Dilemma

[Thor]

I would be greatful if anyone could point me in the right direction, the models I'm considering are:

1150GS
1150 GS ADV

(what are the differences in terms of year of manufacture and also the SE models )


I think financially the 1200's are out of the picture, but if the general consensus is the 1200's are far superior then...perhaps

1200GS
1200GS ADV

Help

I've been (I think) reliably informed that the while the newer 1200's are lighter and more advanced, there are some issues with build quality (can of worms and open come to mind ). I'm on the taller side (6 foot 2 inches), and not exactly svelte (though thats on coming down all the time ). Would mainly be solo with tent etc, though some pillion work also with tent and camping gear for two..no your bl**dy not taking your hairdryer and straighteners )

I'll be mainly road riding, although hope to get off road after perhaps doing the weekend in Wales with BMW. I really like the blue and white SE ADV thats currently for sale in the classifieds, but will have to sell the plastic rocket first.

What say the collective about various models?

Thanks for your help

Thor

 

[letshuntsomeorc]

Hi Thor,

I tried both variants of the 1150gs and personally favoured the adventure for some reason. Managed to get a ‘long way round’ one, so the proper then...

After riding it for 6 weeks and putting on nearly a thousand miles I absolutely love it and don’t regret my decision. Like you I am about 6’1’ and the naughty side of 15 stone so haven’t any issues handling the beast, as you probably won’t.

You don’t mention a budget, so I’ll tell you about mine.
Got it from a dealer with 14,000 miles, FDSH, heated grips, a few other extras (non abs version) and it cost me just over 7 grand. I think it was fair value.
If you start looking for early 1200 versions you could probably pick one up for under 8 grand maybe 7 half if you look around (dealer prices by the way).

The reliability issues are really nothing to worry about to be honest. Certainly from what I’ve gleaned from my fellow tossers.
I went for an earlier one purely on cost, I would love a newer one but couldn’t quite stretch to it, and so I got the one I always fancied. I’m sure a few more fellow tossers will chip in…..oh and welcome to the site.
Why not become a sponsor, it gives you more access to the ‘for sale’ section.

Cheers, Neil.

 

[Sea Lion]

The reliability issues are really nothing to worry about to be honest.

 

[letshuntsomeorc]

OK, OK, apart from new rear shock absorber and new rear brake caliper, it has been totally reliable for the last 6 wks I've owned it.....

Neil.

 

[Trippy]

This is what you want an 1150 GSA SE.
Only 90 bought into the UK in 2005.
I've got one and love it, perfect for you at 6'2".
Pop some panniers on it and there's no need for bolt on rack as the standard one is longer than the 1150's so perfect for the tent.

Forget waiting till you've sold your other bike and borrow some dosh.

 

[Thor]

Now, that is a BEAUTIFUL motorcycle, thanks for posting the pic Trippy . Looks like I'll have to do some serious thinking, was hoping to keep my current bike till the end of the year. Can you tell me how the SE differs from the standard ADV?

Thankyou again for the pic, (now set as my desktop wallpaper at home )

Thor

 

[Flipfly]

Thor, go and ride the different variants and make your own mind up. I have a standard 1150 and love it to bits. My dad has an airhead and feels the same way about his. My brother has a 1200ADV and he also loves that. There are quality issues with all of them. Check out the technical section and it's full of issues on all the models. Don't be fooled though. Many of the bikes do really big mileage or get a hard time off roading and fording etc.I doubt many other bikes would do it as trouble free as the BM.

Difference between ADV and standard is slightly higher suspension, bigger tanks, some have different gearboxes and different screens. I think this is the same on both 1150 and 1200 models.

However you choose you will not be disappointed.