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21 Dec 2006
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Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
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Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Sheffield, UK
Posts: 226
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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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21 Dec 2006
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The franglais-riders
Veteran HUBBer
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Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: UK
Posts: 1,185
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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
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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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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)
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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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