Wistrick said:
Looking for a replacement for my trusty Versys...ABS and shaft drive are a must....Is the Tenre Vibby because I am looking for smooth.....I rode a 2013 FJR and it smooth as glass...But I already havean09 Norge in the shed....Looking for a YAK that I can load up for Alsaka or just the weekend overnighter....Really like the upright riding position on the Versys
thoughts
Dan
I was faced with a very similar delimma about 2 weeks ago. I decided I wanted something different than the Versys, my choices were the Tenere, FJR and Concours. All were holdovers and very close in price. I was looking for a bike good for 2 up riding (something the Versys didn't do well), and comfortable at distance.
Here's where your situation is different, you already have a fine sport touring bike in the Norge, probably as good as the FJR (I can already see the arguments with this statement coming, remember my opinion). I'd go with the Tenere.
If you like the riding position of the Versys, you'll love the riding position of the Tenere. The Tenere has vibration,but much less and lower frequency than the Versys. You'll be able to haul a ton of crap on the Tenere if you head to Alaska.
When you first throw a leg over the Tenere, keep a few things in mind. The Tenere is a much larger bike than the Versys and has a 19 inch front wheel, you cannot throw it around in the twisties as easily as the Versys. The Tenere comes equipped with a 80/20 dual sport tires, where the Versys comes equipped with a sport bike tire, again the Tenere does not turn as quick. Also, redline on the Tenere is quite a bit lower, so be aware of that. When you first ride it, you will feel the motor is not as "fun" as the Versys motor. Tip: Turn TCS off and Sport Mode on, the fun begins. So far, the Tenere has been the perfect upgrade from the Versys.