Looking for new bike - comfy, good for pillion and fun.
Discussion
I've been out thrashing test bikes today in an attempt to find a new road bike. I don't go as fast on the road anymore and my knees and pillion need a bit more cosseting these days than a 98 R1 can provide.
Got a couple of Multistradas out of Blade Motorcycles in Reading. I've previously been out on an early bike 2011 but was reliably informed the later twin spark bike was better so out on a 2014 bike we went. Within a few miles it came back to me why I wasn't keen on them - still not exactly smooth, handling was ho hum and it pitched backwards and forwards on its suspension (non SkyHook model).
Took it back and went out on the latest 2015 model and
officially in love. Awesome fuelling, lovely handling, great wind protection, fantastic cruise control, great fun on the back roads
Tootled over to Premier at Didcot and borrowed an 1190 Adventure. I expected to be bit rubbish as my mate's RC8 never fuelled properly so was surprised it was very nice - better than the 2014 Multistrada. Certainly fast enough, awesome value for money (this dealer is knocking these out for £12k) but after the 2015 Multistrada it didn't have the same attraction.
Nothing adventure style appealed from Honda so I took out the VFR800 and 1200 roadies. VFR800 had a nice quickshifter and steered nicely but found engine a bit bland and legs curiously scrunched up after the adventure bikes. Went out on the VFR1200 afterwards and Lordy what a motor! Awesome sweeping A road and Autobahn thing but fun in the UK for me now is on the smaller B roads.
So 2015 Ducati Multistrada winning so far!
BMW S1000XR and Yamaha Tracer tomorrow.
Got a couple of Multistradas out of Blade Motorcycles in Reading. I've previously been out on an early bike 2011 but was reliably informed the later twin spark bike was better so out on a 2014 bike we went. Within a few miles it came back to me why I wasn't keen on them - still not exactly smooth, handling was ho hum and it pitched backwards and forwards on its suspension (non SkyHook model).
Took it back and went out on the latest 2015 model and
officially in love. Awesome fuelling, lovely handling, great wind protection, fantastic cruise control, great fun on the back roadsTootled over to Premier at Didcot and borrowed an 1190 Adventure. I expected to be bit rubbish as my mate's RC8 never fuelled properly so was surprised it was very nice - better than the 2014 Multistrada. Certainly fast enough, awesome value for money (this dealer is knocking these out for £12k) but after the 2015 Multistrada it didn't have the same attraction.
Nothing adventure style appealed from Honda so I took out the VFR800 and 1200 roadies. VFR800 had a nice quickshifter and steered nicely but found engine a bit bland and legs curiously scrunched up after the adventure bikes. Went out on the VFR1200 afterwards and Lordy what a motor! Awesome sweeping A road and Autobahn thing but fun in the UK for me now is on the smaller B roads.
So 2015 Ducati Multistrada winning so far!
BMW S1000XR and Yamaha Tracer tomorrow.
Definitely take a GS, despite the piss taking here. I found the XR quite vibey...
try the KTM 1290 over the 1190. It's a completely different bike and far more road focussed than the 1190
What about a big BMW tourer or ZZR1400??
Must say the VFR1200 manual blew me away when I rode it and I'd bet it's more reliable than a Ducati
Or if adventure type bikes appeal, maybe have a look at the big Triumph Explorer.
try the KTM 1290 over the 1190. It's a completely different bike and far more road focussed than the 1190
What about a big BMW tourer or ZZR1400??
Must say the VFR1200 manual blew me away when I rode it and I'd bet it's more reliable than a Ducati
Or if adventure type bikes appeal, maybe have a look at the big Triumph Explorer.
I've just picked up this, very very happy with, doesn't have loads of electronics like the XR and Multi, which I'm glad about and why I chose it, I had a multi gt skyhook, and it was forever in the dealers with everything from dash, to suspension electronics, to power modes. The xr is amazing but very vibey on the motorway and it's expensive along with the multi.
The versys I got fully loaded with a great finance deal for £10800 with everything on. To me it doesn't feel hardly any different to the z1000sx my mate has.
The multistrada (2011 S model with the electronic suspension) and the KTM 1190 adv are top of my list of next bikes to get - did you take out the S model 2015 multistrada? They have the skyhook suspension (same as the old skyhook models) which would have sorted the pitching - the pre-skyhook S models can be fitten with an ohlins SCU which makes the suspension semi-active too, I've heard this is also brilliant and adjusts on the fly depending on your riding.
Hate to say it, but after riding the multi/1190/s1000xr, the tracer may feel a little 'lacking' with only 100 and something BHP
The throttle on these still isn't great either, too snatchy for me on my short test ride (although I'm sure you could get used to it), however the ride on the tracer is what got me looking at these adventure sports style bikes in the first place - fun enough for a sunday morning blast but comfy enough to waft down to the south of France.
Hate to say it, but after riding the multi/1190/s1000xr, the tracer may feel a little 'lacking' with only 100 and something BHP
The throttle on these still isn't great either, too snatchy for me on my short test ride (although I'm sure you could get used to it), however the ride on the tracer is what got me looking at these adventure sports style bikes in the first place - fun enough for a sunday morning blast but comfy enough to waft down to the south of France.I test rode a 2015 Multistrada S in June and it was simply incredible as a rode bike. Fast, comfortable and most importantly fun. It's was brilliant on the hour long test ride I had around the A and B roads of Devon.The only issue I had was wind blast from the screen, whichever height I had the adjustable screen at.
I then tested a MV Turismo Veloce a few days later as I thought it would be almost as much fun as the Multistrada but at a lower price. Unfortunately it was a crushing disappointment. Cramped riding position, buzzy engine, uncomfortable seat.
I like the adventure style bikes such as the KTM Adventure, BMW GS, Triumph Tiger Explorer etc but they don't have the same appeal as the Multistrada and BMW XR.
I will be very interested to hear your thoughts on the XR.
I then tested a MV Turismo Veloce a few days later as I thought it would be almost as much fun as the Multistrada but at a lower price. Unfortunately it was a crushing disappointment. Cramped riding position, buzzy engine, uncomfortable seat.
I like the adventure style bikes such as the KTM Adventure, BMW GS, Triumph Tiger Explorer etc but they don't have the same appeal as the Multistrada and BMW XR.
I will be very interested to hear your thoughts on the XR.
I will see if I can get a go on a GS tomorrow. I'm not anti them or their riders! I do prefer bikes with bodywork though and the GS looks a bit like a pile of parts to me rather than a nice bike. I have no problem with the boxer motor - a mate's got the R9T which I think is lovely and for an age I was considering buying a R1200S.
I think for this type of bike an inline 4 isn't the right motor so I expect the XR to be too coarse and buzzy. Preconceptions and all that! If it's okay then I might stick the Versys on the list.
Obviously I want the Tracer to be good because it's so inexpensive (even if I have to chuck some money at the suspension) but I don't want it to feel cheap. I'm deliberately riding some £15k bikes fist to set the bar high for the £8k Tracer. All the bikes with the exception of the VFR800 have had more than enough power.
Both the Multistradas I rode had standard non active suspension but the 2015 model was just better damped.
I think for this type of bike an inline 4 isn't the right motor so I expect the XR to be too coarse and buzzy. Preconceptions and all that! If it's okay then I might stick the Versys on the list.
Obviously I want the Tracer to be good because it's so inexpensive (even if I have to chuck some money at the suspension) but I don't want it to feel cheap. I'm deliberately riding some £15k bikes fist to set the bar high for the £8k Tracer. All the bikes with the exception of the VFR800 have had more than enough power.
Both the Multistradas I rode had standard non active suspension but the 2015 model was just better damped.
moto_traxport said:
I will see if I can get a go on a GS tomorrow.
If riding solo, I normally set it to [Dyna]mic mode and ESA=Normal+Solo+luggage over normal roads for a sporty but comfy ride. If the roads are really smooth where you are, ESA set to Hard makes a subtle difference in sharpening it up even more 
BMW's today.
Went out first on the S1000XR. It's not an adventure bike, it's an S1000RR with a sit up riding position. Not quite as good looking as the Multistrada with a droopy exhaust angle and dodgy bars where the boxes go but otherwise good. Ironically I've been looking for a do everything bike (euro road trips, the odd trackday, UK back roads and two up blasts to watch the racing / go to the coast / weekend away) for absolutely years now and eventually given up and this it. If you're mainly a road rider and looking for a litre superbike this is a much better bet than the S1000RR. Super comfy seat, narrower handlebars than the adventure bikes (good), great quickshifter, fantastic grunt and awesome top end.
It's come slightly too late for me. The motor eggs you to ride it like an idiot with all it's popping, banging and mental acceleration and is far too buzzy for cruising on dual carriageways and motorways. A and B roads with revs moving up and down (even just a bit) and this isn't a problem.
Proper hooligan thing - what I need is a twin for cruising / flowing type riding so I took out an R1200RS. Liked the motor but the riding position of low seat and high-ish clip ons now feels wrong - I'm properly sold on the higher seats for comfort.
Finally went out on the R1200GS TE and ummmm lovely bike! Not normally my cup of tea but lots of lovely touches - two position pillion seat, many position riders seat (S1000XR was still comfier), sexy tyre valves in the wheel spokes and the side and top boxes are great - I defy you not to smile when they show you how they expand. Loved riding it, fast enough but happy to waft along as well, fantastic weight distribution and low c of g mean they feel planted and lean forever. 2nd best bike I've tested so far.
All 3 bikes had lovely easy to use cruise control (although on the S1000XR it just means horrible vibes).
Ran out of time to go and try the Yamaha Tracer - will try one on Thursday I hope.
I've learnt today I don't really want an across the frame inline 4 (too mad on full noise and too vibey on cruise), still like a bit of bodywork to look at and don't really want a shaft drive (feels like a chain with a tight spot or that needs oiling sometimes which was a surprise - now felt this on the VFR1200 and the two BMW twins).
2015 Multistrada still winning so far.
Went out first on the S1000XR. It's not an adventure bike, it's an S1000RR with a sit up riding position. Not quite as good looking as the Multistrada with a droopy exhaust angle and dodgy bars where the boxes go but otherwise good. Ironically I've been looking for a do everything bike (euro road trips, the odd trackday, UK back roads and two up blasts to watch the racing / go to the coast / weekend away) for absolutely years now and eventually given up and this it. If you're mainly a road rider and looking for a litre superbike this is a much better bet than the S1000RR. Super comfy seat, narrower handlebars than the adventure bikes (good), great quickshifter, fantastic grunt and awesome top end.
It's come slightly too late for me. The motor eggs you to ride it like an idiot with all it's popping, banging and mental acceleration and is far too buzzy for cruising on dual carriageways and motorways. A and B roads with revs moving up and down (even just a bit) and this isn't a problem.
Proper hooligan thing - what I need is a twin for cruising / flowing type riding so I took out an R1200RS. Liked the motor but the riding position of low seat and high-ish clip ons now feels wrong - I'm properly sold on the higher seats for comfort.
Finally went out on the R1200GS TE and ummmm lovely bike! Not normally my cup of tea but lots of lovely touches - two position pillion seat, many position riders seat (S1000XR was still comfier), sexy tyre valves in the wheel spokes and the side and top boxes are great - I defy you not to smile when they show you how they expand. Loved riding it, fast enough but happy to waft along as well, fantastic weight distribution and low c of g mean they feel planted and lean forever. 2nd best bike I've tested so far.
All 3 bikes had lovely easy to use cruise control (although on the S1000XR it just means horrible vibes).
Ran out of time to go and try the Yamaha Tracer - will try one on Thursday I hope.
I've learnt today I don't really want an across the frame inline 4 (too mad on full noise and too vibey on cruise), still like a bit of bodywork to look at and don't really want a shaft drive (feels like a chain with a tight spot or that needs oiling sometimes which was a surprise - now felt this on the VFR1200 and the two BMW twins).
2015 Multistrada still winning so far.
XR owner here, I'm 2500 miles in and loving it. I'm always surprised when people mention the vibrations, I barely notice them and it's certainly not a deal breaker. I guess all bikes and riders are different though. I tested pretty much all of the bikes you have mentioned and I bought the XR over the Multi because I loved the engine, but we're probably at very different stages of our respective biking careers so I accept its not for everyone.
If you go for the Multi, I'd reccomend the S version. The suspension is so much better and the extra equipment you get over the standard bike is definitely worth it.
If you go for the Multi, I'd reccomend the S version. The suspension is so much better and the extra equipment you get over the standard bike is definitely worth it.
moto_traxport said:
Finally went out on the R1200GS TE and ummmm lovely bike! Not normally my cup of tea but lots of lovely touches - two position pillion seat, many position riders seat (S1000XR was still comfier), sexy tyre valves in the wheel spokes and the side and top boxes are great - I defy you not to smile when they show you how they expand. Loved riding it, fast enough but happy to waft along as well, fantastic weight distribution and low c of g mean they feel planted and lean forever. 2nd best bike I've tested so far.
...
2015 Multistrada still winning so far.
These are the 2 most capable and 'best' road bikes on sale today. There are pros/cons to each, and it really depends on how you intend to use it. For touring, comfort, modcons, and 2-up riding, the GS wins. For solo performance riding, the Multi takes it. As a bike to keep over a long time, there are many many more accessories and 3rd party options to improve and customise a GS to be exactly as you want it compared to the Multi. For luggage, the Vario luggage is superb - stable, rock solid, and the nth-generation engineering of everything on the GS is clear. I love the Multi engine, but the BMW's 135hp+90ftlbs is plenty for the road. Tough decision between the 2, and there isn't a wrong answer really between these 2 - it totally depends on what you want out of it....
2015 Multistrada still winning so far.
bass gt3 said:
moto_traxport said:
2015 Multistrada still winning so far.
So what's on the list still to try???A dealer near me (ProBike in Newbury) has got a Tracer but they do accompanied 15 minute demo runs whereas if I like a bike I'd want it longer - bit of time in town (looking for the snatchy throttle), bit of time on the motorway (people complain about wind noise and buffeting on these) and then a hoon down a wiggly road to see whether it's fun.
Ironically people have chucked me the keys to the £15k stuff and said have fun, see you in an hour. We'll see.
Anything else I should try? These sort of bikes aren't normally on my radar.
moto_traxport said:
bass gt3 said:
moto_traxport said:
2015 Multistrada still winning so far.
So what's on the list still to try???A dealer near me (ProBike in Newbury) has got a Tracer but they do accompanied 15 minute demo runs whereas if I like a bike I'd want it longer - bit of time in town (looking for the snatchy throttle), bit of time on the motorway (people complain about wind noise and buffeting on these) and then a hoon down a wiggly road to see whether it's fun.
Ironically people have chucked me the keys to the £15k stuff and said have fun, see you in an hour. We'll see.
Anything else I should try? These sort of bikes aren't normally on my radar.
currently I'm commuting on the RSV4 which while great fun is as sensible as wearing a Fez. and it makes me ride like a tit everywhere.
So I've been thinking of getting something more suited to the commute.
but here's my rub. Do I get something suited for the commute AND longer jaunts (up into Africa again) or something cheap and cheerful..
If it's a better bike, then I'm back at the GS/KTM/Ducati end of the market. The Ducati is off the list as taking it up country is not a great idea.
so that leaves a KTM 1190 or BMW GSA. GSA because they are the same price as he Non Adv and you get much more kit.
Now my heart says KTM sort of, although having lived with one for nearly 2 years I'm well aware of their failings, BUT my head says BM purely because a GSA is like money in the bank here. The sell, regardless. You'll never be lumbered with one when time comes to shift it. I'm not looking at the new LC version but a late model previous version and while my head says it's the right choice, there's a little bit of me that's dying inside at the thought of the GSA. The bulk, the gearchange, the stupid indicator controls, the suspect reliability,the rocking when revved, the image.
THE IMAGE
Might need to try the Triumph Explorer although new they're a bit more than what I wanted to spend. But at 8500 quid new with luggage, heated everything and other goodies, it makes a strong case. And it's not a GSA!!
maybe wait a few months for KTM 1290's to start filtering onto the S/H market??
Or do I say f
k it and buy a new RSV4 and say pillions are for Sallys and keep living the dream??Gassing Station | Biker Banter | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff