[12] Bmw Gs650 At Monthly Talks

5 out of 5 Camshafted20 June 2011 by nickmclean

Seat is a bit hard but then I have come from a blackbird. mmmm comfy.Lots of equipment available - don't want any of it - find the abs lethal if there is a bump in the road while braking. I'd like falling off to be my own fault, please. Actually, I'd rather not fall off...Quality and reliability, I really want to say excellent but I can only say X. Had it six weeks, three weeks in the garage waiting for a new camshaft. Long story which I wrote in the comments section.Really good value, cheap bike, getting 68mpg for motorway riding.Got a loaner for the duration of repairs and I can now compare the G650GS with the old f650GS. G650 has lighter clutch but gearbox is clunkier and has no stop at top or bottom of gear change. Indicators - don't get me started - give me my g650 normal indicator switch back please! Same engines? G650 sounds much harsher and has more vibration. I definately prefer the old F650 to the G650 in engine terms. And the F650 has a camshaft that works. But, the engine is good in general, nice and frugal. Pulls nicely when you want it, not quite in the teritory of my old blackbird though :)All in all, a damn fine everyday bike for normal people who just want to get here and there without a lot of cost or hassle. Please MR BMW, bring me a camshaft before Christmas...

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5 Engine 4 out of 5 Reliability & build quality 1 out of 5 Value vs rivals 5 out of 5 Equipment 5 out of 5