F700GS - Opinions
 

So, I spent a good chunk of yesterday wandering around a motorcycle fair. The idea was that all the major manufacturers were there and my good lady, who is working towards her license, could try all the current bikes out there under one roof.

From a size, weight, comfort and general fit point of view the F700gs put a big smile on her face, far more so than any other machine out there. Most were too tall or to heavy, even in lowered form.

So, the question is - are they any good? I know it's not got a big front wheel or spokes but I'm 90% sure that feeling confident on the bike and being able to flat foot it counts for a hell of a lot more to a new rider than a big front wheel. Neither of us aim for challenging off road routes specifically, but if the tarmac ends we want to be able to carry on.

I'm thinking we buy a used one, 20-30k on the clock, throw engine, sump and handlebar protection on it. A set of panniers, a set of K60s and we've got a decent, confidence inspiring machine that will keep up with my Tiger both on and off of the tarmac.

New or reupholstered seat also feels pretty dammed important? Stock screen any good? The ones we saw had a silly, tiny, fly screen.

Thoughts?

http://www.morocco-knowledgebase.net...a_top_1000.jpg

The F700GS and it's similar predecessor, the F650GS twin, are fine off-tarmac. I had two of them which I bought in preference to the F800GS—I valued the tubeless tyres over spokes and tubed tyres. I've taken them both on extended quite rough piste routes in Morocco.

The screen from the F800GS is a slight improvement. The one on my bike above doesn't win any awards for looks but is very effective and I ordered it from Eagle Screens in Australia.

As you can see from the photo, I've also got muffs fitted, TKC80 tyres, aluminium bash plate, engine bars and Metal Mule pannier rails/panniers.

The bench seat is awful, it feels like wood—even my KTM 690 Enduro is better. I used an Airhawk saddle but you could get the existing seat remodelled with gell or memory foam.

For more information check out the F650/700/800GS forum at UKGSer, see http://www.ukgser.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=272

Tim, you're a credit to the name Tim. As a fellow Tim I think I can say that with some authority! Thanks.

Your advice in various places / forums was invaluable when I was planning last year's jaunt to Morocco. So a second thanks for that.

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