Got 'em ALL out of storage

[kingoffleece]

Yep.  The Norge, V7, and Jackal all buffed up, tires checked, fluids checked, and 59-60 miles on each.  SPRING, where the heck have you BEEN?!  I've been waiting............ ................... ...........

[Huzo]

I bet your tank badges aren’t as cute as these...

[ohiorider]

I bet your tank badges aren’t as cute as these...

How do you like the V85 compared to the Norge?  Maybe it isn't a fair question, since these bikes are designed for somewhat different riding environments.  BTW, good looking V85!  I'm asking in part because I've owned a BMW R100GS since 1991, and still put miles on it.  Like your V85, it's an adventure tourer, sub 500 pounds, approx 60hp, and the V85 is probably as close as any bike I could own today that is even close to my old airhead. 

Bob

[Huzo]

The V85 feels like a performance Japanese 4 or 6 compared to an old(er) school V8.
The Norge is worn beautifully in all the right places and I’m sure that my impressions are tainted by a blind affection.
However, if you weren’t enamoured as I am with the 1200, you’d probably opt for the ‘85.
The Norge feels like it has velvet pistons with a silky liquidity in it’s power output and a gearbox like a Suzuki Bandit....(good that is).
It’s been with me too long to not be seen as a favourite so that’s where it is for me. I have seen long married couples who know that their respective spouses have faults, but choose not to identify them.
Answer...?
The V85 will be a better proposition as long as you haven’t ridden (my) Norge...
So....Buy the ‘85.
BTW..
For what I have planned for future tours, the V85 is a much better “tool”.

[ohiorider]

At a guess, your Norge is a two valve per cylinder model.  My 1200 Sport, with essentially the same engine. is a silky smooth machine.  It has a feel under acceleration like no other bike I've owned.  My now gone 2012 Griso 8vSE had more power, but the 1151cc engine in my 2008 Sport is a wonderful thing!  Sounds like a real lump at idle .... lots of mechanical noise, but once underway ...... well, you know.

[Perazzimx14]

Yep.  The Norge, V7, and Jackal all buffed up, tires checked, fluids checked, and 59-60 miles on each.  SPRING, where the heck have you BEEN?!  I've been waiting............ ................... ...........

Here's to a safe 2020. Ride well, ride often!