Need help in choosing my next bike.

[mlavin00]

Hey all,
So I've put about 1000 miles on my 2001 Shadow Ace Dlx this season and I've realized (to no one's suprise) that I need to upgrade my ride. I've decided that I'm not really a cruiser guy and I'm looking for something a bit more sportier but not crotch rocketesque. This past weekend I've ridden my friends Ducati ST2 and demo'd a BMW F800S. I've decided that my next bike will be either the Ducati SR2 1000 or the BMW F800st. But I want both and I'm curious to hear qualified opinions of my peers who have been riding longer than myself. I realize both bikes are a significant upgrade over my Shadow but this is a tough decision. Any and all opinions are welcome. I've also considered the Triumph Sprint ST but I haven't had the chance to test drive one and it may be a bit to powerful for the type of riding that I do. Mostly commuting with the weekend 150-200 mile pleasure rides. I do have 3 medium length motorcycle trips scheduled this summer so some touring ability is a necessity.
Thanks a ton!
Mitch

[BlueBomber]

I have no experience with either of those. In fact I could only guess about certain things that would make you like either of them.

Instead of helping I will give you a list of other bikes that are also awesome:

Triumph Speed Triple

Suzuki Bandit 1250

Suzuki SV650 (1000)

enjoy.

\/\/

[safety-boy]

...Triumph Speed Triple...

+1 / the Speed Triple is an awsome bike. Plus, it seperates you from the pack. How many do you see on the road?

Also, check out Kawasaki's ZZR models - 600cc and 1000cc (1100cc? - I always forget). Kawas are some of the least expensive bikes out there, and you get a lot for the money. When I decide to get a new bike, it isn't "what bike do I want", it's "what Kawasaki do I want".

--Dave

[storysunfolding]

I hear alot of guys say that instead of the beemer they'd go for the FZ6. It's a similar ride but much more reasonably priced for what you get.

[KingRobb]

see the concourse 14 thread ... sounds like a sport tourer is right up ur alley

[Wrider]

Hey, I'm looking at changing to sportier bikes too... Take a look at my sig and look at those three...
Wrider

[storysunfolding]

Hey, I'm looking at changing to sportier bikes too... Take a look at my sig and look at those three...
Wrider

Check out the dl 650 review in Mike's thread. OR check out the review at mcnew.com

So I like a variation on what you want.... no reason

All three are great bikes though I'd put it DL1000/650, FZ6 then SV1000

[High_Side]

Having ridden the F800S yesterday and owning an S2R800, I still prefer the Monster.....and I've toured on the Monster. The 800S is actually a pretty decent bike and the riding position is much better than I had expected. It would have been nice to ride the F800ST but they "lost" my reservation

[wickedrider]

Check out the Yamaha FZ1. A naked standard that basically has the R1 engine. Fast and nice. Touring capabilities.

[flynrider]

I rode the FZ6 a few weeks back and the combo of the high-end engine and suspension with the standard riding position is great.

I tried the FZ1 too. Also very good, but it seemed to be a bit of overkill for the street.