Reassurance, and when to buy

[Keitht]

Hi all,

After a number of different, every faster bikes I think it's time to slow down and enjoy the ride more than the challenge of reducing journey times!
I've most recently had a K1200R and now a Kawasaki ZZR1400, both excellent bikes but starting to think they have far too much power for real world road riding and commuting, for me anyway.

Have ridden a number of GSs before and never been smitten but having taken to 2010 GSA out for a test ride last week I think now is the time to change, and so have a deposit on a GSA 30 year anniversary, which IMO is a pretty good looking machine.

What I'm hoping for here is some reasurance that I'm making the right (costly) move, and advice on whether to pick up the bike in a couple of weeks on a 10 plate, or wait until 1st Sep and take delivery on a 60 plate?

Thanks for any replies.

 

[SilverFish]

Hi Keith,

I went from a R1200GSA to a K1300GT because I was convinced that I needed power and smoothness more than a nimble ride.

I've had a great time on the GT; in its element of fast A roads its a phenomenal machine. However it's just too slow to steer on twisty, windy back roads where the GS (any flavour you like) will show it a clean pair of heels. I also found I was having to concentrate much harder on the throttle, gears and braking, whereas a GS has such good engine braking and responsive handling that it's an easier and more enjoyable ride overall.

As to when to buy, the obvious benefit of waiting for the new plate will be (maybe) a few more pounds down the road when you come to trade in. But, IMHO, you'd be better to get the bike now and enjoy it for the rest of the summer.

If you can time your purchase to meet the end of salesman's quarterly quota you may find him more responsive when it comes to doing a deal. However, as its Summer, he has probably had no problems in meeting that. Dec is quite a good time, but a long wait.

Mike

 

[Tommac]

I too am moving from a K1300GT to a GS1200. The K is a fantastic trans european tourer and I enjoyed some great trips but the size and weight became too much to really enjoy more day to day biking. I always felt that a trip out on the K was a bit of an expedition and just not enough fun. Huge, huge power but that was not enough.

Tried the GS and the new engine and gearbox has convinced me to go back to twins. Hopefully pick up next weekend.

I am not waiting for the 60 reg as I believe the free panniers offer ends on the 31th August and I just want it now anyway. Hope to keep it for many years so am not too bothered by residuals.

Tom

 

[Dellis]

I'm lucky enough to have a K1200r and a 1200GSA. The GSA is my main bike but the K is great for blowing out the cobwebs However if I could only have one I'd have the GSA no question.

Dave

 

[Tiddyrobbo]

You won't regret it, I just traded I. My zzr1400 in for a 2008 GSA on Saturday, after an hour and a halfs uncomfortable ride to dealers on kwack was not looking forward to ride home but that all changed within 2 miles, the GSA is just so comfortable with a very commanding riding position, will I miss the power of the zzr? I'm sure I will sometimes, but will I miss the uncomfortable riding position and ever growing paranoia about keeping my licence? Definitely not! Enjoy

 

[Keitht]

Brilliant advice - thanks for the replies. Have taken the plunge and agreed the sale on the GSA - going to pick it up next Friday with any luck!

 

[marky.d]

good luck with the new bike, i have had mine for a few weeks now and love it