Bikes

Laurence’s bike: 2004 Suzuki DL1000 V-Strom
I bought this bike used last summer and have loved riding it ever since. I used to look at these and wonder who would own such an ugly motorbike, but as I looked for a bike that would be a good daily ride as well as a competent tourer, the V-Strom kept cropping up.

I guess the more I looked at them, the less ugly they became—beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right? Anyway, enough looking, I decided to test-ride one. After stepping off the Ducati, the Strom felt like a Rolls Royce, soft, plush, comfortable riding position, powerful—I loved it and instantly knew that this would be a suitable bike for me.

I bought mine from Mike Kamrad at Hitching Post in Fridley. If you’re looking for a bike, ask Mike. This guy knows his stuff! He rides a lot, touring, commuting etc, and will do whatever it takes to get you the best deal. Try him. You won’t be disappointed.

The bike came with the following mods:

• Crash bars
• Center stand
• Givi hard luggage—side cases and top box
• Tank Bra
• Tinted screen

The only things I have done myself are change the oil and filter, and I have a new back tire on the way.

The screen was of unknown origin, tinted black, slightly taller than standard, with a curved lip. What a load of rubbish! The curve at the top just created a reflection point—very distracting! It also came just below my head and created unbearable buffering from the wind. I took it off completely, and the buffeting disappeared; the bike looked terrible though. This past winter I cut about three inches off it, and now it works—and looks—just fine.

Shannon’s bike: BMW F650 GS
We just bought this bike, a 2003 F650 with 3600 miles. It has a taller windscreen, and that’s it. I’ll be adding hand guards, new grips and a leather seat cover before we leave. And, I’ll probably get some luggage too. Oh, and of course I’ll be changing the oil and filter!

Updated by: Laurence