I''ve gotten some good thoughts here, so thanks to all. I haven't received the form from the travel agent to make my bike selection (I'll send my deposit back with that form, but it'll be soon for sure, Don), but as of now, I'm definitely leaning toward the V-Strom or the Transalp. Need to try and get a look at those two bikes and try the ergos, etc. (But I suspect the Transalp won't be available around here--is that right?) By the way, I've been assured all the choices come with side, tail and tank bags.
Main reason is, I've already GOT a fun, powerful bike, and I've got great m/c roads in my own back yard. I'm really doing this tour to see the sights where we're going, more than for the thrill of test piloting some new hot motorcycle. Too bad I can't take the tour on my own bike, but that's not happening. I think carlson_mn put it pretty well (and others too), "all the bikes are nice." I'll enjoy the hell out of this trip no matter what I'm riding. Well, of the choices I have, at least. I'd hate to do it on a Huffy. Can't deny cost is another reason. It's not all THAT big of a difference, but I decided to ask myself, will I still enjoy the trip on a smaller bike? Well, sure. Maybe I'll use the savings to upgrade to a private room--the cost bump is only about the same as moving up one grade in motorcycle choices. After all, I don't want to share a room with some loud snoring, farting old codger who has to get up three or four times every night to pee? I just figured those guys wouldn't want to, either.
I just had one question about one of the replies:
I rented a K100LT. Gotta say I had a blast on the LT. Comfort, power, and it was a peg scraping machine.
"Peg scraping?" I thought there WERE no "old, bold pilots?" :lol:
