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Which 650 Dakar? Which 650 Dakar?
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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 Andy Miller, UK, Taking a rest, Jokulsarlon, Iceland

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


Photo by Andy Miller, UK,
Taking a rest,
Jokulsarlon, Iceland



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  #1  
Old 11 Nov 2007
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Which 650 Dakar?
After a fair bit of deliberation I think I've decided upon a 650 Dakar for a RTW trip and have seen 2 potential bikes, both for similar money - a 2006 bike with 11,000 miles and a 2005 bike with 3,000 miles.
So which one should I go for? Which is better, a lower mileage or a younger bike?
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  #2  
Old 11 Nov 2007
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[FONT='Verdana','sans-serif']Hi there is NOT enough information to make a decision on.

I did my own 12K service with the help of several of the F650GS websites so it isn't hard as I've only just got into motorcycles, so the mileage isn't so much an issue.

The engines on these things are really well built and stand up to a lot of drops (I know) Just got the one you can for the best deal, look at tires and general damage.

See what ones have the best kit on (I have loads of extras) and of course the one that you think rides best, Me I'd go for cheapest and then spend the extra on modifications. Unless it’s a stupid colour that is

What are you going to be using it for?
are you going on any trips?

Lee[/FONT]
Last edited by juddadredd; 11 Nov 2007 at 19:50.
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  #3  
Old 12 Nov 2007
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Thanks for the reply.
As I said in my original post, I'll be using it for a round the world trip. Both bikes are similar spec and near identical price.
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Old 12 Nov 2007
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Wink Just a few thoughts
David,
This is one of those flip a coin questions - we have not seen these bikes, you have (hopefully).
There are so many factors that we don't know e.g. Are they with a dealer or private sales (how do you judge the bike owners - what do you think of them and their regard for their own bikes)?
So, I suggest you bear in mind:-

At this time of year it is a buyer's market.

This is now "yesterdays" model and it is likely that quite a few F650GSs will come up for sale as they are part-Xed for 800GSs next Spring.

In contrast, here in the UK the Dakar seems to have been selling well recently, possibly as people get one because they are no longer manufactured.

A machine that has been used may be in better condition than one that has been standing un-used.
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Old 12 Nov 2007
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A very reasoned reply, thank you.
Both bikes are from dealers and are in very similar condition, which is why I'm having trouble choosing between the two.
Although my post was specific to the bike I suppose I was thinking more of peoples' general opinion as to whether they put more emphasis on age or mileage when buying a bike.

David
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  #6  
Old 12 Nov 2007
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Wink Christmas is approaching
Well, there is no rush (presumably?) so I would keep an eye on the other Dakars coming up for sale, especially leading up to Christmas when everyone has their mind on that! Seriously, I have bought some bargain items in the past, right up to Christmas Eve.

Play one dealer against the other in the sense that they will know you are definitely interested in a deal but let them know that you are looking at other bikes - see what they are prepared to do about cutting their asking price, tell them you are thinking about it and keep stringing them along for a better discount on that asking price & see what they might add in as extras (perhaps a long shot on BMW bits and pieces as they are so expensive!).
What warranty will they include?

Then, how do you rate the dealer? Ask to have a look at their workshop - you can get some idea about their work standards in case you are going to use them in the future.

Ultimately, you are the one who gets the feel for what is the best deal; bear in mind that they have to make some profit in order to stay in business!
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