How do you know when it's time for a new bike?

[jacob_ns]

I'll be buying a new bike to coincide with what I've realized is my preferred riding style. Adventure touring. Enter the BMW F800GS. My dream bike.

[Twisted]

I'll be buying a new bike to coincide with what I've realized is my preferred riding style. Adventure touring. Enter the BMW F800GS. My dream bike.

Well I spose it is still a GS and a twin

[Anaconda]

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-rqbRAn3wIf0/TS_K2kKDWCI/AAAAAAAAAgw/akJH05Dy_xE/CB900-panniers.jpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ImZTwYwCug Sir Mix-A-Lot - I like big butts ( Official Music Video )

[pandy]

For me, it was all about reliability. I just couldn't fight the fuel-starvation problem on my Baby G any longer, and I commuted too much to keep getting stranded out on busy highways. I bought my '06 SV650s when he was born (in November 2005), and I've been a happy FI camper ever since! 

[slipperymongoose]

Are the days of carbs dead when purchasing bikes? I think so I've only had limited carb trouble but tell ya what next bike will be fuel injected.

[Twism86]

There are a few out there with carbs still.

[Phil B]

disclaimer: I'm a new rider, so please state what may be "obvious" to others

Why is heavier, better?

A heavier bike has more momentum and thus takes a larger force to make the bike move in another direction. Thus, as you hit bumps, the main part of the bike is more likely to stay put and the shocks will be forced to take the bump's force, giving the rider a smoother ride. Larger heavier bikes also have a longer wheelbase which also diminishes the felt bumps.

Michael

Thanks for the reply...
Couldnt you achieve something a bit similar, by swapping out to "softer" shocks or something though?

I could use a bit more comfort on the bumps myself. But.. I can barely get my GS500 up, if I drop it. No way I could get a heavier bike up.
And yes I know about the "put your back on the seat, lift with your legs" blah-de-blah. It doesnt work for me, for some reason.
I have to wrestle it up with the handlebars

[pookiebear]

disclaimer: I'm a new rider, so please state what may be "obvious" to others

Why is heavier, better?

A heavier bike has more momentum and thus takes a larger force to make the bike move in another direction. Thus, as you hit bumps, the main part of the bike is more likely to stay put and the shocks will be forced to take the bump's force, giving the rider a smoother ride. Larger heavier bikes also have a longer wheelbase which also diminishes the felt bumps.

Michael

Thanks for the reply...
Couldnt you achieve something a bit similar, by swapping out to "softer" shocks or something though?

I could use a bit more comfort on the bumps myself. But.. I can barely get my GS500 up, if I drop it. No way I could get a heavier bike up.
And yes I know about the "put your back on the seat, lift with your legs" blah-de-blah. It doesnt work for me, for some reason.
I have to wrestle it up with the handlebars

Get a supermoto it will cush the bumps as you will be actively seeking them for fun!  A wr250x yamaha supermoto is lighter than a GS and would be a lot easier to pick up.  I love the ride of the supermotos