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RTW on a R1200gsa or Africa Twin RTW on a R1200gsa or Africa Twin
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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.
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  #1  
Old 3 Jan 2008
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RTW on a R1200gsa or Africa Twin
Hi All,

Can't decide whether to purchase an unused 2006 registered R1200gsa costing approx £14,000 here in Kuwait, or a mint 1996 Honda Africa Twin with only 6000 kms for approx £1800.

Love the looks of the gsa, and will be better reassured with their warranty, but it's expensive.

Don't mind the AT, I know it has a solid reputation, but what'll need changing on the 12 year old bike (apart from the chain/sprocket and tyres which have recently been done)?

regards
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  #2  
Old 3 Jan 2008
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Personally, I would take a well-sorted AT with a few spares before I'd take a 1200GS.
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  #3  
Old 4 Jan 2008
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Africa Twin is the better solution for RTW.
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  #4  
Old 4 Jan 2008
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With the AT you might want to change the fuel pump upfront or at least make sure it's not making any funny noises - this is a common fault on the AT - also the Reg /rectifier is prone to cooking - replacements for both are available.
The AT is an old design and you'll be restricted on the weight you carry more so than the BMW (which is a good thing as you won't be tempted to take the kitchen sink)
Maybe at least refresh the fork oil (and change the springs and look at the rear shock too.
Lastly the wheel rims are prone to rotting check around the spoke nipples - sometimes rot can hide on the inside of the rims leaving the outside nice looking.
best of luck
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  #5  
Old 5 Jan 2008
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Hi,

Thanks for all the advice, lots to think about.
Thanks for the prep thoughts on the Africa twin.

If I was to buy the AT then I'd have to buy some luggage.
Buying an alu set will probably cost almost as much as the bike itself!!!
(Hard to justify.)
That's why i'm tempted towards the cheaper lockable Givi type luggage ( I have a very handy practical E52 back box on my CBR1000 and swer by it).
I would go for the even cheaper soft panniers but security is an issue.

What do you think, which should I opt for?

regards
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  #6  
Old 5 Jan 2008
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Hhhmmm it's a very personal thing. Some people will swear by soft liuggage and with a pacsafe type thing will make it a bit more secure - although maybe a bit awkward to get in and out of (?)

I got some Hepco and Beker alu boxes off ebay for not a lot of money - cheaper than new so second hand is an option ( assuming you can get hold of them where you are) and there are plenty of manufacturers making pannier frames for AT's SW Motech do detachable ones

Of course the plastic givi types are just as good - so it's down to personal choice and cost.

Have you looked on the UK Africa Twin owners site? Do a search for panniers - there's loads of info on there about luggage and general tech know how - will help with your prep Honda Trail Bike Forums
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Last edited by Macp1; 6 Jan 2008 at 20:48.
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