Thinking of changing

Kanazawa

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Feb 16, 2009
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Cork Ireland
Hi all I need your help iv been tempted to trade in my 1200 for an 800, Im looking for your opnions and would appreciate your advice,Thanks
 
Two up not?

Ridden an 800 GS when my 1200 went in for warranty work.... fantastic bike but not much room two up... and I wouldn't want to do a continental trip two up with luggage .... but that's just me ;)
 
Don't do it.

I did exactly what you are thinking of doing. Went from a 1200 to an 800GS. Just under one year later, now happily back on a 1200.
The 800 was very nippy around town, but as Bryn says, there's not a lot of room when two up. The bike would happily cruise at 80+, but felt very flimsy compared to the 1200, which feels much more substantial. The 800 was very vibey and buzzy at speed, whereas the 1200 just purrs along.
The clutch went on mine and was replaced under warranty. However, it was the chain snapping during a fast overtake that made my mind up that it really wasn't the bike for me.
If you're into off roading, then yes the 800 feels much lighter to manouvre around. If you want somethiong with plenty of grunt and room for two plus luggage, you may want to think again...
They are both good bikes but for different purposes.
 
I felt the same as you Martin after bringing the 800 for a few spins and getting back on to the 1200 there is a gulf in differance.Is there alot of maintenance with chain etc,are they as reliable as the 1200.
 
Reliability..... there's plenty of threads on here about problems with both the 1200's and the 800's....

Neither should put you off owning one .....
 
For 2-up and touring I'd stick with a 1200

If you don't take a pillion and like some off roading maybe a 800 would be worth a go
 


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