OK, It's been moulded to my own preference, one size does not fit all, it's impossible. I wanted a GS riding position without the hight and bulk, a relaxed riding position that allows me to see over cars and hedges and take in the scenery. I wanted a modicum of weather protection without going the barn door route. And I wanted a genuine do it all bike that would go anywhere and tackle anything I could reasonably throw at it. We're almost there.
Two up with camping gear, 80mph on the motorway and not much slower when hitting the twisties through the Yorkshire moors, didn't break sweat. Solo scratching sessions scaring the hell out of sportsbike riders, the look on there faces when we pull up says it all. Less than two miles after picking the bike up, loaded with luggage and all the spares that came with it we found ourselves on the Pennine Way with no way of turning round....we just plodded along, centre stand clanking away on rocks until we exited via a farm track. 48-49 MPG week in, week out.
Yesterday's ride was nothing out of the ordinary, just one of those perfect afternoons that makes motorcycling so satisfying. But not for a single moment did the R leave me wanting for more. Despite being considerably lower than standard the GS pegs haven't hit the deck yet. Annoyingly there's some moulding bobbles on the front tyre that I'm trying to scrub off but the rear tyres scuffed right to the edge so I don't think she's going over much further without considerable drama.
There's just a few issues to iron out but God, this bikes good. Surprisingly the bars are a tad to low, there's a tendency to slouch in the saddle, holding the grips with finger tips straightens my back nicely, a pair of 1" risers should be spot on. If I can bare to take her off the road for a week or so the headlight/screen assembly needs permanent mounts welding up....the hastily cobbled together mounts at present a a tad wobbly. Then I can sort out the dreaded GS buffeting. I'll need to make a custom housing for the clocks and re route the hydraulic hoses.....fortunately none of these issues prevent me from using and enjoying the R. Bike is out front drying in the sun as I type this. I'll treat her to some polish until Mrs.tree gets home then we're off for a gentle tootle in the country, stopping of at a pub for lunch. Life's good at the momment!
none of the other bikes iv'e owned have made me want to get on and stay on like this. not even close. its either speed power, or calm, (some with tons of plastic-dealbreaker). the roadster does them both. with class.