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Should I buy a F650 GS? Should I buy a F650 GS?
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  #1  
Old 22 Aug 2017
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I will testride this one tonight!
One question...is it possible to fix smaller issues on my own similar to the Versys 650 or V-Strom 650?

Or too much electronics etc.?
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  #2  
Old 22 Aug 2017
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Skyy223 View Post
I will testride this one tonight!
One question...is it possible to fix smaller issues on my own similar to the Versys 650 or V-Strom 650?

Or too much electronics etc.?
Not much electronics on this one compared to more modern bikes.
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  #3  
Old 22 Aug 2017
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Skyy223 View Post
I will testride this one tonight!
One question...is it possible to fix smaller issues on my own similar to the Versys 650 or V-Strom 650?

Or too much electronics etc.?
More likely the electronics will not be your problems. More likely you will have failed water pumps, failed wheel bearings and suspension linkage bearing failing. if bike has been well maintained, then probably NO issues with bearings. On the F650, these bearings DO wear out.

If the basic engine is good (probably IS) then once you sort out these maintenance items, you should be OK. DO not overload your bike, do not put a lot of weight on rear rack. (limit at 10 kg. max )

I don't remember if the F650 you're looking at ABS or not. If so, then there are some electronics there. You also have electronics for F.I. and your main
ECU (ECM) which controls entire bikes electronics, timing, fueling, everything.

Good luck!
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  #4  
Old 22 Aug 2017
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Drove it today,

i must say this motorcycle feels like a bicycle, in both good and bad ways.
The good thing is it feels VERY light. It's not really light compared to other ADV-Bikes that are mentioned here but damn it feels SO light compared to the Versys 650 and the Honda CBF600f (the other 2 bikes i drove already).

But also it feels like it doesn't have power at all... well to be fair, i probably rode it wrong, the owner asked me to be very gentle because the bike is in very good shape and they usually don't drive it full power when still cold. The first owner and he himself never did that (he said). So i did only drive it around 3000rounds, and not faster then 50km/h because it wasn't possible (after work traffic etc.).

But nonetheless my first impression of the F650 GS is very positive. My feed touch the ground at the same time (first time i had this with a "travel" bike) and it feels light and driving is pretty smooth (especially for a single).

Tomorrow i have to opportunity to drive a Transalp and on the Weekend i will try to get a Africa Twin (old one) to compare, those 3 bikes are what I ended up with on my list of 17 bikes. :/
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Old 22 Aug 2017
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The F650 will not match pure power of Versys or CB. But will feel "strong" compared to a Transalp (very weak power but good travel bike)

Old Africa Twin is now a "Classic" bike, so you pay a lot MORE $$$$. For me, not worth it. Also, quite a HEAVY bike. I rode one in UK, was not a big fan of this bike, even though many here on HUBB LOVE the original Africa Twin.

I think the light handling F650 BMW will suit you better. Test ride it on the Autobahn, ride it on a good mountain road with SHARP turns. It does well in both.

You need to REV (RPM) the F650 engine more to get the real power it has. Not a lot of power, but plenty for Autobahn and Alps at moderate speeds. I find to be a very FUN bike to ride ... even though more maintenance than my DR650. And a much NICER motorcycle overall ... if you get a good one! Sounds like the one you are looking at is a VIRGIN. (unless seller is lying? )

Do not be afraid to REV that engine UP TO near the RED LINE. It can take it.
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Old 22 Aug 2017
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In case I don't like the Transalp and Africa Twin...do you think it might be a good idea to try out the newer 800ccm F650GS Twin(2008 - ...)? More Power and nearly the same weight.
I would need to save some money for another 2-3 Months tho. and then winter is coming :P
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Old 22 Aug 2017
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Both the 800GS and 700GS are good bikes IMO. Heavy but very fun and easy to ride ... very low seat height for shorter riders.

Much more complex and also has had reliability problems.

Go ride the bike and see. I'm sure you will like it. Smooth, good power, good handling ... good brakes. FUN! (yes, more money but you can re-sell before your big trip for good money return)
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Old 22 Aug 2017
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Nono i mean the F650GS Twin pre 2008. It's 800ccm with 71hp, only 4KG heavier then the single F650GS.
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