17 mile commute - what would you choose?

[ash reynolds]

I'm having an imagination block with this. I got a new job and plan to use a bike for some of the time as the traffic can be a bit of a pig. It's 17 miles, 13 miles of which will be on the A27 and the remainder is busy 30/40 mph zones. What would you choose from the second hand market that offers comfort, good protection from the elements, shaft drive maybe (happy to fit an oiler on a chain drive bike though), and some decent luggage options.

Is this possible for £2k'ish??

Any help appreciated :thumbsup:

Thanks.

[pessimal]

bigger scooter?

all the protection you want, no chains to mess with, plenty of storage

[Harji]

I use an ER6F for 90 mile round trip. Kreiga R30 for stuff and I'm sorted.

[Dakkon]

VFR750

[MajorMajor76]

The obvious option those criteria point to is the Deauville, surely.

As you say you are having an imagination issue, I'll assume you've thought of that and suggest maybe older BMWs like the K1200 or the F800st or, if you want something really leftfield, the Hyosung GV650 or a Guzzi Breva 750 (all without chain) . With chain, the possibilities are numerous, no?

[Bikesalot]

Surely a big scooter.

Although it'l be stolen soon enough - as with any bike.

[Ilovejapcrap]

KTM 390 duke with:

1. ventura luggage system,
2. puigg screen,
3. heated grips,
4. upgraded KTM comfy seat (ktm power parts)

[Ilovejapcrap]

Ilovejapcrap said:

KTM 390 duke with:

1. ventura luggage system,
2. puigg screen,
3. heated grips,
4. upgraded KTM comfy seat (ktm power parts)

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2014-KTM-390-Duke-Trade-Sale-No-Part-Ex-No-Finance-Fixed-Price-A2-Licence/292743851597?hash=item4428e4ae4d:g:TgMAAOSwdPBbql72:rk:7f:0

[dern]

I'll sell you my blackbird for 2k. I'm pretty sure I've found all the problems and fixed them by now.

[Dakkon]

dern said:

I'll sell you my blackbird for 2k. I'm pretty sure I've found all the problems and fixed them by now.

Maybe

[lazybike]

A Zero electric bike would be perfect....miles over budget though

[dern]

Dakkon said:

dern said:

I'll sell you my blackbird for 2k. I'm pretty sure I've found all the problems and fixed them by now.

Maybe

[podman]

I dont think id spend 2k on a commuter.

Something lowish miles, decent consumables and in a good condition 500-600cc for a shortish commute would work for me.


Biketrader bought these few worthy winners up for £1500 or under IMHO Dont narrow your search to a particular make/model.

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...


https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

[Pothole]

Something BMW with a parallel twin. Belt drive for oil-free progress. GS/CS if you wanna be upright, S if more sporty...62mpg quoted...

This appears to fit the brief. Ugly and boring, though.

[CousinDupree]

Something small and cheap.

Parrell twins are usually good on fuel. An ER6 or CBF500 would do the job.

Don't bother with shaft drive, chains last really well now, even without an oiler. The KTM won't stand up well to commuter use either.

[del mar]

900 diversion.

Big basic comfortable

Easy to look after and reliable.

[BobSaunders]

Are people recommending something with fairings or without fairings? I may be in a similar predicament soon.

[TheCommuter]

Kawasaki ER6F or SV650S. Light weight (maneuverable), cheap, good on fuel and fun also.

[TheCommuter]

BobSaunders said:

Are people recommending something with fairings or without fairings? I may be in a similar predicament soon.

Personally always prefer a fairing (at least a half fairing) otherwise winter riding becomes unbearable.

[Moulder]

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/kymco-downtown-300i/163...

Or the 125 if that would stand less chance of being nicked.