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From the sublime to the ridiculous, the sale of the immaculate Ducati funded the
purchase of a BMW R850R - a demonstrator with 600 miles (of which I'd done 200!) on the speedometer.. I would have sooner
had a new Guzzi but I'm afraid none of the then current Guzzi's really appealed. The BM' did everything I wanted it to do
and covered nearly 60 000+ miles over the 8 years I had it.. Not fast by most standards but fast enough and immense hooligan
fun or gentle comfortable tourer. It suited me - but wasn't a Moto Guzzi. I went for the 850 rather than the 1100 after reading
of the 850's smoother engine and slightly better acceleration but there were times I would like the 1100's higher top end
speed and more. The BM did everything that could be asked or expected of it with efficiency and without complaint or the slightest
problem - well apart a swing arm bearing due to a pothole. It even survived a 50mph+ excursion down the road with mearly a
cracked rocker cover - almost rideable home but leaking a bit too much oil. Unlike me who probably wouldn't as withing half
an hour whilst waiting for the recovery vehicle - I could barely walk or move!! I made some very worthwhile alterations I'd
recommend to any potential owner. The OEM BMW screen makes a big difference (but the bracketing is rather flimsy - I had two
sets of brackets break over 5 years), raised bars and lowered footrest kits made the ride more comfortable for me. The BM
comfortable averaged 48 mpg. Totally efficient and reliable - but I must admit it never really inspired me, was rather characterless
and when part exchanged although grateful for having owned it - I didn't miss it a bit I'm ashamed to say
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