Anybody have an opinion on whether the BMW F650GS is better/worse than the Aprilia Pegasso? I know that until recently the "Funduro" was built by Aprilia for BMW, but that they split a year or two ago. The guy at the local Aprilia dealer by me (NJ, USA)points to a couple of things, like a 5-valve head and some other things, but I expect that kind of boasting from a dealer. Also, are BMW's better for touring due to the larger presence of BMW service centers and parts availability around the world?

Greetings!

I find the Pegaso to be the better equipped bike between the two. The fuel tank is much bigger, it comes in either carb, or fuel injection models, and it is better looking than the Beemer (and this is highly subjective mind you ).

I, myself own a Suzuki DR650, but had I not purchased an XR80 for my young son, the Pegaso would have been the Dual Purpose mount of choice (the two other bikes I had been considering were a Sportster , and a Buell M2 ).

Might I suggest that you check out www.f650.com for further insight into BMW's thumper? These good folk have first hand experience with the bike, but there are a few that own the Aprilia, and they post there on occassion. There are still problems with the 2001 model F650's fuel injection. This is addressed regularly on the site's message board.

Either bike would doubtless serve you well. Good luck with your choice my friend!

The Toad

Toadie--

Thanks much dude! I currently ride a '98 xr400, but I don't consider it to be a good dual-sporting bike for anything more than 10% asphalt trips (I really on ride trails). I want to start doing some touring, possibly internationally over time, and I think a true dual sport/enduro bike, like the f650, would be my best bet. I don't want a street bike because I do want to check out some back roads over time.

As for the BMW in international locales, would I get better access to service/parts than with the Aprilia? Also, with the Aprilia, is the FI or Carb the better bet?

Finally, what about used f650s? Are they worth the high re-sale?

Thanks!

Just a comment about the DR650 (haven't ridden the Fun machine).

I took my trusty Honda CRM-250 (2-stroke)to the Picos Mtns in Northern spain for 6 days riding last year (organised trip) doing climbs to die for all day long until the snow/heat stopped you. Fantastic. Anyhow, there were 2 x DR650's there and both riders showed me a clean pair of heals (one was an ex 6-days rider though ..). So I can vouch for their ability off-road (albeit dry conditions) on serious climbs/desents.

For what its worth. Good luck with your Intl plans

Hi´!
I´m the owner of a Pegaso. The former owner of a Dominator, Africa Twin, XT-250 and a street bike.
After 22Tkm on the Pegaso 3 I can not recommend it. Engine problems, cooling problems, electrical problems and so on and on. 35Tkm on the Domi without a single problem. Also the milage is much worse than the GS.
Choose another bike for long distance driving.
Remember also that the looks play a significantly smaller role once your on your way.

Thomas

Hi,

the "old" F650 and the "old" Pegaso, both with carbs are more or less equal.
The "new" Pegaso with injection is only a modified old version, where the "new" F650"GS" is a new and absolutely different bike.

Edi