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Which Bike? Comments and Questions on what is the best bike for YOU, for YOUR trip. Note that we believe that ANY bike will do, so please remember that it's all down to PERSONAL OPINION. Technical Questions for all brands go in their own forum.
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Photo by Daniel Rintz,
Himba children, Namibia



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  #1  
Old 16 Oct 2005
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Location: Reading, Berkshire, England
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Suggestions for a first bike


Hi Folks
I am planning a UK-> Capetown trip via the Eastern route. At the moment I don't have a bike licence but have booked in for a 5 day course (Full Unrestricted Category A Licence via the Direct Access Scheme).

I would like to know what experienced riders would suggest as a first bike. Should I buy my intended touring bike straight off (BMW F650GS) or due to my lack of experience should I buy a smaller bike and then upgrade to the touring bike once I have more experience?

Cheers

Steve




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Old 16 Oct 2005
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I would think an F650GS couldn't be bettered as a first bike. There's not that much power, relatively low seat height and cheap to insure LB.
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Old 16 Oct 2005
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Yes, I agree, and would do the trip too. Or a Yamaha XT600E like what I've got. Simple, reliable, forgiving bike. Other 'medium sized' bikes I considered were the Transalp and the KLE500. In some ways I think the longer you have the bike you are going to do the trip on the better, more chance to learn its little niggles etc. and to be fully up to speed on maintenance issues etc.
Matt
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*Disclaimer* - I am not saying my bike is better than your bike. I am not saying my way is better than your way. I am not mocking your religion/politics/other belief system. When reading my post imagine me sitting behind a frothing pint of ale, smiling and offering you a bag of peanuts. This is the sentiment in which my post is made. Please accept it as such!
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