[Jeff in Kentucky]

I am not too clear on the Guzzi models, since there are so few around. I found this review by a guy that test rode several similar bikes:

“Well I finally rode the Norge today. I gotta say, it’s a nice bike but I can’t say I absolutely loved it. It’s a pleasant ride, although a bit “clunky” for a lack of better description. Not that it doesn’t exude craftmanship, just the dry clutch, and they way the engine purrs is quite a bit different (acquired taste?). I also didn’t feel like I was having fun riding it, maybe the fairing? Oddly enough, reminds me of a Victory for some reason. Not the ergos, power or anything like that, just the way I felt riding it. If it was half the price, I would probably jump on it, but not worth 15k to me for sure.

I also rode the following:

2007 Caponord – Nice perched riding postion, but sounded like a rattle-trap, falls flat on the higher RPM range, and smelled bad.

2009 Tiger – Whoa MAMA! Killer engine, but I think it’s a little too much bike for my smaller stature. Felt fatigued before I even got out of the residential neighborhood around the dealer. If I was 6’2 and 10 years younger perhaps.

2009 1200GS Low – Although I dig the 1200GS with the low suspension, it’s not the most comfortable thing for me, and I can’t justify the extra $$ for it. If I were heading to South America or Africa perhaps, but this ain’t happening anytime soon.

So, without further a-do, I’ve decided to go with the BMW R1200R. Overall, it’s the funnest bike I rode and the easiest to ride. Of all the bikes I rode, it’s the most comfortable for my short stature and meets all my requirements.”