PH Motorbike pool

[Undinist]

Name: Nick
Bike: '95 K1100LT
Owned Since: March 2014
Previously Owned: CD200, GSX250, early VFR750, K100LT, ZZR1100C1, 1100GS (which I supermoto'd), 1150GS (ditto), RSV Mille, R1 and MV Agusta F4S track bikes, KTM 950 Adventure S, ZX9R, GT550, Hayabusa

Why I bought it:

I can't trust myself with a fast bike because I have to wring the neck of whatever I'm riding. This bus is very rewarding to chuck about in London traffic or on B roads, great for shopping and errands and two up trips to the beach, you can throw your riding gear in the luggage so you don't have to carry it around, park it anywhere because it's not exactly nickable...it's just so convenient and gives me more freedom than anything else could. The adjustable fairing lets you sit with your visor open and your head in still air at any speed. It's dirt cheap, to buy, mend and insure. Cheap parts from breakers. Great build quality from when BMW built durable bikes.

What I wish I'd known:

I knew what to expect, I had one as a dealer courtesy bike years ago. This one had done 55,000 miles and been very well looked after

Things I love:

It's fun! Sometimes I go out and play in the London traffic just because. The upright seating position and the absence of wind noise and buffeting make for a very calm ride...you can relax and plan ahead and be smooth and fast in the traffic. (As an ex courier this is a point of honour...I'm racing everyone through the traffic, but without looking as if I'm trying. I know this is a bit sad but I can't help it!) I also like the way it looks. It's from the last century but the design still looks modern to my eyes. The mirrors are brilliant

Things I hate:

The ABS is st - it gets confused on rough surfaces. If you brake hard in order to stop at a junction and you go over a bump the ABS releases the brakes and you go sailing over the white line. I'm sure this must have killed a few people. I really should bypass it. But at least I knew what to expect, my 1100GS was almost as bad. I'm sure the modern BMs are much better.

Where I have been:

Nowhere special yet.

Costs:

Nothing worth mentioning.

Whats Next?

It's a keeper. I wouldn't mind fitting a beefy stereo - the fairing is designed for it. And the standard shock is very average. It's fundamentally a well balanced bike, with a better shock I'd like to take it to the Nurburgring and chase sports bikes. And I might treat it to a velvet wrap.