Info Please RTW trip either 1 X GSA or 2 X DL 650's?
 

Hi all. I need some help sorting through the maze of info about these two bikes. My partner and I are planning a RTW trip, starting mid 2007, going from Nth America to Mexico-South America to the bottom- Up to Brazil- Across to Africa-Europe-Asia - India- Thailand and back to Australia. We are no light weights, so us two in our riding gear will be 90-100Kgs each and 40+ Kgs of gear. I have basic mechanical skills and am good with tyre/wheel issues. What we would really appreciate are well informed opinions, and as much real life experience as you guys are able to provide. Two bikes mean more costs for carnets, shipping, fuel, insurance etc, but they can carry more gear between two people. I have also just returned to riding after a loooong time, but will have a year's experience before we leave. My lady also rides, but will have way less bike time clocked up before we leave. I am 5"8 and she is 5"5. We are considering lowering the GSA ( it has the strongest frame thats why it's on our list) as well as using a custom seat. So whats the verdict(s) from all you people with travel miles under your wheels? Many thanks in advance for your time with this issue.
Daz.:confused1:

Two smaller bikes if you can afford it.

Two smaller bikes will probably be the best option given what you have said above aboput your height and weights. One BIG heavy bike very overloaded, OR two light, easy to handle bikes that are not grossly overloaded - hmmm, seems like an easy choice! :)

And you may find that the difference in price isn't as great as you think. The initial cost of a 1200GSA is pretty high. You can almost certainly get a pair of good 650's for similar money. Travel costs will be higher for sure, but remember that component costs are lower on the 650's, and your tire mileage will be higher. And bike expenses aren't the biggest expense of a trip anyway, everything else is! The difference of one to two is only incremental, not double as related to the price of the whole trip.

(I may not have said that as clearly as I could have :) hope it makes sense!)

Thanks for your advise.
 

Hi all who replied. We have taken all you have said and decided on the two bike option. We will be off to the states hopefully mid March and looking for a couple of F650's as we already ride one now and know this bike so well.
Cheers,

Daz & Shy.