The Perfect Overlanding Bike? - Page 4 - Horizons Unlimited

**oldbmw** · #46 6 Nov 2009

If Hinkley bikes are so wonderful, why don't I want one ?

It is sad, as I have fond memories of three ultra reliable Triumphs that took me well over 100k miles yet I view Hinkley as Japan(UK) Ltd.

It wasn't until two years ago That I had my first ever electrical fault that hindered my progress, and that was on a BMW. So far on my Enfield the only part that has failed has been a Japanese (Denso) starter solenoid). No doubt I will learn more as time goes by. At least it caused me no problems as the bike usually starts first kick

**justme411** · #47 7 Nov 2009

Is there a perfect bike? I've been riding for more than 35 years! Have put two legs over everything from Honda QA 50's to 2000cc plus Harley Monsters. Have'nt found the perfect one yet....But if you like it (or love it) and can fix it... then ride it! Just carry the xtra parts you know you will need and then hope for the best. No matter how prepared you are there will always be problems. Just prepare yourself (and your bike) and go for it.

**Ride Far** · #48 15 Nov 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by Crashtel

Whilst we are talking bikes and fixing them. Being a newbie to overland trips I thought I would do a motorcycle maintenance course first, this has changed my mind about what I can and can't fix and although I love my R1200GS I think I will have something a lot simpler. Leaning towards the 200-400 single cyclinder trailies. I reserve the right to change my mind once Ive finished the course. For those new West London Merton College run the courses.

200-400 cc singles ... for overlanding? Only for hardcore and sustained off-road overlanding IMHO. If you're going to be riding many hundreds of miles of sand and mud in Chad, Central African Republic, the Congos and the like, a 400 cc can be a reasonable choice. Some may differ but IMHO 400 ccs would get old fast on your average overlanding ride ...

Riding most anywhere else in the world, a 650 single is the bike of choice for many. Much better / more comfortable / faster on pavement than a 400, better suited for luggage, and yet still light and maneuverable enough to tackle sand and mud. And just as easy to work on. Two cents ...

**KTMmartin** · #49 15 Nov 2009

KTM (640 adventure?) frame with a Honda engine. Or anything designed for the Paris Dakar rally (as in, the exact bike you could turn up to the start line with, not a production copy) and then detuned.

**Big Yellow Tractor** · #50 15 Nov 2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by KTMmartin

KTM (640 adventure?) frame with a Honda engine. Or anything designed for the Paris Dakar rally (as in, the exact bike you could turn up to the start line with, not a production copy) and then detuned.

It's honda engined and it won't need a detune.