Faults:

I replaced the chain at 25,000 km.

The battery has been replaced twice (once because fluid leaked out when the bike tipped over and I didn't re-fill it).

I have installed a brighter headlight and extra driving lights for night driving (country highways).

The exhaust is hot, and I have melted the bottom of the air-box as a result of poor choke use (my fault). To prevent that happening in the future, I have used insulating wrap on the exhaust, and I have used insulating 'tape' on the bottom of the air-box.

General Comments:

This motorcycle has been used by me for day-to-day commutes to work, as well as a number of multi-day trips in the mountains of BC, Montana, Idaho and the Pacific Northwest. It handles the highways with me and my gear just fine. On mountain passes (like Lolo Pass) it is a blast to ride.

As an added bonus, when it falls over, it is light enough to pick up easily.

Of all of the motorcycles I have owned, this one is my favourite - by far.

Faults:

The starter switch sometimes fails unless pressed hard.

The orange seat cover is particularly difficult to keep clean.

General Comments:

This is a very good bike for commuting. I ride about 30 miles a day through city and country over Irish roads, which involves dodging potholes, mud, over-banding, diesel, gravel, taxis, overloaded trucks etc. Quite similar to off-roading actually, but less stable.

However, I would stress that the bike is not up to motorway or highway travel. It is quite under-powered and does not offer any significant wind protection.

My bike is fitted with hand-guards, heated grips, ABS and hazard lights. I recommend all except the ABS. It is not really very effective on a bike with so little power and it is quite expensive. Better to get BMW clothing or panniers for the same price.

On the issue of brakes, this bike really needs a double disk up front, especially as commuting requires good braking. The brakes are linked, but the back is very soft, not enough to actually stop the bike.