A bit more Tour

[hugerider]

Hi all,

I currently ride an '07 Versys which I generally love, especially in the city, but I'm starting to think about changing bikes, maybe this year, probably next. I'm trying to compile a list of bikes to consider. Hopefully you can help.

Issues I have with my Versys:

• Lack of wind protection on the highway. Maybe I'm just being a wuss, but I find it exhausting to ride for long periods. I have a touring windshield, but I don't know what else I can add to it.
• Really uncomfortable seat for anything beyond 60 minutes. I do realize that I can change this.
• On the highway, I sometimes feel as though it's missing a gear.
• It's feel into corners. I don't know that it's the bikes fault, new tires might fix it, but it feels like you're falling or flopping into the corner. I've never had a sensation like that on any other bikes I've ridden, so I'm not sure if it's the height, geometry, rubber, or some combination of those issues causing it.
• My wife doesn't like the height of the bike, she won't get on the back.

The bike is fantastic in the city, and for short trips, but after 90 minutes on the highway, I need rest.

Things I don't want to lose:

• Torque. The engine is great in traffic. I like low revving engines.
• Sightlines. I like being able to see when I'm in traffic. I don't want to be cruiser low, but I need to go a bit lower in the height of the bike for my wife's sake.

Currently, 90% of my riding is commuting on freeways and surface streets, but I really want to start doing some longer touring trips.  I'm just looking for suggestions of bikes to consider that meets my requirements:

• Lower than the Versys (what isn't, really?), but not crazy low.
• Good, torque-y engine for commuting.
• Long-distance comfort.
• Large-ish gas tank

Here are the bikes I can think of that fit the bill:

• Suzuki gsx1250fa. They don't call it a bandit anymore.
• V-Strom 1000, maybe a 650.
• A guy suggested a Yamaha FZ1 to me, but I'd have to get lowers, and I don't think it's the greatest bike for in town.
• BMW F800ST.

What can you add? In terms of budget, I'd like to keep it less than $15000. Cheaper is preferable. Used is also fine. I expect any bike to be a worse city bike, but I don't want it to be way worse, if you know what I mean.

Thanks,
David


EDIT:
Bikes I'm considering based on feedback so far:

• BMW K1300S
• Honda VFR1200
• Honda ST1300
• Yamaha FJR
• Kawasaki ZX-14
• Kawasaki Concours
• Suzuki Hayabusa
• Triumph Sprint

There's likely more, but these are the ones in the forefront of my mind. Glad I'm not in a rush to make this decision. Thanks all!

[mustang28027]

You gave some good info, but  we would need more. You havent mentioned  how tall you are.  Does your wife want to ride much? How tall is she? When you mention touring, how far? What is your ideal ride? Twisties or flatland?

I have a  2002 FZ1. It is a decent all around bike. I have  taken it to the dragstrip( ran a 11.3 @ 131 hph), and also had  a 13 hour  ride in the mountains. Some folks take them to the track for trackdays. Lots of fun. I think the Bandit is a good bike, but dont think it, like the FZ, is good for two up riding.

 If you want torque,  look at the Triumph ST. Good bike.  Or, if on the same lines, the Honda VFR( not the new one). They are GREAT bikes,  good torque, can be ridden two up, and have a loyal following. Used ones are plentiful and can be had for a steal.

Just my 2 cents worth...

Dave

[hugerider]

Thanks mustang,

I'm 6'2", 33" inseam. My wife is 5'4". She'd like to ride with me, but I can't say that she'd want to all the time.

My ideal ride is in the mountains. I live 3 hrs. from the Rockies, and I'd love to be able to get there and ride without wishing that my legs were amputated. So twisties, but there's a long ride on slab to get there. Pavement only, I'm not necessarily looking for an adventure tourer.

In terms of distance, I'd like to go cross-country eventually, but for now, ~ a week long trip through the mountains.

I completely forgot about the Triumph ST, and the old VFR800. I was lusting after a VFR 15 years ago.

[Mastros2]

I really like my vfr.  Plenty of power and low end grunt for me.  The only drawback is the stock suspension.  I am in the process of installing fork springs and a revalved/sprung rear shock to handle my weight (180lbs...yea, the stock suspension is overworked from the factory).

There are plenty of 6th gen vfrs on the market for $5k or under.  Add another $1k in suspension bits and you can make it one helluva 2up touring bike.

Another suggestion is the c14.   Plenty of owners here that can add their $.02.  Plenty of used models on the market now as well that can be found for under $10k.

[ridingfar]

One of the Triumph Tigers - they come in three flavors now...four if you count the two 800 variations.

[Jetpilot5]

Like you, I do a lot of freeway miles to get to the fun roads.  I had a Suzuki GSX1250FA for a few months but the wind protection on it just wasn't good enough for all the highway miles I ride.  I decided it was gone on a one day 610 mile ride that had fewer than 100 miles of curvy road.  The engine is fantastic, torque monster, easy to ride in town and very smooth, but if you're not happy with the weather protection on your Versus I doubt you'll think the GSX1250FA is much better.

For extended rides, especially 2 up, you may want to look at the FJR/C-14/ST1300 class of bikes.  A lot bigger and heavier for sure but much better with a passenger and no power or wind protection issues at all.  A lot more bike when you're town riding but you and I are about the same size (I'm 6'2" with a 34' inseam) and I have no problems riding the FJR in town.  I even keep the seat in the high position to provide a little more legroom and it's still an easy reach to the ground.

If you're willing to ride something more sporty then you can consider the ZX-14/Hayabusa/K1300S/VFR1200 class of machines.  Better wind management will come from you being in a slightly more crouched riding position.  Power will be no problem at all and the bikes are not cruiser low but still lower than your Versus.  Only you'll be able to tell if the more tucked riding position will still let you see comfortably in traffic.  I wouldn't go much smaller than the Triumph Sprint GT if your planning 2 up trips.  The VFR800 can do it (I had one for 5 years) but loaded with 2 people and gear for a trip you're going to like the power from a bigger engine, especially in the mountains.

All things to consider.

[hugerider]

I never would have thought about ZX-14 or the Hayabusa. I suppose I have seen lots of threads about how people love touring on these. Off to watch some videos and search the forums.

[Dan K]

With your requirements, you need good wind protection, decent legs, yet sporty in the mountains.  You are describing the K1300S.  The gentleman's sport bike (as opposed to the rowdy Busas and ZX14's).  Great wind protection, suspension adjustable on the fly from comfortable / soft on the highway to SPORT in the twisties.  Hardbags available.  Not a 400 lbs. sport bike by any stretch, but surprisingly nimble and handles much better/easier than the FJR, COnnie type bikes (which are great, they just take a little more effort to rock the twisties).

Triumph Sprint ST (or GT) is a also great way to go, also avoids the weight (but also some amenities) of the FJR/COnnie 14.  Has the grunt you like - great engine.

Haven't ridden one, but the Ninja 1000 may be your ticket as well - also on the sporty end of touring, and with a few mods could be made comfy for long distance, but not likely pillion friendly.

As for the VFR, great bikes, but from my time on one, the torque is severely lacking.  Call me crazy, but it was weak in the low RPM's. Other than torque, and maybe being a bit cramped, it fits your criteria.

Also, if you can find a good one, the Aprilia Futura hits your criteria as well.  SPORTY tourer, V-twin torquey power, great wind protection, much shorter than the Versys.

Good luck.

- Dan

[Dan K]

One of the Triumph Tigers - they come in three flavors now...four if you count the two 800 variations.

Same wind protection as the Versys, no?

[Jetpilot5]

With your requirements, you need good wind protection, decent legs, yet sporty in the mountains.  You are describing the K1300S.  The gentleman's sport bike (as opposed to the rowdy Busas and ZX14's).  Great wind protection, suspension adjustable on the fly from comfortable / soft on the highway to SPORT in the twisties.  Hardbags available.  Not a 400 lbs. sport bike by any stretch, but surprisingly nimble and handles much better/easier than the FJR, COnnie type bikes (which are great, they just take a little more effort to rock the twisties).

I wouldn't say the K1300S handles much better/easier than the FJR.  My K1200S was a little lighter on it's feet at low speeds than my FJR is, but it's not a huge difference.  I would say that some one used to a Versus is going to find both bikes feel a lot heavier to steer.  The thing I notice most between the K bike and the FJR is how much more ground clearance I had on the BMW.  Dragging the pegs is a lot easier on the FJR.

Triumph Sprint ST (or GT) is a also great way to go, also avoids the weight (but also some amenities) of the FJR/COnnie 14.  Has the grunt you like - great engine.

Haven't ridden one, but the Ninja 1000 may be your ticket as well - also on the sporty end of touring, and with a few mods could be made comfy for long distance, but not likely pillion friendly.

As for the VFR, great bikes, but from my time on one, the torque is severely lacking.  Call me crazy, but it was weak in the low RPM's. Other than torque, and maybe being a bit cramped, it fits your criteria.

I hadn't thought about the Ninja 1000.  If the wind protection is good enough and there's sufficient room for the wife on the back, that could be a very good choice.  Lots of positive reviews on that bike.  I agree the VFR800 is smaller than what I would choose to do a 2 up trip on.  Mine was fine solo but more torque would be better for touring.

Sprint GT would also hit the mark I would think.

[Flyer]

At the top of your price point, don't overlook the BMW R1200RT.
If you're serious about two-up comfort, weather protection, and commuting convenience, there are tons of folks who think it's the best...
The ergos will be easier for you to adapt to than the VFR/Ninja 1K/Sprint candidates.

[emerald94]

You're in Canada so how about on of these?
This one is a 2010 (a little lighter and more powerful than the '09) but with your budget, you could probably get a new '09 for quite a good price.

[Giaka]

Go shaft drive sport tourer. ST1300, FJR or C14 and don't look back.  

[Bryan217]

If you and the wife aren't large, I'd say look at the VFR800. I've yet to tour 2 up on it , but I have done all day 2 up rides with no problems. Though given the choice, I'm sure most wives would elect for a Wing (I won't let my wife near one  ), or at least a full size ST like the Connie or FJR.

[hugerider]

If you and the wife aren't large, I'd say look at the VFR800. I've yet to tour 2 up on it , but I have done all day 2 up rides with no problems. Though given the choice, I'm sure most wives would elect for a Wing (I won't let my wife near one  ), or at least a full size ST like the Connie or FJR.

My wife has the same taste in bikes I do. Naked, naked , naked. She does not like the idea of a faired bike, let alone a Wing. We went to the motorbike show in town last weekend, and she made a face every time I sat on something with a fairing (gixxers, ninjas, etc). She calls them "old man bikes"  . She threatened to leave me if I were to ever come home with a cruiser.

Anyway, I spend more time on the bike than she does, so I'll get fairing if I want to.  I'm starting to think it might be a better idea to get her her license and her own bike.  

[mustang28027]

If I had the money...

http://greensboro.craigslist.org/mcy/2799092225.html

 

[CosmicCowboy]

Currently, 90% of my riding is commuting on freeways and surface streets, but I really want to start doing some longer touring trips.  I'm just looking for suggestions of bikes to consider that meets my requirements:

• Lower than the Versys (what isn't, really?), but not crazy low.


Here are the bikes I can think of that fit the bill:

• V-Strom 1000, maybe a 650.

Ummmm.......

[SoCalFJR]

You're simply realizing the shortcomings of a 60hp bike for the long haul.  It is a rare person who can find all they want in one machine.  A week long tour through the mountains is just ridiculous on anything less than a rig with some serious bags.  You really want a FJR, C14, or St1300 for your mission, wife or no wife.  After 35 machines of all types I currently have the FJR so I'm biased, but you can find loads of them around used for under 10K.  Electric shield, power by the bucket, and loads of stability.  The FJR is also 26K miles between valve checks, and few need shims even then.  Low maintenance is a plus here.  For solo touring I think a Hayabusa or ZX14 would be a ball with a set of bags........I think a front shield mod would be necessary there also.  You simply need to move on from 60hp to the 140+ league with the rest of us.   People have toured all over the world on KLR's and 37hp........I happen to have a KLR.........the only way I would go 500 miles on that beast is at gunpoint..........if you want to ride in any semblance of comfort, get one of the big three and be happier than you ever thought possible.  

[hugerider]

Ummmm.......

I had to look it up but I was sure that the Versys was higher than the V-stroms. Turns out they're the same. Shame on me. I sat on a DL1000 and it felt lower.

You're simply realizing the shortcomings of a 60hp bike for the long haul.  It is a rare person who can find all they want in one machine.  A week long tour through the mountains is just ridiculous on anything less than a rig with some serious bags.  You really want a FJR, C14, or St1300 for your mission, wife or no wife.  After 35 machines of all types I currently have the FJR so I'm biased, but you can find loads of them around used for under 10K.  Electric shield, power by the bucket, and loads of stability.  The FJR is also 26K miles between valve checks, and few need shims even then.  Low maintenance is a plus here.  For solo touring I think a Hayabusa or ZX14 would be a ball with a set of bags........I think a front shield mod would be necessary there also.  You simply need to move on from 60hp to the 140+ league with the rest of us.   People have toured all over the world on KLR's and 37hp........I happen to have a KLR.........the only way I would go 500 miles on that beast is at gunpoint..........if you want to ride in any semblance of comfort, get one of the big three and be happier than you ever thought possible.  

The more I look around, the more I'm starting to think this way. I've always believed that I would never need more than 100hp, but my research, such as it is, is opening my eyes. All the bikes that seem to fit my needs\wants the most are all bikes that I would normally discount based on hp alone.

I'm really glad I started this thread.

[Dan K]

K1300S.  Try and get a ride on one.  I've spent time on FJR's, Gen1 C14, and Busas, and while I love the Busa engine, the K1300S is the winner hands down.  Plenty o power, and the handling, at least on the bikes I rode, was significantly better on the K1300S, both at speed and in parking lots.  The electronically adjustable suspension on the fly is amazing, and it sounds like it would suit your needs perfectly.

Dont get me wrong, FJR and C14 handle great - just took a little more effort.  The K1300S was just smoother and easier in every way.  And I personally do not like the BMW roundel - but I love that bike and it hits your list to a tee, although they are expensive...

[vulcanbill]

I know the Bandit took a bit of a beating but that's just one person's opinion.  I have no issues w/ the wind protection of that bike.  I have a Givi touring screen on mine (the S version) and I'm not offended but I'm just not that sensitive to that aspect of riding.  I think it might fit the bill for most of your other requirements.  $$ is hard to argue with.

[mustang28027]

I would tend to agree with you, VulcanBill,  with the merits of the Bandit. But only if the seat were replaced and  something done for  the windscreen. The bike is dirt cheap to buy... I have seen quite a few articles on people taking them for tours. Another bike to consider is the Yamaha YZF600r... good little bike that is not on the same level as an R6, but  could be a great commuter and also a small tourer.

Amazing that  we have gone from a city commuter to a full scale tourer, even a Goldwing in this  thread.

[Giaka]

The OP lives in Canada. Get a Versys 1000 and give the 650 to your wife. WIN WIN.....

[hugerider]

The OP lives in Canada. Get a Versys 1000 and give the 650 to your wife. WIN WIN.....

I've considered this, except the 1000 likely has the same non-existent wind protection. Also, my wife is too short to feel stable on the one I have. She does want a Ninja 250 or an er-6n however.


I'm definitely going to test ride all of the bikes I can this summer. My local BMW\Duc\Suz\Yam dealer does test rides a couple times a year. I think my Triumph\Kaw dealer does as well.

[Dan K]

That's your best bet - throw your leg over as many of the recommended bikes as possible before making your decision.  

I'll give 3-1 odds that if you ride the K1300S, it will be your first pick (whether you buy one or not - not sure if a used one can be had for $10k or less...)

- Dan

[black hills]

since you listed the BMW F800 I would suggest you take a look at the KTM adventure. Other than the hieght issue it is all you are aking for. decent wind protection, nice power, handles good and has a lot of aftermarket support for about anything you want to do with it. You should be able to pick up a left over for around $12k or less?

[jesse v]

Thanks mustang,

I'm 6'2", 33" inseam. My wife is 5'4". She'd like to ride with me, but I can't say that she'd want to all the time.

My ideal ride is in the mountains. I live 3 hrs. from the Rockies, and I'd love to be able to get there and ride without wishing that my legs were amputated. So twisties, but there's a long ride on slab to get there. Pavement only, I'm not necessarily looking for an adventure tourer.

In terms of distance, I'd like to go cross-country eventually, but for now, ~ a week long trip through the mountains.

I completely forgot about the Triumph ST, and the old VFR800. I was lusting after a VFR 15 years ago.

The first bike that comes to mind is the Z1000SX (or Ninja 1000--whatever it's called).  But then again, that's always the first bike to come to mind for me  

If your wife is anything like mine, she probably LOVES to voice her opinion about your bike--and it's lack of passenger accommodations--but only wants to actually ride twice a year for a 1.5 mile jaunt to the coffee shop.  In other words, I'd put your own desires for your bike before hers.  Then encourage her to get her own bike!  

[jesse v]

 She threatened to leave me if I were to ever come home with a cruiser.

On second thought, maybe your wife ISN'T like mine    She still thinks cruisers are the only real bikes.

[CosmicCowboy]

I had to look it up but I was sure that the Versys was higher than the V-stroms. Turns out they're the same. Shame on me. I sat on a DL1000 and it felt lower.

Well, the Vstrom CAN be lowered, but I suspect the same is true of the Versys. Honestly, the only gripe I have with the Strom is limited tire selection because of the wheel size. If I was going to jump to a different bike, the Versys would be on the list.

[mnxs54]

I might as well say it now...

My ST1300 is rock solid all the way up to 128mph(GPS).

Good luck on your decision!

[hugerider]

The first bike that comes to mind is the Z1000SX (or Ninja 1000--whatever it's called).  But then again, that's always the first bike to come to mind for me  

If your wife is anything like mine, she probably LOVES to voice her opinion about your bike--and it's lack of passenger accommodations--but only wants to actually ride twice a year for a 1.5 mile jaunt to the coffee shop.  In other words, I'd put your own desires for your bike before hers.  Then encourage her to get her own bike!  

Hah! That's pretty close.

I might as well say it now...

My ST1300 is rock solid all the way up to 128mph(GPS).

Good luck on your decision!

I've been watching videos of these today, there's a guy in my area selling an '06 Police Special. They seem pretty solid.

[02Tac]

Yep, don't count the Bandit (no matter what they call it now) out. Good wind protection is just a screen swap away. Granted, mine is a 2nd generation, but going from the stock screen to a Zero Gravit Sport-touing screen made a huge difference. Wind is no longer an issue.  Motor wise, the Bandit motors are real world motors. There is no need to rev it to the moon in order to move with authority.

I know the Bandit took a bit of a beating but that's just one person's opinion.  I have no issues w/ the wind protection of that bike.  I have a Givi touring screen on mine (the S version) and I'm not offended but I'm just not that sensitive to that aspect of riding.  I think it might fit the bill for most of your other requirements.  $$ is hard to argue with.

[rollnhot]

A lot of choices out there, I'm lucky enough to own the FJR and FZ1 1st gen. The FJR is great on longer and two up trips. The only mods on the FZ1 are, heli bars, zgdb screen, exaust and jets. Good for few days on the road, travel lighter tank and tail bag. I can easily stay in saddle on FJR for a full tank, about 240 - 260 miles.

[mustang28027]

I have a large Givi  case on the back, a large tankbag and the  tourmaster saddlebags. Combined with the Corbin seat, sheepskin pad as well, I feel pretty good about being able to tour.  Wind protection isnt as good as  the FJR and  my miles per tank is around 200... but that is ok. It's a good do-everything bike....

[Krellian]

I might as well say it now...

My ST1300 is rock solid all the way up to 128mph(GPS).

Good luck on your decision!

why limit yourself to second gear?

[hugerider]

Thanks for all of your input guys!

It's a lot to consider but you've got me thinking about "hyper" bikes   (busa, zx-14, K1300s), full on sport-tourers (fjr, st1300, connie), and a couple others (ninja 1000, bandit). I'm looking forward to test rides this year. Honestly, I wasn't expecting to get the answers that I did.

-David

[cbsnbiker]

My recommendation: take your wife shopping with you. See what she likes.

I also think that the R1200RT should be on the list. You may or may not like it, but it meets your criteria pretty well, and passengers like it.

[Jonathan]

Do lots and lots of research before you buy a new bike.  When I bought a FZ6 I thought it was the perfect bike for me.  Turns out I was wrong after putting 13,000 miles in a year on it I realized I needed something more comfortable and better for 2 up.  Ended up with a FJR and have never looked back.

[Prozac]

On second thought, maybe your wife ISN'T like mine    She still thinks cruisers are the only real bikes.

+1 but lets me get what I want anyways.  That being the case, I have the Vulcan 1600 Classic for when she wants to ride and just acquired an '06 Uly that should help with the hooligan side.  Now just need Spring to hurry up so I can get the deal done!

[hugerider]

Do lots and lots of research before you buy a new bike.  When I bought a FZ6 I thought it was the perfect bike for me.  Turns out I was wrong after putting 13,000 miles in a year on it I realized I needed something more comfortable and better for 2 up.  Ended up with a FJR and have never looked back.

We certainly have a similar story where that's concerned.

I am trying to start my research well in advance, I'm in no particular hurry. Even if I was was going to rush, I can't ride for ~4 months anyway. For now I'm lurking owner forums, reading reviews, watching videos, rinse, repeat. There's so much to consider.

[SVTNate]

I ride about 110 miles of freeway at 80mph, round trip, to ride 50 miles of twisty road.  Typical afternoon ride for me, when I can make time on a weekday.

Speed Triple.  

Wind protection is vastly overrated unless you're going on a multi-day ride, and going frequently.  Or if you live in a place with "winter", whatever that is.

[hugerider]

I ride about 110 miles of freeway at 80mph, round trip, to ride 50 miles of twisty road.  Typical afternoon ride for me, when I can make time on a weekday.

Speed Triple.  

Wind protection is vastly overrated unless you're going on a multi-day ride, and going frequently.  Or if you live in a place with "winter", whatever that is.

I live in Canada. There's definitely winter here.

[spd2918]

Go shaft drive sport tourer. ST1300, FJR or C14 and don't look back.  

This.  The Strom 1000 (had one) has the same issues you pointed out of no wind protection, flopping into corners, and the wife will hate its height.  I liked the bike, but a really love the power band on the ST.

[Rattlehead]

I see you’re considering a Hayabusa. I can at least give you my $.02 worth on that one since I own a Busa. I’ll try to break it down based on the criteria in your original post. Just for reference, I’m 6’0 w/ a 33” inseam so you have some idea of where I’m coming from when I refer to comfort type attributes.

-Wind Protection. The Busa has very good wind protection for a sportbike but is lacking compared to a touring bike. It all depends on your point of view I guess. I find that while a lot of wind does come over the windshield and hit my upper chest/ shoulders it’s very smooth and not turbulent. The Busa manages the air going around it very cleanly. My lower body seems to be in a nice pocket. I’m also quite comfortable riding in a “race tuck” for moderate distances in which case I can get completely out of the wind; very nice for cold mornings. The Hayabusa is by far the most comfortable bike I’ve ridden in a tuck. Most are just too short, seat to bars, and I feel REALLY scrunched. Also, since the riding position is “forward leaning” the wind hitting you has a tendency to “lift” your torso at highway speeds, taking pressure off of your arms, instead of trying to blow you off the back like an upright bike will.

-Seat and comfort. The seat on a Hayabusa is thick and well padded. I find it to be very comfortable. I ride an hour each way to get to work and the seat has never been even the slightest of problems.  
The riding position will be a big change from a Versys so that one you will have to decide for yourself if it suits you. The Hayabusa does have the forward leaning riding position of a sportbike but it’s FAR less extreme. Personally, I prefer this posture as it spreads the weight between my feet and butt instead of all of the weight being on my backside. Also, at speed the wind tends to “lift” your torso instead of trying to blow you off the back (as I mentioned before). I like this characteristic as it seems to make highway riding easier. The Hayabusa has a somewhat long reach to the bars so it definitely favors taller riders. I’m very comfortable with the reach but I’ve heard shorter riders complain about it before.

-Highway cruise. With a top speed knocking on the door of 200mph the Hayabusa is NEVER laboring at highway speeds. 60mph is roughly 3200rpm. A little vibration creeps in at 85-ish so if you do a lot of REALLY high speed riding you may want to regear to bring the revs back down into the smoother range (the bike has plenty of power to handle taller gearing).

-Falling into corners. This is most likely a tire thing. I personally like a bike that falls in quickly but it is un-nerving to some. I went to a 55 series rear tire on my bike to help in fall in quicker so I guess the Busa doesn’t necessarily have a natural tendency to fall in overly easy. I’ve never ridden a Versys though so I really can’t compare.

-Seat height. The seat height on a Hayabusa is very reasonable. It’s low by sportbike standards but still not cruiser-low. My wife seems to really like the passenger accommodations. The seat is wide and well-padded back there. She is short (5’1) so leg room might be an issue if your passenger is tall.

Some of the other stuff you said was important or was looking for:

Torque: yes, plenty.   The Hayabusa has idiotic amounts of power but it’s delivery is very smooth and VERY wide. There is plenty of power available ANYWHERE in the rev range. It's one of those "your never in the wrong gear" kind of bikes.

Tank size/ range. The Hayabusa’s tank size varies a little depending on year;. my particular model (2000) is 5.8gal. If you ride sensibly it will get some pretty darn good mileage so range is quite good. On my commute, which is 80/20 highway I average about 47-48mpg. On the open road I can max out my MPG gage, which stops at 50. I’ve checked the gage before and it is accurate so I’m confident in saying well over 50mpg is possible. That gives the bike an easy 250mi range. That’s more than enough for me as I’m ready for a stretch break in a car by 250mi.  

I know this is REALLY wordy but I hope it helps.  

[bucktownbilly]

Just glanced through this but did the street Tiger 800 come up?  Might be a still a tad tall.  Best of both worlds, grunt of a twin, top end of a 4 and smooth.

[Jetpilot5]

If you haven'y already checked it out, http://cycle-ergo.com/ can help with comparing the riding position of different bikes.  It's not a substitute for an actual sit or test ride and it's not the absolute authority on riding position as it doesn't take into account the width of the seat and tank and some other variables but it is a nice tool.  I entered your data and came up with the following.

[spd2918]

If you haven'y already checked it out, http://cycle-ergo.com/ can help with comparing the riding position of different bikes.

Awesome site.  Thanks for posting.

[hugerider]

I see you’re considering a Hayabusa. I can at least give you my $.02 worth on that one since I own a Busa. I’ll try to break it down based on the criteria in your original post. Just for reference, I’m 6’0 w/ a 33” inseam so you have some idea of where I’m coming from when I refer to comfort type attributes.

...

I know this is REALLY wordy but I hope it helps.  

Great post, thanks for your insight.  I have to admit, the 'Busa's a real contender, the only real strike against it (without having ridden it) is insurance. I don't have a quote, but I imagine it's considerably more than, say, a Concours.

If you haven'y already checked it out, http://cycle-ergo.com/ can help with comparing the riding position of different bikes.  It's not a substitute for an actual sit or test ride and it's not the absolute authority on riding position as it doesn't take into account the width of the seat and tank and some other variables but it is a nice tool.  I entered your data and came up with the following.

That's great, thanks for doing that.

[Dan K]

I ride about 110 miles of freeway at 80mph, round trip, to ride 50 miles of twisty road.  Typical afternoon ride for me, when I can make time on a weekday.

Speed Triple.  

Wind protection is vastly overrated unless you're going on a multi-day ride, and going frequently.  Or if you live in a place with "winter", whatever that is.

Wind protection also equates to weather protection, warm or cold.  Being able to hide in a pocket of mostly rain free air is nice, in addition to when it's cold outside.

Sold my FZ1 because I wanted better protection, which my Sprint provides.  Of course, I may not be saying this if I lived in Orange County (jealous...)

- Dan

[Giaka]

Sold my FZ1 because I wanted better protection, which my Sprint provides.  Of course, I may not be saying this if I lived in Orange County (jealous...)

- Dan

My commute is 120 miles RT (lane splitting freeways and 30x2 miles over the Ortega). I alternate between my Versys (with a large windscreen) and my ST1300. After a long day of work that 60 miles home can be fatiguing. I can honestly say I am MUCH LESS fatigued in the evening when I ride the ST. Wind blast is a mofo!

[Rattlehead]

Great post, thanks for your insight.  I have to admit, the 'Busa's a real contender, the only real strike against it (without having ridden it) is insurance. I don't have a quote, but I imagine it's considerably more than, say, a Concours.

Insurance varies so much it's hard to say what yours will be. I can tell you though that mine is $208/yr for full coverage (State Farm) so it may not be as bad as you think. I actually checked on insurance before I bought the bike thinking they'd "convince" me to buy something else with an astronomical quote. I could have fallen out of my chair when they told me just over $200/yr for full coverage with a $100/500 deductible! It made the "which bike do I want to buy" decision pretty easy (I was looking at several at the time).