Let me go to the library and fetch my copy of "MCN" for a quick recap.
Engine & Performance: KTM, BMW, Buell. Praised Buell for gobs of torque, bashed it for poor performance in heat (wouldn't idle, many backfires, lots of stalls) and of course the Eas-Z-Bake oven aspect of the bike.
Transmission: KTM, BMW, Buell (with "distant 3rd") emphasized in subhead. Tough to find neutral, cable clutch vs. hydraulic of other two, cable had adjustment woes, did like lack of driveline lash.
Chassis and suspension: BMW, KTM, Buell (sensing a pattern here...
) Liked ease of adjustment
Brakes, wheels, tires: BMW, KTM, Buell. Like Buells smaller diameter front tire for street use, but found them poorly suited for off-road. Said trail braking Buell was an exercise in how to run wide.
Handling: BMW, KTM, Buell. Weight transfer, bad brakes meant more downshifting; shortwheel base and steering geometry make it a quick handler, but they said it was almost impossible to change line mid-corner.
Ergos: BMW, KTM, Buell. New seat and lower heighth make it an very uncomfortable bike; they say the Buell has gone backwards. Severe knee bend as well.
Riding impressions: BMW, KTM, Buell Tough in cross winds, does well off-road.
Instruments & Controls: BMW, KTM, Buell
Attention to detail: BMW, KTM, Buell. Besides heat, fuel mixture woes, heavy shifting, they also complain about the fan.
Value: KTM, BMW, Buell.
