MOT time for the GSX-R the other day, which, due to the annual expiry date means it is usually the first ride of it since the previous summer.
This year I thought getting back on the sports bike would not be quite as much of a shock. The reason being, for the last 5 years the step has been from my reliable, steady, fun, workhorse, otherwise known as a DL650 VStrom (a bike I would thoroughly recommend, by the way)
No, this year, having just laid out a dollop of brass to swap the DL for a new Versys 1000, I thought there wouldn’t be a shock factor, just a step up.
S**t, was I wrong. For all the improved performance of the Versys over the DL, and it is a big step, the GSX-R is of another world.
The Versys is a quick, nimble, comfortable, adventure-styled road bike. The GSX-R (Blade, R1, Ninja etc; included) comes with the ‘Supersports’ tag , a tag that is warranted, taking you into another world, galaxy even, at hyper-drive and warp factor speeds.
Where the Versys and the likes are great fun, the Supersports are about sheer exhilaration.
No question, if I could only have one bike it would be the Versys, or something from similar stock. It’s ultra comfortable, enough performance surely for all. It will make a back road, country lane into a hoot and take you and your squeeze, with luggage, away for the weekend or cross Continents, keeping you with a smile on your face.
But, if what you want is dose of tourettes, then climb aboard a Supersports.
As a mate once said, ‘Aye, and mine gets quicker the longer I leave it in the garage!’
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