I'm a big fan of getting in early on a model, I hate that feeling that as soon as you've got hold of the damn thing they go and render it obsolete with Version X+1 and delight in pointing out in the marketing how this is 100% stiffer! lighter! faster! stronger. The MTS was changed in 2013 but not a big change and the core design is probably in line for a refresh in a year or so. I can see from the rest of the range that all LED lights and the Panigale style front end could be morphed to the MTS. I would guess a full colour TFT clocks and so on. A bigger change would be moving to a 1199 variant but that might be harder with frame issues. I'm hoping my new toy won't be superseded in a few months but wondered what other changes are afoot, I guess long term owners will mention things like centre stands and knocking bits of forkage.
I don't see them going with a 1199 engine type as unless they bring the torque curve down , also unsure about the frame type as you mention they're likely to have issues. For me they'd be best off just continually refining the model and stick with the same format, the monster was just refined and tweaked over many years so see no reason for sweeping change on the multi either.
I think the beak would change and something like a Panigale front end morphed to MTS proportions would be a good change. BMW have never tampered too much the GS and owners like that.
They seem to listen to owners suggestions over time so what are people asking for when completing reviews? Maybe a couple more litres of fuel (in a tank that can deal with E10+) for a true 200 mile range. A little more pillion room since it was stolen to give the rider more space on the 2013. More work in the wind tunnel ref fairing/screen. A rear brake. Shaft drive. (just off to wash my mouth out.....) I think this was discussed on a thread some time ago so AndyW will not be happy with this thread!
My mistake - you were just discussing general styling issues so it is me off thread. Neck now wound in!
+1 On the thought of a shaft drive (wash my mouth out) but Ducati can't put a decent chain on so what's the chances of them fitting a reliable shaft drive.
That's true, even BMW still screw it up. ie. over-torque the rear wheel bearings and when they fail sell you a complete drive shaft assembly for silly money!
I'm aware shaft drive is a topic much discussed. Chains work fine, and oil is easy to apply. It's odd Ducati have struggled to make a screen that is effective. The GS screen is an odd shape but it's brilliant at keeping the buffeting and wind off and easily height adjustable. I'd suspect BMW have a better wind tunnel and more folk working that problem. There are stark differences in approach to the design of the grand touring bikes, the KTM vs BMW vs Triumph etc. I like the KTM right now, probably because of my KTM thing going on but
Applying the oil isn't to much of a problem I agree, but the chain adjustment is. As you say even though the screen on a GS is small there's no where near the turbulence you get on a Multi, why ?
And heated seats, and a stereo, and a lockable cubby hole, and a hazard switch for the indicators (like cars/my old Gixer) and a smart dash that informs you of any recalls coming your way; beamed directly from the 'ongoing development and feedback field'! (probably an olive press shed in Tuscany). And........................cough.. shaft drive........... :biggrin:
Doesn't the 2013 already have led lights? I have no problems with buffeting on my 2013 and i don't think the 1199 engine would work on anything other than a sportsbike. It designed for revs and big bhp high in the rev range. I doubt there will be a new MTS until 2016 at the earliest.
I like it how it is however what I would like to see is a bike you do not have to pamper to keep alive. How about improving the quality of chain, fixings, switch gear, dash and 10K service intervals. Lets have a winter proof bike.
I think the rails that are there sort of seem OK. Maybe an aftermarket set of bars that run close to the pillion seat.
The Mutley has the 'sports bike engine' from the 1198? (high revs, bhp, etc) So a re-tuned 1199 engine would work I suppose.
I don't have any problem with the screen. I could sit all day on the motorway at stupid speeds, If I was in Germany ;-p To be honest I don't think I'd change that much. may be as has been said better switch gear and chain, my be a more comfortable seat and more adjustment in the preload for the rear 2 up with luggage. I do also think they should look at bringing the BHP up to 170 and may be putting a more usable 1st gear in the box. but other than that I think they got the styling spot on for a 4 in one bike.
