S1000XR World Tour

[Sprocket Square]

HI! This is my first BMW and I've just quit my job to ride around the world.
I've almost all but chosen the XR because:

1)The GS isn't my cup of tea
2) Massive grin when I test rode it
3) Majority will be road riding, but when I get to the middle east, the stans and places like India and Burma, I'm going to need something that can handle it - so AltRider protection will be among my first mods.

Really looking forward to getting and sharing info as the bike build takes shape. Havent taken delivery yet but just finalising the deal and thought some research here would be well worth it 

[Winger]

I enjoy mine but wouldn't be my choice for riding around the world that is for sure.

[Sprocket Square]

HI Winger. Any points/issues you can highlight?

[Winger]

Too highly strung you want a cart horse for what you are going to do not a race horse,I'd be looking at a Tenere 1200 Yamaha or the dreaded GS,I'm not saying you couldn't do it on an XR but given the choice I'd go for other options.

[RichS1000XR]

An F800GS or a 600 Tenere would be my personal choice. You want something light that you can bolt loads of luggage and crap to, and not worry about leaving outside in less secure countries. Just my 2p.

PS, you're a lucky sod, and I hate you!

[Jockser]

Originally Posted by RichS1000XR

An F800GS or a 600 Tenere

Both excellent bikes. Or maybe a 660XT.
But if Nick Saunders can do it on an R1 then you could certainly do it on an XR. And much quicker than on a 600 - 800cc bike 
 

Originally Posted by RichS1000XR

PS, you're a lucky sod, and I hate you!

Exactly that !

If you do go on an XR we'll expect regular updates & lots of pics 

[Sprocket Square]

Thanks for the replies. All valid points. It can be done on any bike so I guess route and logistics will play the biggest part. No road of bones so dont worry 
Europe to Middle East, Dubai, India, SE Asia maybe and then OZ, then USA, so the roads will largely be ok. If it does get hairy...

Regarding weight I'm actually going to travel very light (not my first adventure). After months of research I will be going for soft luggage as it's more flexible depending on what happens, and when the bike tips (coz it will) it's easier on the frame.

Too highly strung you want a cart horse for what you are going to do not a race horse

You are right but at the same time when I get to a destination I will be spending some time at and the luggage comes off, I'll be glad I have it 

[Sprocket Square]

If you do go on an XR we'll expect regular updates & lots of pics 

Totally - I'm going to vlog the whole thing 

[Jockser]

Originally Posted by Sprocket Square

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqaCyOYvUkw

That's soo wrong !
I love it !!

If I could ride off-road like that I'd probably do the same 
But anything above a 650 single is beyond my dirt capabilities...

[Winger]

Originally Posted by Jockser

But if Nick Saunders can do it on an R1

Yea but it wasn't his R1 was it!!

If I was doing it I'd go on a 660 Tenere and I say that as 660X owner.

Have look on XT660.com all you will ever need to know and some.