Ride #2
On Thursday morning, I met up with Andrew at the casita and hit the trail to Crown King. A stunning and really fun route.
It was an awesome day. Andrew is a great rider and an awesome guy to travel with. Mellow and competent. Couldn't ask for more.
The trail was moderate for the most part, with a few loose climbs to keep it interesting.
Overall, the KTM did great, and I even had a few mild jumps over water bars. That bike has so much to give on the performance side. Comfort could stand to be improved, but still worlds ahead of a standard dirt bike.
Andrew was kind enough to let me ride the 1150 ADV. What an amazing machine, but such a stark contrast to the KTM. They are so much more different than similar. Everything about the BMW is smooth, quiet, comfortable and composed. The engine is quiet and with a wide torque band. The seat is more comfortable than my office chair. Brakes are smooth and powerful and no fork plunge. The low-gear first keeps things controlled. I could easily see swinging a leg over the 1150 and riding 1,000 miles in a day.
A fun, fun trip!
I have a few more rides to report on next... coming soon!