2008 Honda Varadero
For my adventure I choose a 2008 Honda Varadero. Lots of research went into my decision as there are endless options available. The decision was not an easy one and it really came down to a test drive, so I took out all of the bikes that made my short list. Once I got off the Honda Varadero I knew I had to buy it. Case Closed.
The Honda reliability, worldwide representation only added confidence to my decision, this is a decision that I don’t regret. As of this posting, September 5, 2011 I have 38,630 Kilometers on this bike without a moment of trouble. It has gone to Cape Spear Newfoundland, Homer Alaska and Prudhoe Bay, Alaska with ease. I don’t shy away from any road.
Specifications
Engine Type Liquid-cooled 90-degree V-twin
Displacement 996 cc
Bore & Stroke 98 mm x 66 mm
Compression Ratio 9.8:1
Valve Train Chain-driven DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Fuel Delivery PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Transmission Six-speed
Final Drive O-ring-sealed chain; 16T/47T
Front Suspension 43 mm telescopic fork; 155 mm (6.1 inches) travel
Rear Suspension Pro-Link single shock with spring preload and rebound-damping adjustability; 145 mm (5.7 inches) travel
Tires 110/80R–19 radial front; 150/70R–17 radial rear
Brakes Front dual 296 mm discs with triple-piston calipers and Combined Braking System with ABS; rear 256 mm disc with triple-piston caliper and Combined Braking System with ABS
Seat Height 838 mm (33 inches)
Seating capacity Two
Wheelbase 1,560 mm (61.4 inches)
Curb Weight 276.7 kg (610 pounds) including required fluids and full tank of gas – ready to ride
Fuel Capacity 25 liters
Modifications made:
- Since I am not 6 feet tall, I had the bike lowered
- Centre Stand
- Crash bars were added
- Touratech, Zega Cases, 28 liter, the smallest available (to avoid packing unnecessary items)
- Barkbuster Hand Guards (the hand guards provided by Honda did not offer complete protection)
- Denali D1 Led Lights – from Twisted Throttle, I love these lights, nobody came say they did not see me coming
- Kaoko Throttle Lock – I don’t really like this throttle lock, I find it awkward to use and would not recommend it.
Hi Greg – I was talking to Steve yesterday and he suggested I check out your site to see how you’re doing in your epic trip. From the bike spec it looks as if you did not fit the Scottoiler automatic chain oiling gear that I recommended – or maybe you did at a later stage. Anyway, apart from that unpleasantness in Guatemala, I’m glad to see that it is going well and look forward to checking out your blog. Happy and safe riding,
Kind regards, Andrew