What bike for a returning rider?

[milb001]

I’ve been off two-wheels for a couple of years now and looking to get something for this summer. I’m a bit stuck on what to get….

My last bike was a 1050 speed triple, which I got rid of 3 years ago.

I’ve been to Completely Motorbikes as I thought it would be a good place to have a look at lots of different things, to get an idea of what I facied.

I’m definitely more comfortable on sit up and beg type bikes, but other than that, I don’t have much in the way of requirements.

I really like the look of a Husky 701 Svartpilen and the CCM Scrambler which I saw there, but I’m not sure if I might find them a bit limiting in terms of performance?

The bike will only get used in good weather, mostly for short blasts around country lanes, but I do still want something that can do a bit of 2-up riding and the occasional long trip.

I also liked the MV 800 Brutale, Indian FTR 1200 and Triumph 1200 Scrambler.

You can probably tell from my choices that I’m a bit of a tart who likes bikes that look a bit different/interesting.

Any suggestions?

[PT1984]

Was going to say, either a Triumph 1200 scrambler, or the 1100 Ducati Scrambler. Torque for days!

[Darkslider]

Work buddy of mine has just bought his first bike, a 2015 street triple. Think it's done 12k miles and he only paid £3k for it from Facebook marketplace, I'd struggle to recommend anything better for a first bike back after seeing it personally

[snagzie]

Darkslider said:

Work buddy of mine has just bought his first bike, a 2015 street triple. Think it's done 12k miles and he only paid £3k for it from Facebook marketplace, I'd struggle to recommend anything better for a first bike back after seeing it personally

thats a bit of a bargain

[GreaseNipple]

The svartpilen 701 is much quicker than the figures suggest because of the torque and lightweight. It's a great engine for the road because you're nearly always right in the meat of the torque so response is instant. I've had mine for nearly 4 years and still love it

[Chaz645]

I’m looking to do the same and looking at similar bikes that you list, so I’m interested to see where you go with it

Not had a bike for a few years and the last few were sports bikes. Won’t be getting another though

Can’t add much more unfortunately until like you, I get some seat time

[KTMsm]

Having owned a Speed Triple (I loved it)

Unless you've really changed what you want to do, a single cylinder bike won't cut it as an only bike (I currently own a 701)

You haven't mentioned a budget ?

Must admit I've been looking at the FTR1200 they seem like a great weekend bike and get good reviews

[Iamnotkloot]

GreaseNipple said:

The svartpilen 701 is much quicker than the figures suggest because of the torque and lightweight. It's a great engine for the road because you're nearly always right in the meat of the torque so response is instant. I've had mine for nearly 4 years and still love it

It’s a great bike and I love mine but for once I’m going to say it doesn’t meet the OPs requirements. It’s not great for touring or going two up, otherwise it’s ace.

[NITO]

I was going to say Indian FTR but you have that covered, otherwise, I'd check out the Ducati Diavel also.

[lockhart flawse]

You sound like me particularly with regard to the intended use. I went for a Bonneville. It's really easy to ride which is all I want now. Looks great and sounds great.

[_DJ_]

How about a speed triumph 1200rs?

[horsemeatscandal]

OP, I'll be reluctantly getting shot of my Svart 701 soon if you're still interested in them.

[hunton69]

I had a 38 year break from bikes.
Thought I would go big so I Just bought the triumph rocket 3

[garypotter]

10 days ago bumped into an old friend who has not ridden for over 20 years, said he was looking to get back into biking for him and his wife to have weekends away and do the NC500. i mentioned a 1200gs or GSA which was on his list. Took mine around to his house on the SUnday and he picks his up tonight at 5pm!! really depends on what plans the POV has for the bike, if it for the sunday out with friends, touring with wife or just being a hooligan

good luck

[ArnageWRC]

One of the Triumph 400s or RE 350s........
Sometimes smaller is better, not everyone needs a big bike - which seems to be the mantra on this forum; for example - "I like the power to get me out of trouble...." How about not getting into trouble in the first place - and being a better rider.

[uk66fastback]

hunton69 said:

I had a 38 year break from bikes.
Thought I would go big so I Just bought the triumph rocket 3

And what do you think to it? I’ve seen a few YT vids and a couple in the flesh - it’s the dogs but just massive … but then that’s kinda the point. Probably no heavier than my old A Reg CB900F back in the day - the handling on which was just bad.

Edit: the Rocket is a few lbs heavier but not that much … interesting.

Edited by uk66fastback on Wednesday 5th June 19:11

[A500leroy]

Im getting strangely attracted to the R.E 350 range, (Go on say i'm a pansy then!)

[PT1984]

A500leroy said:

Im getting strangely attracted to the R.E 350 range, (Go on say i'm a pansy then!)

Not at all. I am too. Especially the Hunter. The new Scram is due to be released soon which should also be great. But I’m holding out for a 650 twin Scram. I just love that big oval polished engine / clutch case.

I was behind a Hunter only yesterday and it sounded great.

[carinaman]

A500leroy said:

Im getting strangely attracted to the R.E 350 range, (Go on say i'm a pansy then!)

£3K and with low rate finance. Get yourself, your lid and your gloves along to a dealer and test ride a Meteor. You can buy a motorcycle later in the year but you'll miss the summer.

[A500leroy]

Jeez, I thought it would be your not a real biker for thinking about these time!