Thanks to all who contribute here. You convinced me that I needed an NT 700 ABS. There are three new 2010 NT700's locally, but no ABS. I found one with acceptable terms in the Puget Sound area on the other side of the state.
I found the following unexpected challenges: avoiding speeding tickets, maintaining a reasonable proximitity to the "chase car", and using some care with running-in a new motor. I am not sure what additional power would be used for. The ride is smooth and stable with more than enough reserve (for me).
I picked it up in Issaquah WA (west of Seattle). I took rural SR 203 North to US 2 (great motorcycle road) and followed the Skyhomish River thru the Cascade Mts over Stevens Pass (didn't stop for pictures). Hwy 2 descends to and leaves the Cascades around Leavenworth (Bavarian Theme Town). Good place for an overnight stop (120 miles). Hardly gets better than ending a ride day with a Pils and a Schnitzel (or favorite German food), accordion musik optional. Photos are in Leavenworth.
Second day was another cool but Sunny day, only persistent strong gusty winds. I am impressed by the NT's handling and stability.
US 2 from Leavenworth runs through the fruit orchards in the Columbia River valley then through a transition area and through the wheat fields of Central Washington to Spokane. Picture is part of the transition area looking west toward Chief Joseph Dam.
I was hoping to get to NTOC, but would have to get the 600 mile check enroute....(considered it...)
Have fun!
Frosty
I found the following unexpected challenges: avoiding speeding tickets, maintaining a reasonable proximitity to the "chase car", and using some care with running-in a new motor. I am not sure what additional power would be used for. The ride is smooth and stable with more than enough reserve (for me).
I picked it up in Issaquah WA (west of Seattle). I took rural SR 203 North to US 2 (great motorcycle road) and followed the Skyhomish River thru the Cascade Mts over Stevens Pass (didn't stop for pictures). Hwy 2 descends to and leaves the Cascades around Leavenworth (Bavarian Theme Town). Good place for an overnight stop (120 miles). Hardly gets better than ending a ride day with a Pils and a Schnitzel (or favorite German food), accordion musik optional. Photos are in Leavenworth.
Second day was another cool but Sunny day, only persistent strong gusty winds. I am impressed by the NT's handling and stability.
US 2 from Leavenworth runs through the fruit orchards in the Columbia River valley then through a transition area and through the wheat fields of Central Washington to Spokane. Picture is part of the transition area looking west toward Chief Joseph Dam.
I was hoping to get to NTOC, but would have to get the 600 mile check enroute....(considered it...)
Have fun!
Frosty
