My patience has paid off, for I am now the new owner of a 2002 R1150R, in Atlanta Blue with the yellow seat. At least I think it's Atlanta Blue, a pale blue metallic.
It's a non-ABS model, complete with side bags, a couple of screens, some nice pin-striping and 66,0000 km on the clock.
I can hear the howls "spline failure, rear end failure imminent!"
but that's why I chose this one, all that has happened and been fixed by a well-respected tech. The previous owner had it from new and kept meticulous records, all service done by Jesse McGrath in Ottawa, so I'm pretty confident in this machine. She joins my 1977 R100RS in the garage.I've added a Givi top box and as soon as I've burned through this tank of gas I'm going to add a Stebel Nautilus horn.
Some observations:
She's so easy to ride! I like the way the engine torque comes in and matches so nicely with the gear ratios. Personally, I find the six-speed box great, top gear is very useable in normal use. Those who criticize it for being too tall should try a big V-Strom, where sixth is almost unusable below 120 kph.
Handling and suspension are fully up to expectations, too.
The seat's a nut-cracker isn't it? I shall be looking into the after-market for something less stressful for the boys. Perhaps it needs time to adjust to me, the previous owner was a lady.
The only downer has been the tool kit. I went to check the plugs and, using the knowledge I've gained on this Board, I used the OEM plug socket and tommy bar. At least I would have if the tommy bar had fit, but it is crimped at both ends and will not go through the hole in the socket. Am I missing something? Yes, I am, an un-busted screw driver. My bad.
So there we are, a new machine to pile the miles on, spend some farkle-funds on and enjoy for what I hope will be many years.
Anybody want to buy a nice 2004 V-Strom 1000???
Cheers,
Tony
