MGPHOPEFUL
Reviewed: 04 February 2013
A classic: beautiful, distinctive looks, superb build quality, relatively easy to DIY, balanced.
It's just a stunning bike in the flesh - somewhow the sticky-outy cylinders look so right. The entire package looks mass centralized and tidy and very distinctive (only thing that comes to mind that looks close is the Britten). Build quality, especially body work is superb. Good aftermarket support and dealer network - although some farkle will have to be got second-hand by now (like my $1800 like-new Remus exhaust system I got for $350!). It's an involving ride that also evolves with you and is quite adaptable - I've done trackdays on it that were, a little suprisingly, quite good.
Well...gas mileage is poor (around 30mpg) but this may be due to niggling fueling issues specific to my bike having sat for a long time before I bought it. Seat is WAY too slippery, especially for trackdays - upgrade immediately). Can be a bit fiddly fitting aftermarket parts. Stock exhaust sounds like a teutonic sewing machine but upgrades can be hard-to-find and pricey.
I love mine. Although it took some time getting used to its unusual design and ride the payoff was worth it. A classic sporty all 'rounder with a lot of individuality, style, and distinction. Great, semi-upright, riding position but slippery saddle needs replacing ASAP. Amazing lean angle-capable. Horrible stock exhaust can be tranformed with aftermarket system. Excellent handling - definitely to the sporty side of contemprary sport tourers and surprisingly fun and fast on bendy roads and trackdays. Also a wonderful tourer and day-to-day commuter. Very reliable and well-made. Boxer Cup's Ohlins and other extras worth the extra dosh.
