Looks nice, congrats on the new ride.
I gave up on the break-in routine with about 20 miles on it and just started riding the darn thing. No metal shavings in my first oil change so I assume it went wellJust picked up the exact same model a week and a half ago. Can't wait to get through the break in miles. I kept the ST1300, could not get my self to part with the ST.
Well, did you pull the trigger?Congrats on the bike. I like the optional centerstand and highway pegs.
I'm test riding one this week. Looking at a white one (2015).
Understand completely, That is why I have the Wee 650 and am looking three years into the future, when the FJR gets too heavy. And when I want to get down to one major motorcycle. Do a two for one trade. Don't know why, but every year the FJR gains weight.The throttle is old style wire so no electronic cruise. I do use a throttle lock to rest my hand. The 650 and 1000 are very similar with same fuel capacity and luggage size. Major difference is engine size. Most who have ridden both say the ergos are better on the 650 and the 1000 has more powerful. The power differences weren't enough for me to spend $5500 more on the 1000 and end up with a higher overall cost of ownership. I'm sure it is a fine bike that is fun to ride but so is mine. By choosing the 650 I gained better fuel economy, better range (can do 300 miles/tank),better ergos, lower maintenance cost, cheaper insurance, lower cost new and a lighter bike. I don't ride two up so power is plentiful.
Chuck, I tried downsizing before and picked the NC 700. That bike was fun on twisty roads around here but didn't work for ME as a touring bike. In a headwind going to RanchSTOC I couldn't get it to go over 65 mph on a highway with a 75 mph speed limit. Not good.
The Versys suits my desire to downsize and fits my simplicity yearnings to a tee. I'm not a Ludite but I think some motorcycles have become too complex these days.
Through out one's riding tenure needs can change more frequently than bikes. I'm lucky that as my riding needs evolved I was able to find a bike that filled a newly formed niche. I guess you could say we crossed paths at the correct time. Five years ago this bike wouldn't have even been on my radar. This bike isn't for everyone but it is for ME. Hope that makes sense.
Mike
Nice set up. I went with the Givi V47 top case which is the same as the Kawasaki branded case just about $150 cheaper.Nice that Kawasaki finally offers a 650 Versys set up for light touring. I set mine up that way 8 years ago.
How often does it need to be retensioned?Paul, no oiler. I lubed the chain at the end of every day on this trip. It takes about 30 seconds max.
Mike