BMWMCCWA

Hi Guys
I am on the market for a new/used bike. I will need it mostly for commuting to work (Sydney) occasional weekend rides and once a year with the Black Dog Ride to Alice Springs (and maybe beyond this year).

BMW has a promotion period at the moment and a new GS Sertao (G650 GS) is about $11,500 ride away. I took one for a ride and found it to be comfortable except for a very vibrational motor.

My last 2 bikes where a KLR650 and a V-Strom 650.

As owners of BMW's I ask you what are the reasons to buy a BMW bike that costs almost double to buy and maintain (accessories as well)? I am not on a strick budgest but don't want to buy something expensive simply because it's made in Europe (Engine is Chinese).

Cheers
Micha

If you are seriously considering the Sertao, hold off till January, Husqvarna ( owned by BMW ) are releasing a new 650 which uses the same motor as the Sertao, but will be under 10k , better suspension and more power, well worth the wait.

The Vstrom is a good bike though and very worthy with good sizing, economy and luggage carrying capacity, just a bit porky.

Thanks for the tip.
I can't wait that long but will consider something else. I guess owning a BMW is a long term commitment which I can't afford at the moment.
Cheers
Mic

Look at the resale value and which bike holds value better
Look at servcie intervals, BMW mostly 10000KM Japanese 5-6000km for a similar cost.
Weight of bike
HP of bike, need to go google to find this, KLR is very low on HP, Vstrom and Serato probably similar.
What do you use it most for, commuting so look at a competent commuter style bike.
Riding style, realxed upright or Moto GP style, which do you prefer.
Roadside assist from BMW is very good so long as they can get you with a 2wd vehicle.
Look at bike sales website and see what low milage second hand ones are valued at as often you can pick them up at good value with low mileage.
Quality of design, I have seen some bad examples out of both Japan and Europe depending on make and model, look on the web forums for problems of models you are consiedreing, is it manufacture or user derived problem and then the cost of the repairs.
Your money your decision

Thanks for the reply,

I am here in this forum exactly for the reasons you mentioned. doing research. I have my eyes on a 2001 Dakar but for the same money I can buy a 2008-09 equivalent Japanese bike (Honda Transalp, V-strom, Versys etc).

I know what I want, just never thought of owning a beemer...

Cheers
Mica