hi guys, my first question. Hoping you can help. I've been motorcycling for close to 25 years now, had mostly Honda so far, but am finding them a little uninspiring recently. I have had a CBR600 for 20 years and 60,000 miles, and had little trouble other that some carb related running problems, a ref/rec, and warped discs. Various small Hondas proved indestructible, read CG125 flat out at 62mph for 1700 miles round trip to Hamburg Germany, and currently a (sedate) NC750X which did a 1219 mile day, Slovenia to Lancashire at 72mph average speed. Yes, I like all kinds of bikes But, I wanted to broaden my horizons, I feel I'd like something up to the minute, some power, style, presence, and with the technology to add to my riding experience or touring holidays. The choice is some Big German bike, can't remember the brand or the stylish powerful Duke Multi 1200 (enduro, maybe S). I'm really surprised at the horror stories from both stables. When I mentioned earlier that I have a 20 year old CBR6, I do tend to keep things, and yet there are owners here, and for the BMW who can list majorly expensive issue with their bikes, at relatively low mileages, and claim they won't keep them beyond their warranty period. When these bikes cost so much.... it makes me think to keep the NC and my 'simple but basic' way of touring, and concentrate on my destinations rather than the machine I get there on. It's done depreciating at least. Would be keen to hear your thoughts based on the long term ownership plan. If you can remain unbiased it would be even better. I'm not suggesting that you should choose me a brand, but more keen to see your views on general reliability and repair cost of these very technical machines relative to the simpler machines of the last 10 years, or those produced now, suitable for touring, which might be reliable options Many thanks
The thing you have to remember is that forums tend to be populated by people that like to moan about "problems". Even if some problems are self inflicted. No one ever posts that things are brilliant. It's the nature of forums unfortunately. The other thing you have to do is put things in perspective. The problem bikes are far and away outweighed by those that don't have problems! Ducati's are as reliable as every other marque. All modern bikes are pretty good. All have different characters. Buy and ride what you want. It's your money and your choice. And welcome Dave
Hello & welcome, Multistrader dvt 12 months old not missed a beat and love it, also have a cafe racer and that's just a blast! Life's too short! Buy with your heart, you'll love it whatever you choose
Thanks for the great replies, you make some very good points there ! I think my next step is to go and get some test rides booked..... I'll keep you posted Thanks again Paul
You won't regret either, both great bikes. The Ducati's are perhaps more sporting, the BMW perhaps might get out of the way more on a long tour, Multi could be more engaging. Both are mechanical and can break down, the older and higher mileage you go the more susceptible to one kind of breakdown, the newer and more complex you go the more susceptible to another. I bought a GS... sole reason, shaft drive. I love it. Test ride one and you won't see why, ride one for 5,000 miles and you won't doubt it. Multistrada will be sexier, faster and more sporting. Chain drive isn't such a chore really, and shaft final drive isn't service free... buy on condition and get a good deal and I'm sure neither would be a letdown.
