Am I Mad?

**Guzzimad** · #1 18 May 2005

Hi people!

Just a quickie to ask if I am mad to consider a Guzzi California EV Touring or a Norton Commander P53/Interpol on a RTW. Would the Guzzi be too heavy and the Norton wildly unreliable?

Alternatively, another option would be a KTM 950 Adv - any views welcome.

My route would take me through Africa and whilst out-and-out off-road ability is not paramount, it would need to be able to tackle the piste etc. encountered there.

Thanks

**BMBaxter** · #2 18 May 2005

For a trip around the world,my choice would be a Suzuki DRZ 350.Although out of production,the 350's have to be one of the most simplistic,and reliable dual sports ever made(enduro bike design with lawnmower engine technology).With a bigger gas tank,comfy seat,and small alloy panniers,you could take on any trip.The downside of course would be creature comforts and highway cruising speed.

**Grant Johnson** · #3 18 May 2005

To answer your question - of course you're mad!

But then, according to most people, even contemplating a round the world is mind, never mind what kind of bike.

See the links page for - I think - worldtriumph.co.uk - a British couple rode around the world on Meriden Triumphs, cousins to your Norton. Did pretty well too, but they're both experienced with the bikes and love them.

As for the Guzzi, they're pretty reliable, newer being better of course.

PERSONALLY I can think of much better choices than either - but since tons of people have gone rtw without listening to me, and on everything from 50cc Honda stepthroughs to scooters to Gold wings to R1's, hey, ride what you like!

Just be aware of WHY you're choosing that bike - if it's simply because you have it and you're too lazy to buy something else, well, that's your decision. You have to live with the consequences, not us! If you aren't set on riding one or the other - and if you can't decide which of the two, you're probably flexible enough to consider something else entirely - and I would suggest doing so.

Read the rest of the "Which bike" forum for lots of ideas and suggestions.

YOUR perfect bike is out there.

Come to the UK Travellers Meeting to see a great selection.

See you there!

------------------
Grant Johnson

Seek, and ye shall find.
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One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

**Steve Pickford** · #4 18 May 2005

Quote:

Originally posted by Grant Johnson:
To answer your question - of course you're mad!

See the links page for - I think - worldtriumph.co.uk - a British couple rode around the world on Meriden Triumphs, cousins to your Norton.

I'm sure that the Norton Interpol is one of the Rotary engined bikes from the 80's. Many parts look like they were from the Yamaha parts bin (XJ900?).

I'd avoid the Interpol for RTW unless you're able to set up a reliable spares delivery system in advance, chances of finding spares in Mongolia are nil.

The Guzzi is a better bet if sticking to sealed roads. Unless you're emotionally attached to either bike. consider selling one or both and buying something more suitable - F650 of some sort, airhead GS, XT600/660, KLR650, DR650?

**trand** · #5 19 May 2005

hi I asked this question.. and got the same replys... I ride a XVS1100 Dragstar... yeah took some of the fancy chrome of ... been on the road now 15mths ...just get what you feel comfortable with ... any bike will go anywhere ...''its the rider'' look at Peter Forward... on a Harley ... safe riding