Question for the high milers

If you're looking at a bike from a purely practical perspective, the Honda Deauville is built for practicallity and pretty much nothing else.

It's a 650 V twin, so it has that in common with the SV, but there the similarities end.

Built in panniers, reasonable protection from the elements, Honda build quality & reliability, shaft drive and cheap to run. On the practicality stakes, it ticks a lot of boxes.

Only problem is it's duller than a dull thing and has about as much street cred as Val Doonican!

Originally Posted by Cronos

If you're looking at a bike from a purely practical perspective, the Honda Deauville is built for practicallity and pretty much nothing else.

It's a 650 V twin, so it has that in common with the SV, but there the similarities end.

Built in panniers, reasonable protection from the elements, Honda build quality & reliability, shaft drive and cheap to run. On the practicality stakes, it ticks a lot of boxes.

Only problem is it's duller than a dull thing and has about as much street cred as Val Doonican!

The Deauville is one I've considered, but have been a bit put off by the way most mags describe them as the dullest bike ever. I also imagine it's a bit underpowered (although I'm basing that on the looks and the shaft drive, I don't know any stats) Does it have enough oomph for prolonged, comfy, 90mph motorway cruising (erm, on the Autobahn officer)?

Originally Posted by Ceri JC

The Deauville is one I've considered, but have been a bit put off by the way most mags describe them as the dullest bike ever. I also imagine it's a bit underpowered (although I'm basing that on the looks and the shaft drive, I don't know any stats) Does it have enough oomph for prolonged, comfy, 90mph motorway cruising (erm, on the Autobahn officer)?

Yes. Thats what its intended for. But dont expect to be out working on your cornering speed and drag racing at the lights at the weekend.

[Biker Biggles]

The deauville is best described as adequate.Thats why the mags say its boring,cos it does everything without fuss.It is a bit underpowered though and its not cheap.You pay for all that built in bodywork.
The VFR is a great bike and well worth it if you can get a good one cheap.
Running costs are higher though.

Originally Posted by mysteryjimbo

Yes. Thats what its intended for. But dont expect to be out working on your cornering speed and drag racing at the lights at the weekend.

As opposed to the VFR which by all accounts would excel at those things too?

Hmm, it could be a matter of cash- VFR if I can afford it, Deauville if I can't.

*prepares to haggle hard for higher salary*

Originally Posted by Ceri JC

As opposed to the VFR which by all accounts would excel at those things too?

Hmm, it could be a matter of cash- VFR if I can afford it, Deauville if I can't.

*prepares to haggle hard for higher salary*

As said above. Remember the higher maintenance costs on the VFR.

If you want the best of both worlds, go for the VFR. It's a great all round bike and it goes pretty quick too.

Ceri, compared to the SV, The Deauville in performance terms will be a disappointment to you. The practicality of them is it's selling point. it's max speed is quoted as 115 mph (Bike). It should cruise at "70" easy enough, but may take it's time to get there. Shame to give up your SV for this, run it until it dies then change.

I'm sure a new Deauville comes with a Cardigan, Pipe and Slippers - These Honda Gentlemen think of everything .

Originally Posted by Mogs

Ceri, compared to the SV, The Deauville in performance terms will be a disappointment to you. The practicality of them is it's selling point. it's max speed is quoted as 115 mph (Bike). It should cruise at "70" easy enough, but may take it's time to get there. Shame to give up your SV for this, run it until it dies then change.

So you reckon fit hard luggage and heated grips to the SV, then rag it till it falls apart?

I suppose the SV is a possible 'high mile machine' judging by Randyo and Rictus' bikes. Just depends on the comfort factor. One of the key factors is how many miles I'd be doing a year, so long as it's <20,000 I could probably stick with the SV (I can only see myself staying in this job for 2-3 years, if I get it)

Originally Posted by Ceri JC

So you reckon fit hard luggage and heated grips to the SV, then rag it till it falls apart?

I suppose the SV is a possible 'high mile machine' judging by Randyo and Rictus' bikes. Just depends on the comfort factor. One of the key factors is how many miles I'd be doing a year, so long as it's <20,000 I could probably stick with the SV (I can only see myself staying in this job for 2-3 years, if I get it)

I used mine for 18 months without a problem. Averaging 500 miles per week. Regular services are the key. Invest in a chain loobing device too (if you havent already).

As for increased comfort. I always found the seat quite comfortable. Heated grips and handle bar muffs work a treat. Legs and feet are the next to feel it in winter. You'll need to think about carrying a change of clothes with you if you're seriously considering doing this all year round too.