Made the move - Tiger to Dakar

[Schattenjager]

After a few miles on the Tiger, it was easy to quickly appreciate it's smoothness and power. Great bike overall, but I never really felt like I belonged on it - it's hard to describe, but something was just not right and it was there EVERY time I rode.

Then I sat on a Dakar that was for sale - fully kitted '06. It is not as smooth really, and down on the Tigers power, BUT, I felt right at home on it. It is a whisker tall, but the lower seat option with the storage bin will solve that right away.

I am really excited - Monday - delivery day - won't come soon enough!

[goodtimes]

There is something about that little BMW that is just......right.

$284 will get you the solo seat with the storage compartment.....

[Kermit]

That was quick! Didn't seem like you gave it a chance. I saw a yellow one the other day, and wondering how you liked yours...(I guess, I know now )

You'll enjoy the 650, not quite the beast as the Tiger.

Turn and Burn!

[805gregg]

Should have waited for the 800GS.

[Schattenjager]

That was quick! Didn't seem like you gave it a chance... Turn and Burn!

I was not aware I was uncomfortable until I got on the BMW. Only education can overcome ignorance, no?

It is a sad fact that my life is vacuous enough to allow movie lines to weave strings of influence in the tapestry of my existence - BUT - Robert DeNiro had a great line in Ronin: "When ever there is any doubt - there is no doubt." This axiom was on the front of my mind after riding the BMW then getting back on the Tiger. As goodtimes said - it was just "right" compared to the Triumph. For me anyway. At this stage of the game anyway. Well, anyway - it's done and I am happy about it.

Since I am a newbie rider, I did not want to wait until the more expensive 800Gs came out - I could care less about the Jones stuff anyway - and I think a less expensive bike is the way for me to start out.

Now, if there were only a way to carry a bike via trailer hitch so I did not need a trailer.... ala RV's

[grouch]

Be sure to put up some pics!

[LandCruiserPhil]

<snip> Now, if there were only a way to carry a bike via trailer hitch so I did not need a trailer.... ala RV's

They are several manufactures out there, here is just one:
http://www.prolineracks.com/VersaHau...-carriers.html

[goodtimes]

They are several manufactures out there, here is just one:
http://www.prolineracks.com/VersaHau...-carriers.html

Yup, just be sure to see what they are rated to carry. The BMW is a pig, so be sure to get one rated to carry it. (the model linked by LCP will hold it....).

[Kermit]

http://ultimatemxhauler.com/

http://www.bdiracks.com/

I personally don't care for those type of carriers (to each their own), but here ya go.

Bikes gets alot of filth, because of the eddy air current behind the vehicle, plus the fear of getting rear ended, bike feels safer my on a trailer.

[HiLift Jack]

The Dakar is sketchy on these type of carriers, just at or over the weight rating. Just ride the thing it will go way farther than you or I can.