Old Git seeks new companion

[Annalogg]

Newbie here. First of all apologies for probably being the umpteenth person to ask these very same questions. I have searched your forums for advice but wanted to get more specific.

I am thinking of buying a big trail bike and need advice from you owner experts.

I am 5’7”, 12.5 stone, 56 and live in West Wales. I’ve always owned big touring bikes (latest was FJR1300) but recently realised that a trailee would probably be more practical on the local roads/lanes.

Problem is I’ve never actually put my leg over an AT or similar and the nearest dealer with one is 50 miles away in Bridgend so I guess I need to get down there and take a look. Before that though I have some specific questions –

Is my height(or lack of it) likely to be a problem? I’ve never had a problem riding/manoevering heavy bikes but they’ve always been nearer the ground.

What is the pillion experience like? A lot of my riding will be done with Mrs A onboard in order to offer advice via the intercom so any downgrading in the comfort level is going to be hard to sell.

Finally there’s a AT on ebay at present which appears to have a lowering mod. A dealer in Brighouse is offloading it – anyone know any more about it than is in the description?

Thanks in advance for any comments/advice.

[Sharribee]

Hiya, welcome to the forum great to have another Welsh lad on board.

Thunder road does have a AT but if you go and look don't be too tempted to buy, I looked at it, and to be honest it is really overpriced for what it is and that came from someone working there.

[Annalogg]

Thanks for that Sharribee, I'll bear it in mind. By the way I'm not strictly speaking a Welsh Lad - just another "ex-pat" choosing to live here!

[Sharribee]

We can convert you ya know.

If you need any help finding your way around the forum give us a shout. Keep an eye in the rideout sections, the Welsh Posse do some fairly regular rideouts and they are always great fun.

[Annette]

HI Annalogg and welcome to the forum.

Comfort is obviously subjective but the Africa Twin is not the most comfortable ride, particularly for pillions. Take the Mrs along to Thunderroad and both have a sit on the one they've got there.