I have been looking for a used bike that I can use as a tug for a dual-sport hack set-up (i.e., like the dual-sport Ural set-ups that Dauntless is building/selling). I don't expect to do much off-road driving with the rig, but I wanted a set-up that is very different from my k1200rs and is not so strictly limited to pavement.
Anyhow, I have budgeted around $6k for the bike. My first choice would be a BMW r1100gs (obviously an older model with higher miles in the price range I am looking for), but they are few and far between - particularly in the MidWest where I am at. Consequently, I am now looking at the V-Strom DL1000 as an alternative. I can find a fairly new, low mileage V-strom for the same price. I know the v-strom is much more street oreinted than the GS, but I probably won't being do much off-roading anyways (and light off-road duty at that). So what do you think? Is the V-strom a reasonable choice? Or should I keep looking for a GS?
Mike
Mike, I looked at the V strom before I got my 12GS, gernerally heard good things about it.
Only real neagative, I recall, it that it might have been down on alternator output. I.e. not much excess capacity for extra lights, heated gear, blablabla. Not positive, just my memory.
If you google this, there is a vstrom forum. I'm sure you find out there.
I mention this because , if its true, ths could be a real pita when adding a sidecar, particulary if you want more farkles.
greg
I have had at least one BMW since 1970.
If the 1000 is half as good as the 650, I'd go for the V-Strom. BMW has really turned me off because of the prices of bikes and especially parts. If you really need a hot tub, microwave, fridge, klieg lights, and your sheets changed once a week, get the Beemer. Otherwise, personally, I think there are just too many other bikes just as good.
Thanks to both of you for the input. I just test rode a V-Strom 1000 at a local dealer. Although it is a bit tall for me (but so is the GS), I liked the ergos and the handling of the bike. Besides, the "height" issue won't be much of a factor with a hack mounted to it.
I asked the dealer about the alternator output, but he didn't know anything about it. But this doesn't surprise me since they don't sell alot of V-Stroms (he told 1 or 2 of the 1000's per year). In fact, that had a deep discount on the '05 on the floor - $1600 off the $8900 sticker. But I will look into this issue further.
Anyhow, I like the V-Strom and I am running out of reasons not to go with this bike.
Mike
Mike, after thinking about your post, I think I have decided to also get a VStrom. I have a new Ural Retro,(which I love) but want something more powerful to tour with. Originally was going to add a SC to my BMW 1200GS, but have had 2nd thoughts since i like riding it so much alone (and splitting lanes in socal). Then I thought abut my Road King, which makes some sense, except it has 65,000 miles on it and I'm corcerned about reliability.
So......checked prices, as you have...
Have been in contact with Jay at Dauntless, who I would get the SC from (and get it mounted).
I did some checking re alternstor, it seems like they have approximately 180-200 "additional" watts of power for add on stuff. Not a lot, but Ok if you watch what you do.
try http://11109.rapidforum.com/
send me an e mail
gregkbenner@yahoo.com
greg
Yep, I did some research on the alternator issue and reached the same conclusion. I also hear that a 500 watt replacement alternator will be available soon and will go for around $200. If true, then that will at least provide another option is power becomes an issue.
FWIW, I reached a handshake deal on a '03 V-Strom DL100 yesterday. Barring any unforseen circumstances, I will pick the bike up Sunday. After that, my next priority will be finding a sidecar class around here.
Mike
Mike, sounds cool!
I picked up my 05 black DL1000 this afternoon. Shipping it to Dauntless next Monday.
Just a tip for DL1000 buyers. The seat on teh DL650 is quite a bit lower, and interchanges. If seat height is an issue, use the DL650 seat.
Lets see some pictures!!!
Originally written by redfrogtango on 4/25/2006 7:08 AM
Yep, I did some research on the alternator issue and reached the same conclusion. I also hear that a 500 watt replacement alternator will be available soon and will go for around $200. If true, then that will at least provide another option is power becomes an issue.
Mike
Where did you hear this? I did a couple searches and could not find anything.
thx, greg
Hey Greg:
I came across a reference to an aftermarket 500 watt alternator being available this April/May in one of the V-Strom forums - might have been stromtroopers.com (or something like that). I will try and find it and post the link.
By the way, say high to Jay (at Dauntless) for me. I called him Monday morning just to double check that they could make the dual-sport mounts for the Ural before I called up the seller of an '03 V-Strom and told him we had a deal. Jay said that he had gotten a few calls from people looking for V-Strom set-ups - I am guessing that was you. I have bugged Jay so much over the past few months that it is nice to think that maybe I helped get him some business. 🙂
Anywho, you are moving alot faster than I am. I want to play around with the V-Strom a bit, as well as take a sidecar driving course, before I take the plunge on the sidecar. So please keep us posted on your set-up.
Mike
Thanks for the seat tip Lunatic. Seat height is a factor for me, so this gives me a nice option.
Mike
Mike, thanks for the reply.
You will love the Strom. I have a BMW 1200GS and a Mulristrada as well, and the Strom does very well compared to them!
I to have been calling Jay daily, once I get this close, it seems like a new question comes up daily. He has been very helpful.He has some cool pics on his web site, it is mis-lableled as a Hoanda VStrom, so easy to miss. Its black on black, really like the look.Check it out if you haven't already.
The shippers pick my bike up next Monday, the plan is to have it compete in about 2 1/2 months (i.e. 1st of July).
greg
Originally written by gregbenner on 4/23/2006 11:49 PM
Then I thought abut my Road King, which makes some sense, except it has 65,000 miles on it and I'm corcerned about reliability.
greg
Hi Greg-
My '96 Bagger had 83,000 and change on the clock when I had Pete put the Liberty on it. Got over 85K now headed for 200,000... Reliability? I can put a new engine in it or have this one rebuilt cheaper than replacing the bike, I figure.
Originally written by Reardan Tom on 4/27/2006 11:52 AM
Originally written by gregbenner on 4/23/2006 11:49 PM
Then I thought abut my Road King, which makes some sense, except it has 65,000 miles on it and I'm corcerned about reliability.
greg
Hi Greg-
My '96 Bagger had 83,000 and change on the clock when I had Pete put the Liberty on it. Got over 85K now headed for 200,000... Reliability? I can put a new engine in it or have this one rebuilt cheaper than replacing the bike, I figure.
Its not the engine, its all the other stuff i worry about (clutch, alternator I have had a perpetual problem with, too noisy for Europe, where I plan to ride) blablabla. I agree its cheaper to fix the Harley that but a new Harley, however, I got a 2005 V Strom, with more power, Suzuki reliablitiy, and an extended warranty for under $7,000. That doesn't buy much Harley, unfortunately.
Besides, now I have another bike, which I sorely needed.
