On the other hand DL you'd have to think there'd be some well cared for 1300s being traded if you're planning the jump. A well sorted one of these would give you the Beemer experience at a fraction of the cost of the 1600 and you'd be in a better position to make an informed decision on the 1600 update in a year or so.
I'm actually leaning more and more towards the Guzzi's of late Don, and having just read a report on the Norge, it does looks nice, and is getting some great reviews like you said.I know you like Guzzi's and the new 8 valve Norge is getting good reviews
Only if we go R E A L L Y S L O WWardy :mrgreen::green_lol::green_lol:Wanna drag??
Check the availability or lack thereof of both parts and dealer support. Guzzi's are still built using the traditional Italian "close enough" approach and can vary widely from one to another that is supposed to be the same. If you own a Guzzi you are expected to relish the prospect of searching the Internet to source a minor part or to love being able to adapt a piece from a shopping trolley to act as a valve rocker. Couple that with a zero resale value and you need to make any Guzzi that you buy a life long commitment. Guzzi's are very catholic bikes. There is no divorce allowed.Hmmmm Norge or Stelvio
My son had been trying to sell his 2001 APRILIA Futura for 6 months fitted with Stainys, Factory Panniers, TANK BAG/COVER, Wilburs shock, h/d FORK springs, Rekluse clutch cylinder, 50K, New tyres, could not sell it.I recently looked at a pristine 2002 Aprilia Falco with a view to having a more sporty 1000 V twin for shorter rides, cross-town runs etc.
The bike had done only 19000 klms and had had the universally criticised rear shock replaced with an Ohlins, but otherwise was in beautifully stock standard trim.
There was never any intention of getting rid of my Strom and after a reasonable test ride I came to the decision that the Aprilia was in some ways too similar to my bike, and in others provided not enough difference to have it under the house with the Strom.
It had similar dimensions, probably slightly less performance, certainly less comfort, and I had the same feelings as outlined by K1W1 above; that it would probably require more of a commitment than I was prepared to make at this time of my life.
That, plus the fact that I've recently spent more than I should have on a new four-wheeled toy, meant that desirable as it was in some ways, it was not for me.
Riding home afterwards I had that familiar sense of frustration combined with a weird sort of contentment. I'd love another bike in addition to the Strom. There must be one out there...surely...but what? The old Strom's such a bloody good bike for the type of riding I do that I have strong doubts I'll ever need another. But I can't help looking.....!
I know a bloke who took a YEAR to sell one!:green_lol:My son had been trying to sell his 2001 APRILIA Futura for 6 months fitted with Stainys, Factory Panniers, TANK BAG/COVER, Wilburs shock, h/d FORK springs, Rekluse clutch cylinder, 50K, New tyres, could not sell it.
Ended up virtually giving it away to a dealer.
A real nice bike to ride, great suspension, comfy seat and pillion BUT no ones has heard of them so no one wants one!!!!