I really wanted the Varadero! After riding an Africa Twin for a while (loved it) and then taking a 2004 Varadero for a spin I knew I had to have one.
Then came the 1200GS and for R10 000 ($1600 / £900) more I got ABS and heated grips which the Honda didn’t have. Sorry, I know this post is about the Dero vs. the 1150 and not the 1200 but I just have to add my 2c
I was also concerned with the Honda’s weight (50kg more than the BMW) and those radiators *oh dear* one fall into a bush and the radiators would be pierced! The 1200GS has longer service intervals and BMW were willing to throw in free roadside-assist membership. The Varadero has a larger tank and greater range, which is a plus but the Beemer has a center stand, fully adjustable suspension and stronger sub-frame.
But what really made the choice clear was this: I’d have to spend far more on making the Honda overland ready than the BMW and… during test rides on both I dropped the Honda in loose sand but not the BMW… that all I needed to see, thank you sir.
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BMW R1200GS
Suzuki TL1000S
Suzuki GSX750R
Honda MBX50
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