07-06-2021, 05:59 AM
(07-06-2021, 02:43 AM)Hovmod_imp Wrote: Just popping in to add three more bikes test ridden:
-Indian FTR1200: The bike I was given had a fw issue which made it a frustratingly sputtering mess at town speeds until it was properly warm, that was interesting. It was easier than my 900SS with Keihins, but still. It’s a powerful bike, and I don’t recommend the jumpy version. Once warmed up, it changed into a different kind of beast: I loved the noise from the twin 1200, and it had power instantly available pretty much across the revs. A delightful push after an upshift, but also plenty to spare all the way to the redline at 9,000 or so. It handles with ease, although I didn’t love how the front end seemed to want to lift off when gunning it. I had a blast, the FTR1200 is fun as hell! (It was never a contender in my Quest, but I couldn’t let the opportunity go). I’d love to have one, but not as my only bike.
Yamaha Tracer 900 GT (2020): I was sincerely hoping that the Tracer would check a lot of boxes, and although it has plenty power, lots of touring friendly details, is ready for luggage and pillion, and certainly handles well, it just didn’t appeal. Oh, and the price is very competitive. But I didn’t *like* it. The 900 triple had power across the board, but it failed to wow me. I didn’t like the noise it made either, a stressful high pitched farty sound which didn’t inspire. I am sure I’d learn to like it more with more time, but one hour didn’t win me over.
Ducati Multistrada 950S: short listed. Fun. Power everywhere, great noise, a perfect mixture of elegant confidence, modern high tech, and madness. I loved how it handled in twisties, and it was very chill on the higheay. I’d need a slightly larger wind screen, and I have to bring my lovely gf to test her seating and comfort, but I have already asked for a quote, this might happen. They had a used Multistrada V4 Enduro, I am also waiting for a quote for that.
It wasn’t as mind blowing as the Pan America, but it costs 1/3 less.
Good feedback Hovmod - useful to view through other eyes.