CB How much this one down here in the DR?? 2011 model??? (no need to have an ergonomic good angle for 2-up riding for me!)
The '12's aren't out yet. I'm guessing the '11's are around RD$450,000-475,000. JDJones says he saw some at Blue Mall. Check with Bonanza. They import them.
A new '11 V-Strom ABS (great option) in the states is around US$8000. And there is a massive aftermarket "farkle" (function & sparkle) market for the V-Strom. However, consider finding a fully farkled used one. You'll save a bunch of $$$.
We did an exhaustive, objective analysis of bikes judged on a matrix of 10 criteria. We literally looked at every brand and every model. We got the list down to 16 bikes and test rode all of those (in the states.)
Before the analysis, Initially I leaned toward middleweight cruisers (like the Honda Aero). My partner leaned more toward sport touring bikes. Chip will recall some of the discussions about this. It was he who suggested the V-Strom. Frankly, I dodn't know much about them at the time.
The V-Strom topped or tied virtually every criteria we had. Others were highly rated. But what put it in the Winners Circle was three things:
- Reputation for bullet-proof mechanics. Few bikes ever produced have as strong a reputation of "put oil in it and go."
- Reputation for comfort during long rides. Not just ergos, but ergos 6 hours a day for 6-10 straight days, including two-up.
- Price. The V-Strom is an excellent bang-for-the-buck bike.
When it comes time to replace the fleet, I have no idea what bikes we'd get. We'll do the matrix all over again.
PICHARDO, two-up matters. You being a newly single guy, take my word for it. Open invitation to drop by Camp Moto next time you're in the DR.
All that being said, note I said the V-Strom is the best for the conditions in the DR. If I was in the states, there would be a different decision process, because the road and riding conditions are so different. One thing that would change: I'd go larger displacement because of the higher speeds on Interstate and state highways, something like the Triumph Tiger 800XC or Yamahammer Super Tenere. That would be for a fleet of identical bikes. If I moved back to FL, I'd definitely find a good used V-Strom 1000. Same bike, same ergos, 30lbs more, bigger motor.
There is a right tool for every job.The secret is determining what tool you need. And Need should always trump want.
