leap of faith

Ladies and Gentlemen.... the long and short of it: most winters I try and pick up a hack which I sell on in early summer. This strategy should mean winter biking pays for itself... that's the theory, and it kind of works. Results are documented (along with more pressing matters) on Bikerglory to which I contribute from time to time.

Normally said hack is supposed to be purchased during the autumn, which didn't happen this year, and I'd pretty much shelved the idea this time round. That is, until a local trader told me I could take an 1100GS off him for a grand. 75k miles, three owners, he'd stick on an MOT. Otherwise it was going on ebay. Rough cosmetics, smooth runner. I figured that was an OK price and broke every rule in the book by simply going over cash in hand, didn't check it, didn't test ride, nowt. (Did know and trust the vendor though.) Just took a punt. You have to bear in mind that although I've ridden many bikes, my boxer experience was a blank page.

First ride confirmed what he said except lights flashing away like a disco - red on and off, then on for a while, then off completely. That'll be the ABS sorted - hopefully

Anyhow, I reckon I ought to get her checked over by someone with passing familiarity with the beast - does anyone know of an indy SW based BMW 'specialist'? CW in Dorchester are up the road but I'd prefer to take her to a small business if poss. (I think some of the CW crowd went indy themselves a few years back?...) ta very much for any prompts, further questions all in good time....

Update... took her over to Bob (Ex CW) at Woolbridge. Runs smooth, pulls well all the way up to a decent speed if required.... Gearbox noisy courtesy of tapered bearings, Bob reckoned he'd heard much worse but if a long term keeper the gearbox would eventually have to come out. Box itself is much smoother than an 1150 I rode for a while back in the day, with easy peasy clutchless on offer. Only other issue oil seeping from sight glass area. You have to be happy with that for a grand.

Very slow manouvering is a pain in the arse, but she blossoms on the open road and you can chuck her about happily as you all know. One thing I did notice was that ageing soft suspenders meant dramatic weight transfer, see saw style... If she was a keeper, I'd have to sort that out - plus the fact that she's muzzled and a bit too quiet. No cat, so link pipe end can and little box of tricks would be another long term thing.

One thing I do know, apart from keeping her greased and lubed up (madam) and mechanically sound, the cosmetics complete with war wounds stay as they are. Wire wheels look like they spent time in the brine. She's a GS ratbike basically but handsome is as handsome does... If you're in SW Dorset and spot an iffy looking black 11, hopefully I'll be nearby...

Welcome aboard!

Think you sort of got the hang of it...

Welcome. Seems like the right price by the sounds of it.
Enjoy it while you have it

Welcome

Sounds like a bargain to me ....

Well done and welcome!

G