days, no worries! Strengths: Decent sports bike (pretty much on a level with Blades from that time) with a practical twist. I've both done 10000km in two weeks of holidays, and done plenty of track days, without issues.Engine is bullet proof and a gem

ebgine is silky smooth and since I've owned mine I put a new timing wheel on to make her even smoother and more rapid. I've owned mine for 8 years and still intend to keep her. I'm writing this whilst on the old gal in France for a holiday with my wife

the way through the August Bank Holiday. I've collared a 998 off our good friends at P&H Motorcycles in Crawley (01293 413300) by way of comparison, and a 100% Bikes trackday (0870 8722532 or www.100pc.cu.uk) at the legendary Brands Hatch GP circuit

through long journeys and not even on the bike since its that comfortable i use it on holidays. The straps are large so no shoulder aches when fully loaded with heavy goods but still does not feel too bad when walking around but you do tend to forget you

GSGreat brakesLong service intervals (10 000km)Good fuel consumption Overall: This is an excellent bike for commuting, breakfast runs and taking you on your holiday trip on whatever roads you please. It's easier to handle offroad (for me) than the 1200GS

: Confidence inspiring and good enough for track days with having to fit race tyres. Able to cope with lower pressures for more grip and feel. Overall: Good if you do mostly weekend blasts and few track days thrown in. But if you then go on holiday to scotland

carrying capacity. Overall: I returned from a European camping holiday on a Hayabusa and decided after maxing it out I really should grow up as it was a miracle I didn't end up in gaol.I tested a Triumph 800, a Z1000SX, BMWGS and the KTM came out a clear

. Completely reliable. Very tunable if you want to. Overall: For the money a good beginner's or born again's bike. Very good two up and capable of 200/300 mile a day touring holidays including sustained 90/100 mph motorway work if you have a flyscreen. 80mph

, handling, power, good economy. BMW dealer back up. Overall: I've owned my K1300S for over two and a half years and 18,000 miles. Whether doing 850 miles in a day on holiday or having a blast around your local lanes, its a brilliant, fun bike with all

satisfying blast of acceleration whenever you fancy. It has the comfort to cover big miles day after day, and the carrying capacity for a camping holiday. And it’s fuel-efficient for its class: I reckon on 10 miles/litre touring fairly swiftly and fully