beauchemin

on ebay now: http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewIt...p;rd=1&rd=1

What about a Wakan? http://www.engmore.com/home.html

The cams run in plain bearing blocks that are not integral with the head (i.e. they can be replaced if worn). The don't normally wear out, but the early ones (pre-'76) were prone to crumbling. The triples are wonderful beasts. They are simple and very robust. They vibrate, but it is low frequency and low amplitude vibration. I think my V11 was worse at times. They really benefit from a proper ignition system with an actual advance curve (as mike wilson mentions). They aren't the greatest for riding around town, but wonderful on the open road. Either one sounds good,. If you can, ride them both and buy the one that feels the best.

Congratulations - very nice bike - that was my second choice after the GT1000.

That is THE best looking add-on fairing that I've seen on any V11. Nicely done!

I am having way too much fun with this bike. So far 1,200 miles in 8 days. My wife is slightly annoyed that I'm riding so much. This is the first bike that makes me want to keep on riding! If you had any doubts about this bike, then you can forget them - it is awesome. I have only two complaints - the lack of a centerstand (maybe the after market will help out?), and the gearing is a bit high (easy to change with sprocket swap).

Hi Tom - yes, the GT has more legroom and less forward lean. I had installed a Ballabio handlebar kit which raised the bars and moved them rearward moderately. The GT is still more comfortable than a V11 with Ballabio bars.

I picked it up on Saturday, put 670 miles on it between Saturday and Monday on the Washington state backroads, and then took it in for its first service yesterday and then rode it home last night. I am very impressed with this machine. Once you get past the gorgeous looks, the details are very well executed with elegant design and good materials. The stock suspension is unadjustable, but is very well setup from the factory. With effective suspension, a stiff frame, and some Ducati geometry tossed in, it carves up the twisties like no Guzzi I've ever ridden. The DS1000 motor is awesome with a fantastic midrange. I've installed the Termignoni exhaust kit for the classic Ducati sound. The V11 has more bottom-end torque, as compared to the DS1000 which hits its sweet spot above 4300 rpm. The riding position is very comfortable for my 6'2" frame. The bike is small, yet accomodates tall riders easily.

This Norge looks like a collision between a Breva and the FJR1300. Not necessarily ugly, but very bland in a German or Japanese kind of way. Give me a break, have you never heard of the ST2 or ST3, or Multistrada?

These parts are like new and were removed at 3,000 miles to install aftermarket foot controls. 1. shift lever with linkage $95 CAD 2. brake lever with pivot bolt $85 CAD 3. both footpegs with mounts & springs $55 Prices include air mail within North America. PayPal preferred. PM, or email me here: guzzilla shaw ca

When you find yourself in a false neutral, the best thing to do is NOT touch the clutch - just keep the revs at the appropriate level to match the road speed for that gear and gently push the lever into the gear you were trying for. It works every time with NO crunch.

The Breva or Griso has better suspension than the V11, which might be important to you if you like to ride agressively now and then. Choosing a motorcycle is not an entirely rational decision, so try to satisfy your heart at the same time as choosing the right tool for the job.

I love V11 motor and looks, but I never felt "one with the bike" - if you know what I mean. It would have been nice to keep it but I can't justify two bikes at the moment. I recently test road a Ducati Sport Classic 1000 and I was smitten, except for the brutal handlebar position. So, I've bought a GT1000 and should have it home in a week or so. If you guys don't mind I'll still hang around - this is one of the best forums around. Here it is:

I hear you. My V11 is sold, and I hope to pick up my GT next week. I've done a lot of research into the DS1000 motor - it appears to be a sweet motor.

Oh come on Jaap, where's your sense of adventure? It's just starting to get good!