bandit

Also known as the GSF1200S. The Bandit is a semi-naked standard that's been available in several different motor
configurations, from 250cc to 1250cc. The Bandits have been available since the mid '90's, and currently is offered
in 1250 cc with important changes like fuel injection and a liquid cooled engine. My 2001 is a carbed, oil/air cooled
5-speed. The bike is and has been available in both the naked and "S" models, like mine, with a half fairing that I
find very effective. I think the air flow is very smooth and quiet (enabling me to hear my mp3 player even clearer,
yet allowing me to keep track of surrounding road noises), and cuts enough off of me to be able to ride around
freezing temperatures where I find myself during the winter. Those cold temps, of course, require my Widder vest
and will probably see me installing V-Strom-esque grip shields later on.

After being served very well for three years by my '05 Kawasaki Concours, I've traded over to a 1200S Bandit and am
extremely pleased with it. I'd looked at the Bandits before and was won over by:
-their comfortable upright seating position
-the motor's solid history of reliability and longevity
-the ease of maintenance
-availability of hard mounts for luggage. The Givi topcase mount rides my trunk up pretty high, but I'm not trying to
win any contests for looks; I want a solid mount (which it most definitely is) because it doubles as a backrest.
-in the case of the 1200, the power!

The Bandit unfortunately doesn't have the cult following of the Concours. I wish there was a Bandit Owners Group as
large and effective the the Concours equivalent, but I'm finding enough information and resources online to be very
helpful. In particular,I've found both a decent cache of technical knowledge and some very friendly people at
Bandit Alley

Check back for more as my relationship with the Bandito continues!