Thoughts> Retro perfection on two wheels?

The more I think about travelling in Australia, the more dedicated I am to spend at least 2-3 months there - and buy a motorcycle. It's turning out difficult to get insurance for a Finnish guy with a UK license on an Australian bike, but paperwork's never stopped me (until it's been too late, on a few occasions). Onto the shopping, then!

I thought I'd want something like the Yamaha V-Max. It's got the looks and the grunt, but it may not be terribly practical for long touring. The seat isn't really conducive to placing luggage, for example.



Now, I'd also thought that the old BMW tourers were probably the ugliest bikes in existence. Boxy, bulky-looking, something that your dad's Octoberfest-bodied friend might ride, they certainly weren't for me. Not even on the same road as me, thanks very much.

Until it hit me. The BMW K100RS did. No, not literally. I was looking at one on the street in Bangkok, a battered old boy, and I realized what a retro beauty it was. The lines were balanced, the expression utilitarian and effortless. It didn't try to be cool, but it was. Something about the finishing and the angles reminds me of my old Star Wars toys, especially the X-Wing.

(from Motorcycle.co.uk)

It's still a bit ugly, sure. The prettiest retro-styled bike I know is the faired Suzuki Bandit 400V from early 90's and late 80's. That is pretty retro already, but the round nose cowl just takes you smack back in the 60's. Too bad 400 cc is a bit small for a touring engine - and you can't really find these anywhere.

(from Suzukicycles.org)

What shall it be? Suggestion accepted. And if you want to insure me, do let me know.