[LeeWonnacott]

Hello again to all. After a close call on my beloved '81 Honda SilverWing against a 2003 Lincoln Town Car ... I'm almost able to return to riding, probably another 6-8 weeks. I'm at the great point when I can gleefully enjoy lurking about the showroom floor, being a pest to every salesman possible.

I've got to ask those of you that ride these two models for your input. In August I will launch on a LONG ride ... 130,000 miles over a three year period. This will be done towing a UNI-GO trailer and in segments of 4-7 weeks at a time. A mix of camping and motels.

I had decided the BMW K1200LT was THE machine to use. It appears to have it all, especially for a solo ride when the rider will be out for 200-300 miles five days a week. BUT, I'm looking at the cost of maintenance of the BMW over the ST1300 and think I might be a little hasty. Sure, the LT offers some nice features; i.e. reverse gear, automatic center stand, heated seats - and the ST1300 can only reach partway there with aftermarket options.

The question comes to this - if you expect to be clocking 1,500 miles each week is the BMW a relative maintenance hog? My local dealer suggests I purchase the extended warranty .. (Big Bucks) and then I notice the Honda has a 36 month unlimited mileage warranty.

During the past 40 years of riding I've had lots of different nameplates; from the Sachs powered 3 speed Hercules to KZ1000 F1 and then into two of the little GL500 Wings.. which gave me the least problems of any of them...one went 175,000 miles and maintenance cost was nearly nothing. NEVER a major problem ... that sways me a lot...but the thought of the legendary flying brick and the comfort of it ... well, it's just a touch choice..

Okay, guys, wank on about your favorite and try to get me to join your ranks!

Ride Safe

Lee