The choice of the bike to take for the hot lap was not as simple as it might seem - go to garage, get on bike, head off into the wilderness. I am fortunate enough to have a choice of two that are completely suitable for the trip. In the end, as I have indicated earlier, I've chosen to go with the Guzzi. A 2010 model Stelvio 1200 4V. And the reason is very simple - it has a very wide seat that is pretty comfortable and I'm of the opinion that I'll need that on the trip! The KTM seat is narrower and while it has proved comfortable on previous long trips, I think the Guzzi has a slight edge.
The Guzzi also has slightly better fuel consumption despite its larger engine displacement, which won't hurt. Mechanically, I'm more worried about the Guzzi failing in some remote location, but to date it hasn't given me any problems that weren't readily resolvable. Let's keep fingers crossed that remains the case!
The Guzzi has sufficient space for the swag to be stowed on the rear passenger seat, plus the spacious top box should be fine for emergency tools, first aid kit, a bit of water and food, and some spare gear (waterproof pants etc.). Then I'll have a bag for clothes on top of the swag. Simples. I'm not going to bother carrying spare fuel, despite some temptation, as there are plenty of fuel options at appropriate distances (< 300 km apart) along my preferred route.
The Guzzi also has slightly better fuel consumption despite its larger engine displacement, which won't hurt. Mechanically, I'm more worried about the Guzzi failing in some remote location, but to date it hasn't given me any problems that weren't readily resolvable. Let's keep fingers crossed that remains the case!
The Guzzi has sufficient space for the swag to be stowed on the rear passenger seat, plus the spacious top box should be fine for emergency tools, first aid kit, a bit of water and food, and some spare gear (waterproof pants etc.). Then I'll have a bag for clothes on top of the swag. Simples. I'm not going to bother carrying spare fuel, despite some temptation, as there are plenty of fuel options at appropriate distances (< 300 km apart) along my preferred route.
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