New Africa Twin for RTW?
Hey Friends!
Its finally time for me to start my big trip. I did Europe, Middle East and North America over the course of about 1.5 years back in 2007/8 on a '91 Africa Twin and loved it. I was 25 at the time and happened to meet a real adventurer in Syria who had 10 years on me and inspired me to do a big RTW trip. Just had to save up for a while first.
I'm in the 'gear up' phase and looking at bikes (ive had mostly cruisers, street bikes and a v-strom in the interim - all sold now). I know from my last trip that the Africa Twin was bullet proof! I loved its sexy sound, it handled quite well and just was a lot of fun to ride. That said it was really heavy. I'm a pretty average dude (5'10, 165) and I really struggled to lift it fully loaded and hated any sand travel. Much of this is probably correctable with a bit more practice, but I was thinking that maybe a lighter bike might be a better option.
I see though that the new Africa Twin seems to be many riders choices, and I'm a bit sentimental. Thoughts? Big differences between this and say a F800 or something in that category? Also looking at KLR650. Basically I want it to be reasonable serviceable around the world (I'm not strongly mechanically inclined, but have done a top end rebuild -guided.) I'm comfortable spending a bit of money, but may sell it in Argentina (I'm coming from the PNW in the US) and re-buy in Asia...and don't want to be a 'target' as I travel with something super shinny.
Sorry, lots of information and I know there are many threads for me to pour through, but wanted to start one incase anyone has a lot of experience with an Africa Twin vs others.
Thanks!
Tim
PS can't wait to see y'all at the Canada meet up this august!
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