wasdonkey

Thanks for all the feedback! For anyone who reads in the future looking for my conclusion (so far). Whilst a decision has not been made just yet, I did manage to try a R1250RT low seat and it made very little noticeable difference to be totally honest. I've concluded this isn't the one for me. I did however manage to get a ride on a R1250GS Adventure (with lowered suspension and low seat) and it was a joy to handle/ride. For a bike that isn't far away weight wise from the RT it is amazing how different it felt. I'm going to explore a little further down this route now. No Tiger 900 GT Low anywhere near me to ride, although I did get a sit on a 900 GT with low seat and felt this wasn't the one for me either. Thank again for all the advice, appreciate the quick replies!

I had about 4 hours on the R1250RT. At 20mph+ it was a great ride, I had no issues whatsoever. Manoeuvring (engine off) on/off the drive was difficult, stopping at difficult junctions nervy and slow tight corners & u-turns awkward at best. All I could think about when I got home was being fully loaded with hairpins...gulp. To clarify, it could well be that I'm only used to sub 200kg bikes. Also the demo bike only had the stock seat (805mm) which could be reduced with a low seat (to 780mm) and would probably help with some the above - I was on tip toes. Interesting observation on the adventure - thanks!

Hi everyone. Been riding for a good few years and after some new bike advice. UK based.

Hi, hoping for some advice from the group from some fellow short riders that have found themselves wanting to travel some distance with a pillion. I've found lot's of info about, reviews, youtube videos, top tens etc. but I still don't seem to have a clear idea of what to purchase. The background - I'm short (5'6''/short legs), riding a Ducati Monster regularly for 3 yrs, license for 10+. We've decided a touring trip is going to happen this summer (Scotland, from south UK) and the hunt for the right bike has started. The plan would be to stay on tarmac/easy roads. I'm a confident solo rider, less so 2-up only riding occasionally on the Ducati. I can't say I love the extra weight. Pillion seat must be comfy (backrest/topbox required). Like a bit of grunt. Like gadgets. After reading as much as I could, the BMW R1250RT (with low seat) seemed like a good fit. Took one out yesterday, comfy, fun, super heavy, awkward? I was concerned that without luggage/pillion it was already heavy enough off the side stand. Now I'm wondering if what I'm actually after is an adventure style bike, which, as a short ass doesn't leave me with many options I don't think... (Triumph Tiger 900 GT Low?). Anyway... I'd really appreciate a few pointers: 1) other bike recommendations for a short rider / 2-up trips? 2) adventure or sports tourer? 3) heavy bikes - do you get used to them or will you always feel like you're one dodgy junction away from dropping it? ...and will this be a problem in Scotland? Thanks for any help in advance.