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Inexpensive touring bikes

Inexpensive touring bikes
What for life

If you discover your wanderlust, you don’t have to take on debts for an expensive large tourer: There are long-term, travel-friendly used vehicles for as little as 3000 euros.

Fred Siemer

03/14/2006

The joke is really true: life begins in front of the BMW. Also travel life. Sure, the people of Munich have lifted touring into higher spheres with GS or RT. Confident, reliable, space for man and mouse and bag and bag. Honda Pan European, Yamaha FJR 1300 or Triumph Tiger vary the travel theme just as appealingly ?? and similarly expensive. But why start with the official offer? Who says that travelers absolutely need the full liter? Many don’t even want a disguise. The ergonomic requirements differ depending on the size and number of the crew: adventurers love things compact, tent vacationers spacious. And if you don’t want to go around the world right away, you can confidently start with a good used car. Here are some general tips.

Travelers generally appreciate a low-maintenance engine. If it vibrates little: great on long journeys. That counts less in the cornering area. You can also live well with an open O-ring chain. Lubricating the chain four times and tensioning it once is in any case less annoying than the tight damping and suspension of some cardan machines, with which they fight against their higher unsprung masses. Guzzisti know what we’re talking about.
A lot of range is great, but large tanks can also have disadvantages
A long range never hurts. Other-
On the other hand, hardly any holidaymaker drives more than 250 kilometers at a time. Almost every all-rounder can do this, and they are enough for Europe’s petrol station network. Always when a reliable-
cool fuel gauge or ?? even better ?? there is a fuel tap on board. Incidentally, large tanks not only have advantages: with many travel enduros, a tank bag is very high, which narrows and hinders a clear view of the instruments. In addition, this moves the center of gravity upwards ?? and that in turn can have an attack-like effect in tight bends or when maneuvering. The first Honda Africa Twin was such a candidate, newer examples of the Parade Enduro bunker a large part of their fuel supply deep in the frame triangle. The twin’s little sister, the Transalp, was annoying for a long time with a strikingly attached fuel cap. Nobody needs it if the tank bag is supposed to fit tightly.
A high payload is very important for traveling in a duet. After all, two people with equipment easily weighs 150 kilograms. And even if you go on tour without a tent, you can quickly collect a hundredweight of luggage including the storage containers. A simple calculation, but the manufacturers still often can’t figure it out. For example, Yamaha’s XJ 600 S is not allowed to haul 170 kilos. Legally, illegally and in reality, of course, it creates more.
Two-person crews cannot avoid suitcases, and their porters should logically be close to the center of the vehicle-
dock. Impossible with almost all travel enduros, the plastic parts hang not only at lofty heights, but also far out because of the raised rear silencers. The additional weight is therefore great leverage to nega-
to interfere with steering behavior. Even soloists with full suitcases can
otherwise good companions mutate into egg crates. Gladly and extravagantly-
worn, for example, by the BMW two-valve enduro bikes, but also by old Yamaha XJ all-rounders.
Those who avoid small gravel paths do not need a thoroughbred enduro with a narrow seat suitable for gymnastics. On the other hand, committed upholsterers can comfortably furnish such torture chairs from 100 euros. Cyclist’s underpants with seat pads in the crotch area also help. A convenient serial bank can
Of course, it doesn’t hurt, especially one that doesn’t fixate too much. Slipping around not only invigorates the seat meat, no, the flexion angles of the torso, upper and lower legs need to be varied, otherwise it will hurt at some point. If you drive in pairs, you will be happy about a bench that rises slightly backwards, otherwise your companion will inevitably hang in your back every time you brake.
The pillion actually needs more seating comfort than the driver
In general: for the pillion must actually-
for the seat to be more comfortable than for
the driver. Has nothing else to do
than to sit. Experience has shown that a box of two should have a bench length of at least 630 millimeters. More is better ?? Keyword sliding around. Measurements are made from the end to the usable beginning of the bench. Ergo forgot everything that protrudes from the tank. The upholstery has to be firm, but pliable, cuddly soft usually only means that it will sit through quickly. It should also have gently rounded edges. The driver still has to check the knee joint? with a prophetic sense: What is possible on short journeys can become torture on long-distance trips. Too tight bulges in the tank like in Yamaha’s first Fazer, for example.
Ideally, there should only be adjustable footpegs. If this is not the case: Most people enjoy flexing angles of 60 degrees or more between the lower and upper thighs over the long term. It also depends on the clothes. It is just as important that the pegs provide a proper support point to withstand the wind. This is a problem with the otherwise extremely comfortable BMW F 650, for example. A lot of long people put their walking tools there on the rear notches when driving on the motorway? not a real solution. Finally, personal driving style also plays a role in the seat test. If you like to travel fast, the Kawa GPZ 500 or Honda CBR 600 can fit like a glove. If you use your motorcycle as a rolling observation tower, you need it more comfortably.
And that also needs a more comfortable suspension. Guideline values ​​for the necessary length of the spring travel cannot be given. It depends on how skillfully the designers use the available centimeters. Made a bad example
a few years ago Suzuki, whose famous travel enduro Freewind is already pressing the rubber stop with its full crew. So either travel solo or equip the shock absorber with a proper spring from the accessories. What is by no means only true for the Suzuki: Many bikes need more progressive acting springs (inexpensive) or even stronger struts (expensive) before they go on tour under full load.
Many bikes can use more progressive fork springs
The Freewind example shows: if possible, start a test drive with the load planned for later. Quite a few motorcycles take their oath of disclosure. Kawasaki’s Zephyr 750 is one of them, whose series spring elements are only suitable for soloists. Most inexpensive middle-graders notice that their forks do not have enough reserves when they brake for the first time with a high payload. As a result, you save money if the previous owner has already retrofitted harder springs. An existing luggage system has an equally positive impact. The new ones cost from 350 euros, used ones in reasonable condition are rare, while the parts are hardly reflected in the price of a used machine. Basically, the rear frame of a touring bike needs careful inspection: especially on lightweight motorcycles, the extreme loads caused by heavily loaded suitcases can lead to cracks in the welded seams. What could be learned from the fact that traveling by motorcycle lives from the restriction. Even with luggage.

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Not a big BMW?

Not a big BMW?
No, not a big BMW. Of course, the Bavarians have somehow new to touring with K and R models
invented. But you can already pay for the corresponding qualities well from the start. Which leads to BMW becoming a used segment-
ter 3000 euros can almost only contribute with very old bikes. There may be one or the other sweetheart among them. Especially the one that is often misunderstood
K 75 or the younger two-valve boxer R 100 R,
R 80 GS or R 100 GS are worth a look. But: Almost in principle, they have many kilometers
under their belt and are then even more difficult to judge from the cold kitchen than others
Motorcycles. With the two-valve engines, the valve seats were always a sensitive issue, with all BMWs the gearbox, with some also the final drive. The maintenance condition is mostly okay, however, the equipment is almost always upscale. What remains? If you really want it to be white-blue, be sure to bring a knowledgeable buddy with you who is familiar with all the relevant rattling, whistling and grinding noises. Or keep saving and spend 2000 euros more.

Honda CB 500 and Kawasaki ER-5 – the long-running hits

Honda CB 500 and Kawasaki ER-5 ??
the long-running hits
Okay, prestige items look different. But tourists want to discover countries and not be discovered themselves. Therefore the Honda CB 500 or the Kawasaki ER-5 are recommended to all soloists. Thanks to the wide range is for
to get a very well-maintained specimen with a maximum of 30,000 kilometers for less than 2500 euros. There is still money left for a case system! The legendary robust, water-cooled twins last forever, the oil change intervals of the CB are also eternally long at 12,000 kilometers. In its open version with 57 or 58 hp, the astonishingly economical Honda Twin plays ?? Frequent stirring in a good six-speed gearbox required ?? the little hero on the country road, but CB and ER-5 also do well with 50 HP. Long highway chases or low-revving strolls can be tolerated just as easily. The comfortably tuned and handy chassis thanks to the installation of progressive fork springs and higher quality struts with a respectable sporting spirit. The seating position is perfect for big and small alike, and if you have a fat tank bag in front of your chest, you can
do without the draft shield of the semi-clad CB version, which was also offered from 1998. In terms of processing quality, the Honda is a touch ahead, but the cheaper Kawa scores with even more agility and equipment.
Tip: First go looking for 2000 euros

Technical data: Honda CB 500 + Kawasaki ER-5

Honda CB 500 (model 2000, uncovered version): n water-cooled two-cylinder in-line engine n 499 cm3 n 34/50/57 hp
n Weight with a full tank of 194 kg n Payload 180 kg n Tank capacity 18 l n Consumption approx. 4.5 l / 100 km
Kawasaki ER-5 (model 2000): n water-cooled two-cylinder in-line engine n 34/50 hp n weight 195 kg with a full tank n load 180 kg n tank capacity 16 l n consumption approx. 5.3 l / 100 km

Kawasaki GPZ 500

Kawasaki GPZ 500
Clearly only suitable for soloists, the good quality GPZ offers a crisp chassis and good brakes, open with
60 HP can the Kawa-Twin show what it’s made of? a lot of fun.
(Model 1997): n water-cooled two-cylinder in-line engine n 499 cm3 n 34/50/60 hp
n Weight with a full tank of 202 kg n Payload 178 kg n Tank capacity 18 l n Consumption approx. 5.1 l / 100 km

Suzuki GS 500

Suzuki GS 500
The robust engine needs to be turned,
the seating position is pretty sporty at the bottom, the super agile chassis only lacks harder fork springs. Be sure to check the frame for rust.
(Model 2000): n air-cooled two-
cylinder in-line engine n 487 cm3 n 34/45 hp
n Weight with a full tank 189 kg n Payload 191 kg
n Tank capacity 17 l n Consumption approx. 4.9 l / 100 km

Suzuki Bandit 600 / S

Suzuki Bandit 600 / S
A fine four-cylinder in a neat one
Landing gear. Both of them are not averse to sporty activities when the fork springs have been replaced. Small processing weaknesses, but fundamentally solid.
(Model 2000): n air / oil-cooled four-
cylinder in-line engine n 600 cm3 n 34/78 hp
n Weight with a full tank of 230 kg n Payload 210 kg
n Tank capacity 20 l n Consumption approx. 6.3 l / 100 km

Honda XLV 600 Transalp ?? the travel classic

Honda XLV 600 Transalp ?? the travel classic
The range of 600er Transalp, which cost a maximum of 3000 euros, is limited, the 650er generally costs more. But if you have the time or can pack on 300, 400 euros for the 650, you should definitely look around: This Honda is top notch. The 50 hp of the virtually indestructible engine are easily enough for 140, 150 km / h when fully loaded, in the target area it pampers you with a gentle but safe acceleration from the lowest speeds and smooth running. Despite all the comfort, the chassis is not afraid of the sports lesson, off-road this Honda behaves better than equally heavy single-cylinder colleagues: Your V-Twin pulls better from below, the 21-inch front wheel stubbornly holds the course. The brakes meet the class standard, it wasn’t until 1998 that there was a double disc brake at the front. The towering tank cap remained until 2000 and makes the safe assembly of a tank bag difficult. The equipment with effective cladding, large and well-padded bench and complete instrumentation can be considered upscale in this class.
Tip: Mileage below 40,000 km is rarely available for 3,000 euros

Technical data: Honda XLV 600 Transalp

(1997 model): n water-cooled two-cylinder V-engine n 583 cm3
n 34/50 hp n weight with full tank 206 kg n load 176 kg n tank capacity 18 l
n Consumption approx. 5.1 l / 100 km

BMW F 650 ?? the highway sweeper

BMW F 650 ?? the highway sweeper
Those who rarely take gravel under their wheels will find a solid and comfortable travel partner in the BMW F 650, which, unlike the Dominator ?? assuming a little affection? tours with a passenger are also allowed. Because of its 19-inch front wheel and the somewhat rough engine characteristics below, the F is less suitable for tricky off-road passages. On asphalt, however, it mercilessly exploits the advantages of its fiery four-valve engine. In addition, the BMW comes with a touring bench as standard. Unfortunately, long riders are disturbed by the footrest position, which at high speeds does not offer a good support point to brace against the wind. Many use the rear notches on the autobahn, a higher windshield or a flatter handlebar seem to be the more sensible solutions. The BMW luggage system is very solid and practical. The tank shape is less suitable for travel, as only specially cut backpacks fit. The processing is above the class standard, the Rotax engine can easily handle over 50,000 kilometers.
Tip: put down almost 3000 euros, buy low mileage for it

Technical data: BMW F 650

(Model 1997): n water-cooled single cylinder engine n 652 cm3
n 34/48 hp n weight with a full tank of 203 kg n load 168 kg n tank capacity 17.5 l
n Consumption approx. 5.7 l / 100 km

Honda Dominator ?? one for all

Honda Dominator ?? one for all
For years, the Honda Dominator has been the perfect choice for those who want to drive all roads. How many enduros does she carry a narrow and poorly padded bench? the car upholsterer on site can help. When driving downhill quickly with two people, your front brake tends to fade, and dismantling the window cover provides relief. Slope climber
the air filter could be annoying: Because the cover to the rear wheel is a bit tight, the engine snorkels a lot of dust, the filter clogs. Otherwise, the air-cooled and extremely robust four-valve single convinces with good manners, pulls through briskly thanks to the »short« final translation and revs up cheerfully. In connection with a great gearbox and the comparatively stiff chassis, it enables exuberant pleasures on country roads, at high freeway speeds it is happy to take one
Extra mouthful. From 1996 the Dominator came from the Italian Honda factory, initially there were problems with rust in the tank (since 1992 it holds 16 instead
13 liters), after which the workmanship kept the usual high Honda level.
Tip: Put down a good 2000 euros for the newer 20,000-kilometer copy

Technical data: Honda Dominator

(Model 1997): n air-cooled single cylinder engine n 644 cm3
n 34/44 hp n weight with a full tank 183 kg n load 180 kg n tank capacity 16 l
n Consumption approx. 5.0 l / 100 km

Aprilia Pegaso

Aprilia Pegaso
Closely related to the engine and just as robust as the BMW F 650, but significantly cheaper on the used market. Recommended for tourists: the version from 1997 with a 22 liter tank and very comfortable chassis.
(1997 model): n water-cooled one-
cylinder engine n 652 cm3 n 34/49 hp n weight with a full tank 201 kg n load 179 kg n tank capacity 22 l n consumption approx. 5.8 l / 100 km

Suzuki Freewind

Suzuki Freewind
Great concept, cheap offers. Early Freewind, however, often had to struggle with engine leaks (timing chain tensioner), only soloists can get by with the standard spring elements.
(1997 model): n air / oil-cooled input-
cylinder engine n 664 cm3 n 34/48 hp n weight with a full tank of 188 kg n payload 187 kg n tank capacity 18 l n consumption approx. 5.5 l / 100 km

Kawasaki KLE 500

Kawasaki KLE 500
The two-cylinder Funduro is offered particularly cheaply. She needs to be single-
Lich better upholstery, then good
they are great as livelier and more robust
Country road tourer.
(1997 model): n water-cooled two-
cylinder in-line engine n 499 cm3 n 34/48 hp
n Weight with full tank 205 kg n Payload 175 kg
n Tank capacity 15 l n Consumption approx. 5.1 l / 100 km

Yamaha XTZ 660 Tenere

Yamaha XTZ 660 Tenere
Big tank, neat fairing,
predictable power output ?? actually a great tourer. If because of high mileage the gears of the fifth
Gangs howl: hands off ?? Pitting.
n water-cooled single cylinder engine,
n 660 cm3 n 34/48 hp n weight with a full tank 201 kg
n Payload 176 kg n Tank capacity 20 l n Consumption
approx. 5.1 l / 100 km

Honda Africa Twin

Honda Africa Twin
With luck there’s one under 3000 euros. High mileage is not a problem, the engine is just as solid as on the Transalp, and the robust and comfortable chassis including brakes is still great.
(1997 model): n water-cooled two-
cylinder V-engine n 742 cm3 n 60 hp n weight with a full tank 236 kg n load 193 kg n tank capacity 24 l n consumption approx. 6.1 l / 100 km

Suzuki DR Big 800

Suzuki DR Big 800
The almost gently acting giant-
one-cylinder holds neatly, it drives in
very spacious, for pillion use
suitable and comfortable vehicle
on. Processing only satisfactory.
n air / oil-cooled single cylinder engine,
n 779 cm3 n 34/50 hp n weight with a full tank 223 kg
n Payload 202 kg n Tank capacity 24 l n Consumption
approx. 4.9 l / 100 km

XJ 600 Diversion ?? for the gentle tour

XJ 600 Diversion ?? for the gentle tour
Somewhat more spacious than the CB and ER-5, that ennobles the XJ 600 Diversion to a box of two. The soft fork calls for more progressive springs. Hooked steering head bearings occur every now and then, are not high-quality parts and require a little care. In the S version, the ?? passably protective ?? Half fairing. The very durable engine lives up to expectations
to a four-cylinder in a rather old-fashioned way: runs smoothly from the lowest engine speeds, but lacks pressure, wants to be shifted frequently,
if it is to follow equally strong twins and does without annoying vibrations.
At high freeway speeds, he swallows over eight liters. From 1998 there was a thicker fork with double disc brakes, twice as good for pillion rider use.
Tip: A well-maintained ?? 98 should be well below 3000 euros

Technical data: XJ 600 Diversion

(Model 2000, S version): n air-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine
n 598 cm3, n 34/50/61 hp n Weight with a full tank 229 kg n Payload 168 kg n Tank-
content 17 l n Consumption approx. 6.0 l / 100 km

Suzuki GSX 750 ?? an unrecognized great

Suzuki GSX 750 ?? an unrecognized great
Everyone loves Kawa’s Zephyr, everyone thinks Honda’s Seven Fifty is practical. The GSX is like the intersection with the best engine. Turns freely upwards, but also purrs well through the lower speed range. Usually without annoying vibrations, but there should be exceptions. The chassis is suitable for touring out of the box, sporty natures build in progressive fork springs. On the other hand, there are no complaints with the brakes, if you really want to, you can use steel braided lines to achieve a crisper pressure point. Even more praiseworthy: the handiness of the not particularly heavy Suzi. The processing quality is only slightly below that of the Honda. Even small drivers can easily reach the ground, even big ones don’t have to bend over and can stand for hours on the very good bench. The pillion comfort gets the grade two to three.
Tip: For 3,000 euros there is less than 35,000 km on the odometer

Technical data: Suzuki GSX 750

n air / oil-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine n 750 cm3 n 86 hp n weight 223 kg with a full tank n payload 212 kg n tank capacity 18 l n consumption approx. 6.2 l / 100 km

Honda CB Seven Fifty

Honda CB Seven Fifty
Slightly weaker, but gentle-
Courageous and extremely low-maintenance four-cylinder (hydraulic valve clearance compensation) in a solid chassis. Great quality, good seating comfort.
n air-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine n 747 cm3 n 34/50/73 hp n weight with a full tank 234 kg n load 191 kg n tank capacity 20 l
n Consumption approx. 6.1 l / 100 km

Suzuki VX 800

Suzuki VX 800
Solid motor with a lot of power in the middle of the speed, cardan drive. A bit unwieldy, but always predictable, good brakes.
A durable bargain with low mileage.
n water-cooled two-cylinder V-engine n 805 cm3 n 34/61 hp n weight with a full tank
238 kg n Payload 212 kg n Tank capacity 19 l,
n Consumption approx. 5.3 l / 100 km

Yamaha XJ 900 Diversion

Yamaha XJ 900 Diversion
Quite heavier, but brighter and more comfortable-
Tabler Kardantourer with an extremely solid and harmonious engine. Great seats and decent wind protection ?? great for
the highway.
n air-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine n 892 cm3 n 90 hp n weight with a full tank
276 kg n Payload 194 kg n Tank capacity 24 l
n Consumption approx. 5.4 l / 100 km

Yamaha TDM 850

Yamaha TDM 850
Yamaha has invested a lot of brainpower in this gifted multi-purpose device. Thanks to the long spring travel and wide handlebars, the TDM even sprints easily
over rutted gravel roads. On the other hand, its not too soft chassis in connection with the good brakes provides upscale country road fun, which can be enjoyed for hours thanks to very good ergonomics. The row twin starts off vigorously and revs up with relish, but likes to swallow one. The bony gear is less appealing, as is the drive damping. at
During the test drive, note whether there is too much play in the drive train. Jerking and twitching when opening the gas indicates defective shock absorbers.
Tip: Better mileage, but choose a model from 1996 onwards

Technical data: Yamaha TDM 850

(Model 1997): n water-cooled two-cylinder in-line engine n 849 cm3
n 80 HP n Weight with a full tank of 234 kg n Payload 175 kg n Tank capacity 20 l
n Consumption approx. 5.7 l / 100 km

Kawasaki GTR 1000

Kawasaki GTR 1000
When it debuted 20 years ago, the GTR was able to match BMW
easy to stand up to, she completed long-distance tests? often in opposition
to the Bavarian competition ?? with left and costs drastically less today.
Your well-tuned and quite lively engine in the upper speed range
is extremely robust, the timing chains were only made in the first years of construction-
Tensioner and hammered valves sometimes trouble, then prevailed
Quiet. It is essential to inspect the air-assisted suspension elements of the chassis carefully, as the seals can leak. On old specimens, check the frame for rust and the panel for cracks. The seats are great, solid and well-attached suitcases were included as standard.
Tip: The main thing is that the spring elements are intact and that they are in good condition

Technical data: Kawasaki GTR 1000


Inexpensive touring bikes

n water-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine n 997 cm3 n 98 hp
n Weight with a full tank of 320 kg n Payload 180 kg n Tank capacity 28.5 l
n Consumption approx. 6.2 l / 100 km

Suzuki Bandit 1200 / S

Suzuki Bandit 1200 / S
The first copies of this robust all-rounder cost less than 3000 euros. Superior engine in a relatively handy chassis,
good seats, S version with acceptable wind protection.
(Model 1996): n air / oil cooled
Four-cylinder in-line engine n 1157 cc n 98 hp
n Weight with a full tank 238 kg n Payload 212 kg
n Tank capacity 19 l n Consumption approx. 5.2 l / 100 km

Yamaha FJ 1200

Yamaha FJ 1200
Beefy and very robust engine in a stable chassis with good brakes. Very high driving comfort, great seats, good wind protection. Slightly cumbersome in tight corners. High quality.
n air-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine n 1188 cm3 n 98 hp n weight with a full tank
282 kg n Payload 180 kg n Tank capacity 22 l
n Consumption approx. 6.4 l / 100 km

XJR 1200

XJR 1200
Nice and coveted, sometimes it works for 3000 euros. Engine known from the FJ, but even easier to swallow. Needs progressive fork springs and 120 instead of 130 front tires. High quality.
n air-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine n 1188 cm3 n 98 hp n weight with a full tank
253 kg n Payload 207 kg n Tank capacity 21 l
n Consumption approx. 6.9 l / 100 km

Offers and price overview of cheap touring motorcycles


Inexpensive touring bikes


1000PS marketplace app

Touring motorcycles are already very cheap on the used market.

A look at the used market quickly shows that the long motorcycle tour can be very cheap. Various naked bikes, sports tourers or travel enduros are already available for little money and the selection of used motorcycles is large. So nothing stands in the way of the dream of a cheap touring motorcycle. Here is a price comparison of many cheap touring motorcycles: inexpensive touring motorcycles in Germany.

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