Lowering a 1200 GS

Anyone with some advice?

Depending on how short you are, a lower seat goes a long way to meeting the need, and is the cheapest and best option (no messing with suspension setup etc).

If you need to lower the suspension, my advice is have it done professionally by the dealer or MP Valve or suchlike.  Haven't done it myself - just learnt to ride a big bike.

Sometimes that's easier said than done.

A bike's seat height will always be a problem for those of us who are "vertically challenged".

You don't seem so short - must be your big stature!

Ha-ha .... I must be careful of my next words. Let's see, I'm 1.73 metres tall. A long body on short legs. And yes, I have spoken to the manufacturer.

A new saddle is in the region of R5000 (lowered version) so it might not necessarily be the cheapest option, unless you get an old one or cut one down.

My 1150 GSA was a lot more manageable with the lower seat so I would prefer that option to messing around with the bike dynamics.  I use the normal seat on tar though as it's a more comfortable ride.

Allistair,

I'd council you not to fiddle with anything but the seat. The bike has specific performance parameters inherent in the design in its manufactured configuration.

Any changes you make render warranty void and resale a big problem.

Better option is to stick with your 650 or buy a road bike.

Road bikes are built for people of all heights.  but if the idea of getting into the foetal positon everytime you need to commute is as abhorrant you as it is to me, then go for the R1200RT.

Design envelope caters for shorter legs with the same engine, comparable gearing and sitting comfy.

But rather not interfere with the GS' geometry.

R300 to have a seat upholsterer shave your seat, possibly replace some foam with something more comfortable, and recover the seat.  Search this site for contact details of a fellow in Goodwood and another I forget where.