[quote author=xrv_jim link=topic=167.msg957#msg957 date=1168033912]
If you like to take your bike off road then forget it - it has no off road pretensions all.


This is my basic impression also, but, the similarities to the Buell Ulysses are undeniable, and there are a few brave souls getting them dirty (though, I suspect, not VERY dirty).

Since I haven't the inclination to experiment on my own, here's another question:
Given the same tread pattern/depth/etc., is a wider front tire better in gravel/mud/anything-but-hardpack than a narrow tire?  Also, where the surface (whatever it may be) is relatively even, does a taller tire (say a 19~21 incher) have any real advantage over a 17".

Enquiring minds want to know....

[quote author=xrv_jim link=topic=167.msg957#msg957 date=1168033912]
Had a good look over one at the National M/C show in Manchester today and it looks like a great bike to compete with the Fazer/TDM/etc.


I too took another good look at the new Tiger at the Manchester show. I've still to take a test ride from my local dealership.

Has anyone taken a look at the new Bennelli Tre-K ?
I was surprised to see one at this show as they are not yet available but it looks an interesting competitor to the new Tiger.

[quote author=wasions link=topic=167.msg958#msg958 date=1168105175]
Since I haven't the inclination to experiment on my own, here's another question:
Given the same tread pattern/depth/etc., is a wider front tire better in gravel/mud/anything-but-hardpack than a narrow tire?  Also, where the surface (whatever it may be) is relatively even, does a taller tire (say a 19~21 incher) have any real advantage over a 17".

Enquiring minds want to know....


Apparently a larger diameter wheel rolls over obstacles (rocks and gullys) more easily than a smaller diameter wheel. Visualising the scenario in my head this does seem to make some sense.
In my admittedly limited experience off-roading my Africa Twin, on loose surfaces (e.g. gravel) a lot of steering can take place thought the back wheel with a combination of throttle and body position (and in my case a fear induced adrenalin rush ;D). In deep mud no tyre is going to grip that much (part of the fun so I'm told) but a narrower tyre has more chance of cutting through to something solid due to the weight driving down through a smaller contact patch.

That Benelli looks a little like a Kawahama Omnistrasse.

The assumption that a taller front wheel rolls easier over obstacles is a given, and personally, I think my 19" is a pretty good trade-off between a great handling, wide, 17", and a tall, easy-rolling 21". I haven't yet dragged my pegs, but my Tiger is every bit as fast through the twisties as any of my friends' bikes. (Keep in mind, that I try never to ride with more experienced riders. Fragile ego, y'know. : )

There's also those old black-and-white movies showing Model A's bouncing through axle-deep mud with those skinny tires. Maybe they only show the one's that got through, but they sure look unstoppable. Not sure they'd make it as far on 275/45-16's.