Total Motorcycle Community Forums

CNF2002 wrote:Looks great V...I like the sport tourers like that, but too much plastic. And a 1300 I bet doesn't get much better mileage than the wifes car

gas mileage is not bad... it sure is getting more than my bike.

FJR1300 gas mileage

A little under 50 isn't that bad I guess...sounds like it has way more horsepower and kick than anything I will ever need though.

Right now I'm leaning towards the V-Strom, but I'd like to see one in person and get a feel for it.

I've sat on the Honda 599 and love it, but it doesnt seem to be built well for a passenger.

Suzuki does make good bikes.

i sat ona vstrom recently. Its a really upright seatin position. The seat hieght seemed really high to me. the bars are kinda clunky. Like, its definatly a bike you steer, more then lean to turn.

im sure its a good bike. But for me, after sitting on it, I wanted something a lttle sportier. The vstrom definatly didnt feel sporty to me at all.

I'm setting up my FZ1 as a sport tourer. Since most of the traditional sport tourers come wrapped in plastic, then I'd suggest going with something that is only partially faired, like the Bandit or the FZ1. A low mileage several year old one can be had for a good price. Just add the baggage system of your choice (Givi for me), a taller windscreen for winter, and some heated hand grips and you're good to go.

also check out the FZ6, the FZ1s 600cc cousin.

the V Strom is an adventure tourer so it has the higher seat height of a dual sport.

The FJR is a great bike, it has a lot of power its about equal parts sport and tourer, the riding position is very upright and quite comfortable, the iron butt guys seem to love FJRs.

if you want naked the FZ6/1, bandit 600/1200, and BMW R1150R would fit the bill nicely, the SV650 and 599 have more aggressive riding positions so you may or may not find those to be comfortable enough to tour on.

Must. Have. V-Strom.

Is the VStrom a relatively new bike? I cant find any models prior to 2005.

That goes against it...I'd rather not have the first year model of a vehicle.

The 1st year for the 650 was 2004. The 1000cc version goes back to at least 2002.

How about a Honda VFR?

the VFR's are a bit pricey new... but they definitely fit the bill. They have been around a long time, and are very good bikes. I think he doesn't like that much plastic though... and he seemed very pleased with the 599 minus the passenger accomodations.

have you tried the Kawasaki Z750S? you could probably get a better seat and some luggage/windshield. It sounds like a good option. (and for a nice price)

However, it sounds like you would be best suited for a BMW if you are willing to swing that price. Those are some of the best sport tourers in my opinion. One of the guys I ride with has a R 1150 R with luggage, a windscreen, and the whole touring deal. It is a nice bike!