f650 advice

[SENSAI]

howdy
im a ta/at kinda guy,and would never change but my wife insists that what she wants is a bmw f650,in particular the 1998 model.theres one going for around 1700 euro,i think the milage is around 40 k/miles.i know its a single thumper and lighter than the trannie but ,i need more info.what its like on long rides,motorways and secondary roads.what is the tank capacity,handling,best tyres,will it do high milage,is the vibration crazy at low /high speeds,its quirks etc.is it a good buy or a run a mile from it,type of bike.
cheers mateys

[africajim]

Not sure about the 98 model, my Fiona's is an o6 model. Still a single with the Rotax engine so similar.

Here's a report I wrote up on one from last weekend.

BMW on the loose in Moray!

I've heard of oil leaks from the gearbox output shaft so possibly best to watch for drips? Otherwise a very competant machine, SteveT had an older one and can fill you in on some of the details maybe? Best of luck.

[Annette]

Absolutely lovely bike. My first big bike after I passed my test. Here's what one can do in a novice's hands:

Stella Alpina 2007 - Stormforce8 & Annette's trip

Also, here's a good thread:

B*W F650 Dakar - Discuss

You could also check out The Chain Gang (Membership Info)

Your wife can't go wrong with one of these. They are great for both novice and experienced riders. They are very forgiving. I only changed mine cos I needed a bigger bike.

[ian porter]

I've got a '98 F650 with 32k miles on it and no major issues other than what you'd expect from a 12 year old bike that's spent most of it's life out doors.

if you want to get the real low down on them pop over to BMW F650 Forums (it's the sister forum to this one) and ask all the questions you want.

there's quite a few of us over there with pre GS models that can help.

[SENSAI]

I've got a '98 F650 with 32k miles on it and no major issues other than what you'd expect from a 12 year old bike that's spent most of it's like out doors.

if you want to get the real low down on them pop over to BMW F650 Forums (it's the sister forum to this one) and ask all the questions you want.

there's quite a few of us over there with pre GS models that can help.

nice one ian,ill do that

[SENSAI]

brilliant info guys and gals,im a little less iffy about them now,might even take it for a test ride.
nice rightup africa jim appreciate al the help

[ian porter]

nice one ian,ill do that

I'll keep an eye out for you and approve your membership ASAP