1150GSAdv

**Dan Koch** · #1 30 Sep 2005

I sat on one for the first time today. What I noticed immediately was the weight, and this one didn't even have the luggage. My question is, as I plan my RTW, is this the way to go? If any of you have taken this ride out into the world, what has been your experience with the bike loaded? I understand it weighs in over 600 lbs, with me and gear, I will be pushing 900. I'm not a newbe to riding, been up on 2 wheels for 40 years, I'm in good health and fit. I favor BMWs, have a 99RT (for sale-15K miles) now and have ridden many air heads in the past. I've also ridden many enduros and M/C as well as Trials. I also looked at the F series Dakar. Seems small, but it has been recommended. My only other possibility is a 90's GSPD. Thanks to all, Dan

**Grant Johnson** · #2 30 Sep 2005

I've probably said this a million times - and BMW hates me when I do - but if you're going RTW, an 1150/1200GS is way overkill. Save your money and your back when you try to lift it and get a 650. A 650 is more than just adequate, it's BETTER for 99% of what you'll be doing.

You are NOT riding in the USA on interstates, you're riding in grotty dirt roads in the third world, crowded streets, and in no hurry.

When you go to pick up your fully loaded bike for the sixth time that day, it's not "small", trust me!

For TWO up touring, the 1150/1200's are great, but for solo, they're not needed - or wanted.

have fun!

**Grant Johnson** · #3 30 Sep 2005

By the way, elsewhere on the HUBB people are debating whether a 225 Yamaha Serow is big enough, or pay the price to get the 250 version...

**Dan Koch** · #4 1 Oct 2005

Grant, thank you for this advice. As I said, many years and many 2 wheelers, I've dropped enough in the mud to know I don't want to hire a crane. Cheers, Dan

[This message has been edited by Dan Koch (edited 01 October 2005).]

**rickx** · #5 4 Oct 2005

Quote:

Originally posted by Grant Johnson:
I've probably said this a million times - and BMW hates me when I do - but if you're going RTW, an 1150/1200GS is way overkill. Save your money and your back when you try to lift it and get a 650. A 650 is more than just adequate, it's BETTER for 99% of what you'll be doing.

You are NOT riding in the USA on interstates, you're riding in grotty dirt roads in the third world, crowded streets, and in no hurry.

When you go to pick up your fully loaded bike for the sixth time that day, it's not "small", trust me!

For TWO up touring, the 1150/1200's are great, but for solo, they're not needed - or wanted.

have fun!

Grant's right. I dragged a somewhat over-loaded solo GSA across the Sahara and it was not easy to pick up in the sand, although when you are on your own and contemplating walking, the adrenalin kicks in and up she comes... The rear shock should be upgraded for serious loads. Mine seized but apart from that and some minor teething troubles when new the bike gave me no problems whatsoever.

On the other hand, it has a ride like a magic carpet, the ABS saves lives (..mine AND the goat's) when on-road and it requires zero chain maintenance. It also commands a lot of respect from officials at road blocks and border crossings.

On hard roads and tracks, it's virtually unbeatbable and I also got 6000 miles out of tubeless TKC-80s over a mixture of tarmac and dirt

**Dan Koch** · #6 4 Oct 2005

Rick, thanks, but right now I'm looking at the F650 Dakar. The consideration is chain maintenance or hernias?-chain maintenance or hernias? Seriously, as Grant says, you can go anywhere on anything. Dan