I've just bought a tractor...

[Suitor_Stu]

...or a BMW R1200GS as some people call them.

Short story; moved house in October, not enough room to keep 3 bikes that need regular maintenance so decided I would like something that does a lot of what I want, but doesn't require a huge amount of upkeep

Had a few criteria to fulfill. Firstly, I didn't want a sports bike - the roads I ride (the Highlands) are way too pot-holed and gravel strewn for me to enjoy with something so focused, coupled with the fact that I'm not keen on the riding position. Secondly, I wanted something with some type of fairing/protection - not so much for the summer (although it can get a bit fresh in the glens when the sun goes down), but I ride into November/December, and it can get quite chilly up here! Thirdly I wanted something capable of doing a bit of touring, 2-up with panniers, if the mood took me. Fourthly, something that was going to be reasonably reliable. And finally I wanted something that I actually wanted to buy and own, something that when I actually look at it or hear it makes you just think - 'yeah, that's mine that is!'

My list contained things like Tiger 1050 (capable, do like the triple motor, but I didn't seem to gel with it), KTM 990 SMT (I did really like this bike, but didn't feel like I could ever ride this calmly, esp in low rpms, and wind protection/mpg/gadgets/luggage options not amazing as standard), CBF1000 (good, but I just didn't really 'like' the bike, bit too bland - plus, I don't actually think I'm the biggest fan of IL4 engines, I like to feel like the bike is falling apart under me!) amongst others. I really wasn't that keen on the R1200GS, I mean practically every other bike you see around these parts is one - esp in the summer when squadrens from dahn sahf come up for a bit of 'adventure' but I have always liked the looks and the concept of the thing (call me odd if you want).

Anyway, to cut a long story short I tried one, saw what the fuss was about and went for it. After I came to terms with the indicators I realised it was pretty much what I was looking for - the right balance of power, protection, riding position, usability, gizmos and reliability (although this may be contested by some...but remember, this is relative to a 90s triumph and an enfield here!).

Enough chat, here's some pics of the thing!
https://farm6.static.flickr.com/5228/5590144516_f3a8320f13_z.jpg

https://farm6.static.flickr.com/5019/5589552893_cbe41eb19a_z.jpg

It's an '09, fully loaded with all the toys. Have managed to put the best part of 500miles on her already (got it a week ago), and I can say the electronically adjustable suspension is a joy! It's amazing being able to switch between a fairly planted harder setting for the twisties and a more comfortable setting for some of the bumpy potholed tracks up here on the fly from the handlebars. Akrapovic exhaust is a little quiet with the baffles in, but does have a nice wee burble on the over-run. I'm yet to take the baffles out, but TBH I find that an overly loud exhaust just annoys me after a while in the saddle so will prob just leave it. Also as a bonus, I'm managing to get just shy of 50mpg on a twisty A and B road run - which comes down to about 45mpg if the speeds go much above 80-90 for any great period.

I know most of you won't be interested, but I just wanted a chance to whore! Looking forward to the summer now!

https://farm6.static.flickr.com/5182/5589557045_30f0353067_z.jpg

[rac3r]

Seen loads of these (or ones which look like it) about lately. Cool pictures
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Bikes : 2006 CBR125R - 2004 Monster 620ie - 2004 ZX-6R B1H - 2005 Monster S2R 800 - 2011 Street Triple - 2009 Streetfighter 1098 - 2014 ZX-6R 636

[Suitor_Stu]

Cheers for the karma guys!

[Moo.]

Damn you were right.. looking at those roads, do look a smidge gravelly Cool bike bought for the right reasons
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A2 Passed 18/6/10

[621andy]

Nice
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'93 Africa Twin RD07, C-90,MTX-125,H-100,XL-125, a 125UAG(CG copy!)

[pork6156]

Nice bike, I like them, my friend has one the same and loves it, I am way to short for them which is a shame, enjoy it.

[Kris]

Quality pictures and glad you found a suitable bike!

What's it like to move about etc? Is it a big heavy lump or suprisingly featherweight? Are you a tall chap too?
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NSR125RR - ZXR750H1 - ZX9R E1 - GSF600S - GSF600SK3 - VFR400-NC30 - SV1000N - ST1100-R - CBR900RR-R - GSF1200SK5 - GSF600SK1 - VFR1200FA - GSXR1000K2 - ZZR1400 D8F
www.prisonplanet.com

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[The Artist]

If you wanted to go ploughing, should have got a real tractor.



To be fair that does look pretty nice.

[Suitor_Stu]

[Suitor_Stu]

[Rogerborg]

[binge]

Think these are one of the most "acceptable" touring bikes out.
Absolutely love them. If I was to buy a tourer, it would 100% be the BMW GS range. Love them.

The roads look ace in these pictures too!

[chris-red]

I really like the look of the Tiger 800 I think that would be my choice for one of these bikes.
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Well, you know what they say. If you want to save the world, you have to push a few old ladies down the stairs.
Skudd:- Perhaps she just thinks you are a window licker and is being nice just in case she becomes another Jill Dando.
WANTED:- Fujinon (Fuji) M42 (Screw on) lenses, let me know if you have anything.

[neatbik]

After going from a sportsbike to an 'adventure' bike i would never go back.
I keep eyeing up 1150gs's, but the money they command puts me off.

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[Daimo]

Have to agree, the KTM is a hooligan machine. Best friend sold his R6 for one, and now simply cannot behave.

After having quite a few goes on it now, I understand. Its a bike that you just HAVE to give beans everywhere. He'll loose his license soon im sure

[Polarbear]

[Suitor_Stu]

[Clanger]

[baldy]

Did you consider a africa twin? I wish i never sold mine. They look better than the bmw's imo.
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One day i will rule the world, just not today.

[Rogerborg]

[neatbik]

Nothing wrong with the F650gs's, mine does pretty much everything i want it to do.

[mistergixer]

Nice pics, shame there's some shitty bike in the foreground spoiling the views.


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Space Monkey #7
Don Eladio is dead. His capos are dead. You have no one left to fight for. Fill your pockets and leave in peace. Or fight me and die!
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