If you haven't already got one (in which case which did you go for??), I'd say go for the Transalp. Up to the mid-nineties they were VERY well built, and if the one you have in mind hasn't succumbed to 14 years of use, it will handle winter very well. All the Dominators I've know were great bikes, but didn't like the cold.

Also, maintainance on the Transalp is very low; valves are screw and locknut, and don't normally need adjustment (I only check mine every 40,000 miles or so now - they are that good). Oil changes are listed as at 8,000 miles, though I've always changed at 4,000. The pre-1994 fairing seems to be quieter and offers more protection than later ones (or any of the other bikes on your list), and the headlight was better than it looked (although the reflector will be dull by now). The single disk isn't too abrupt (later ones had twin disks) for slimy surfaces, and the 1991 models were relatively 'light' (under 180 Kg dry) despite having the rear disk. Also, you should get 50 mpg + (not sure what that is in litres), and the V-twin allows you to get as much grip as possible on slimy roads.

On the downside.... look at the wheel rims for alloy corrosion and the fairing lugs snap (but can be repaired or taped up). The wheel rims have the same problem on Dominators and Africa Twins of the same age though.

Just my thoughts....

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Tall men see everyone else's bald patch but their own.......

Nope, haven't decided yet. I still have time as the roads still are, and will be for a couple of weeks more, ice free. I've been talking to seasoned winter riders and they all but one recommend the Transalp. And the one that didn't suggested a BMW F650GS with ABS. Way off my budget and not on my shortlist, so I'm closing in on the 'alp. Thanks for you input! I'll let you know how it all comes out.

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HansP
All you wanted to know
about riding in Norway

Ah, that's nice to know! I'd heard ABS wasn't so good on snow, where a locked wheel slows faster due to the build-up of snow in front. Perhaps this isn't the case with bikes, however! I have to say, you certainly must be tough where you are - I used to ride a daily 75 mile commute at 5.00 in the morning, all year round. However, I don't think our winter weather in the south of England really compares....

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Tall men see everyone else's bald patch but their own.......

Not so tough. Only trying to adapt. You know the Darwin phrase: The survivor is not the fittest nor the strongest - it is the most adaptable. So when living in a country where half the year is snowy and/or icy you simply *must* learn to master The White Stuff Riding Technique. If you want to ride year round, that is. And who doesn't?

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HansP
All you wanted to know
about riding in Norway

Hi !
Am in a similar predicament to you, and have just bought a 2006 kle500,. i am well aware it will not look as pretty as a honda in 2 years time, but have just smothered everything in wax! that should see it until spring!

Injuries allowing, am hoping to return to the bike rally again in Norway on my old transalp sidecar, are you going?

get those thermals ready!!!

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Harley Davidsons,
The most effective way of turning petrol into noise without the side-effect of horsepower

Yep, three winter rallies are plotted in this season. Maybe four, if time allows. Would be nice seeing you at the Primus Rally, though!

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HansP
All you wanted to know
about riding in Norway

Ahh the good old winter hack

That has to be an old Transalp - maintenance - just don't bother, it will keep going. ive had loads and olny ever changed oil and filters on them, better than any BMW (F650), bit more fuel but a tenth of the maintenence/breakdowns.

Fancy a Hornet 900 myself, they seem bullet proof and fun if you put a better set of handle bars on them.