Ducati Monster Forum

I need something to drive 500+ miles with, such as trips to the beach (from Atlanta to Daytona) and trips through the mountains. 

Currently I've got my s4rt and a ktm 525....neither are going to cut that. 

Hard bags (or the ability to mount them) are a must.

Councours was brought up, but damn that thing is massive

ZZR?

ZX12R?

VFR?

Honda XX?

I'm not opposed to buying used at all.  I've also seen new 07/08 VFR's going for 7750 at dealerships, and that is enticing.  Don't get me wrong, I love my s4r, but it isn't the right tool for the job in this case.

I'd prefer to stay away from a ducati for this bike....last thing I want to do is fool with valve adjustments every 6K on a bike I plan on racking up a LOT of miles on.  Hell, I just want to put tires, gas and oil in it and ride the thing.

FJR.

It seems heavy, but go ride one - you will be amazed.  I did a 1200 mile ride up to the Adirondacks a few weeks ago and wore the tires edge to edge.  Shaft drive, 27k valve services, bombproof.

I have owned the following ST bikes, for what its worth:

- 99 VFR
- 03 VFR
- 98 ST2
- 02 ST4S
- 00 ZX12R

I would take an FJR over any of them, any day of the week.

Adam

I just got a BMW K1200GT and it's a great bike.  You can find them slightly used for much less than sticker on CL. 

I should mention I'm trying to spend the least amount of money as well, so the BMW is probably out before it's in. 

Also, I'm 6'5" ~230lbs.  Wife isn't a midget either, at 5'11".  DOUBTFUL that she will ever get on it with me, but I suppose that gets rid of the zx12 idea :D.


FJR hmmm....

The ZX-12R is absolutely horrific for two up.  I bought it thinking it would be OK, it's not.  The pegs are WAY too high so your wife will be perched in a very uncomfortable position.  If you want to be single in rapid fashion, it's a great choice  [cheeky]

The FJR? After my GF rode the FJR once she declared she "doesn't want to ride the green one anymore"  [laugh]

I can't say enough good things about the FJR.  They're a BREEZE to work on, a TON of value for the money, and unlike Ducatis there's not a lot of bling you can buy for them aside from a GPS and heated gear  [laugh]

I put mine up for sale ( strictly because I am moving ) last week and have gotten 6 calls about it already, it should be gone tomorrow.  For $7000-$8000 you will not find a better value.  Period.

I'll be buying another one once I move - I couldn't justify the $700 to ship it when everything else I own fits in my car  :)

Cheers,
Adam

(http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk291/mediascope/Bikes/fjr.jpg)

That's fair.  Used 2008 K's are going for about the price of a new C14, but you're getting a lot of creature comforts with the K. 

What do you consider to be a "lot" of miles? I mean, I've done close to 2000 miles during a 3-day weekend and have logged nearly 25k miles in a year, plus my wife has almost done 500 miles on the back of my ST2 for a single day of mountain twisty fun....I'm two hours from you and I assume we ride some of the same mountain twisties, plus I've ridden my ST2 down to Key West a few years ago. The bike is terrific for both types of riding...

For a sport-touring bike, I would go for a Ducati ST2, but I'm a glutton for punishment and not everyone can appreciate the ST series of bikes....especially since they are more of a SPORT-touring bike. I've done everything from a week-long trip and a SaddleSore 1000 to dragging a knee in the twisties on mine. Once the valves settled in, I only check the valves every 12k miles, now, but will usually try to check the belt tension every 6k. With a shim kit, new belts, and synth oil and filter change, a routine service takes me about four hours and costs around $125 every 12k miles.  The Ducati 2-valve engines have a reputation of being nearly bullet-proof, and many of them have gone over 100k miles without a concern.

I like my ST2 so much, that I got one for my wife. I also have a buddy of mine looking for one, now, after he fell in love with mine after letting him borrow it one weekend for some two-up riding with his girlfriend.

I can't resist a picture of mine in action :D 

(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d32/Kramer_Krazy/Terry_178.jpg)

BTW, you can find nice, clean, low-mileage ST2 bikes in the $3000-$5000 range all the time.


Edit - I guess I could add about two-up riding that I am 6'1" and 240 lbs and my wife is 5'11" and probably over 200 lbs with full gear. Also, throwing in the fact that my wife is disabled with a paralyzed left leg from the knee down, has had a total hip replacement, and still needs a knee replacement says something about a 500-mile two-up ride......maybe it says that she's crazy.  :D

i did quite a bit of research on these before i bought my triumph.

if you want more a sport oriented bike that has plenty of comfort for long touring rides look at the ducati st series or the triumph sprint. there are a ton of st2s out there right now for a decent price. hard bags come standard on both and as i was recently informed, they go on and come off of each very easily as well.

the g/f has declared both passenger seats "comfy" so after a bit of time in the saddle she will be able to do longer rides as well.

if you want more comfort look at the fjr or bmw. they are heavier than the duc and triumph, but they are also a bit more forgiving on your soft bits on a long ride.





ohh and the triumph looks better *ducks*
 ;D ;D

I'm 6' 2" and seem to fit Triumph Sprint ST very well! not sure if you can find a used one, but might be worth a look. nice looking bike, SSS, fast as hell, hard bags...   what do you think? [moto]

dont tell me this doesn't look fun
(http://www.triumph.co.uk/images/Sprint_overview_main_2008.jpg)
(http://www.motorcycle-exhausts.co.uk/images/T%20Sprint%20ST.jpg)
(http://www.motorcyclenews.com/upload/206714/images/08%20sprint%20st.bmp)
 [evil]

Sprint ST is a good choice as well.

I bought my FJR, and recommend it because:

- No maintenance
- No chain
- Luggage is amazing
- Bulletproof
- Everything is thought out.  Everything.  Especially on the 06+ models.

If you haven't ridden one - I strongly recommend you do so. With a set of BT-021's they are incredibly planted and very, very easy to ride fast.  Ask Vin  [evil]

Adam

If it was me, I'd consider the Moto Guzzi Norge or a BMW RT.  These bikes may not have the power of a FJR, but they may be more comfortable.  This guy seems to like the Norge:
http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/moto-guzzi-norge-1200-first-ride-report-18840.html (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/moto-guzzi-norge-1200-first-ride-report-18840.html)

Believe it or not, a 950 KTM Super Moto with soft side bags and a sport tail pack. Very comfy, low maint., puts down more power than the spec sheet indicates and handles with the very best sport bikes out there.  Some good deals out there new and used. 

Performance catalog that will bring tears to your eyes and empty your bank acct. [thumbsup]

LA

LOVE the Sprint ST's....

ohh it is!
http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=0HH600ZO040116&po=116 (http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=0HH600ZO040116&po=116)
(go to the 13th pic)

had i been wearing full leathers and been hanging off the red honda st in front of me wouldn't have gotten away. :-[

ST2,3,4.  Like Desmo Demon says, they don't sacrifice handling for comfort and once they settle in you can do valves every 12K.  The heavier shaft drive bikes will eat up tires much faster than that anyway.

Second choice would be the FJR followed by a pre V-Tec VFR.  I haven't ridden the Sprint but after looking at KnightofNi in that last pic, I am tempted to go ride one.

I hear the Hayabusa makes a excellent sports touring bike  ;D  [moto]

(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2331/1641649466_38d726b9c0.jpg)

My other bike is a 2008 Sprint ST and I love it.  I'm 6'1" and 230 and it is very comfortable for long trips.  Great performance, abs and the sweet sound of the triple.  I came from a 2007 BMW R1200R that I had complete system cases for...in my opinion the luggage is the only thing better on the BMW.

How about a BMW R1200GS?

Not the prettiest, but very comfy, extremely versatile, no chain, reliable, easy maintenance, endless farkle options, great luggage, and excellent for tall people. You can pick up very nice used ones for <10K.  [thumbsup] They're heavy, but they ride very nice and can hang in the twisties.  :)

Aprilia RST1000

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3243/2828524265_fcd12c2ed9.jpg)

Lots of info available here:
http://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/ (http://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/)

another vote for the FJR

I had a Triumph sprint 955 and rode it all over the continent and then for fun rented an 07 FJR for 5 days in Colorado. I never wanted to get on the Triumph again and sold it to buy a monster for my GF. Even though the FJR is heavier it has a lower center of gravity and is was just as flickable as the the sprint, for me. My GF also rode with me for a couple of those days for over 10 hours a day and was as comfy as can be.

Having said that, I would love to take one of the Ducati ST series bikes out for a ride as nothing moves me like a beat of a ducati twin. If the stars ever align financially speaking, I would like to pick up a sport touring bike.

a lot to consider, but all the votes for the FJR have got me looking.

Found a 03 w/3 bags, 23K miles for 6K asking.  Not sure what they would take, but if I could get something like that for 5 large bills I think I'd be pretty happy.

ST ducatis would be nice as well, but the st4s is up there more than a new VFR.

Older VFR's (pre v-tec) are in the hunt as well, although I'm not really finding many for sale.

ZZR or a concours are just out of reach budget wise, as are most newer BMWs.

I was thinking the same thing - but I'm not sure about the low maintenance part?  I know most KTM's are high maintenance and it's to be expected because they are race bikes.  Seems like most 950's are not ridden daily and I'm not sure where the 950 fits into the overall maintenance/reliability picture for a high mileage daily rider?

that was actually my first choice but i was warned off of them by an employee at an aprilia shop. apparently getting parts for them is harder than getting duc parts.

And from what I've heard taking off the acres of plastic is ... A wonderful way to spend an afternoon  [laugh]

Well, you can typically get whatever you need from AF1 Racing here in the states. If you need an authorized dealer for some repair there aren't as many around, but then again the Rotax motor is pretty bulletproof.

I'd vote ST (unless you want to buy my Falco and add soft bags ;)), but I'm biased. ;D

If you're looking at VFR's, I strongly recommend:

www.vfrdiscussion.com (http://)


Also - www.searchallcraigs.com (http://) for searching all the CL's in your area  ;D

Cheers,
Adam

i need to get dzus fasterners for my plastics. that would make life so much nicer.  [laugh]

I second this! I am on Busa #2 and it's my dedicated sport touring ride. Sold my '05 to a fellow DFWM/DMFer and he added hard bags a tail piece and loves it. Another local Duc rider bought a Busa and also loves it. I know they are not for everyone but they are bulletproof, fast, good gas mileage/large tank, pretty comfy (factory gel seat, Zero Gravity Double Bubble screen and Heli bars) and there are 2 million accessories out there for them!! They are hell on wild animals too, but that's another story. ;D

Just slap on a tank bag and a duffel on the passenger seat and I am easily good for a 3-4 day ride, no problem. No comments on the passenger point of view... my wife hates bikes and will not ride. What's wrong with her? I mean besides her marrying me... [laugh]

Seriously, the VFR Hondas really rock! Great bikes... they always have been! Would love to find a mint 1986 red, white and blue VFR! Too bad the modern ones have the stupid variable valve thingy. Why? [roll]

Suzuki Bandit 1200S.  Bullet-proof motor, air/oil cooled, carbureted, loads of aftermarket parts, reliable, etc.  Used ones go for $2500-$4500.

Mine in touring mode:
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d147/pompino/DSCN2038.jpg)

Nice! [thumbsup] Sweet looking with the Yosh pipe and Galfer rotors. [clap] Hardly ever see any of those on the road... which is too bad. Where did you get the hard bags?

If we're still considering Duc's then I'd also consider a used Multistrada.  I know they are painful to look at, but a friend has a black one and the color seems to help a lot and kind of camouflage the looks.  It's the red ones that look funny.

Too many choices!  I don't think he can go wrong with almost any of the suggested bikes.

The only thing I've had to buy is a new rectifier/voltage regulator, and that is an aftermarket unit (the stock VR is know to suck). 

As the other poster said, AF1 is great about stocking and getting parts on the rare occiasions that they are needed.  Just like with Ducs, some dealers have a difficult time getting parts, and the better dealers don't.

Taking the plastics off is a 15 minute job.  Its much more involved than say the 996, but its not difficult or that time consuming.

Speaking of removal of plastic, my buddy tells that the Multi is a real PITA

I will confirm that. The 848/1098 is even worse.

Bandit would not be a bad choice either.....I sold mine to get the S4R.  Was a 1250 with flat slides/cams/headwork.  It was MUCH faster than my S4R with the full kit on it, but waaaaay less refined.

Yes, that's true.

I just got back from the local dealership. Had a 08 used VFR w/4K miles they wanted 8200 for......guess I won't be buying local (seen new 07/08 leftovers for 7750 OTD online)

Anyway, I stuck it on the center stand and sat on the pillion seat.....I'm much taller than wifey is, but she isn't going to be happy doing a 500 mile day on that bike, I can tell right off the bat. It wouldn't matter if she was a size 2, with legs as long as hers (yum) her knees will be shot within an hour.  Sucks too, as one up it seems like it would be perfect for a daily rider (much better than my monster....shhhhh don't let the church of ducati hear you or they will excommunicate my ass).

Had a FJR there as well.....I think I'm going to be headed into something that size after all. It wasn't quite as big as I had in mind, and the new goldwing next to it made it look like a 600rr in comparison. Sigh....all they had were new ones at 14K....I'm in the 4-5K budget range.

I learned to ride on a vfr 750 back in the day....perhaps I'll find a basket case one of those and fix it up.

I'll see if I can't sit on a ST3/4 or perhaps an ST1000 aprilia....although "exotic" isn't something I go for when I'm contemplating a touring bike/commuter. 

Have you considered getting a short girlfriend and/or mistress?

If you're looking for a cheap FJR I know of a silver one (04) with luggage for sale up here in NH, you could take a ROCKIN' ride home ... Really good shape, you could probably scoop it up for the mid 6's .....

Adam

Always, but the wifey would have to approve of her as well, and she's much pickier than I am  [laugh]

It's a distinct possibility on that 04 fj.  I'm talking with an owner now down in FL with an 03, 24K miles full bags (trunk) asking 6K even for it...  Dunno about the miles, but I'm assuming thats what these bikes were built for.


How many miles on that 04?

8-9k ... And they'll go 100k+

Valve services: 27k
Final Drive (shaft drive) oil change: 17k

So basically ... never  ;D

Selling mine in a minute  :'(

Adam

Realistically, doing 500  mile days is even your short legged girlfriend, or anyone, going to be comfortable on any bike short of a Goldwing?

If your wife or girlfriend are going to go along on long trips that changes the math altogether.  I think that comfort and motorcycles are sometimes mutually exclusive and if you go too far on the side of comfort you sacrifice too much performance, ie, fun.   I'd consider something like a good used Miata, a compromise of course, but both comfortable and fun.

I'm not trying to sound like ClubFJR (just sold mine ...  :'( :'( :'( ) but ... My GF, who is 5'8 and has really long legs  [evil] was 100% comfortable on the FJR on a recent 400 mile ride through the twisties up to Lake Sunapee

Just sayin'  :)

Ifyou ever come to your senses.......

(http://i423.photobucket.com/albums/pp315/DBLEGL/DSCN0184.jpg)

BMW K1300GT

Dolph     :)

Thanks!!  It's a great bike...comfy, smooth power delivery, loads of torque down low.

The Krauser cases came from TwistedThrottle.com

Overpriced IMO.

Great bikes, but I just can't get with the price over other bikes ... What's that thing Dolph, like 18-20+ grand?

But then again, not everyone is baller status with "Pit Boss" Dolph  :)

Now that being said, a K1200S??  [evil] [evil] [evil] [evil] You can get a leftover for like 10 grand right now

Adam

Wife was comfy for quite a long day on the BMW GS with me. Comfort does not have to be given up to have performance, IMO.

10K is about double my budget, but if I hit the lottery I'll join the Baller Mans Wing and grab me a beemer :)   5-7k out of pocket leaves a LOT of cash for gas, oil, tires, and weekend trips. 

I should have posted the photo with the hard bags on it.

Their is a comparison between this model and the Kawi Concours in this month's Cycle World and although they gave the nod to the Concours I think it was because of what they said was a little bit better handling in the curvy roads which they say the 2 bikes are almost as good as most Sport Bikes as far as handling and I will have to say I think my K1300GT handles the twisties as good almost as my 1098 R.

I also think Cycle World can't justify the difference in price although they liked all the options that the BMW has that the Concours does not have or offer.

Those are the 2 top Sport Tourers according to Cycle World.

The BMW has 141 RWHP, 86 ft. lbs. Torque and posted the fastest 1/4 th mile speed and time between the 2 bikes. 129.66 mph, 10.71 sec. Concours, 125.44 mph, 10.78 sec. The BMW is 13 lbs. lighter at 634 lbs. vs Concours 647 lbs.

Concours has very few options while the BMW comes w, everything under the Sun standard like the Adjustable Electronic Suspension ll  (on the fly) , heated seats and grips, Xenon Headlight, Cruise Control. Automatic spin control, on board computer, 4 position handle bars,Electronic Windscreen, Electric Outlet, No Maintenance Shaft Drive, Hard Bags that go on easy and off easy and are lockable, ABS Brakes that you hardly notice unless in a panic stop.

Thrilling acceleration in all gears.

Ultra-crisp throttle response.

Drag a knee if you want to.

I use the engine as a brake when running the twisties . Lots of engine brake in all the gears. Saves on brake parts.

What's a " baller ?"  I thought that referred to " Doin the Nasty . You know ,"  Ballin Chicks. "

Dolph     :)


(http://i423.photobucket.com/albums/pp315/DBLEGL/DSCN0180.jpg)

 [laugh] [laugh] [laugh]

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=baller (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=baller)

 ;D

Adam

Takes one to know one !

Dolph     ;D

Rather than starting a new thread, I've got a similar question.  Actually, the ST is for my wife.  I've been doing track days and walking around like a kid at Disneyland for weeks afterward, and she wants to get in on the fun. 

The only problem is that she currently rides a cruiser (Suzuki Boulevard C50T) and wants performance, but doesn't want to compromise on comfort.   She doesn't like my Monster at all and wasn't a big fan of the new one either.  Since the Monster doesn't work, I know a sport bike won't.  Also, because she doesn't ride as much as I do, I'm thinking that I could use it as my rainy day commuter and for the two of us to do some traveling.  We are both 5'11" so we'll need something roomy, but definitely geared toward the sport end of sport touring since she'll want to take it to the track. 

I'm thinking the Triumph ST or the VFR fit the bill pretty well...a Multi or Bandit would work, but not for 2 up riding for us.  Any suggestions/advice would be welcome. 

  What price range we talking ?

Dolph   :)

Something in the $8-12K range.  The less we spend on that bike, the more likely I will soon replace the M695 with either a Streetfighter or an 848. 

I rode a VFR today.  Great everyday bike with a good amount of "sport".  2-up sport touring bike it ISN'T.

The FJR, although it looks massive, actually doesn't feel nearly as big when riding it.   

The Concours is supposed to be a great sport touring bike, but my budget isn't there for it, so I didn't bother riding what I can't have.  You can easily find a used C14 in the 8-9K range, and probably some beemers in there as well.

my .02

I'd go for a new '08 BMW K1200S.

!40 RWHP , two can ride on it  but most of all it has the sport part of the sport  / touring .

A new '08 can be had for $10,000.

BMW of Daytona was advetising them .

Check around .

They come with lots of options as standard.

Dolph    :)


(http://i423.photobucket.com/albums/pp315/DBLEGL/DSCN0148.jpg)

(http://i423.photobucket.com/albums/pp315/DBLEGL/DSCN0151.jpg)

This was my '08 K1200S that I sold for $10 K w, less than 3300 miles to get a '09 K1300GT.

Cycle World picked the Streetfighter as one of it's " 10 BEST ."   Only Ducati in their " 10 BEST ."

Dolph     :)

It is a fantastic bike, but the pegs have got to go.  Waay too slippery and the exhaust cover...or whatever the hell that is on the right side make it hard to stay on.  With new pegs and removal of that piece.....awesome.

I've got to take a closer look at the Beemer too.  That is a sweet set up. 

If your budget is limited, you really owe it to yourself to take a ride on the Aprilia RST.  These bikes can be found in great condition for less than $5k.  They are not all that powerful (~115 HP), but being a V-twin there is torque on tap at any rpm.  The engine is a detuned version of the Mille engine, and they are virtually bullet-proof.  The same engine is used in the Can-Am Spyder, so there is an alternate dealer network for engine parts if needed.  The engines have been known to go ~50k miles without needing any valve shim changes. The only real problems are that the factory coils are not sealed, so they tend to fail from moisture, and the voltage regulators are no good.  There are cheap aftermarket remedies for both of these problems.

The hard bags are watertight, can be removed/installed in about 10 seconds, and they lock.  There is an underseat exhaust, so the bags are quite large since there is no need for relief areas to accomodate the exhaust system. Then there is the SSS, so there are no alignment issues with chain maintenance. Last but not least, the RST has the most comfortable seat to ever grace a motorcycle.  I get about 220 miles per tank, so its great for those long trips.

This site also has a lot of info on the RST: http://www.apriliafutura.co.uk/ (http://www.apriliafutura.co.uk/)

Just ran across IMO the perfect sport touring bike on ebay. I don't know why anyone would chose a different sport touring bike. Other than brand locality or your wanting a Busa drag bike or the like....

12k isn't bad for an '06 K1200Gt fully loaded with all options with only right about 4k miles! Bids are at 10k with a few days left.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2006-BMW-K1200GT-Only-3-900-Miles-All-Options-Pristine_W0QQitemZ250460030508QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_motorcycles?hash=item3a5094c62c&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245&_trkparms=65%3A12 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2006-BMW-K1200GT-Only-3-900-Miles-All-Options-Pristine_W0QQitemZ250460030508QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_motorcycles?hash=item3a5094c62c&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245&_trkparms=65%3A12)|39%3A1|72%3A317

And it's black  8)

I'm going to try and look at/ride an RST as well. 

THere is a local FJR w/20K miles on it, all kinds of mods, for 6300 obo.....  Thats quite tempting as well.

Damn you Dolph for making me look at the BMW daytona site.  New K1200s's for 12988, used one for 10k.  Trying to stretch my limited budget but just can't spend that kind of coin now.....must get out of debit....damn.

I would seriously consider a BMW, esp at your heights. They do make some nice bikes for larger people.  ;)

Sure I'm considering it.  Just won't spend 10K, or 9, or 8....

I've seen some fairly inexpensive ones on CL due to the economy. Fairly new too, with all the farkles. Just sayin'.

Is there a way to search more than one area CL at a time, without having to go to each city, etc?  I see people post these deals, but I don't have time to search EACH city's CL  [thumbsup]

www.searchallcraigs.com (http://)

Hard cases you want...
(http://www.motobikeblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/1098_S_Gonzo_4.jpg)

But seriously...

Go with BMW.  You won't regret it.

There are deals on K1200S' to be found.

But this will be in my garage very soon (and a deal was found, even on this)
(http://www.i-bmw.com/gallery/data/707/medium/1300sb.jpg)

I did find a K1200GT (04') w/19K miles on it.  Ad says $7500 and make me an offer.  I'm thinking if he'd take 6500, it might be a good buy for me.

I'm going to give you another, often overlooked, option:  Buell Ulysses XT

Pros:
-belt drive w/tension wheel....no cleaning, lubrication or adjustment necessary
-latest belts are good for over 125,000 miles
-2 HUGE sidecases & topcase standard
-heated grips standard
-functional helmet lock standard
-2 acc. outlets standard
-handguards(keeps cold air off outside of hands-works well w/heated grips) standard
-outstanding handling
-NO valve adjustments
-routine maintenance is simply changing fluids and tires
-great deals can be had on new & used bikes

Cons:
-can get quite a bit of heat on inside of right leg during hot weather
-cooling fan is loud and runs for several minutes after engine is turned off

I've done over 800 miles in one day on the stock seat on my XT and could have gone farther without undue discomfort.  The great thing about the XT is I can load it like a pack mule, travel hundreds or even thousands of miles to my destination.......then enjoy twisty backroads with friends on sportbikes when I get there.

In short.....it's a very versatile and easy to live with bike that can be had for a very reasonable price.

The 04 is the old flying brick motor.  It is a completely different beast from the new K bikes.  You can't even use the side stand because they put the cylinder head on the left side of the bike and the oil sump on the right.  So, when you shut off the bike and put it on the side stand, the oil runs into the cylinders.

The newer K1200 bikes are better but the K1300 bikes are a big improvement over those.

I have an old K75s (three cylinder version of the four cylinder K-bike) and it's  not like all the oil flows into the cylinders and makes for a hydraulic lock.  From what I've read, parking for awhile on the side stand will cause a puff of smoke when the bike's started but I've never even noticed it.

Now, having defended the honor of the old K-bikes I have to add that mine is by far the most unreliable bike I've ever owned, and I also have a 1966 Triumph Bonneville. Other than the basic mechanical engine parts like crank, cam and pistons I don't think there is a part on it that I haven't had to replace. 

Aside from the roundel on the tank, there is absolutely no reason I would get that over a Sprint ST / FJR / VFR

Unless you like spending boku bucks at the dealer - in which case, hey go nuts!

LOL, ok.....looks like the origional choice was the best then   [thumbsup].  I thought all the bimmers were supposed to be great/reliable bikes.  One thing I do like about them (the more I look) is the useable load seems to be much higher than on the FJR/ST sprint....which brings me to the new problem.

New problem I'm finding is due to my freaking huge frame.....apparently at 400-425lbs all up (both of us + gear and overnight stuff) we've exceeded the max capacity of the bike right off the bat.

Is that a can't ride this thing situation, or pony up 1500 for a shock and springs situation?

for the sprint...the g/f and i are at the upper limits as well (mostly because of me) and i didn't notice a huge problem. the bike is a bit more sluggish, but the rear end acts like it should. i just slow down over larger bumps in the road.

i do need to adjust the front for times like that though.


also, i have heard that for larger riders a new rear shock is a very nice upgrade.

I said it before and I'm only gonna say it one more time  [coffee]  :) Fuhgettabout a bike for these long trips and buy a  Miata.   ;D  If ncessary you can probably modify the seat track to give you more leg room.

(http://www.bikez.com/pictures/boss%20hoss/2007/24607_0_1_2_bhc-3%20zz4%20ss_Image%20credits%20-%20Boss%20Hoss.jpg)

I miss my old miata dearly.  Problem with them is they are worst mod magnets than bikes.  My last miata (I've had 3) I swapped in a 13B that was half bridge ported, with a GT35R on it.  It was quite a bit of fun ;)

and...DAMN.  After looking around for a few hours online, the K series BMW def is NOT for me.  $200 dealer only ABS bleed?  Final drive failure common?  Several items in there I see.....sure new with a warranty, but not old and on my own. 

I actually rode one of the V8 boss hoss bikes before.  It was fun driving where everyone could see you about 50mph down international speedway.  It got really old after about 20 mins when I started to go deaf and medium rare all at the same time :D

The " official " weight rating for the FJR is ~415# + saddlebags + tank of fuel

Adam

Perhaps the max load capacity is controlled more by the tire.

Rear tire on Touring bikes is always a concern, especially when it's very hot out and high roadspeeds.

-----------------

Is it too late to throw in a vote for a Cagiva Gran Canyon?  ;D

if you can travel a bit to get the bike, and are ok with a duc.

http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/1275431586.html (http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/1275431586.html)


i'd say it's very nice for that price.
one of our local guys who just picked up an ST2 is kicking himself for not waiting another week.

That looks like a killer deal!

A guy in our club is selling his ST4s...also a pretty good deal.  [thumbsup]

http://www.desmonorthwest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9591 (http://www.desmonorthwest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9591)

Copy and paste?

You have to log in to see the thread. . .

Oops...here it is...Oroville, WA (near Seattle)

2002 ST4s
Get it now, low low low price....$5500.00 30k miles
Remus Ti exhaust
GP suspension
Carbon ....
Brembo 4pad/4piston breaks
more...

(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk265/DucNuts/ST4S.jpg)

Just saw one of these at the local bike shop,  cool looking bike.

NEVER IN MY MIND....in fact, here is a nice one for a really decent deal!

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/1280375081.html (http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/mcy/1280375081.html)