Smighty

@Duplex did you manage to test it? What the results are?

@RideWithStyles thanks mate! So many useful things you've shared...i didn't even think about them. Italians do have some specific charm, I can't deny it. Before we decided to get an adventure bike, we were looking for choppers. The above mentioned v85tt is an adventurer but with a has a touch of a chopper. It might go in top 5 choices for the next season I am currently negotiating with Moto Guzzi to land me a bike for a week or two (test drive) to see how it is to live with it. Will keep you posted! PS: I really do love the V2 and inline 3 sounds from Tiger and v85tt...it will be a tough choice

@Stu I was copying some technical details about m.bikes in this text box before I erased it and typed a new one. It stored format from another website in the memory for sure (in this case), but for me it did not show that it was changed (see the print screen above). @RideWithStyles It is the same if I am paying 13k or 15k. Everything above 10k does not make a big of a difference (there is a big one between 10 and 20 tho ) The only reason why I'm asking is to find the best value for money. Even if I can pay for it does not mean that I have found the best deal. Also, I don't think that we will do big millage on it (let's say about 4-5k per season maybe, and a huge part of it on an open road). I totally understand your point of view. Sometimes the smallest issue can cost me weeks of not riding, just because of the dealership and maintenance under the warranty. Managed to try the Norden 901 from Husqvarna. It felt like I'm riding a furnace, so it is off the table. KTM is out as well because (subjectively) it is not an eye appealing one. Honda Africa Twin feels like a working horse (not for my needs). By accepting your suggestions, CF Moto, QJ Motor and Benelli will be skipped. BMW feels like its a rip-off (although I heard a lot of good things about it). So I am left with: Moto Guzzi v85tt and (did not check it previously when I had a chance) v100 Mendello, Tiger Triumph 900 GT Pro, Kawasaki Versys 1000, Suzuki V-Strom 1050 DE. If anything else pops out, please let me know and I will gladly search for the dealership here.

@fullscreenaging i did not. It looks the same... Strange, some kind of a glitch/bug

For the price we are willing to pay (add 1000-2000 on top) I think that I can find a BMW. Will take a look for sure! Room wise: sadly I'm a bit of a bulky guy, but luckily she is not so we will compensate Managed to schedule to see the Tiger 900 next week, will keep you posted on my first impressions. Also, V-Strom 1050 is on sale here. I can get it for around 12.000eu which I think is a good price for that specific model. What do you think, is it worth checking? as I mentioned, we are not that demanding drivers...a lot of cruising on a highway and between the cities. From time to time some off road will be included, mostly going to the camping areas. I do not like to drive/ride fast anyway so we do not need a powerhouse. But, on the other side, having that power in your arsenal for dire situations is more than wished for (overtaking, critical situations when you need to throttle it hard...) PS: for the DSG transmissions, they had an issue with 6 gears box (information I managed to get from the mechanics). On this one, they managed to cure almost all of those child sicknesses. Also, the engine is on petrol (not diesel) so there is not a lot of torque. It still can pull (0-60 is between 7.5 and 8sec, towing force for 2 tons). And me driving it within the limits, I don't think that it will leave me somewhere far away from home And it's under warranty...even if it breaks down, it will be covered, so no headaches for me One more bike which I found on the market, but its Asian again, QJ Motor SRT800X. They give 5 years of warranty here (and unlimited millage). Do you know anything about it? It is a cheap one and I am not expecting some miracles from it. I will might take a look. Otherwise, I know myself, I will eat myself from within If I buy something without checking everything else on the market

@RideWithStyles so, you would give an advantate to Moto Guzzi v85tt rather than CF Moto 800t in this case I really do respect and will accept all of your suggestions because you guys have the experience and owned (at least once) some of these bikes. Another question: do you think that its worth checking BMW F850GS? Is it okay for riding double? PS: it is vw dsg dual clutch box (7 gears) and the engine is 204hp For now, i am more than satisfied. Also, i am not planning to keep that car more than 5 years (warranty). Probably will get it back to get another one. The same will be for the bike...riding in while its in the warranty, getting it back when it expires and ordering a new one.

There are also some cheaper substitutes for the GoPro. I don't know what your limit is (budget) but there are things like: INNOVV H5, Akaso V50X, Garmin Virb X... Whatever you decide, please share the experience with us! Is it worth buying, pros/cons...

@Fiddlesticks you are right. It is a bit different on that side of the world (luckily). Sometimes it sounds unrealistic to me that there are laws which actually make sense Here, there is no age limit, as long as you are capable of driving (proven by medical checks). But still, licenses are renewed every 10 years which may be problematic. You can get a PSP category (bikes under 50cc) at the age of 16, A2 at the age of 18 i think, A1 at 21 and 24 for A. And yes (don't get me started), there are "kids" around (18yo) on bikes that are well capable of reaching 100mph. The bottom line is: as long as you are driving to enjoy the ride and the machine (and not to be the fastest out there or behaving like the whole world spins around you), following the rules and regulations, adapting your ride to the driving conditions, you will drastically lower the chances of being "assembled" after the accident (or avoid one). I do not know what the mentality in the UK is (but by the things you guys are writing, you are pretty much normal and on the spot) but here everyone, doesn't matter if they are old or young, think that they are the most capable and smartest out there, so they are behaving like that as well...which results in catastrophic crashes... I am sorry for bring this up. I don't have any intentions to bring any dark thoughts or point fingers at anyone. It was just a debate, to see what other more experienced fellow bikers think about the general picture.

@JRH over here it is around 11 grands (in full spec) for the Touring model. Also, they are willing to give me 25% off for the Sport model (around 7 grands total) but it's missing some features compared to the Touring one. They are in warranty so whatever goes wrong, should be covered. But there is still that feeling: will it break down while I'm 500 miles away from home.. And honestly, I was driving an Alfa Romeo for quite some time so I am pretty used to that feeling

@RideWithStyles I'm a pretty big dude (around 125kg, should be around 270 pounds). Used to be a basketball player. On the other side, my wife (the 2nd rider) is a lot shorter person (5'1") About Chinese brands: I would agree and disagree at the same time. An example (from the car industry): I've found some brand in China, which I've never heard of before, but I saw in the showroom in Sofia/Bulgaria (the name of the brand is Haval, model H6 Supreme). After doing some research, I found out that the engine is from KIA (although its written "GWM" because of the license), the transmission is from VW, the electronics are from Bosch, lights made by Osram (premium LED), built on Range Rover's platform...even it was assembled in Japan. Nothing is Chinese except the name and the group (GWM). Bought it last year in November, and have done around 20k miles already (including off-road), without any single issue. And yes, It was a lot cheaper compared to the European brands (and the car is in the top spec, only missing the autopilot). As far as I could research about CF Moto, for example, it is the same "approach". It's actually a rebuilt KTM 790, which (by the stats) is not a bad bike at all. That is why I am contemplating getting one. I am aware that, for any brand-new vehicle bought, I will lose money anyway. If you pay 15 grands for it and just drive it out to the street, it will be 13 grands because it is not a "new" bike anymore. So, honestly, I do not care that much about losing money on it. The more important things are: is it reliable and comfy for both of us, is it in warranty so that I don't have to run around and search for the spare parts? We are not demanding riders, will not climb the Alps with it nor chase bears over Ural Highway (around 70mph), some city driving and a bit easier off-road... On the other side, I am not that experienced and on the forum we can find a lot more experienced drivers who know much more than I do and much more than statistics can say. @megaross I really do like how it looks, and I stand by the fact: if you park your bike and don't turn around just to check it while you are walking away...you have the wrong bike Moto Guzzi v85tt has that retro vibe, an amazing combination of forest green/golden colours, a V engine which rumbles and it feels that weight sits lower compared to the CF Moto 800t (which I like). Although it is around 220kg bike with around 80hp, I do think that is more than enough for non-demanding drivers and that will be comfortable on longer runs. Why am I contemplating? - the seat height (lower than CF) and price difference (more expensive, around 25%). Thank you both for the info tho! Glad to be part of this forum.

Don't get me wrong @Mississippi Bullfrog, I had no intentions of being rude. And I salute you for still riding and being in the shape you are. I am just sharing the experience from the roads over here. So many times I've seen "grandpas" driving in the fast lanes on a highway below 50mph, grandmas (barely able to see) hitting cars and pedestrians at the parking lots... I will not go into any details, and I do completely agree that the main reason is lack of ability to control their impatience. But I still do think that above some (certain) age the medical checks for the driving licenses should be more frequent (less than every 10 years for sure). Cheers and keep on riding.

That is actually pretty good. We are planning to travel with it so its not (kinda) a toy for us i had the same approach for the new car we got this year (avg is around 20mpg). At the end of the day, when you do the calculations and the distance you traveled...it makes quite a difference

On paper it is amazing, and I believe on the road as well (tho I didn't have any opportunities to try this one). Also, every other Chinese brand has a KTMs engine (790 or 890) The only thing that bothers me (it is subjective and only my opinion) is its looks. It looks chunky and sharp at the same time which is weird to my eye. The feeling reminds me of Husqvarna Norden 901 - which looks like Claptrap from the Borderlands video game Hate it and love it at the same time.

I really do want for the law to change: if you are above 60yo, in order to keep your driving license (doesn't matter which one), get your health checked 2 times per year at least (mandatory). A lot of people are in danger because we have tons of elderly (nothing against the elderly people, but someone who can barely see or hear, in my opinion is not capable of driving) people are participating in the traffic. Here, the driving license lasts for 10 years, so imagine that someone who was 64-5 took (renewed) a driving license and driving almost 10 years later without any health checks. I am saying this because my colleague, in his 40's, died couple of days ago in a really similar accident (he was on a bike) and left a child and unemployed wife behind...

@fullscreenaging thanks for the info! I've seen that it can go up to 870mm (seat height) which is really important for me (I'm 6'63"). Whats the average fuel consumption, riding 2 up (on a highway)? Any information about the service intervals? By the way: price goes to 20.000 if you are choosing bags, heating seats/handles, taller windshield...which is a bit above my pay grade at the moment Cheers, M

Hi all, @bonio i checked and Tiger 900 cannot be found under 14.000 in this part of Europe (sadly). You are making it there on the islands and its cheaper for you 100%. The other issue - service and spare parts. @fullscreenaging it is one of the options (taking into consideration that its one of the tallest bikes out there). The only concern i have is the supplier (for maintenance) and every 2nd owner is saying that Kawa could have done a better final finish on the bike. Do you have any info about this model in general? Some xp?

@Fiddlesticks interesting...for some casual biker it seems that there are no bigger differences (except the price of around 1000eu here)

@goat if there is a chance for a new one, would be better (warranty). It is a bit risky here because you can never know how it was maintained... @Fiddlesticks 1050 or 1050 DE?

Hi all, For some time I've been looking to get a bigger chopper bike, but for my needs, it will not be the most suitable solution. As a big guy I am having issues on longer runs (over 3hours) and riding 2 up (with my wife) chopper is not the most comfortable choice. So, we decided for the next season to switch to an Adventure bike instead. As we never had an adventure bike before, I am writing to you (fellow bikers) for more suggestions and advice. We are looking for a new bike (preferably), budget is limited (around 14.000eu), big enough for 2 riders and that its not struggling on highways (130-140km/h). Ride: 10% off road (nothing too extreme), 20% urban, 70% open road/highway. What I've tried for now are CF Moto 800 with KTM's engine (790cc) and Moto Guzzi v85tt. Is it worth looking at the new (on the European market) Chinese brands? Does anyone have any info about their reliability? Honestly, I kinda do like v85tt with a bit of retro touch on it, that its shaft-driven, the sound of V2 engine and its better stability (weight sits lower compared to CF Moto) The CF Moto has more equipment for less money, 95hp (15 more than Guzzi from the parallel twin), a bit higher seat (around 20mm, but both of them are comfortable) Is there any other model that you may suggest, and why? Cheers, M

@rennie it looks really amazing! I know that i will have to "battle" it because of the weight...but i bet that all of those "problems" you forget quite quickly when you hit the road

@RideWithStyles got it, thanks! Another principle which I'm following even with cars..when you park it, start walking and if you don't turn around to see it...you have a wrong vehicle

Hi folks, My wife and I are slowly getting ready for the next riding season (our first one, we missed 2023) so we need suggestions and advises: which gadgets and equipment for the bike are "mandatory" in your opinion? Example: is a GoPro recommended, which helmets, bags, communication devices (riding on 1 bike), phone holders, jackets, gloves and boots, seats... The bike is also a "hot topic" because we are in a process of getting one. It will be Honda VTX 1800 or Yamaha XV1900 (big bois) and will be used across the country (asphalt roads only). Whatever comes to your mind, shoot it it is more than welcome In other words: if you are building a setup for yourself, what would you choose and why? Cheers, M

@RideWithStyles thanks, i will take a look for sure. And yes, she is a short one @rennie an honest answer. Met a lot of them who are really against specific bikes, not because they are bad, but because they are too subjective. @skyrider is there any Honda/Suzuki/Kawasaki model which is similar to Virago which you would suggest? Also, i think that ABS is a must for her...

@Fiddlesticks the only way i could check it out (VTX) was by reviews. And on the paper, it sounds great...but the experience of owning one can be a completely different thing. About the Thunderbird, only one is on sale (2015, 1600cc with 22k kilometers) in the country where I am currently. None of the Storms sadly... What type of the saddles would you recommend? About her and Honda Shadow, I did not...will check it. CMX is "the newer" one (from 2014-2015 onward)? @husoi thanks for the offer mate but importing a bike from Scotland to the south eastern Europe might be a big of a stretch @Mickly I've been finding only 600 and 750 here. 750 kinda looks like a big boi although its 230 kilos

Hi all, first to send my regards and greetings because I'm a new member and to apologize in advance for my English because it is not my native language. To jump to the topic: my wife and I just got the licenses (we are 28 and 24) and looking to get our first bikes. Both of us are in love with choppers/cruisers. The biggest problem is that there is a huge difference in sizes between her and me (I'm 6.63ft, she is 5ft). Also, the weight is another topic (I'm 275lbs and she is 121). As far as I could see, there is no bike which can fit us both as riders - we cant share a bike. So, we decided to get 2 bikes - bigger one for me and something "smaller" for her. What are we looking for her: - bike that she can comfortably ride - bike that she can ride both in the urban environment but periodically can stretch its legs on the highway - to look good (you know how it goes with women "What car do you drive? - the red one") - i know that this is subjective - reliable - not too heavy I managed to run around, asked questions here and there and decided to go for the Japanese bikes (Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda, Kawasaki). We can spend around 5000 euros for her bike. I was thinking about some Virago 535, Kawasaki N500, Honda Shadow 600... For me, another point of view. Would say: - big engine - can carry both of us - for the open road - reliable - i can fit on it Really set my eyes on the Honda VTX 1800, Yamaha XV 1900, Suzuki Intruder 1500, Kawasaki VN 1600... I have experience in riding bikes (dont blame me, i had to, even tho i didnt have the license ) and for my way of riding bikes the weight should not be a problem. The budget for my bike is around 8000 euros. We would appreciate any kind of suggestions, information about these bikes (common issues, reliability, maintenance)... Thank you all and Godspeed!