Jockser,
I pretty impressed with what you are showing us, and I'm getting more tempted towards owning an XR, can you tell me if your GSA was an LC which is what I'm running right now? It's obvious that you are loving your XR and I wonder if you might pop a few pros and cons into print.
No, I had an '09 version which puts out something like 90bhp from 2 cylinders as against the XR's claimed 160 from 4
Other than the fact that both have 2 wheels and a BMW rondel there's really no comparison
The XR is a sports bike with more suspension travel & high handlebars. Or, as I like to think of it, an old mans sports bike
My back was never able for a leaned-over stance so this is the perfick compromise for me
Pros :
It goes like stink when you want it to but it also behaves really well around town or on small roads
The QuickShifter is brilliant. I rarely used the clutch on the GSA for either up or downshifts but being able to hold the throttle open & go from first to sixth in less time than it takes to count is a revelation. And down changes require less concentration than before
It sounds gorgeous, even with the stock can
Whoever thought cruise control on a bike was a good idea ? It's a great idea whether for giving your right hand a rest on the long boring bits or ensuring you don't go over the limit around urban areas
The seat is surprisingly comfortable for something that looks the thickness of a folded tissue
The stock screen gives sufficient protection for someone of 5'10". It's a motorcycle so I expect to feel a bit of wind rushing past !
And last but by no means least - it's a hoot to ride
Cons :
It goes like stink and if I spent more time riding main roads I don't think I'd have my licence for long
Fuel consumption is higher (& the tank is way smaller) but I didn't buy it to achieve any fuel efficiency awards
The suspension (mine has the ESA so no manual adjustment) is rather firm even in 'road' mode for the bumpy Irish roads but I haven't lost any teeth yet
The heated grips are sh1te
'Mods' done :
Evotech rad & oil cooler guard - essential to protect that huge area IMO
HID lights from
Les Wassall - standard lights aren't great & later in the year I'll often be out after dark
'Mods' under consideration :
Tinted screen, purely for the look
HP seat, see above
Bar risers or 'bar back' cos me little arms aren't long enough & I find myself moving forward on the seat
Adjustable clutch lever cos the standard one isn't and it a truly horrible piece of cheap crap
Was out Saturday :
Untitled by
Jochen Riehn, on Flickr
Untitled by
Jochen Riehn, on Flickr
And Sunday :
Untitled by
Jochen Riehn, on Flickr
Untitled by
Jochen Riehn, on Flickr
*Apologies for all the pics but I've only recently worked out how to post pics from my new Flickr account