Hi Aubo - that's fantastic. Would you advise ... is there any way we can get a discount on these ? I'm actually considering the F650GS SE ( since I can get 6% off list for a new bike . I think they have many crated up the the uk that need shifting . I would go for a 700 if I could get a similar discount.
How long will it take to delivery ? Did you test ride it ?
Mad accountant ... I agree the difference (F650GS SE , F700GS ) is all down to personal preferences. Hey , the single disc is plenty powerful to lock the wheel (abs permitting ) , so I think the twin disc is largely aesthetics.
Maybe if you were making an Alpine descent, two up with gear , there could be less chance of fade with the better heat absorption qualities of the twin disc 700 ? I prefer the look of the F650GS SE though with the grey frame and longer beak.
The kind folks at Oxford let me spend 2 hours on their demonstrator 1200GS this week. It gas all the goodies and the ASC, electronic suspension adjustment is simply incredible. you can feel the difference between sport/norm/comfort!
However , I didn't come away with "I have to own one " feelings.
If you ride every day I can see how it makes sense, but for occasional use, I know the 800CC bikes cost much less to buy/run. They can deliver similar smiles. The gearbox on the 1200 in particular, well the gear change process put me off buying the bike. It seemed to bang /crash with some force into each gear . As a comparison the F650 GS "snicked" neatly without drama.
I think I'm quite a cautious motorcyclist and I ride just for fun. With young children etc to care for , the "real world " performance of a 71/ 75 HP bike is actually enough for me. I think the only alternative to the F700GS is an F800R . They are better value , since they seem to be unloved by the market and 2012 examples with 1500 miles are available at crazy affordable prices.
(Hi Katy Otter - are you in Ottery st Mary ? ... I know the area well !) Katy the base price does include ABS , I think you have been misled.
I don't know enough to answer the seat height question though .. Sorry !