1200 to 800 anyone downsized?

[les049]

It seems as if my 1200 is spending more of its time commuting me back and forth in city driving conditions and not stretching it's legs like i dreamt about when it was bought.

So was wondering if anyone on this forum has effectively down sized from the 12 to the 8 and what are the thoughts i.e. size, weight, mpg, windprotection and all those other aspects of 800 ownership.

Am i tempted by the prospect of the new Triumph, you betya.

 

[TheJoker]

One could say I have, but via a few bikes. I just like the 800 more. I think it's nicer to ride, but not as powerful. It's just effortless.
It's bl**dy tall, it's a bit lighter. The mpg is quite cool, filled up with some 15l yesterday and the trip meter was over 190 miles. Wind protection; I bought a F650GS screen for mine as I like pure wind. Original high screen was buffeting. Either way, changing the screen to your preference is, in my opinion, not a major thing to do and certainly not a show-stopper to buying the bike.

In short, I just like riding the F800GS, it makes me smile. I liked the 1200 too, don't get me wrong, but the 800 just seems more suitable for me.

Go test ride one if you've not done it yet.

 

[Bullwinkle]

I had the 12GS for almost 4 years, and thought it was the best m/c I've ever owned, and absolutely no problems with it either. However, through a somewhat complex series of events, I found myself purchasing a F650GS twin in late 2008, and wasn't sure which one I would end up selling (if either).

Well, after the fall of 2008 and about 4000 km on the F, it was obvious that the 12 was a goner, and in April 2009 it was no longer mine. I thought I might miss the 12 more than I apparently have, but there has been no regrets.

As for the F, I would describe it as being the closest thing to a thought-controlled m/c I have ever owned. The mileage is so good, I get effectively the same range from 16 litres of fuel that I got from the 12's 22 litres. Sure, the power isn't the same, but it's certainly adequate, and the handling and maneuverability more than compensate. The only downside to the F is the seat, which is definitely not as comfortable as the 12's, so I tend to stop more often.

I should point out, that my legs are not as sturdy as they used to be, and the reduced size and weight of the F was what caused me to look at it in the first place. Simple comparison: I would only mount the 12 when it was on the stand, as the extra pork (mine and the bike's) made mounting a dicey operation. With the F, mounting is almost like getting on a bicycle.

As with a few other things, sometimes less is more.

JP

 

[red1]

If you're just commuting try a Kawasaki Versys - you'll be pleasantly surprised!

 

[GunZenBomZ]

Hello Les_049

Please take a look at this thread & the one below it about ABS on f800. It's all good if you don't get a 800 or even a beemer. We are all bikers

http://www.ukgser.com/forums/showthread.php?t=247837

ABS

http://www.ukgser.com/forums/showthread.php?t=245161

 

[dogman]

Yes I did. Had a 2008 GS and then a 2009 Adventure then an F800R and finally chopped that in for a 2010 F800GS. Not looked back, superb machine. Feels as big as a GS12, but handles better, quieter, much more economical, no hand numbness and £4k less to buy. Love it.