1100 or 1150? Help!

[sat_man]

Ok all, I am new here so be gentle

I am looking to enter your world, the GS world... I plan on spending up to £4000 on a bike.
Now I have seen a few advertised, although as yet I have not been to view, as I hope to buy at the end of this month.(still saving) I have spent the last 2 days reading, and reading on this forum.

Now I am sure some of you will have different views, BUT should I go for the 1150 over the 1100?

What about this clutch and gearbox problem, or is it not really a problem?

I will use the bike both on and off road, and will probably take in at least one european trip a year, I normally do.

I am not concerned with weight issues, as I have had both 1500 GL Goldwing and K1200LT, neither are light.

There seems to be £1000's of extras, addons and gadgets any that are a real bonus if I find them on a bike for sale?

Sorry for all the questions, I have plenty more....... But will await your responses from the font of wisdom.

Thanks in advance

 

[Ash]

a late 1100 1998 on should have no gearbox problems.
i loved my 1100 but i would go for the best i could get be it 1100/1150.

 

[Aidan1150]

Welcome Sat_man.

As Ash has said go for the best you can find within your budget. You shouldn't have any bother with a good 1100/1150 as they will generally be pretty well looked after by anyone on here. I would go for an 1150, but that's because I already have one and love it.

There seems to be £1000's of extras, addons and gadgets any that are a real bonus if I find them on a bike for sale?

With a GS the spending is only just starting when you buy it.

Depending on your height you may like bar risers & lower footpegs or maybe a lower seat.

Panniers and/or top-box are must-have extras especially if you plan on some serious touring. If a bike you are looking at has them included then that is a plus.

Extra lights are a real plus point as the standard lights on a GS are appalling and night-time riding really is transformed by this simple mod. Do a search above for "lights" grab a mug of tea and settle in for a long read.

Some folks prefer ABS, but since my bike hasn't got it I can't offer an opinion I'm afraid. I find the brakes to be pretty good though, but recognise that it's a personal taste thing as to whether or not you like ABS.

Hopefully this will give you something to consider.

 

[STUBBS]

i went from an 1100 to an 1150 then to the 850, it depends what you want to do. if its large miles then go for the 1150, general day to day use the 1100or the 850, i fnd the 850 lower gearing better for around town and green laning

 

[squid]

I bought the 1100 for the following reasons -

1. The head light is excellent as standard
2. The finish is said to be better quality as is the standard exhaust
3. Age doesn't matter to me so got a better condition bike for the money
4. Like the classic look more

But as said, go for the nicest bike not the newest.

Do look for all the add ons though as they mount up.

You will want the following

1. A better seat
2. Panniers
3. good discs/tyres/clutch/drive bearings life or the wear to be reflected in the price
4. Tank cover is handy
5. Alloy top box I find really useful
6. Bigger screen for touring

Plus parts like risers/foot pegs if your big or plan off roading. Protective bits and bobs useful too.

 

[Colban]

Pre 97 1100 can have gearbox problems.A good 98 onwards 1100 will set you back about £3.5K max.You can get 1150s from £3K.
The GS1150 has an overdrive 6th gear and is good on motorways etc.The 1150GSA has a lower 1st for offroad,but a lower 6th.
Best bits to add are better seats,some kind of cylinder head protection,better lights,metal panniers and an alternative screen.
As you are a subscriber,have a good look in the For sale/Wanted section.
Good,usually known bikes and at this time of year,with cash in your hand,you should get a good deal.
Oh yes,welcome to the forum.

 

[sat_man]

Thanks for the replies.

I think I am going to go for the 1150, hope to find one within a couple of weeks.

I am sure it will be the start of a costly relationship

 

[PIGGLET]

I am sure it will be the start of a costly relationship

Oh Yes

 

[rubberscrubber]

Ive just got my 1150 and love it, just starting to modify as we speak, I'm glad mine came with heated grips, worked a treat yesterday