Next Bike? What are you riding?

[JadeRider]

Howdy Vatos

Over the last six years I have had three bikes

Suzuki Bandit 1200s
Suzuki V-Strom 1000
Kawasaki Mean Streak 1500

and I am itching for change one more time

I am hoping to reach a point where touring becomes more of a part of my life, but I want some urban flexibility too. My radar is all over the place:

Ducati Multistrada
Ducati ST4 (test drove on in Omaha in the summer)
Honda ST1300 (great reviews)
Yamaha FJR3
BMW r1200 or r11xx (in some incarnation, except for the c types)


Thoughts? Recommendations?
I am hoping to rent a 2005 BMW R1200RT this weekend and see how it scratches the itch.

[CBAT]

You'll find a lot of votes for the beemer and the ST in here. Renting is a good idea. Ride what feels good to you. :rider:

[Faylaricia]

My next bike will be a dirtbike, so no selection there.

PS: I LOVE your Avatar!

[bear]

:rider: My next ride will be a Moto Guzzi.

[bushwhacker]

I voted Multistrada. It was an easy choice on your poll. You did not have the new Tiger listed. It is basically a Multistrada with aTriumph triple engine and you can get it with ABS.

Here are some reviews -

http://www.onewheeldrive.net/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=612&Itemid=126&limit=1&limitstart=0

http://www.cycleworld.com/article.asp?section_id=12&article_id=236

http://www.motorcycledaily.com/04january07_triumph2007tiger_p1.htm

http://www.raptorsandrockets.com/Reviews/2007_Triumph_Tiger_1050.htm

http://motoring.independent.co.uk/features/article2135661.ece

-

[scratch]

Since you're already considering the Multistrada, you might also want to add the new Triumph Tiger to your list of possibilities:

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/8296/uploadtigerpf6.jpg

<edit> Dangit, Bill beat me to it! :lol2:

[bluedogok]

The Multistrada 1000 is what I was wanting if I needed to replace my Sprint before the new Tiger 1050 came out. Now it would be the Tiger as first choice, the Multistrada as number 2 and Aprilia Caponord as number 3.

Listing the Tiger as my number one, here is the rest of your list in my order.

2. Ducati Multistrada
3. Ducati ST4
4. BMW R-RT
5. Yamaha FJR
6. Honda ST1300

Actually, any of the ones on your list are worthy and good choices. You just need to find the one that pushes your buttons the most.

[JadeRider]

Did test drive a Tiger once and really liked it. Short inseam has created a problem in the past (like with the V-strom)
Guess the other thing I did not say, with daughter on her way to college, used is a must. Ahh, I mean pre-owned.

[bluedogok]

The new Tiger lists for 10,699 and just over 11,000 with ABS so it isn't as severe in price as an BMW 1200GS. I understand the buying used part, I have never had a new bike.

Lonestar BMW/Triumph (http://www.lonestarcycle.com/tinv040.htm) has one.
http://www.lonestarcycle.com/images/tiger011.jpg

[twistedpinion]

Of the bikes you have listed the ST4 is the one I would pick. I am holding off until the Conc14 is released into the wild.

[sherob]

I vote ST1300... biased of course :rofl: Easy to maintain yourself, cheap to maintain, bulletproof smooth as glass V4, shaft drive, 7.6 gallon tank, proven reliability. May not be as sexy as some of the others, but she will always get you there with a smile ;-)

[ysr612]

if that is all that is on the list I would have to take the Honda or the Yamaha. Beemer not far behind

[tmoon]

I have a MTS 1000DS with dual rear panniers and it is the most comfortable and capable out of the selections above (I think) with it's compact wheel base and relatively light weight. Also, you might consider the fact that Ducati is discontinuing the ST line and sticking with their MTS....just a thought. OH, and my MTS smoked a CBR the other day! I love it. It's a surprising bike when you get on it.:eat:

[1TallTXn]

I have a ST1300, and love it.

If your looking for a touring machine with some around town usage, the ST is a great bike. 850 mi to Atlanta didn't even phase it. Its around town manners are surprisingly nice considering its heft. sure its not as nimble as a 5-650cc standard, but hey, I wouldn't want to take one of those across the country!

To me the Duc's aren't an option. The ST4 is a very pretty bike. the Multi is just plain fugly to me. They sound great, but their maintenance is insanely expensive. I work on my own bikes, and I'm not sure that its really possible on a Duc.

BMW's are really nice machines, but the cost of initial purchase and maintenance are quite prohibitive for me.

That leaves the ST1300 and the FJR1300. Both are wonderful machines. For me, I liked the ergos on the ST better then the FJR. This is strictly personal preference so find some to sit on and see what you think.

Enjoy the search!

[sharkey]

I'd have to go w/ the ST myself if choosing from your list. A buddy bought a new one and it is nice. I'm still waiting for a nice middleweight tourer w/ bags. Until then, I'll stick w/ the Burgman 650.

[Desert Skies]

I'll take door number 4. Out the 1.3L bikes, I believe Yahama has a handle on the groin broiler problem. The others cost more to operate but are very nice choices. I have a big tour bike (GL1800) and it's great for two-up LD riding and my 1200GS is great for 1-up touring with the added semi-offroad capabilities but I'm liking the FJR more and more as time goes by for my next bike.

[JadeRider]

My next bike will be a dirtbike, so no selection there.

PS: I LOVE your Avatar!

Hey Thanks. One day it will be airbrushed on my bike.

[donroger1]

I presently recommend the FJR.
I cannot imagine why..... :mrgreen:

[hardybaker]

Even though I am Beemer down to the core of my bone, the Honda St 1300, (probablly slightly used), would win out over the RT for a number of reasons. Gosh, that wasn't as hard to type as I thought it would be. HB

[NUTT]

I'm wondering if the new Bandit 1250 might fit the bill. I'd imagine that the touring capabilities would be similar to the Tiger/Multistrada. The price is low enough that you might be able to pick up a new one as well.

Add on some hard luggage and maybe a new windscreen and you'll be set.

MSRP: $8,299

http://www.suzukicycles.com/images/ProductImages/logo/500/GSF1250SK7.jpg

[sharkey]

I'm wondering if the new Bandit 1250 might fit the bill. I'd imagine that the touring capabilities would be similar to the Tiger/Multistrada. The price is low enough that you might be able to pick up a new one as well.

Add on some hard luggage and maybe a new windscreen and you'll be set.

MSRP: $8,299

http://www.suzukicycles.com/images/ProductImages/logo/500/GSF1250SK7.jpg


I do like the new Bandit. I just wish they'd bring the baby Bandit from across the pond. They get all the fun AND practical stuff.

[JadeRider]

I tell you, there are days when I longingly look back at my Bandit days. That one was stolen from my apartment car port. The Strom was so great, but because I could not reach down enough to push myself out of parking sometimes, it became to much of a struggle.

[jsb223]

I voted for the Multistrada but that's not gonna happen...

I'm wanting something less than 1000cc and naked...

I can always get a removable windscreen for trips to Mississippi and
the gulf coast...

I like the look of the Honda 919...

I love the look of the discontinued 750 Nighthawk...

What it boils down to is naked and within budget...

Who knows, I might even end up with a V-twin cruiser...

[NUTT]

I tell you, there are days when I longingly look back at my Bandit days.

All the more reason to get a new one!

If the price point on one of these is too high you are going to have trouble finding any of your initially listed choices used.

You might also consider a used 1st Gen FZ1. They can pull double duty as a ST bike.

[pacman]

My choice would be the Tiger too.

The Bandit looks like a great choice as well. Obviously I like the big Japanese standards, and with the current lack of a US spec ZRX, the Bandit would be high on my list.

[bluedogok]

The FZ1 woul be a good option, they do have a lower seat height than the Multi or Tiger and are pretty solid bikes.

[JadeRider]

Well, I rented a BMW R1200RT yesterday. Rode it for 300 miles and the beast is pretty amazing. The heated seat and heated grips were really great in this weather. Only minus, the seat hight, but I saw another one today with a lower seat. Wow, it road superb. Still need to find a way to see the others.

[terrebandit]

I tell you, there are days when I longingly look back at my Bandit days. That one was stolen from my apartment car port. The Strom was so great, but because I could not reach down enough to push myself out of parking sometimes, it became to much of a struggle.

I remember you on the bandit board (Max-zuke). That place has gone down the toilet as of late. Glad you're here!

I voted for the FJR

[Chirpy]

A liquid-cooled Bandit? Heresy!

[FJR Bandit]

I voted for the FJR1300. I had one (as you can tell by my handle) and traded it in on a Gold Wing. I miss the FJR and if I could afford it, I would get it back. It's was/is a great sport-touring machine. :rider: Take off the bags and it becomes a great looking city and cayon machine.:mrgreen:

[STill Fiddlin]

I'm gonna vote for the ST1300 out of familial obligation, but depending on what your "around town" vs. touring balance is, I'd actually want to test an automatic FJR. Me, I always head away from town when I get on the bike, but having owned 2 stick-shift cars living around Houston and using them as commute vehicles turned me into an automatic lover for my cages.

[bluedogok]

A liquid-cooled Bandit? Heresy!
Well, it is either liquid cooled for EPA/Euro-3 compliance or not to have them at all.

[Chirpy]

Doesn't make it right !?!

Next you'll be telling me why they need to make four-door Porsches. Those are also heresy.

[bluedogok]

If I had stupid money I would consider a Cayenne, they are great vehicles. Now a 4-door 911 would be heresy but just something completely different with a Porsche name is not to me. For Bandit people I think the availability to have one with water cooling would be a much better option than not at all.

[JadeRider]

I remember you on the bandit board (Max-zuke). That place has gone down the toilet as of late. Glad you're here!

I voted for the FJR

Man
Max-zuke board was one of the best. Outstanding buncha guys. Was as much part of the experience as the actual riding. Sorry to hear that.

[terrebandit]

Outstanding buncha guys.

Most of the ones that you knew are gone now.

[kurt]

Most of the ones that you knew are gone now.

I resemble that remark! :mrgreen:

[Fbronco86]

My next bike is gonna be a kaw zrx1200

[Centerline]

Well, I suppose it would have to be the FJR. 17k miles on an 05 in a year and a half. Not one problem.
Trading it for a Warrior tomorrow. Had a Warrior before, looking forward to the beast again. Loved the FJR, but love the KTM950 Adv even more. Fantastic (to me) touring bike, insane fun in the twisties, and go anywhere offroad I care to go.

[JadeRider]

Very Interesting, going back to a cruiser eh?
Been reading the posts on the FJR owners and ST owners group and both sides are quite passionate about their rides. Any ST1300 riders have experience with the 'broiling effects' of the engine?

[Chirpy]

I was eagerly awaiting the replacement of the ST1100, I had high hopes for it. When the "Training Wing" arrived, I was crushed. Heavier? Can anyone think of a bike this century that was replaced with a heavier version?

It crystallized in my mind that American Honda's conservative nature is finally catching up to the product. This year's sales numbers prove it. So my next road bike is quite possibly going to be a Sprint, or maybe an R1100S, or R1200S if I hit the lotto.

[1TallTXn]

Heavier? Can anyone think of a bike this century that was replaced with a heavier version?


5th Gen VFR was replaced by a heavier 6th Gen (albeit only ~20lbs)

[Chirpy]

Another Honda disappointment. Hey, let's add complexity, just because we can!

The VFR has lost it's way. To much time in committee.

Let's see a VFRR. 800-1000cc, V4, gear driven cams, no VTEC, sub-400lbs and optional hard bags off the VFR. Then no one would care that the ST is now a training Wing.

Bet Freddy wouldn't complain about riding that one.

[pdef]

The '03 600rr and 04 1000rr were the same way. Seems to be a honda thing.

[sherob]

Any ST1300 riders have experience with the 'broiling effects' of the engine?

This is the last year for the VFR, BTW ;-)

I traded my 05 ST1300 for a Wing. The heat issue comes up alot... we had a very "heated" debate about it on ST-Owners. I think it all "boils" down to the riders tolerance level. I never had an issue with mine... put 24k on it, rode it everyday(50 mile round trip) rain or shine. :rider:

Now they did put in extra insulation starting with the 04 model, and I think it was beefed up a little on the 05.

[1TallTXn]

Any ST1300 riders have experience with the 'broiling effects' of the engine?
I've only had mine on the road since Nov, but I haven't felt any heat issues.
I would liked to have some heat coming off of the thing on the trip to Atlanta! :giveup:

I've heard plenty of folks complain about the VFR throwing heat and never had a problem with that either.

[1TallTXn]

This is the last year for the VFR, BTW ;-)

I traded my 05 ST1300 for a Wing. The heat issue comes up alot... we had a very "heated" debate about it on ST-Owners. I think it all "boils" down to the riders tolerance level. I never had an issue with mine... put 24k on it, rode it everyday(50 mile round trip) rain or shine. :rider:

Now they did put in extra insulation starting with the 04 model, and I think it was beefed up a little on the 05.
from my understanding, the quote said it was the last year of the Interceptor. which is what they call the VFR here in the states. Doesn't make much difference as it looks like it won't be a US bike any more :tears:

I love my VFR, I'd keep it vs the ST if I had to sell one. Sure its kinda heavy, but unbearable. and I've never experienced a "lack" of power. there's bikes with more power, but it'll run way faster then it needs to. even overloaded and 2-up.
VTEC is a pain when it comes to the valve job, turns a 6hr job into a 12hr job :argh: but I don't really mind how it operates and mines the old "hard" kick model.

There's improvements that could be made, but I think its darn good as it is.

[bluedogok]

As far as "heat" issues, after reading the gripes of some I think they want all the comfort of a car on a bike and gripe when that level of comfort isn't achieved to their liking....and some people aren't happy unless they think they are miserable and griping about something. Yeah, any slow moving motorcycle with a 100+ hp motor is going to put off some heat. If you are rolling down the highway at speed then you are less likely to notice it.

I guess some have never understood simple physics and thermodynamics that a motor of any kind makes heat and it has to go somewhere.

[sherob]

I might get a VFR as a second bike... then again, I love the K1200R :trust:

[Dragonpeggs]

05 St1300. Great bike and easy to ride fast. 300 miles to tank lets you get to good spots with less stops

[1TallTXn]

As far as "heat" issues, after reading the gripes of some I think they want all the comfort of a car on a bike and gripe when that level of comfort isn't achieved to their liking....and some people aren't happy unless they think they are miserable and griping about something. Yeah, any slow moving motorcycle with a 100+ hp motor is going to put off some heat. If you are rolling down the highway at speed then you are less likely to notice it.

I guess some have never understood simple physics and thermodynamics that a motor of any kind makes heat and it has to go somewhere.
they always complain about the weight of the bike, then gripe that the OEM didn't put enough insulation in to keep their poor little 'nads from being warmed over :shrug:

I might get a VFR as a second bike... then again, I love the K1200R :trust:

used VFR is much cheaper then the K12R :deal:

no exploding final drives either! :duck:

[1TallTXn]

K1200R, did they put a half fairing on the thing for '07? looks much better now :thumb:

[sherob]

used VFR is much cheaper then the K12R :deal:

no exploding final drives either! :duck:

Yeah... yeah... yeah... but it's soooooooo sexy :dude:

[sherob]

K1200R, did they put a half fairing on the thing for '07? looks much better now :thumb:

K12RSport... sweet too :trust:

[john3500]

Did you think about a Speed Triple? They are bargains used. Easy to find a low mileage one for very reasonable money. They are a lot of bike. Regards

[1TallTXn]

Yeah... yeah... yeah... but it's soooooooo sexy :dude:
with the half fairing on it, it really looks quite nice.
The K12S just didn't do it for me and the K12R was fugly IMO

The Sport looks good.

:thumb:

[Red Brown]

I'd have to go w/ the ST myself if choosing from your list. A buddy bought a new one and it is nice. I'm still waiting for a nice middleweight tourer w/ bags. Until then, I'll stick w/ the Burgman 650.

The new BMW 85 bhp F 800 ST, which is the touring version of the lithe new F 800. With a full fairing, high windshield and touring oriented ergonomics with raised handlebars it looks like a great compromise between the porky ST1300 and a V-Strom of sorts. A little pricey at around $11K.

Red

[Red Brown]

Since you're already considering the Multistrada, you might also want to add the new Triumph Tiger to your list of possibilities:

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/8296/uploadtigerpf6.jpg

<edit> Dangit, Bill beat me to it! :lol2:

Will Continental TKCs fit on this bike? I know it is not a dual-sport but it sort looks like a V-Strom 650 with perhaps a more refined look. If it only had an adjustable windshield!

Red

[Centerline]

Well here it is 6 months have gone by, so it is time to unload the Warrior...just ordered a Hypermotard today...well, yesterday anyway.

[JadeRider]

Well it took me a while but, like many already know, the Futura won the price. Next? Ha, a Superduke, a Hypermotard, a KTM Adventure, a Tuono, a Brutale, and, oh yes, while I am spending the dough, how about a RSV Mille, an ST3, a C14 and a R1200RT while I am at it.

:sun:

[bluedogok]

Will Continental TKCs fit on this bike? I know it is not a dual-sport but it sort looks like a V-Strom 650 with perhaps a more refined look. If it only had an adjustable windshield!

Red
The Tiger has standard size streetbike tires (front: 120/70 ZR17, rear: 180/55 ZR17).

Tiger Info (http://www.hermys.com/triumph/tiger/)