I think there's some dood named Joe or Mellow... or was it Bellow???.... on here that has one.
But he don't say much,,, or often.
LOL.. recent comments on my last ride
HERE.
If you plan on doing a lot of interstate riding then don't get the 650. I see a few issues with the 1000 but it's been around a while so I think that's just normal once a bike has been out and put through the paces.
That being said, the 650 will cruise at 80 mph indicated all day long. When you try to push it must past 100 that's where it doesn't respond as well as the ST. My logic is I don't really ride at that speed for any realistic amount of time. Where the bike really shines is the twisties, it's just so light and flickable feeling - coming from a guy that's had 2 STs and 2 GL1800s of course.
The chain is a non-issue IMO.. I have a bottle of lube as well as a aerosol can and will put some on the chain at every gas stop. Sounds like a lot of work but, put on center stand, move tire with right hand and squirt wax/lube on chain with left hand - about 20 seconds if that. I have just about 13k miles on the bike so far and the front sprocket is just barely looking like it might be wearing - if I squint my eyes at just the right angle - so it may be good for 20-30k miles which I find very acceptable.
I put some Anakee 3 tires on the bike before my last 6k trip and they look like they could go another 4-5k on the rear and the front appears like it may never wear out.
The bike is fun right off the floor but you may want to add risers, seat, different windshield and mirror extenders before it's at a touring-level.
I'm not a dirt-bike rider and will never claim to be so I can't give much useful info on that, we did several miles of dirt/gravel/washboard roads and the bike handled well. Having non-spoke wheels I always took it easy but I know if the pavement ends, I should be able to handle it within reason (and my experience level).