Which One??

[farmhand]

Hi all

I think i'm gettin the bug! At the moment i've got a gsx1400 lovely bike loads of grunt. I have toured europe on it no problems but have had my head turned by the gsa.
I had a test ride during the summer on one i think it was an o7 model liked the riding position and the comfort and also the feeling of being a bit different. I think i'm going to give it a go i reckon by spring i can get about 8k together which means selling my bike which seems daft as i can't fault it after 20 thousand trouble free miles i'm a bit attached to it. Thing is i hope i don't buy the thing and regret it? Anyway with that sort of budget what's the best thing to go for? maybe an 08 with all the kit? or hold out for an 09 onwards i haven't done that much research yet but what sort of difference is there after the model upgrade? The main reason for getting one is that Mrs farmhand now likes the idea of doing a bit more on the bike and i think this could be the answer as i don't feel able to consider a full on touring bike yet or ever?
Anyway any pearls of wisdom would be greatly appreciated.

Regards Farmhand.

 

[Wrinkly]

Hi and welcome,
Don't discount the 1200gs when your looking,it's the same bike apart from the gsa is taller,has a larger tank and wire wheels.
The gs is nimbler,much nicer on those back roads in North Yorks,much more pillion friendly(seats).
Which ever you get give it time and you'll grow to love it.

Steve

 

[Rasher]

I just paid £8.5k for a 2008 GS with 6k on it and in very good nick with full luggage and fair spec (Comfort Pack + ABS + A few other nice bits)

I am no expert, but what I learned from the clever chaps around here is that quite big changes were done in 2008 and 2010, I could not afford a 2010 model so went with trying to get a nice 2008 model as this was the best I could afford.

Never rode the GSA and as I will not really go much more offroad than an unpaved track and I do a lot of two-up riding seemed no point even trying one.

Spent 25 years on Jap bikes and despite always thinking I would hate these types of bikes I really like it, probably would not have ten years ago, but right now it does everything I need and more without endangering my licence every time I go out.

Happy shopping

 

[mr badger]

Buy for condition rather than age I reckon.

Nothing better for 09. 08 has better gear change and fuelling than earlier but not hugely so.

10 quite a bit nicer but of course more expensive.

Keep an eye on here for a bike - could be a thou cheaper than going to a BMW dealer.