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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.
Photo by Hendi Kaf, in Cambodia

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Hendi Kaf,
in Cambodia



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  #16  
Old 21 Dec 2006
MarkLG's Avatar
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I'd have to agree with Mollydog on this one. If BMW ever did make a 450 single then it would be much the same as the rest of their range ie. over-weight, over-priced and with questionable build quality. I had a look at the new 800's and singles at the bike show last month and wasn't impressed. The quality of the components and finish is on a par with some of the Jap 'budget' bikes (Honda CBF, Suzuki GSR,etc) , but with top dollar price tags. I can't see why anyone would buy the new single, when KTM and Yamaha are making better value bikes.
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  #17  
Old 21 Dec 2006
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The franglais-riders
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F650

Quote:
Originally Posted by mollydog
True Maria.

In my other post about lane position I suggested off road riding for you but I see you've already been doing it
I'm sure you know the F650 can really be lowered right down. Saw the F650 at the motorcycle show last weekend (San Francisco) and BMW had lowered it enough for women barely over 5ft tall could feel OK.
I guess they are changing out the dog bones (lowering links) and perhaps adjusting the damping rods in the fork or raising the fork tubes up in the triple clamps. Main thing is, it can be done.
Cheers,
Patrick
Another alternative is to scoop out the seat and insert a gel seat instead. This is what I did on mine, as I was not keen to lower it and had concerns about the handling of the bike off-road. It is now low enough that I can put one foot flat on the ground without dropping the bike. Any reverse manoeuvre, I have to get off the bike and push though, no way I can "paddle"!

I had the opportunity to ride F650 lowered when I did the BMW off-road weekend course, and to be honest the seat was about the same height than my bike. Another tip is to play with the rear shock to set it on Low. When I travel fully loaded I set it High, but if I forget to put it back as Low when I remove the Alu boxes, it certainly makes a big difference and the seat is much higher, about maybe an inch and a half... too high for comfort for me!

Regarding the BMW off-road course, I would recommend to anyone. Especially if you're planning a trip on a F650. The one I used, how you say in english? I beat the crap out of it during 2 days! I trashed it! These bikes are bullet proof! the only thing that broke was the clutch lever. I was very impressed!
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