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wanted:ideas for touring bike! wanted:ideas for touring bike!
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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.
Photo by George Guille, It's going to be a long 300km... Bolivian Amazon

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by George Guille
It's going to be a long 300km...
Bolivian Amazon



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  #1  
Old 15 Jul 2009
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wanted:ideas for touring bike!
i currently own a bmw f650, but want to go across europe with my partner and fear it wont be big enough for both of us.. so any ideas and help would be much appreciated.. dnt really wanna go higher then 700 cc thanks guys x
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  #2  
Old 15 Jul 2009
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The F will do two up and luggage, you just have to travel light and not try to do 1000 km in a day.

I wouldn't worry too much about capacity unless you have tax or insurance issues entirely based on it. In the 500-900cc class there is a huge range due to states of tune. My 790cc Bonneville when solo would tour two up with a pair of full Touratech boxes, pillion and roll sack full of camping gear. It would do 1000 km days (still will, just a little slower with more stuff in the sidecar). My dad had a Kawasaki ER-5 that while a little slower would do the same, his Moto Guzzi Nevada 750 will do it to. I test rode a Harley Sportster that felt like it wasn't going to worry about very much a european road trip could throw at it.

I think you need to look for a classic/cruiser style road bike in the 50-70 HP class and take it from there.

Are you looking new or used? Any problem with old technology? Any use other than touring? Want a bigger dual sport (Africa Twin? Transalp?).

Andy
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Old 15 Jul 2009
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I own a Harley-Davidson Road King which I can recommend but perhaps its a bit too big for your needs. I previously owned a Harley Sportster which dealt with a couple of trips to Portugal with no bother. If things do go wrong the Harley back-up of Dealers, parts availability and their recovery service is first class.
I also own a Moto Guzzi which is great until something goes wrong then you are at the mercy of their dealers and parts back-up which is pathetic.
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  #4  
Old 15 Jul 2009
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How much have you got to spend?

Yamaha XJ600 or Thudercat

Kawasaki ZZR600

Earlier Honda CBR600 or VFR750

Honda Deauville

Suzuki GSX600

Why not pick up a copy of the Used Bike Guide, as they have a good listing in the back of the mag with bikes grouped by type? Also shows weights, power etc.
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