Which motorbike should I buy for touring; BMW or Suzuki?

C

Chelle

New member
I have been looking around for a second hand BMW F650GS (preferably the 800cc model released in 2008), but haven't found anything within my price range yet, as I can't afford a new one.

However, I stumbled across an alternative bike today that I hadn't considered; a Suzuki 650 VStrom. I have found a VStrom that is priced just under £4,000 on an '09 plate, with full touring luggage, taller screen, crash bars, belly pan, and a couple of little extras. This is within my price range and means I don't have to spend extra on getting it ready for touring.

So my question is... do I buy the Suzuki now? Or do I put off touring until I can afford the BMW F650 GS? Is it worth waiting to get the GS or am I just being a snob?

Any replies would be welcomed... I need some guidance on this one!
I already own a BMW F650 CS, and think it's a great city bike, but would be looking at selling it to help fund my new purchase.

I can easily clock up over 100 mile a day with work and do not drive a car at all (I do have a separate winter bike), so I will also have to take in to consideration the running costs of whichever bike I go for. Does that change anyone's opinion?
 
I owned a 1000cc V-Strom a few years ago. (The 650 has the same chassis, just a smaller engine) In my opinion, it was every bit as good as a BMW R1150GS for a dual-sport touring bike. Nice ride, with good on-road handling, but a little bit short on leg room for me.

The question is though... If you already own an F-650 CS, why not just modify it to GS specs, and then you don't need to trade bikes at all!
 
If I was you I would get the BMW. I own one and its by fare the nicest bike I have owned yet. They ride so nice you cant even believe it. I would deff save up for the BMW!
 
If you want to cover megamiles over different types of terrain, you should definitely be looking at a BMW. I've just checked out some reviews of the V-Strom and apparently the fuel consumption is lousy, which is not good if you are intending to cover lots of miles. And the bike has to be really revved to get any sort of performance from the engine. Again, something which will affect fuel consumption. Whereas the BMW, with it's large tank and good consumption, will obviously go much further between fill-ups. And if you need further evidence of just how good the BMW is as a tourer, just Google search The Long Way Round or The Long Way Down. I've never owned a BMW, but I've ridden plenty and enjoyed every minute of it.
 
I'm in the same boat. Already have 1 BMW but the V Storms pricing and reputation are very tempting. I don't think you would be making a mistake. The F650 really is not what I would call a touring bike. Get the Suzi and keep saving for the BMW 800.
 
Back
Top