Honda ADV 350 from a Tracer 900 GT

[Old Scooter Pete]

Good Afternoon or at least it is here as I sit and write this.

I am at that age (67) where I have started to feel that my Tracer 900 GT is a bit too much for me in terms of weight and seat height. So after embarking on my last big tour to France on it within the next week, upon my return I will be swapping it over for a new Honda ADV 350.

My intention is to report about my last motorbike journey to France and how it went and then the transition into the Scooter World and how that goes and it makes me feel etc.

Please ask any questions if you are interested and are considering doing the same yourself. Lets see how it goes !!

[knight2]

Welcome Pete, there's a couple on here with ADV's. Like you I changed from a bike to a scoot about two and half years ago and not regretted it. Look forward to reading about your French trip it's a while since I've been but we always enjoyed France, big country, nice roads and a lot to see.

[Old Scooter Pete]

Thanks for the welcome knight2. I will keep you posted.

[roadster]

In a similar position to you when I tried the ADV I found it did not suit me because I couldn't plant both feet firmly on the ground. At just over 5ft 10 and an age where the limbs are not so supple or strong it gave me no confidence. But you may well be fitter and/or taller in which case its more to do with your liking for the semi automatic transmission and general riding experience. I believe the newer models are improved all round so best of luck with your choice.

[Stibbs]

I went for the Forza 350 due to the legs. I’ve a short leg and the adv didn’t suit, however both bikes are excellent and most riders on this forum will give you excellent advice and support. Enjoy

[Old Scooter Pete]

I left a little time after returning from France on my Tracer 900 Gt so that I could make a true comparison on my transition to the Honda ADV 350 and make an honest judgement after the initial excitement of a new bike or perhaps doubt and disapointment regarding the change from a motorbike to a scooter ?

The journey to France on my 900 Gt filled me with mixed thoughts as to whether I was doing the right thing in swapping to the scooter, but as the journey progressed I realised what a struggle I was finding, managing the Tracer. The weight, the balance, the top heavy feeling, the dread of a U turn with a pillion on board, the panniers adding extra width and weight etc etc.

By the time I was on my return journey I couldnt wait to change to the ADV. Questions and doubts though were popping up in my mind like will it have enough power ? will it be quick enough ? will I miss the HP of a motorbike ?

Anyway I duly swapped and as I rode away from the dealership (the first time riding the bike I may add) I cant tell you how impressed I was and how it handled and also how the initial feeling didnt disapoint.

I ran the bike in on a weekend trip to Moffat in the Scottish Borders with my wife on the back and an overnight bag under the seat and a few bits and bots in the top box.

I rode not exceeding the recommended 6000 rpm for running in purposes and the bike more than lived up to my expectations. What a piece of machinery it is. Any doubts I originally had vanished and I now have a yearning to go out and ride which I had lost with the Tracer.

I dont know if its an age thing or perhaps I am now better educated in these matters, but I dont care about billy big bollocks 900cc etc etc I just love my Honda ADV 350 and if anyone has any doubts as I did then just stop it and go and live your life and get one !!

If anyone has any questions, please feel free to ask and I will do my best to answer.