Best GS for a RTW

[sockpuppet]

There are lots of views on this.

People say the GS bikes are too heavy for off road. Some say that offroad capability is not needed as tarmac is everywhere. Those kind of cancel each other out.

I spent long and hard thinking about this as I needed an adventure bike that was also a commuter for the UK.

In the end I just went for a bike that puts a grin on my face when riding it. If I grin 75% of the way and curse the other 25% then I'll be happy

 

[moto1527]

Tricky choice, i am biased but my F800GS would be my choice, ive done over 10k on it now including a euro trip.
I agree about tarmac being in most places but there are plenty of places it isnt, with the 800 id be happy to go there with a 1200 i wouldnt be, in short i might miss out on some with the 1200 but i could have it all with the 800.
You only have to see where Charlie and Ewan came unstuck on the big old bruisers to realise that unless you are actually pretty damn good off road, even quite minor terrain can be a major problem.

As SJ said, i'll be interested to see what you choose.

Moto

 

[hendikaf]

RTW

I tryed the 800GS but the bike is not very confortable 2 up and the price tag is too high ( carnet de passage) , I just sold my 1200GS and will pickup my R1150GSA in 2 weeks ( thanks to a very patient and friendly ADV rider).

PS steptoe , if you do a RTW 2up on a 175 and your wife love it she is incredible or just a big liar

 

[Timolgra]

Interesting reading so far pity BMW don't take heed

 

[hendikaf]

RTW bike

Here were some of the criteria important for me .

bike reliablity
large tank
confort 2 up
easy maintenance
easy accessories to better the bike
electrical good enough for electrical jacket
off road ability (its not a dirt bike)
ABS
previous owners of similar model comments after similar trip
dealership around the world
price / quality
good look
(yes I know it does have final drive and some electronic)

 

[harry]

Best GS for RTW?

An XT600 Yam

 

[immigrant]

I'd use an Africa Twin (and include fuel pumps and CDIs among the spare parts to take).

 

[moto1527]

Best GS for RTW?

An XT600 Yam

Ive spent many many hours on an XT600, quite comfy for slow chuffing along but it would make hard work of long distance tarmac at anything above 60mph, the 660 is a little more interesting of course and quite cheap.
M

 

[Steptoe]

PS steptoe , if you do a RTW 2up on a 175 and your wife love it she is incredible or just a big liar

Of course she may just have a perfect arse.

 

[AndyT]

Best GS for RTW?

An XT600 Yam

We have a winner Although it would be the new Xt660 for me with a larger tank which I am sure someone will be making already, I few sets of wheel bearings and your credit card!! As Timolga says BMW had a winner with the old R80/100GS but never pursued it with a lighter bike (imho).

AndyT