Might have to switch to a different bike

[ohiorider]

The combination of Ohio roads (sort of third world lately) and the somewhat sporty suspension of the Griso has put me in the selling mode.  And more recently, I've had issues with my right shoulder muscles.  Huge loss of shoulder muscle strength that came on very quickly.  My first session at physical therapy indicated that poor posture, including my riding position on the Griso and 1200 Sport might be contributing to these issues.  Not blaming this on Guzzis, since many of the Beemers I've owned over the years put me in the sport touring position too.  Lots of K100RS, K1100RS and K1200RS miles.

OTOH, I've always been able to put a bunch of miles on my old R100GS, and could end a 600 mile day thinking I could do another couple of hundred miles, mainly due to the ergonomics of the bike, which is basically what today is called an 'adventure tourer.'  With a good saddle, it is an extremely comfortable position.

I originally thought 'Stelvio,' but I think for me personally, it may be too much weight, especially top heavy weight.  I spent a few miles on Zoom Zoom's 2010 Stelvio, but was happy to get back on the 1200 Sport.  The bike felt a bit too tall and top heavy for my 5'7" frame, though it was a lovely machine once underway.

So, I'm thinking maybe a Triumph Tiger 800, probably with cast wheels (the lower model) with some nice bags.

Don't know at this time ..... it's all speculative. 

I do feel fortunate.  Today's PT test showed issues, but I still have approximately 90% as much grip strength in my right hand vs the left, and over the past couple of weeks, the ability to raise my right arm has improved.  I can still jump on a motorcycle and pile on several miles.

Bob

[oldbike54]

 Have you replaced the GS diaphragms yet ?

  Dusty

[balvenie]

              This strikes a chord with me, in that the bursitis in my R shoulder has become much worse over the past month, to the point where I am actually looking forward to an operation: anything that would fix it.
              And I am contemplating removing the battery from my bike, to prevent the possibility of it draining as it will be 5 weeks before my initial appointment with the surgeon.
              Injections and physio has not worked. It's time for the knife for me but I hope it does not come to that for you, although changeing bikes is pretty drastic too, come to think of it

[rodekyll]

I've been struggling with the same decisions for the same reasons.  There's no shame in getting the right tool for the job.

[Vasco DG]

I'd suggest the Griso could go. You've never really bonded with it. Before you sell the Sport though how about a set of the Ferracci bar risers? I'm seriously considering a set for my Griso.

http://www.ferracci.com/catalog/product/view/id/51216/s/handlebar-riser-moto-guzzi/

Pete

[ChuckH]

I came to the same conclusion after a couple of years on a C-14 Sport Tourer -- the riding position was too leaned over with too much weight on my wrists, foreams, hands for long distance comfort.  Also, being leaned over forced me to hold my head up causing my neck muscles/joints to hurt.

I made the move to a 650 Strom (Adv Tourer) for two years, then to the Stelvio three years ago and am much happier.  More upright seating, very slight forward lean, head position comfortable.

Also, my wife and I have gotten into a six day per week exercise regimen -- three days with weights and treadmill (maintain those muscles and cardio), three days Yoga (flexibility, balance and core muscle building). 

Getting old is not easy.  Ride safe out there.

[jas67]

I'd suggest the Griso could go. You've never really bonded with it. Before you sell the Sport though how about a set of the Ferracci bar risers? I'm seriously considering a set for my Griso.

http://www.ferracci.com/catalog/product/view/id/51216/s/handlebar-riser-moto-guzzi/

Pete

Also, aren't the Mana bars a common mod to relax the ergos of the Sport?

[clubman]

When I first started reading your post I thought ,"this fellow should take a look at the Triumph 800" and then you brought it up. Latest Motor Cyclist has a test and they really liked it (rare for them to say anything good about a non-Japanese bike). If there's ever another new bike in my future I will strongly consider it. On the other hand ... if Moto Guzzi ever decide's to build a V12C with a Griso motor (unlikely) I might have to take out a second mortgage.

[Carlo DeSantis]

Bob,

I found myself in a similar situation a few years ago.  My stature is similar to yours, and the older I get the less I want to heave around large, top-heavy bikes.  At one time, I had both a K1100LT and the EV in my garage.  The K11LT was the first to go since it was the heavier of the two.  I kept my EV for longer rides (multi-day and rallies), while using my T3 for breakfast and lunch rides as well as local club events.

Three years ago I bought a 2011 BMW R1200R as a new leftover.  It was significantly lighter than my KLT and EV.  I think wet weight is just a bit under 500#; not a lightweight, but a vast improvement over the >600# monsters I had been pushing around the garage.  The seating position on he R12R is just barely forward leaning for me, and could easily be brought to dead neutral with barbacks.  I know several riders who have done just that, but for me it is just about right since I like to take a little weight off my tailbone.  It wasn't too long before I realized the EV could go; it took me a couple of seasons to finally convince myself, but I did sell it late last year.

With a windshield and a set of handbags, it has handled touring duties quite well.  My Iron Butt days are behind me, so the highest mile days I've done on the R12R were just under 700 miles and that was all I wanted :)  I'm much happier these days with 350 - 400 mile days as max.

By the time I hang up my helmet for the last time, I might be riding a 250cc scooter -- but for now the R12R suits me fine.  Along with the T3 for showing off :)

[bpreynolds]

Bob, I too think your Griso should go.  To me.     
I'm kidding.  A little.  As Pete notes, it does seem like you and the bike never shared the same kind of thing you had/have with the Sport.  Me personally, as much as I think the Griso is possibly the single most sexy and charismatic bike in the universe, I have never been able to convince myself to buy one because my frame (with my longer legs - 32" inseams and super short arms and torso - only 5'9" total) seems the most imperfect match immaginable.  This has been proven by several test rides where eatch time I had convinced myself that I was only blinded on my last ride and that really me and the bike can make things work.  Then arriving back at the dealership with a kind of broken heart.  But show me one again today and my eyes will again try to convert me to it, such a fantastic looking thing.  Alas, even with risers and peg lowers I can't remotely see how the bike would make sense "for me."  The new 2011 Stelvio I bought a couple years ago was great but I just found it too much to push around the garage and such for my 145lb dry weight.  The 800 makes a lot of sense and I too have become a small Triumph convert as of late as much as my trials (read fix/fail/repeat) go onward with my T Bird project.  I find the 675 engine in my Striple to likely be the single best all around motor I've ever experienced on a bike.  I can only imagine the 800 would be just as applicable if not even moreso.  Good luck.

[ohiorider]

Have you replaced the GS diaphragms yet ?

  Dusty

Nyet!  A coming attraction, however.

[ohiorider]

Also, aren't the Mana bars a common mod to relax the ergos of the Sport?

Jas, I installed Mana bars within a week or so of riding the 1200 Sport home from New Hampshire.  The stock ones were really a long reach for me.  If my shoulder wasn't causing me issues, the slightly leaned forward position with the Mana bars is (was) about right for me. 

[guzziart]

Hi Bob,

Hopefully, some physical therapy will improve your situation.

I see several acceptable options posted here and probably more as the thread continues.  After all, we ride because it's fun, if you're uncomfortable with your ride, change it around or replace it. 

As a result on my small "assortment" of two wheeled vehicles, I can select one that will match my endurance level for a particular run.  However, it is a chore keeping this small fleet fully operational in season and fully winterized off season.  I do find at this point in my life that one of my smaller displacement bikes is getting more use than the others because of seating position, exceptional suspension travel, fuel economy, cargo carrying capacity, ease of maintenance and low initial cost.  OTOH, it would not be the one I'd take on a 2-3 week coast to coast run.  So, this is how I currently deal with ensuring my personal comfort level is maintained on two wheels.  Although, I haven't delved into bar risers, custom seats, adjustable pegs, etc., maybe I should!!??

Oh well, get better, take care,

Art

[Bisbonian]

Hey Bob,

The risers I got from you helped out with my shoulder problems on the 1200 Sport, a bit ironic?

I'm still considering something a bit lighter with a more upright riding position. Right now I'm holding my breath that Yamaha will make a 650 V-Strom competitor out of the FZ-07, if they do it I will be a customer.

Initially this would not be a replacement, but an addition as I like my 1200 Sport too much to let it go right now.

I went to a Triumph demo day a few months ago and had great expectations for the 800 Tiger. Sad to say I hated riding that bike. I don't remember exactly what turned me off but just have an impression that I am better off without it. On the other hand, the Speed Triple with Arrow exhaust made me very happy. Except for the riding position.

I've got a friend with a DL650 V-Strom and it does everything he could ever ask, I've considered one but I had a DL1000 V-Strom previously which left me underwhelmed. I've always been a Yamaha guy but don't want the size of the Super Tenere (or cost).

[lucydad]

Go test ride a Triumph Street Triple R...smooth and very nice geometry....serious ly.

[Bill929]

Test ride the Tiger.  Its riding position was great for me (5'6"), but it has no low end torque (especially when used to big twins).  It also gets blown around quite a bit at highway speeds and (IMO) the factory screen does not offer decent wind protection.  Then ride the new BMW GS.  Equipped with the factory low suspension it is easily manageable for someone 5'7" - great riding position, carries its weight down low and has a 31.1 inch seat height.  Wet weight is about 525 lbs., so it is a little heavier than the Tiger, but you won't feel it.

[pyoungbl]

Lots of us have taken a hard look at the V7 as an alternative bike.  I bought a '13 and have kitted it out to be a reasonable bike for shorter trips.  When I think about rolling the Stelvio out to go for a ride it's surprising how many times I grab the small block instead.  Now, when I go on my next multi day camping trip the Big Girl will get the nod...for now.

Peter Y.

[wymple]

As far as your shoulder goes, I can relate. I spent years putting up with trouble on both sides, as well as a very ornery back, and a right knee that was out to get me. While everyone is different, and medicine is not an exact science, Cortizone was like magic for a ten year stretch, till the shoulder gave out and I got a bone spur on a vertebrae, and surgery became necessary. I had to get a booster shot every year or sometimes 2 years, but work it did. I'm told by other recipients that sometimes it takes as many as 3 treatments for it to take good effect. Some it don't help much. Worked for me immediately. It was the 1st time in over 20 years I had been completely pain free. I thought I was done at 54, now I'm 66 and still up on wheels, tho old age is getting hold of me some. It's an easy thing to try. Physical therapy wasted my time, mostly.

[lorazepam]

I am loving my V7 stone as my only bike. Haven't had the chance to do multi day trips yet, but I don't see a problem with doing it. It is light, and easy to move around, and has enough power for solo touring, not sure if it is a a good choice for 2 up riding.  You should take one for a spin, they are a great bike.
Previous broken neck, destroyed right shoulder, and two bad knees have me off the taller ADV type bikes. I need to lose weight and get in better shape, it would help, but riding the V7 has certainly made riding much more enjoyable for me.

[Graham UK]

On my Breva 1100, Helibar risers and Knight Design lower pegs have made all the difference for me.  However, when I wonder about getting a lighter bike I keep coming back to a Tiger 800.  The V7 Stone feels just a bit too small, and the seat seems a bit thin for longer journeys; a second hand Breva 750 is a pretty alternative, although again I think it would be too cramped.