How comfy 2up?

[DaveK671]

I dont consider myself an experienced rider, only passed my test a year ago and had 3 bikes, an aprilai rs125 (god it was a disaster) honda vfr 400 (brilliant but teeeeny) and now fz6 fazer.

Basically in a nut shell...how comfy is a 1100/1150gs compared to a full on touring bike? My next possible jaunt ive considered is a ride around europe for 6 weeks (8 to 9000 miles most likely) and will have full camping gear and clothing etc for 2. Trip would be all tarmac

Id like a gs but after ive finished paying for my current bike will only be worth 3grand or so, so will most likely be a 1100 id be after.

Whats your guys opinions? Whats the advantages of a touring bike vs a dual sports etc?

 

[John Armstrong]

Almost all the GS are as comfortable as a tourer, but they have less plastic on them

Not all people get on with the screens though

 

[ukaloon]

Almost all the GS are as comfortable as a tourer, but they have less plastic on them

Not all people get on with the screens though

Agreed, I've an 1150GS and it is a fantastic touring bike up to 85mph. Above this I find buffeting and a few vibes. I'm 6'3" so have an MRA Vario screen which is great.
The great thing about the GS or any bike fitted with a Telelever front is they don't dive on the brakes. It is the only bike I've owned where it genuinely makes no difference when my 10 1/2 stone wife is on the back.
Unlike a Pan European that will tour at a higher speed, the GS will be more fun in the twisties or through city centres.

 

[Twotter]

Not all people get on with the screens though

Or the seats, footpegs, bars, luggage...


But all can be changed to suit

 

[Big Lee]

Unlike a Pan European that will tour at a higher speed, the GS will be more fun in the twisties or through city centres.

I`m not sure about that, I followed a group of them down Hartside toward Penrith and they were tonking along having a great time, holding me up on my 12 though
These bikes are excellent pillion machines

 

[Onwalkabout]

If you like to tour at 100 mph then the GS might not be for you (a ZZR 1400 might be more your style). In the real world however the tall riding position and easy going nature of the GS makes it a perfect touring machine - afterall, they were designed to cross continents if you believe the literature. If you are tall, you will probably need a bigger screen and the standard seat feels like it was carved from oak after a couple of hours, but with its excellent torque range and relaxed riding position, it makes a superb tourer (and doesn't have that nasty Pan weave). The 1150GS has a very good back seat, elevated slightly for better passenger vis.

I have had mine for a number of years and the machine has been faultless.