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Post By *Touring Ted*
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23 Oct 2020
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HU Founder
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Join Date: Dec 1997
Location: BC Canada
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I think the two bikes are in somewhat of a different class - there's a big difference between the two, big single vs twin, and that's a question only you can answer. The BMW is a better two up bike, the Yamaha better and lighter solo.
I'd have to say go for the Yamaha from your description - it's cheaper by far, therefore less painful a purchase, and it's value will be more appreciated. And cheaper to just sit when not using it, you won't feel so guilty. And finally, easier to sell. Oh yeah, and leaves some funds sitting safely in the bank to put towards the next choice after the Yamaha!
There will always be another one... Or as someone once asked, "Why do you have five bikes?" Answer - "Because I just sold one".
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Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
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Inspiring, Informing and Connecting travellers since 1997!
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
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24 Oct 2020
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Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
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I think the bikes are pretty much the same size and weight. I've ridden both. The XT660Z is no lightweight. That was it's main criticism when it was released. Although it's still probably a bit lighter than the BMW.
IMO, the F800 is the better all round bike. The 800 Rotax is an EXCELLENT engine. Very reliable and offers a great balance of torque and power. That extra power and smoothness really reduces fatigue on a long trip.
The Yamaha beats the BMW on reliability due to simplicity. The BMW has it's electronic complexities which can leave you stranded if you're unlucky.
Have you considered the XT660R ?
It's much lighter and a bit lower. I had one. And I think it's an EXCELLENT and often overlooked Overland bike. It's let down by it's lack of ground clearance due to the exhaust routing but that can be remedied if you're prepared to buy the expensive aftermarket exhaust. Or its not a problem at all if you're not going to attack serious off-road.
It's also cheaper than the Tenere.
If you look at the 660R then go for a later model. After 2006. The early ones had terrible fuelling.
This post makes me want to buy another one.
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Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
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24 Oct 2020
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Registered Users
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Join Date: May 2011
Location: midlands uk
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only one bike ........... yam t 700 tenere
xt660 too vibey after a month on one in Morocco came back worn out !
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24 Oct 2020
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Super Moderator
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Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: London and Granada Altiplano
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I would say the XT660Z is slightly lower than the F800GS. I praised the XT660Z when it came out as the only bike really ready for long distance trail riding with its large fuel capacity and rally style cockpit and enjoyed many years with mine. Yes, it's top heavy but that's an advantage if you want quick reactions from the bike. It has a wonderfully wide gearbox.
It's main problem over the years has been poor electrical contacts at the rectifier and there are inexpensive mods you can find on the Internet to address this. I installed the 'Kev mod' to make the engine more flexible.
The F800GS has a much more tractable engine but with a narrow six-speed gearbox. When it came out there were a whole pile of problems but I guess they will all have been sorted on an old bike.
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and enlarges the world in which you live," Irving Mather (1892-1966)
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24 Oct 2020
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Both bikes are very tall. I’ve not ridden the XTZ but my wife had an 800gs, neither of us liked riding it off road - we find the big boxers are much better due to their low centre of gravity.
Sounds like just about any mid or large engined bike would do what you’re asking of it - i know plenty of people who do easy, dry trails on road tyres.
CB500x sounds about right but.........
Classic Vespa through Africa, sounds like you’re a cool dude so my advice is to buy something sexy and enjoy it - the practical bike will come in 5 years.
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