What Other Non K Bikes Do You Ride?

[AndreP]

The Versys 650 is the modern counterpart to the K75 only without its Teutonic cachet and spooky whine. 

The selling point for me was the maintenance free shaft drive 

[AndreP]

The selling point for me was the maintenance free shaft drive 

Also the versys I found very twitchy especially for two up. People say it 'hides its weight', what that really means is you have a heavy bike without the benefit of having a heavy bike. That thing blew around on the highway more than any 500 lb machine should.

The whole idea was to sell the versys and buy two bikes to replace it: a scooter for commuting and a 80s-90s sport touring bike. I also looked at a Kawi ZG1000 and a Honda ST1100, but ultimately decieded I didn't want four carburetors in my life.

Additionally, after I finish restoring my K75 RT, I'm starting on a free 80s Honda XL600R.

Before all this I had a 2005 KLR 650, my first street bike. Before that I had a klx300, crf150r big wheel, cr125, and a xr250r with a 285 big bore kit. I used to ride those when I was teenager back up in Wilmingotn VT on the VAST trails.

[Laitch]

The selling point for me was the maintenance free shaft drive 

That was why I bought mine, believe it or not. I live on seven miles of gravel road—half of it uphill—and much of my traveling is on Class 3 gravel. It has worked out okay. Lubing the clutch hub/transmission input splines is a half-day job but I've only needed to do it twice in 60,000 miles to stay on schedule. I had to replace the driveshaft when its socket splines became worn like those on your Brick. I found a low mileage rear drive offered with its driveshaft for replacement.

Even with its relatively short stroke suspension, the Brick has done alright over pothole fields and ruts created by heavy rain here and hasn't been rattled to pieces. Longer suspension like with a KLR, Honda XL650, Suzuki DR650 would be more comfortable, but riding the Brick over those rough roads keeps the quadriceps and glutes in good condition so there's that.  It's been great on the highway—mpg is 48–53 depending upon speed and/or wind direction—so I'm satisfied in total.

[Che75]

1995 1100GS.  Puts a smile on my face but ultimately too big for me.  Will likely part with it this Spring in favor of a dual sport (or another K75).

[mophead]

Its a sickness:

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[grosbeak]

My other bike is also a paragon of durability - a '99 Suzuki Bandit 1200. Carbs and air cooling make it a simple beast. It's easy to work on and tons of fun to ride.

[natalena]

Also the versys I found very twitchy especially for two.

I hear you, albeit a lower ride height. Extra loads on the back really effect trail braking, but the tailgater's are very much held at a safe distance.

[caveman]

natalena,
Good to hear from you!
So you got yourself a 24 KLR650. How is that working out for you?
Are you thinking about the Chief Joseph Rally?

[natalena]

Thanks Caveman, good to be back. I'll look into the CJR get together, as we go to the Beartooth Rendevous every year. The KLR is the 2 wheel equivalent of our ARGO 8x8 .. best thought of as agricultural use. Super comfy ride, and can do figure 8's easily for a tall bike, and handles the dirt roads well. I hope all's super for you! Cheers