a slightly lower seat and a narrower stance she is quite clearly more confident on it. Tank range looks to be in the 190-200 mile range. The light comes on at 2/3rd of the tank. So far (twice) it's come on on both bikes at about 130miles.
Quote:
Originally Posted by oothef
Just make sure yours is the fastest
|
. It is also the thirstiest  .
Quote:
Originally Posted by oothef
The best colour.....,with the comfiest seat.....
|
I am ashamed to say we ended up with the same colour -red. Sad,I know. Our clothes don't match though and we rarely agree with each other. Seat .... My airhawk is my airhawk and she ain't borrowing it. .
|
|
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)
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
