Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Technical, Bike forums > Which Bike?
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 Alessio Corradini, on the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia, of two locals

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


Photo by Alessio Corradini,
on the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia,
of two locals



Like Tree2Likes

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 30 Jan 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Nashville TN
Posts: 16
Going from Harley to Adventure bike! GS1200A, Triumph Explore or Super Tenere?? Help

I have a Harley St. Glide now, love the bike, but I am going through midlife crisis and want to do some Adventure biking. Have being riding for 30 years...
At first I was going to buy a GS 1200 ADV next few weeks, but now I have heard so much how this bike is so heavy for offloading etc, and other issues that I am thinking about Yamaha Tenere or Triumph Adventure. Love the looks of GSA most.
Could you guys give me some input, specially the guys that have the GSA!
Would you buy another or would you consider Yamaha and Triumph.
Thanks in advance!!

PS: Selling a 09 St. Glide... anyone?>
Attached Thumbnails
Going from Harley to Adventure bike! GS1200A, Triumph Explore or Super Tenere?? Help-img_1339.jpg  

Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 30 Jan 2012
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,673
You own a Hardly Ridable... I think your mid life crisis started earlier than you think

Anyway, jokes aside, the big Beemer is ridiculously heavy, over complicated and unreliable.. No matter what the weekend warriors like to say about their £10,000 investments. It's not the ideal adventure bike that the marketing has done so well to push. The big Yamaha looks like a huge lump of metal too.

Out of all the bikes you mentioned, I'd go for the Triumph. Only due to the fact that it's the smallest and lightest out of the bunch. That's the most important thing when overlanding.... (Plus, the Triumph is by far the best looking imo)

Anyone who thinks you need a 1200cc bike for go Adventure biking needs their head examining.

Still, you should go and test ride them, sit on them and check them out for yourself.

Opinions are like A-holes..... Everyone's got one
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 30 Jan 2012
jkrijt's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Netherlands
Posts: 638
It all depents on what kind of riding you will do and what bike you realy like.

Peter and Kay Forwood are riding around the world on a Harley. ( [http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/forwood/ ) and Sjaak Lucassen has been riding around the world on a Yamaha R1 ( http://www.sjaaklucassen.nl/ )

My uncle has been riding his Harley Lowrider in Zimbabwe on all kind of roads (and I have had much fun riding his Harley in South Africa http://jkrijt.home.xs4all.nl/trips/lesotho/index.shtml )

Why not keep the Harley, just make some modifications for heavy duty riding and go for it.

If you really want another bike, try out as may bikes as you can and don't go for other peoples opinion but find out for yourself. Like Ted wrote "Opinions are like A-holes..... Everyone's got one".

Rent different bikes for a few days, try bikes at dealers, ride friends bikes until you know what you want.

Good Luck
__________________
Jan Krijtenburg

My bikes are a Honda GoldWing GL1200 and a Harley-Davidson FXD Dyna Super Glide

My personal homepage with trip reports: https://www.krijtenburg.nl/
YouTube channel (that I do together with one of my sons): motormobilist.nl
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 30 Jan 2012
palace15's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: LONDONISTAN, England
Posts: 1,034
Quote:
Originally Posted by jkrijt View Post
It all depents on what kind of riding you will do and what bike you realy like.

Peter and Kay Forwood are riding around the world on a Harley. ( [Peter and Kay Forwood on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. World's Most Travelled Motorcycle. ) and Sjaak Lucassen has been riding around the world on a Yamaha R1 ( Home )

My uncle has been riding his Harley Lowrider in Zimbabwe on all kind of roads (and I have had much fun riding his Harley in South Africa Jan Krijtenburg homepage (Travel pages) )

Why not keep the Harley, just make some modifications for heavy duty riding and go for it.

If you really want another bike, try out as may bikes as you can and don't go for other peoples opinion but find out for yourself. Like Ted wrote "Opinions are like A-holes..... Everyone's got one".

Rent different bikes for a few days, try bikes at dealers, ride friends bikes until you know what you want.

Good Luck
I'm with this guy...........Keep the Harley
Perhaps if Tourated had one he'd have less trouble with the ladies, well, maybe not !!!
__________________
'He who laughs last, was too slow to get the joke'
Never confuse the map with the journey.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 30 Jan 2012
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,673
Quote:
Originally Posted by palace15 View Post
I'm with this guy...........Keep the Harley
Perhaps if Tourated had one he'd have less trouble with the ladies, well, maybe not !!!
My trouble with the ladies is just that I don't have enough time to fit them all in......

__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 30 Jan 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: West Yorkshire UK
Posts: 1,785
Quote:
Originally Posted by moulin6801 View Post
....... Love the looks of GSA most.
.......
This is a perfectly good reason to get the GSA. If you aren't going RTW, don't kid yourself or worry about how you'll jury rig a replacement ring-piece antenna in Waziristan, get the bike you like the look of. Go ride it where you ride and enjoy it.

If you are going RTW you need to decide which bits and what they'll be like. The Harley that you own will do 90% of the world and gives you the most cash left over for petrol. Ted Simon rode a Triumph road bike in 1973 and more of the world is paved that it was then.

If you plan to get away from the road, then you need a true off road bike, not just one that will make it through. From your location this is going to be a 250 MX type bike or maybe a KLR or a BMW F650. First task here is IMHO to go for a day out on the Harley. You have to ride 300 miles without going over 45 mph, sitting on a piece of hardboard. If it sends you nuts you are heading for a tough decision, there isn't a bike in existence that will do serious off road and be fun at highway pace.

Enjoy whatever you do, but don't spend too much time and money chasing impossible technology. Go have the adventure, don't go shopping for the stuff people say you should have.

I have a Triumph Bonneville currently sporting M&S tyres and covered in slime from a part paved lane I found. Your Harley would get to the same places in dry weather.

Andy
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 30 Jan 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: May 2009
Location: Australia
Posts: 103
Hi Moulin,

Biggest is not always best.When you are on the road, the looks of the bike vanish. In a third world country, you will always be a novelty, regardless what you ride. Practicability takes over, look for something reliable, reasonably priced,long range and easy to ride and lift. My Suzuki V Strom 650 full fills all these points. Spend the money you save, on fuel, grog and other enjoyments.
There are plenty.Wish you luck.

Cheers
RM
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 30 Jan 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Brazil
Posts: 134
Just a suggestion, take a look at the BMW F800GS. The 800cc bimmer is a great bike too, less expensive and a lot easier to off road riding. Rusty suggestion is also a great option, the V-Storm is a really great travel bike too.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 30 Jan 2012
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,673
Quote:
Originally Posted by bkm_br View Post
Just a suggestion, take a look at the BMW F800GS. The 800cc bimmer is a great bike too, less expensive and a lot easier to off road riding. Rusty suggestion is also a great option, the V-Storm is a really great travel bike too.
I'd go for a 650 DLV-strom too....Cheap, very reliable, comfortable, economical, well balanced etc..

The F800 requires a back up truck full of spare parts and a Starfleet trained auto electrician to keep it running.
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 30 Jan 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Nashville TN
Posts: 16
Can't go smaller...

Hey guys, thanks for the feedback so far. But I don't think I can or want to be in smaller than 1200cc. I am used to the power of HD 1550cc and I love it, specially the torque. I used to have a Virago 750cc, so done with that. Another thing is that I love to travel and I want something that will be confortable, good wind protection and yet I could do some light offroad stuff.
2 years ago I did a solo trip to the Route 66 on my St.Glide. It was awesome, and I even took some short sidetrips and visit the Grand Canyon, Mohabi Desert, Death Valley and Meteor Crator and that was a few times were I had to change routes due to condition of the roads, and while in the Death Valley, I wanted really bad to go to the top of the mountains but I could not do it on St.Glide. St.Glide suspension sucks. It is great for the smooth road, but it has a Air shock that needed to be pumped every so often, and those side bags cost $900 US dollars each if you brake them, ( I did once ) No the kind of bike that you want to lay it down if you loose balance on the gravel!
I am planning to test drive the GSA tomorrow and hopefully the Tenere later in the week. Will see.
Cheers!!
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 30 Jan 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: BC, sometimes
Posts: 578
Quote:
Originally Posted by moulin6801 View Post
Hey guys, thanks for the feedback so far. But I don't think I can or want to be in smaller than 1200cc. I am used to the power of HD 1550cc and I love it, specially the torque. I used to have a Virago 750cc, so done with that. Another thing is that I love to travel and I want something that will be confortable, good wind protection and yet I could do some light offroad stuff.
2 years ago I did a solo trip to the Route 66 on my St.Glide. It was awesome, and I even took some short sidetrips and visit the Grand Canyon, Mohabi Desert, Death Valley and Meteor Crator and that was a few times were I had to change routes due to condition of the roads, and while in the Death Valley, I wanted really bad to go to the top of the mountains but I could not do it on St.Glide. St.Glide suspension sucks. It is great for the smooth road, but it has a Air shock that needed to be pumped every so often, and those side bags cost $900 US dollars each if you brake them, ( I did once ) No the kind of bike that you want to lay it down if you loose balance on the gravel!
I am planning to test drive the GSA tomorrow and hopefully the Tenere later in the week. Will see.
Cheers!!
I'd get the Tenere in your shoes; no bugs, Japanese reliability, much less $$$ than the BMW or Triumph - what's not to like? I've got the 660 and it's ace.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 30 Jan 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Brazil
Posts: 134
If you are bold enough you could also look for the the Ducati Multistrada 1200 or the Moto Guzzi Stelvio. I personally love how the Stelvio looks but, I really don´t know if I will choose her to a RTW trip.

BTW, Suzuki is selling again brand new 1000cc V-Storms, the bike have about 100 hp (110hp in the BMW 1200GSA) and costs a lot less than the BMW.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 31 Jan 2012
Knight of the Holy Graal's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Mantova, Italy
Posts: 566
I have been riding two Electra Glides (Standard and Ultra Classic) from 1999 to 2011, on the roads of Europe, Middle East, Russia, Caucasus and Kazakhstan.
I sold the Ultra Classic last October to purchase the Super Ténéré XT1200Z, which is the bike that will take me to northern Iraq in 4 months from now.
I made wonderful trips on the Harleys, but I'd hardly get back to it after 3 months of jap riding.

Anyway, if you wanna go RTW, I'd consider an old but reliable Honda Africa Twin 750, if you are disposed to change your mind about riding at least 1200 cc.
__________________
Nick and his 2010 Yamaha XT1200Z Super Ténéré
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 31 Jan 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Aridzona
Posts: 11
Go with the GSA if that's what you like best. I'm a new GSA owner (2011 1200GSA). I traded up from a F650GS twin because highway travel was unbearable on the F650 at times. The GSA's big gas tank and windshield block wind, cold, rain and bugs. I can practically light a cigarette while riding its so effective. The seat is very comfortable and it's a pleasure to ride. Mine is my daily commuter. I haven't driven a car in almost 3 months. It's no dirt bike, but I don't pretend it is one. I take it on rough dirt trails and forest roads at least once a week after work. It's a bear to pick up when dropped, but I just try my best not to drop it. The Tenere looks promising too, but add up the panniers, and crash protection and your at the same price as a 1200GS. I will almost guarantee that after your GSA test ride, you will buy one. It took just one test ride of my buddy's and I was at the dealer 2 weeks later trading in my F650. I've ridden part of the Great Western Trail here in AZ and am planning a Continental Divide Trail ride this summer.
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 31 Jan 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: Oslo, Norway
Posts: 521
I've got a 2011 Guzzi 1200 NTX Stelvio. Love it to bits. Would even RTW it. Whatever you do - at least check it out. You might be in for a surprise
Reply With Quote
Reply


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

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Buying and registering a motorcycle in Chile timyarb Trip Paperwork 16 2 Jan 2018 19:55
A Gringo in Colombia Ride4Adventure Ride Tales 13 20 Apr 2012 03:15
Looking for some help in getting started TotalTomination South America 20 30 Oct 2009 18:02
Transfering Title In Buenos Aires kwelfl South America 7 28 Dec 2008 16:06

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

  • Virginia: April 24-27 2025
  • Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
  • Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
  • CanWest: July 10-13 2025
  • Switzerland: Date TBC
  • Ecuador: Date TBC
  • Romania: Date TBC
  • Austria: Sept. 11-15
  • California: September 18-21
  • France: September 19-21 2025
  • Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
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...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

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.

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!



Five books by Graham Field!

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.

Susan and Grant Johnson 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.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 12:32.