Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Technical, Bike forums > Which Bike?
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.
Photo by Daniel Rintz, Himba children, Namibia

The only impossible journey
is the one
you never begin

Photo by Daniel Rintz,
Himba children, Namibia



Like Tree5Likes

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 10 May 2013
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: May 2013
Posts: 9
The time old question Tiger 955 or R1150GS

Triumph or BMW ?

Firstly I'll start by saying I owned a R1100GS for six years. I nearly sold it after the first six months as it just didn't have enough power for fast A road overtakes especially two up.
My previous bike was an early 1200 Trophy which was like riding an automatic, stick it in 6th and ride the torque. I eventually came to love the GS. I changed my riding style to suit the bike, but after 6 years and having bought a ZZR1100 (ZX1100) as a second bike I decided to sell it.

I'm currently riding a Suzuki GSX1400 (never sold in North America) which is a torque monster especially with free breathing cans and a power commander fitted.

But I miss the adventure/dual sports bike for the little back/unpaved roads. So I'm thinking of getting a R1150GS or a Tiger 955i

IMO the BMW suspension is far superior but the Tiger as the edge is performance if not handling The GS is Ugly but the Tiger is F-ugly ! (who thought that fairing looked good?)

As for reliability I'm surprised at some of the issues I've read on this forum my GS never once gave me any major problems including a 3000 miles tour of Europe and I've owned 4 Triumphs and only one, with 60,000 miles on the clock, had a problem which turned out to be the HT leads breaking down.

I'll be interested too hear what you guys think Tiger or GS ? power or handling ?
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 10 May 2013
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,654
The 1150GS is HEAVY !! It's also pretty unreliable and expensive to fix. And in my opinion it's a dull dog when it comes to performance too. Compare it to a 1200GS and it feels like a Sherman Tank dragging the QE2..

The 995I is also heavy. And it's top heavy too. This is where the BMW beats it.

However, the Tiger is light years ahead in terms of performance and handling. That 955 triple engine is a real peach. A joy to ride.

The 1150GS would be better on dirt roads, but not by much... If you spend 99% of your life on tarmac, get the Tiger...

It's also considerably cheaper and more reliable too.
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 10 May 2013
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: May 2013
Posts: 9
Quote:
Originally Posted by *Touring Ted* View Post
The 1150GS is HEAVY !! It's also pretty unreliable and expensive to fix.

It's also considerably cheaper and more reliable too.
GS is 15kg heavier than the Tiger or put it another way a good breakfast

The whole reliability thing always makes me laugh one person will tell you the GS is unreliable another the Tiger.

I ran my R1100GS for six years with no major issues, and was an active member of the UKGSER.com were reading the threads there would point to the 1200GS as being the BMW with reliability issues.

I service and repair my own bikes so paying rip off dealer prices are not an issue for me.

Think I'll end up with a Tiger see what it's like to live with, especially as second hand BMWs like Harleys are overpriced
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 11 May 2013
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Oct 2008
Location: east midlands uk
Posts: 4
Why not pay a bit more and buy a KTM 990 adv, far better than the above and it will make you smile!
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 11 May 2013
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,654
Quote:
Originally Posted by crocks View Post
Why not pay a bit more and buy a KTM 990 adv, far better than the above and it will make you smile!
A bit more ??

You could have a 1150 AND a Tiger for 990 prices.

Then you really could have the best of both
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 11 May 2013
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: May 2013
Posts: 9
Quote:
Originally Posted by *Touring Ted* View Post
A bit more ??

You could have a 1150 AND a Tiger for 990 prices.

Then you really could have the best of both
Ach I'd only need another 2 grand !
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 12 May 2013
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,654
Quote:
Originally Posted by QBTO View Post
Ach I'd only need another 2 grand !
To give you a sense of perspective, I recently sold my MINT 2002 Tiger with lots of extras for about £2300.
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 12 May 2013
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: May 2013
Posts: 9
Quote:
Originally Posted by *Touring Ted* View Post
To give you a sense of perspective, I recently sold my MINT 2002 Tiger with lots of extras for about £2300.
Which is at least a grand cheaper than a GS of the same age
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 13 May 2013
electric_monk's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: Waterford, Ireland
Posts: 309
Quote:
Originally Posted by QBTO View Post
The whole reliability thing always makes me laugh one person will tell you the GS is unreliable another the Tiger.
QBTO....I understand exactly what you mean here, but just have a look at Touring Teds signature......specifically where he works. It does add a bit of weight to his argument.
__________________
The electric monk always has faith.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 13 May 2013
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: May 2013
Posts: 9
Quote:
Originally Posted by electric_monk View Post
QBTO....I understand exactly what you mean here, but just have a look at Touring Teds signature......specifically where he works. It does add a bit of weight to his argument.
Hi Monk,
I did notice Ted's signature I have been in that dealership quite a few times, (got friends in North Wales) I am only going on my own experience of 6 years on a R1100GS and being an active member of the UKGSer forum. I used my GS all year round in all weathers

You could argue that Ted see's all the unreliable GS's because he works in a BMW dealership, the reliable ones don't need repaired. If you pop down the local Triumph dealer I'm sure they see plenty of Tigers in the work shop. [IMG][/IMG]
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 13 May 2013
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,654
[QUOTE=QBTO;422040]Hi Monk,
I did notice Ted's signature I have been in that dealership quite a few times, (got friends in North Wales) I am only going on my own experience of 6 years on a R1100GS and being an active member of the UKGSer forum. I used my GS all year round in all weathers

You could argue that Ted see's all the unreliable GS's because he works in a BMW dealership, the reliable ones don't need repaired.

I do far more routine servicing of one's that don't need repairing than fixing those which do...

If you take reliability out of the argument completely, I'd still have the Tiger. However, I do have to point out that the Tiger is a ridiculously reliable bike. I don't know anyone who's ever broken down on one, ever !!

The Tiger is just a far better ' day to day' bike in my opinion. It's really fun to ride and handles great. There is loads of grunt and power from the dreamy Triple. The 1150 feels like a tractor in comparison.

The one thing is really hated on the Tiger is the heavy clutch. If you're a two finger clutch user, you're going to have aches and pains. And the gearboxes are pretty clunky but you do get used to them and they always work.

However, if I were to go off tarmac, I'd pick the GS any day. Even if it is a lumbering beast. The Tiger is crazy top heavy (even on road) and the GS boxer engine with telelever suspension is far nicer on the rough stuff..
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.

Last edited by *Touring Ted*; 16 Jul 2013 at 19:47.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 13 May 2013
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: May 2013
Posts: 9
I would be happy with either, I'm currently enjoying myself hacking around the local back roads on a 26 year old Transalp

I loved my R1100GS never ridden a bike that feels so planted, even a huge black Labrador that charged into the side of it as I was passing at 30mph couldn't move it off line. Or the time I misjudged my speed over a hump back bridge on a bend and took off both wheels of the ground while cranked over, GS landed without a wobble or a weave, but your right Ted their a heavy beast, but then I've rarely ridden anything under 500lbs in the last 15 years GPZ900R ZZR1100 Trophy 1200 x3 Daytona 1200 GSX1135EFE and GSX1400.

I always fancied the early Tiger 900 (Steamer) now that is a top heavy bike, with the same frame as the Trophy etc only on higher suspension and skinnier wheels.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 7 Jun 2013
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: May 2013
Posts: 9
Just an update on this thread, I'm now actively looking for a 955i Tiger

Just need to sell my GSX1400 first
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 16 Jul 2013
kentfallen's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Bexhill, East Sussex, England, UK
Posts: 673
+ 1 for the Triumph Tiger 955. I agree with everything Touring Ted says in the thread.
Touring Ted knows his stuff and whenever he posts on here, I always take time to look at what he says.

I'm afraid my opinion of KTM bikes is not great - overpriced, highly strung, plentiful and expensive servicing and parts.

I will concede they are well put together and that the 990 is rapid compared to most other big adventure tourers.

I'd take a BMW before a KTM but I think big BMW's are way too heavy, cumbersome and ultimately damn expensive.

Yes KTM's are great BUT they are not cheap to buy, own or run.

Anyone looking for a BUDGET bulletproof reliable, robust CHEAP bike should stay well clear of German bikes as you pay a huge premium for the badge (just the same as their excellent but overly expensive cars). I guess if it says made in Germany you pay a premium. Some of us refuse to do so.

I apply the same rule to most aspects of my life not just riding bikes (and I have owned and ridden many in 30 years plus riding).

My best (and oldest) mate has a Triumph Tiger 955 and we both agree that it does almost everything well without breaking the bank.

Another mate has a KTM 600? trail bike and he spends most of his time changing oil and servicing it instead of riding it.

Plus the Triumph is BRITISH designed and made.
__________________
Triumph Bonneville 800 (2004), Yamaha XT600E (1999), Honda XBR500 (1986).

Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 16 Jul 2013
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
Quote:
Originally Posted by QBTO View Post
Triumph or BMW ?
I'll be interested too hear what you guys think Tiger or GS ? power or handling ?
The Tiger handles well enough in my view, which is based on a shortish test ride at the time I was thinking of buying one.
It also has all the power that anyone needs on real roads (rather than the race track).
Certainly it is top heavy with a big fuel tank perched up high above an engine that is also high in the frame.


Quote:
Originally Posted by electric_monk View Post
QBTO....I understand exactly what you mean here, but just have a look at Touring Teds signature......specifically where he works. It does add a bit of weight to his argument.
Ted has earned a crust with BMW for about 6 months: prior to that he was on the road to conversion, but it took many, many years.

BMW must be working hard on the brain washing (errrr, induction training)!
__________________
Dave
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Some Jobs, Some Responsibilities, Still No Better Time Than Now bigalsmith101 Ride Tales 14 23 Nov 2013 10:09
A trip back in time... Lars1974 Ride Tales 0 8 May 2013 21:35
Day time running lights Question. palace15 Europe 11 24 Dec 2012 06:29
Europe and the Americas - Video reports as I throttle round the world... JetJackson Ride Tales 31 24 Oct 2012 01:33
Cape Town to Nairobi on a small budget, small bikes, and small experience/prep time! kfukuda87 sub-Saharan Africa 0 28 Jul 2012 10:24

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.

2024:

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

HUBBUK: info

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 10:45.