safety-boy wrote:Most Kawasakis have adjustable clutch and/or break levers.
If you every get into street riding only, you might look into getting a sportbike lowered professionally. Many argue that you hurt the performance that way, but is the average rider really taking corners at a pro racing pace?
--Dave
LOL erm yea, no pro racing for this gal - I doubt ground clearance will EVER be a problem for me . I don't like the forward position on most "sport" bikes - my aged back and wrists can't take that type of pressure.
Ninja Geoff wrote:Michele, don't forget, when you sit on the bike, the suspension compresses, efectivly making the bike sit a bit lower. May save you the trouble of having to purchase an aftermarket seat, just something to consider.
That is what I was hoping for - that my "not so nimble" bulk will drop the suspension enough that I not only won't need an aftermarket seat, but I also won't need the factory lowered version. Finding a factory lowered version around here isn't going to be easy - I will most likely have to order it and that is a 3 month wait!
Ninja Geoff wrote:Michele, don't forget, when you sit on the bike, the suspension compresses, efectivly making the bike sit a bit lower. May save you the trouble of having to purchase an aftermarket seat, just something to consider.
That is what I was hoping for - that my "not so nimble" bulk will drop the suspension enough that I not only won't need an aftermarket seat, but I also won't need the factory lowered version. Finding a factory lowered version around here isn't going to be easy - I will most likely have to order it and that is a 3 month wait!
Ouch! that kinda turn around sucks! Well, you could always ride out to wherever has it in stock
The BMW is actually on the heavy side of the dual sport choices. It is also the worst choice for real off-road riding, the suspension, even on the Dakar model is not up to the task. However, if all you plan to ride is packed gravel and fire roads, the BMW will be fine. IMHO, the Kawasaki KLR650 is a much better choice, its also lighter and thousands cheaper. The KLR650 can also be lowered at your dealer.
The BMW shines the best on the paved road. They are comfortable and reliable roadrunners that will eat up miles effortlessly.
Went to BMW dealer yesterday and sat on the F650GS - it is a very nice and light bike. However, a bit too tall for my inseam. As luck would have it, somebody had already ordered a red F650GS (lower frame) with the premium package and changed their mind. So, I put a deposit down on it and it should be here in less than 2 months =). Hopefully it is going to fit, if not, I get the deposit back. I might have to take the seat to a car place and have them shave it down a bit in order for the bike to fit - even the "low" seat that was on the regular F650GS was very cushioned and I know I could get at least another inch or so off of there. Everything on the bike felt good, seating position, clutch reach, break reach, etc. I am really looking forward to spring!
getting into this after the fact but from what I've read sounds like you have made a great investment. We have had two GS650's. One for myself and one for Kathy, Kathy's has the factory lowered frame. She loves the bike. We have been looking at others but thus far she keeps coming back to the 650. I traded mine in a year or so ago for GS1200. I think you will find these bikes very forgiving and fun to ride. Kathy does scrape when leaning the bike in tight turns, something I don't think possible with the non-lowered frame. We also put on an aftermarket windshield which has improved her comfort. Rick Meyer crafted a couple of seats for us. Like you, we do mostly back roads. We did take the bikes down to Key West last Nov from the Orlando area. A recent report of a guy riding from Alaska to the Southern most town in South America in the BMW owners mag. With the anti loc brakes and heated grips I don't understand why more folks don't look at them. The tires work very well on the road no need to change them out. We take them on fire service roads and packed dirt roads here in Florida. One last thought, I understand that BMW of Atlanta has a lowered 1200GS!!!
Drool - 1200GS lowered . I have heard nothing but glowing reviews from people who ride the 650GS and am glad to hear your wife loves it! Hopefully it is going to fit me. Do you happen to know your wife's inseam - not just jean inseam but actually measured against a wall with a slim book used as the top of the measurement? I am wondering if I am going to be ball of the foot.
- I doubt ground clearance will EVER be a problem for me 
. I don't like the forward position on most "sport" bikes - my aged back and wrists can't take that type of pressure.
I live in the midwest - as cold as it has been around here lately, I am better off waiting three months! 
. I have heard nothing but glowing reviews from people who ride the 650GS and am glad to hear your wife loves it! Hopefully it is going to fit me. Do you happen to know your wife's inseam - not just jean inseam but actually measured against a wall with a slim book used as the top of the measurement? I am wondering if I am going to be ball of the foot.