[Nicky S]

Originally Posted by robchester

Secondly, in contrast to the Strada, the KTM 690SM.

Definitely a bike which will divide on looks, its a love it or hate it machine. When I sat on it, it was quite high and had me on tip toes when upright however there is an optional lower seat albeit only 20mm lower. Gets praise for its power output and the very smooth and well balanced single engine. A light bike at around 143kg dry. For touring, although much more adept than the older 640 engines, Im not sure if the seat will have me crying before the tank goes dry although again heated grips, guards and a touring screen is available. Panniers may be an issue with the chimneys. Tubed tyres are venturing into the unknown for me.
Price wise, available for around the £4k mark.

Lastly a bike that needs no introductions. The Street Triple (In Green)


The most expensive bike of the 3, definitely the quickest of the 3 and probably the most common of the 3 (or will be once they get everyones order out). At £5k or thereabouts for even 2nd hand models, theyre pricey and Ive heard issues regarding oil usage. Pretty small bike but im not the biggest person anyway. Looks fantastic, but im not sure whether ill want (or need) that kind of power that it has the potential to deliver. I dare say that I'd be stretching my budget to get one of these however its had some really great reviews and I feel Id be foolish to overlook it. Depreciation on these is excellent (At the moment)

ktm or speed tripel both well nice :P