Stelvio maybe?

[motoTommaso]

I'm not really an adventure bike rider.  I'm looking for something that can handle paved backroads, handle decently, and haul 4 or 5 day's worth of camping equipment.  I recently was tempted by an '09 Stelvio for sale for $5K with 65K on it.  It appears to be well maintained. Some of the usual tweaks.  Penske shock, reflash and Power Commander.

Is a Stelvio liable to need significant (in excess of $1500) maintenance at that mileage if the routine services have been performed?  Any caveats on specific years or known issues with these bikes?

Tommaso

[Vasco DG]

If it hasn't been rollerised it's very likely it will need to be at some point. Shit-can the PC and put a decent map in it and it will be a much happier thing.

[ChuckH]

I'm not really an adventure bike rider.  I'm looking for something that can handle paved backroads, handle decently, and haul 4 or 5 day's worth of camping equipment.  I recently was tempted by an '09 Stelvio for sale for $5K with 65K on it.  It appears to be well maintained. Some of the usual tweaks.  Penske shock, reflash and Power Commander.

Is a Stelvio liable to need significant (in excess of $1500) maintenance at that mileage if the routine services have been performed?  Any caveats on specific years or known issues with these bikes?

Tommaso 

The Stelvio is an excellent touring machine.  They have a comfortable riding position, long travel suspension, very good brakes, lots of carrying capabilities and very reasonable power.  I would stay in the models from '12 and newer to take advantage of the roller tappets that were added in early '12.  Also, the '12 and newer models came with several accessories in the NTX package that are attractive to you in your touring desires -- Trax rear cases, crash bars, Hella Fog Lamps, Hand Guards, Engine Skid Plate, etc.

Out of the box, they do need some changes and improvements to be reliable.  The necessary changes have been well documented.  Once done, and given normal maintenance/repair, the bikes can be expected to give good service for many miles.

That's my experience.

[stmike]

Sounds like my friend's bike you may be thinking about.  Are you in the L.A. Area?

[motoTommaso]

Sounds like my friend's bike you may be thinking about.  Are you in the L.A. Area?

Yes it's on LA craigslist.

[ChuckH]

Chuck, good description, except you out left out how good they can handle in real world sport riding.  Not the greatest in real tight technical stuff, but will surprise sporty riders with how good they are in moderate twisties and sweepers!...

Sailor, I agree. 

I recently bought an '07 R1200R bike.  It has a shorter wheelbase and more upright forks than the Stelvio, so handles more like a sport bike, particularly in the very tight twisties.  However, on the long sweepers and more gradual curves, the Stelvio is equally controllable and just a lot of fun to ride.

Plus, in a good cross wind, the extra 100# or so of the Stelvio is much more manageable.  In those conditions, the extra weight is your friend.

Ride safe out there.