F800GS Front Spokes

[mike cramb]

Just completed (well almost) Perth to Mt Augustus via Murchison etc. After 1,800 kms, front tyre went flat. Air was pouring out of the spokes holes at the rim. Loose spokes shreaded the tube. I tried to make good but alas. My bike is currently in Shark bay awaiting the pleasures of BMW roadside assitance - who by the way were exceptional with hire car etc. The bike is a new 2010 model.

Has anyone had anything like the same problem with this or another model

Bear in mind the GS800 is not tubeless.

[_Wilks]

That's a disappointing way to end a good ride Mike.

Never heard of that problem before. I remember reading somewhere ages ago on Advrider that correct spoke tension is a dealer pre-delivery check item.

[old betsy]

This is something that I've never heard of before.
I feel maybe there was something wrong before you picked it up. The spokes may have not been tightened correctly.
Good to hear the roadside has worked.
Just remember you still have the best adventure bike out there.
old Betsy

[mike cramb]

Thanks for the condolences! I traded my beloved GS1150 for the 800GS. Geez, they are different bikes. I feel the 800 is a little "underdone" - nowhere near the power or comfort, and obviously not the range. I only "sort of" like it. I'm not smitten. Thinking of moving back up to the big league with a GS1200. Thoughts??

[old betsy]

Hi Mike

I agree with Ben. Only you can answer your own question.
I'll ask you this. Where do you want to ride? If you want to do most of your riding on the Black Top then get a 1200. If you want to travel mostly on the dirt then stay with the 800. Only you can answer the question.
If you look at the ride I did with Ben,Chris and Steve the other weekend. I did 2000km for the weekend and only 300km of that was on the road.
So ask yourself where do you intend to ride.

Old Betsy

[_Wilks]

Where did you ride the 1150 Mike? By that I mean, what were the typical adv rides you did on it?

The 800 is fine bike and all things being equal, it should take you further 'off' the track and with a lower heart rate than the 1200GS and it'll be 22kgs lighter to pick up. However, if tracks like Gt Central Rd, Plenty Hwy, Birsdville Track, Tanami Rd and Gibb River Rd are your typical playground... go for the 1200GS, it'll do them easily and in more comfort and no need to enhance the handling or suspension. I know, because I have ridden those tracks. If you've got anything gnarlier planned, then persist with the 800 I reckon.

[mike cramb]

Guys, thanks so much - you have really helped me make up my mind. I ride a bit of enduro (WR450) but I'm never going to do anything more than Great Central-type stuff, so I'll take a good hard look - possibly the last - when the bike eventually gets back from Shark Bay.