Touring take 2
 

Hey all,

Following an earlier post on possibly changing my SV650 for a 2000 odd mile tour round Europe next year I have decided not to change it, I love it too much!

So a few questions to help me prepare the bike for the trip.

Are Scotoilers worth it?

I have an Oxford tankbag and I reckon I will get a Kriega tailpack and panniers, what soft panniers would be best? I don't want hard luggage.

I need a taller screen, I am tall at 6'4" any recommendations?

What speares should I consider, bulbs chain etc?

What should I regarding toolkit?

Thinking of a Corbin seat and Helibars to make it more comfortable over long distance also tank grip so I can hold with my knees more taking the strain off wrists, does anyone have anymore recommendation for stuff I should consider?

Thx in advance for any input

Ian

Re: Touring take 2
 

Can't answer all of the above, as only done a couple of trips but...

I bought some Oxford Sports humpback panniers, and once I managed to fit them right, I thought they were really good - I seem to remember that someone is selling some in the for sale section too...

I got mine from this place - they were on offer at around this price too I think..
http://www.infinitymotorcycles.com/p...p?ProductID=47
They held quite a lot - were really stable - with a few extra bungees, and they left lots of room on top for the tent etc....(or tailpack)..

I also got a double bubble (am 6'1") and it made a big difference, especially at motorway speeds, the buffeting was reduced, and I felt I was able to do more miles and still feel fresh...

Depending on how long you are going for, and how much you are taking, you may find that the panniers are enough..?

HTH,

Billy.

Re: Touring take 2
 

Scottoilers are great, whatever panniers you get you WILL fill with useless stuff you don't need, other than that I am no help whatsoever!

Sorry!

Re: Touring take 2
 

What screen did you fit?

Lol too true

Re: Touring take 2
 

scotoiler=yes

Re: Touring take 2
 

+1 for the scott oiler
My last tour to France cost me a chain through lack of lubrication.:toss:

My soft luggage was a pain, something that you can lock to the bike means that you dont have to cart it around everywhere to keep the chavs off.

I will be buying hard for the next trip.

Re: Touring take 2
 

Scotty = no brainer :smt023

I'd definitely put helibars high on the list, you'll be amazed how much better the riding position will be.

You should always carry a spare bulb set (the basics, headlamp, indi, stop/tail). Some countries require a first aid kit (Germany etc), check requirement for hi-vis in the event of breakdown (Spain, Austria etc).

Definitely some sort of puncture repair kit. Various opinions on this, I'd suggest a kit with the string type plugs and CO2 inflater (take 3 cylinders) as being the easiest to use in difficult circumstances. Alternatively bike size Holts Tyreweld or similar.

A selection of tie-wraps (zip-ties) are a godsend.

If you wear specs, then a spare pair is a must.

Re: Touring take 2
 

take 2 nissan jeeps rampacked full of spares tents food etc;)

Re: Touring take 2
 

Good advice thx

Re: Touring take 2
 

Lol I ain't Ewan Macgregor