1150 Owners reply
I read all threads because I find them interesting & there are some common issues.
The 1200GS isn't crap, it IS different & it's actually rather good - I found out over a year ago when I first test rode one, having had one on order since Jan 04. But despite being faster, lighter, handling better, better gearbox etc it just didn't do it for me so I decided to stick with my 1150GS ... for the time being.
One problem area all the later ABS GS's has is the servo brakes - my late 02 model included (thought they have improved the feel considerably on the 1200) So I've decided to swap now in the theory that I'd rather have no ABS than no (aka residual) brakes - no, not for a non ABS 1200 but for an 1150 GSA while I still can - I know it's heavier & slower (& more expensive "birdseye") - but for now it's still the bike for me, even though there's many things about the 1200 I like.
I have many 1200 riding friends (would be difficult not to now there's so many of them about!) & would never think of criticising their steeds - they enjoy them & that's what it's all about - that we ALL enjoy what we ride IS what it's all about.
So you probably now can see that not ALL the 1150 riders reading this section just want to slag off your bikes, & I'm sure that the majority feel as I do in terms of enjoyment. I think a lot of the "slagging off" is just the normal banter you get between all bikers in fun i.e. "what did you buy that heap of sh~t for .... should have got a.... like me. However you'll always get some numpty who likes to slag everything off - & they're the ones that usually answer such threads - because they love to criticise, unfortunately rarely constructively.
So dont get upset about it "ktmmark" ride & enjoy - I shall - go to pick up my new 1150 GSA today
Cheers
Ade