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F650GS or AT in Africa? F650GS or AT in Africa?
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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 Brad-Houghton, of Parque Nacional Eduardo Avaroa, Bolivia

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  #1  
Old 29 Dec 2002
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Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: Zambia
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F650GS or AT in Africa?
Hi,

I'm a newbie fretting over bikes. I will ride it in Africa (I live in Zambia) and would like to be able to bump down into the bush now and then. The Africa Twin never has poor reviews, neither does the BMW, what do I do!?

I think I understand the basic differences between the two bikes, but I'd like to hear anyone's opinions. What if I say I'll be off road 50% of the time?

Come back,
Hunter
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  #2  
Old 29 Dec 2002
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Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: Belgium
Posts: 469
Think it makes a lot of sense to find out for wich one it will be the easiest to get replacement parts in Zambia. Go for that one.

Personally I am very impressed with the durability from Honda. I don't have a AT, but a Transalp 650. I have over 66000KM in 2 years and I just had one minor repair due to the high milage.
My next bike would be the AT for sure. He has more power and is only a litlle bit more heavy then the Transalp.
I also find it (the AT) handles more easely then the Transalp.

I have ridden the BMW Funduro GS and my impression is you will be on max of it a lot quicker then on the AT. But haven't ridden that much on it.

My choice Honda quality and power: the AT.
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  #3  
Old 30 Dec 2002
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Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Manchester
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Have to agree with the above - the AT is a simple and trusted design whereas the BMW, with its computerised fuel injection, does mean you must not be too far way from BMW dealers if it goes wrong or needs servicing.
In fairness, both bikes should handle many miles problem free ... but the Honda gets my vote for tough riding off the beaten track.
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