GT3 or MTS1200 V4S?

[Nick63]

Hi Guys,
A question for opinions please.
I've ridden for almost 50 years now & I live in NZ. Roads here are fairly crap condition, potholes etc, & 30% would still be gravel in the backways. Speed limit is 100 kph, Cops don't give leeway. So REALLY loves the looks and reviews of the GT3, but note the suspension is 'limited'. Other thoughts are the Multistrada 1200 V4S, possibly kinder to my body. It gets awesome reviews too & they are about the same $'s. Your constructive thoughts would be welcome.

 

[LimeyinTX]

If I lived where you do, I wouldn't hesitate to own an ADV-style bike. When I lived in NW, Oregon, I had a BMW GSA and made some long trips. Most weekends, I was on logging roads that were all gravel. The bike was far more capable than I was off the pavement. Now I live in Flatlandia South East, Tx. Straight roads and sunny skies. Here the corners are 90° bends, so it's all about the torque out of the turn (and a nice set of brakes before the next one).

 

[Vector]

I suggest a Tiger.

 

[RhinoOK]

I had a 2015 Multistrada 1200S. The Skyhook suspension on the S is fantastic and bump and potholes just disappear. It is the one thing I miss about the MTS. I had the idea I would use it off road more than I did but I just don't have the skills for it. If I had to be on gravel and badly maintain roads most of the time I would probably still have the MTS.

 

[Vector]

I had a 2015 Multistrada 1200S. The Skyhook suspension on the S is fantastic and bump and potholes just disappear. It is the one thing I miss about the MTS. I had the idea I would use it off road more than I did but I just don't have the skills for it. If I had to be on gravel and badly maintain roads most of the time I would probably still have the MTS.

I fully understand that. I spent years on dirt bikes but at age 66 I no longer have the balance or balls (LOL) to risk a get-off in the dirt.

 

[Jagster]

Welcome Nick,
If I were in your riding environment I wouldn't go for the Rocket.
Most ADV bikes would fit the bill, I reckon.
If it was me, i'd be taking a serious look at the 2023 750 Transalp.....
Honda XL750 Transalp (2023) - Technical Review

If you want something more beefed up and don't want to be hassled with maintaining chain drive bikes yet don't want a heavy shaft drive set-up I can recommend the H-D Pan-America. My mate has had one for 18months and he's been doing all kinds of riding with it, in all conditions (except proper off roading) and he's mightily impressed with it.
2023 Pan America 1250 Special | Harley-Davidson Australia

 

[Mighty Mouse]

The Pan Am 1250 looks nice and decent HP. I'm not use to saying HD and good Horse Power in the same sentence. If you have a Harley Davidson clothing and accessories shop nearby stop in as they also sell motorcycles I hear.

 

[Mike188]

Welcome from Adelaide, South Australia.