I've just recently returned from a 2500 mile trip round Europe on my 2002 Hayabusa. We did France and the Mont Blanc tunnel into Italy, the Italian lakes (Como and Garda), Austria and the Stelvio Pass, Schwarzwald in Germany, The Rhein valley, Luxembourg and finally Ypres in Belgium. Unfortunately, unlike our trip to Holland, Denmark and Sweden last year, the weather was a mixed bag of hot days and lots of thunder storms. To say we either got roasted in our leathers or soaked in the torrential showers, would be an understatement.
The Hayabusa performed impeccably as always. Not one problem. It's a bit of a handful with all that luggage and a passenger but it's got the power to deal with it. Mileage is about 35k now and earlier this year I went to the Isle of Man TT on it with my daughter (my 3rd trip on it). It's pretty much standard apart from a pair of cans, a German SW-Motech quick lock pannier rack system, Rentech rear carrier, Baglux tank cover and tank bag. The pannier cases are 40 liter and just click on and off the rack, which itself can be removed just by turning 4 locking screws. I chose waterproof soft luggage as it's more flexible than a top box and more easily removed. The bags are secured to the rear carrier using Rock straps which are brilliant.
I absolutely love my Hayabusa and won't part with it now. My wife loves it too and says it's the best bike I've ever owned.
Picture taken in the Aosta Valley, Italy
Lining up for yet another hairpin on the way up Stelvio. There are 48 hairpin bends. This must be about No.25. Only another 23 then!
View of Stelvio Pass
Parked outside the Hotel Waldblick in Schenkenzell, Schwarzwald. This is a 'Biker friendly' Hotel. Secure parking, wash facilities, guided tours etc etc. Very friendly. Great food and beer.
We're planning to do Spain next year. Not sure whether it'll be on the Hayabusa again though.
