Wanna buy » Search-challenged newbie with some Q's....

If you're interested in buying a Multistrada, this is the place to post questions about the bike.
Too Many Toys
2008 1100S (Black)

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Joined: Sat Sep 01, 2007 1:07 pm
Location: Iowa, USA

Post Posted:

OK, I've TRIED to search like good forum manners dictate, but I need to get answers on these questions. I'd be buying a new 1100S model. For prospective I'm riding a 1200GS now that I'm keeping. I just want something a bit more sporty but w/o the sportbike ergo's.

1) Does the MTS 1100 cruise comfortable at 80-85 MPH? After the 14 tooth c/s sprocket? My older oilheads did, but the current hexhead BMW's with the counterbalancer have a almost multi-cylinder buzz at those speeds

2) Am I correct that the centerstand is an option?

3) DP panniers, how time consuming is it to remove their ugly brackets when not using the panniers?

4) How is the seat-to-peg distance? Has anyone rode a 12GS in comparison? I need to run the seat on my GS in the low position to reach the ground, but then the seat-peg distance is a bit tight on long rides.

Thx from a future Multi owner.
Too Many Toys...
and too little time

2008 1100s 'Ugly Duc'
MULTIMENTAL

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Posts: 260
Joined: Tue Feb 06, 2007 6:54 am
Location: UK/HIGH WYCOMBE

Post Posted:

Tbh if you're keeping the GS, buying a Multi for it's sportiness doesn't sound like such a good idea. You already own a more than capable tourer so I asume that what you're looking for is a bit of fun. I suggest buying the Hypermotard
Shake yourself alive!
Too Many Toys
2008 1100S (Black)

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Posts: 27
Joined: Sat Sep 01, 2007 1:07 pm
Location: Iowa, USA

Post Posted:

MULTIMENTAL wrote:Tbh if you're keeping the GS, buying a Multi for it's sportiness doesn't sound like such a good idea. You already own a more than capable tourer so I asume that what you're looking for is a bit of fun. I suggest buying the Hypermotard
That's were I started, was going to buy a HM. But after riding it & researching things like fuel capacity/range I decided the Hypermotard was a bit too single purpose. Plus I get in enough trouble with my Motard'ed KTM EXC on the street.

The Multi seems to be a Sport Tourer with some soul. I love my GS but I've had a number of them & just want something different to ride now & then. One of my favorite past 'Sunday ride' bikes was a VFR800. I'm thinking that the MTS would be the same in that it would be a blast to jump on & ride 200-300 miles.

(Plus if I keep the GS I'll have something to ride when the Italian steed is down/waiting for parts) :wink:
Too Many Toys...
and too little time

2008 1100s 'Ugly Duc'
MULTIMENTAL

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Posts: 260
Joined: Tue Feb 06, 2007 6:54 am
Location: UK/HIGH WYCOMBE

Post Posted:

The Multi it is then. They are more than capable in the twisties as I proved by keeping up with a 999 though some tight country lanes recently.

I'm 6'1 and can comfortably get both feet flat on the floor with both legs straight. (31" inseam) I find the riding position comfortable for about 3 hours before having to have a long break.

The standard screen is too low on the pre 2005 bikes but there are plenty of aftermarket ones available. I bought a 2005 one of Ebay and it's fine cruising at about 90. (On a private road of course :wink: )
Shake yourself alive!
sally101
2010 1200S (Red)

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Joined: Mon Sep 19, 2005 1:08 pm
Location: S.F. Bay Area

Post Posted:

Too Many Toys wrote: 1) Does the MTS 1100 cruise comfortable at 80-85 MPH? After the 14 tooth c/s sprocket? My older oilheads did, but the current hexhead BMW's with the counterbalancer have a almost multi-cylinder buzz at those speeds

2) Am I correct that the centerstand is an option?

3) DP panniers, how time consuming is it to remove their ugly brackets when not using the panniers?

4) How is the seat-to-peg distance? Has anyone rode a 12GS in comparison? I need to run the seat on my GS in the low position to reach the ground, but then the seat-peg distance is a bit tight on long rides.
1) 80-85 is a good cruising speed. No complaints from the motor.. I have a 14 tooth.

2) Centerstand is an option. Some owners complaint that it scrapes in a high lean turn.

3) Panniers can be removed pretty easily. It's just a few bolts.. Maybe 10-15 minutes.

4) Go sit on one. Ergos are different for everyone so it's tough try and relate.

Hope that helps.
Sally101 <----- NOT A CHICK!
Habanero
2006 1000S DS

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Joined: Mon Jun 06, 2005 6:00 pm
Location: Seattle
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Post Posted:

Just as Sally said.

I think you will love the Multi.

I bumped the rear ride height a 1/2" over stock setting, that eliminates the center stand scraping...and improves handling. For touring, the center stand is a must in my opinion. It makes it so much easier to properly maintain your chain lubrication. When I am traveling, the first thing I do when I get off the bike at the end of the day is to lube the chain while it is still warm.

After you've done it a time of two, you can remove and replace the pannier brackets in just a few minutes. I leave them attached to the paqssenger pegs and take them off also.
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