To start, I know little about the trans-alp. I've heard it is a solid bike and would've considered buying one if they were available here it the states.

I opted for the '05 650 v-strom (purchased new in early 2006 for a great deal of only $6000 OTD!) for my upcoming trip to South America. It is supper smooth, comfortable and handles really well. Does well, but not great on dirt/gravel roads. Then again, I am not planning on doing any real off-road on my trip. The cast wheels seem to be pretty bulletproof. I have a friend that rides his strom pretty hard on forest service roads, and he has yet to put a dent in a rim. Reliability is not an issue with these bikes. They are easy to work on, except for the "black boxes". Yes the chance of having FI problems are always possible, but not likely. Plus, if something does go wrong that you cant fix with what you have with you, you can always get it FedEx'd. The 649cc engine put out a great ratio of horsepower and low end torque. Oh and if you are not heading out right away, the 2007 V-Strom 650 will have ABS and that for only $500 more than a 2006 model! What a deal for a great bike at only $7199! I only wish that they came out with the ABS sooner. Oh well!

Check it out at http://www.suzukicycles.com/Products...7/Default.aspx

How much is a new trans-alp in Europe???