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Which Bike? Comments and Questions on what is the best bike for YOU, for YOUR trip. Note that we believe that ANY bike will do, so please remember that it's all down to PERSONAL OPINION. Technical Questions for all brands go in their own forum.
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Photo by Carl Parker,
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  #1  
Old 3 Jan 2012
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Pretty mmuch any bike I can think of will meet all those criteria. Hondas are the most hassle-free but drink a lot of oil, Dominators, XL etc
Yamaha XTs
Suzuki DR
Kawasaki KLR
Even a KTM ticks those boxes with possibly an aftermarket tank
Cagiva Elefants, the best bikes ever built (but I'm biased!)
Armstrong MT500
BMW F650

Nearly every bike has luggage capability

Don't forget to get a bike that you like and puts a grin on your face - that's the most important thing!

You didn't mention a budget which will probably be a defining factor
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  #2  
Old 3 Jan 2012
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I don't have a budget in mind, within reason. If the bike is worth the money then i will consider it. If it means saving up to get it, i would rather do that, if it means getting the right bike.

Thanks for your reply.
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Old 3 Jan 2012
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There are some bikes that will only go up in value - even if you stick 100,000 miles on it, like the BMW R80 GSPD, I can't stand modern GS's but those bikes are superb

I've done long rides on an Elefant, a Dominator and a BMW F650 (older style). Much as I hate to admit it the Beemer gave the best fuel consumption, needed the least on the road maintenance and handled the best on tarmac. The Elefant had me spending three seperate days working on it all day during the trip but also made me grin the most.

If you can have a ride on a few, make sure that they are not lemons and get the one you like most. A big problem I have buying motorbikes is that they are all motorbikes, and by default as soon as you get off you want to get back on and ride into the sunset!
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Old 3 Jan 2012
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Thanks, but what is an Elefant?
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Old 3 Jan 2012
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An Elefant is like a Honda Africa twin but a bit thinner, a better handling chassis and a stonking Ducati V-Twin in it. Plenty of power and plenty of suspension.

I wouldn't recommend one if you aren't into working on bikes - I had one as my first bike and it propelled me from utter novice to mechanically competent in one trip!
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Old 3 Jan 2012
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Cagiva Elephant, came out in various engine sizes, even 350, handle pretty well but Ducati temperament. Cagiva 750/900 Elefant (1993-1999) - Cagiva Motorcycle Reviews
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Old 3 Jan 2012
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Good prep can avoid the ducati temperament - replace certain parts of the wiring loom, fit titanium shims and collets and hey presto, Japanese service intervals, starts like a german bike and Italian passion - perfect combo!
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Old 3 Jan 2012
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The hardest thing on your list to find is going to be the comfortable seat! You'll get the rest of the requirements on just about any bike from 400 -800cc, although the need for aftermarket bling availability might push you in the direction of the usual suspects - BMW, Yamaha XT varients, Suzuki DRZ or even a KLR. Not many Hondas on that list (although it's not because they drink oil
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