04-22-2015, 04:02 AM
(04-22-2015, 01:32 AM)Rboe_imp Wrote: I've toured on a TS-125 (across the Dakota's and Minnesota - not recommended), CJ360T and a KZ550 Ltd back in the day. This time around I've toured on a Moto Guzzi Quota and the MG Griso. For touring I find twins easier on the mind and body than the inline four. So I'm going to recommend the Norge. Fully faired, very nice motor, easy to maintain yourself (e.g. valves are adjusted with a lock nut and screw, no shims, 15 minute job once you get the hang of it). Shaft drive (I think shafts are nice, no need to worry about chain lube and adjustment, on the other hand, you can't adjust the read drive ratio easily and chain and sprockets is a very cheap drive line rebuild - while shafts can be trouble free, if things break, and they can, it can be expensive).
I'd get a Norge, probably should have gotten one as I keep trying to make the Griso a Norge, but the seating is a wee bit cramped for my 36" inseam.
For touring I prefer a windscreen and something to protect my legs. I lean towards soft luggage but the Quota had panniers and they spoiled me. Still have the soft luggage because I'm cheap.
I'd steer you away from the BMW as in my opinion they are too clever by half making the bike too complicated to service and keep the reliability up. Expensive to repair once off of warranty. Otherwise, it's a good bike.
Take a look at a VFR from Honda. Too much tupperware in the way to work on easily, but other wise a fine machine at a great discount because for some reason it was not loved by the buying public. In black it's not as pretty as your 250 in red and sliver. But they may look too much alike to have both in your kit. Diversity is nice!
The CB would make a nice touring package (look at all the guys and gals that toured on the old CB550's, 750's and even 350F's back in the day!). Personally, I prefer the V twin Griso motor on the open road.
Much to consider here - thank you. The [url=http://www.motoguzzi-us.com/motorcycles/norge-gt-8v.html]Norge is really cool. I think the price might be up there a bit, maybe in the $16k range. I need to look at the used market and see if there are many available around here. Surprisingly there's a dealer in the area (Cincinnati).
Well, I've got an appointment for a test ride on the F800GT Friday afternoon. Strictly an information gathering exercise at this point. I will report back impressions with comparisons to my memories of the 2013 CB1100.