Thinking of a change?

[Basilbrush17]

Hi
I have a GS1200 which I really have enjoyed and still do. However my wife rarely travels on it these days and am looking for a change. I know motorcycles are a very personal thing, however I am looking at the. 700GS.
Have any members here done a similar thing and what is the F700 like to live with...or should I keep the GS

Cheers

 

[thefooleryoftom]

I test rode a 700GS and wasn't very impressed, tbh. The engine tune completely sucks the soul out of it, leaving quite a boring bike. If you're after something tall, go 800GS. Just as practical but lighter, punchier and more fun than your 12, or the 800R which is more fun all round

 

[Bem]

There are not many that have made this change - but then one comes along.
I knew that downsizing in capacity would have some implications but I always knew that there was GS character waiting to be found. After several years I think I am quite happy to keep on developing my 650 to suit me - then again I always have the 2012 Blade in the garage when a bit of umph is required.
Next action required - Hilltop tune, probably next year now.

 

[ymfb]

I am just starting with my second F800GS, I desperately wanted to like the 1200 GS but even though, IMO, the latest 1200 is much better than earlier iterations but the F800GS is just so much more user friendly, practical and fuel efficient. Never mind lighter and cheaper to buy, service and run.

I have not heard of anyone going from the 1200 to the 800, but I have never heard anyone complain about the 800 either. I think the 650 has the same engine but develops 10 less ponys.

 

[Alan R]

Hi
I have a GS1200 which I really have enjoyed and still do. However my wife rarely travels on it these days and am looking for a change. I know motorcycles are a very personal thing, however I am looking at the. 700GS.
Have any members here done a similar thing and what is the F700 like to live with...or should I keep the GS��

Cheers

try this thread that poses the same question. http://www.ukgser.com/forums/showthread.php/397829-800-over-1200 Keep the 12, get an 8 as well.
Alan R

 

[Basilbrush17]

Interesting feedback, thanks. Test road the 700 today, must say was impressed but that was only a short ride. Might try the 88 gs next ��

 

[Antiquebiker]

I'm lucky enough to own a R1200GSA and a F650GS (2008 twin).
As much as I love my 1200 I use the 800 every day for my daily commute and for everyday running around. It's a great bike, easy to work on and very cheap to run. Great fun to ride and can be used in all weathers.
I use my 1200 for holidays and days out.
After years of keep swapping bikes I finally feel i've got it right.
If you can make the figures work, keep the 1200 and look for a reasonably priced F650GS to use as a daily. It costs me around £300 p.a. on top of my 1200 costs to run my extra bike. That is a lot cheaper than keep changing bikes!
If you downsize to a 650,700,800 a taller screen and a comfort seat is money well spent.
Good luck with whatever you decide.