Hi everyone, I'm a new member to the forum, I've been reading for a while but never actually posted until now. I recently sold my 2006 Daytona 675. I absolutely loved that bike, but since I primarily ride on the street and back roads, it always felt like overkill. There was just no way to safely use all of its performance on public roads. I'm now considering a 2019 Speed Twin 1200. It's obviously a big change in character from the Daytona, and I do have a few concerns. My main question is around capability of the Speed Twin in the twisties? I know rider input is the biggest factor, but I’m curious about what, if any, limitations the Speed Twin has when pushed on curvy roads. Does it feel too relaxed or comfortable to really dig in and carve corners? I genuinely enjoyed the focused riding position of the Daytona—not always, but especially in the corners it felt just right. I have a test ride scheduled for today, so I’ll get a feel for it myself, but I’d love to hear from others who have made a similar switch from a sportbike to the Speed Twin. What was your experience like? Also, anything I should look out for when looking at the bike? Thanks in advance! Looking forward to being part of the community.
@gunnr Welcome to the family. I is a very Caple able machine and you answered your own question it has a lot to do with rider capability and willingness to throw it around. Think you may be surprised. Did the same myself and sole my 675's now back to Bonneville's and don't notice very much difference
you can't compare the two the Daytona is in a completely different league I had a 2019 speed twin the suspension is very basic non adjustable on the forks and just preload on the rear if you start pushing on in the twisties you will soon find it's limitations
Welcome to the forum. The Speed Twin 1200 is surprisingly capable in the twisties it’s no Daytona, but it holds its own with a nimble chassis and decent ground clearance. The riding position is more relaxed, but you can still push it hard if you want. Some find the suspension a bit soft if you really lean on it, but it’s great for street riding. On your test ride, check for smooth throttle response and how it feels mid-corner. Enjoy the ride.
the 1200 scrambler is very capable in the twisties and its long travel suspension makes the UK roads bearable.
@gunnr: If you are able to afford, you may take the newest Speed Twin 1200 SP. There you get fully adjustable springs.
I did ride the 675R and now own a Speed Twin 900. Obviously, a completely different bike. A completely different style. A completely different ride. The main difference (aside from the obvious ones) is the rear suspension. It tends to be rather soft on the Speed Twin, which can be quite challenging in the twisties. So, if you really want to switch from a 675 to a Speed Twin you might consider getting a good aftermarket rear suspension. Don't worry about punch, the Twin will deliver that. The suspension is the main weakness imho. Generally, I love riding my Speed Twin, it's a great bike, but for a more sporty ride and doing the twisties maybe you want to have a look at the Speed Triple/Street Triple range as an alternative to the 675.
Don't worry too much about the handling. You will be too busy laughing about the stomping engine! (I did change to K-TECH back and front after a few months as it felt like it was only a matter of time before I stared making holes in hedges... I'm 15st and it felt poorly sprung and damped for more spirited riding) How was the test ride in sunny Cali?
