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Anyone use the GSXS for touring?

13K views 11 replies 8 participants last post by  Tlrichard  
#1 ·
I about to embark on my first weekender trip on my new bike. 500 miles to the Tail of the Dragon and then 500 miles back. Any suggestions on luggage to use or how to keep the seat from becoming a brick?
 
#2 ·
The stock seat doesn't seem that bad to me, but I'd recommend some anti chafe type powder, or chamois cream to keep those nether regions happy. As far as luggage, well, it depends. I have a tank bag for when I need a little, an SW-Motech cargo bag for longer/camping trips (which I haven't used for that purpose yet). I'd assume you're doing a two day split? camping or motels? Seems like fun either way!
 
#3 ·
I've done a few overnight trips on mine, my record so far is 4 days and just over 3000 kms.

I carry a small tank bag and a small tail bag, enough to fit 3 changes of clothes, my rain gear, my bike cover, and my tire puncture repair kit and small compressor.

I should probably look into some side bags so I can carry a few extra things. An extra pair of shoes would be useful and also a can of chain lube, and a few more tools. I'm also not a fan of the tank bag as it rubs against the tank paint. My paint is fine so far but I think it will start to scuff if I continue to use it.

The seat gets uncomfortable after a few hours, so I just stop and get off the bike once in a while. I tried wearing padded cycling shorts but they made no difference.

Here's a picture of my setup.
 

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#4 ·
I have't been touring on my GSXS yet, but i do go touring twice a year with friends. I found the Airhawk seat definitely helps for long hours in the saddle. It just straps on over your existing seat. The trick is not to over inflate it. Have it blown up just enough for your butt not to be touching your existing seat underneath. Kind of like a hammock for your butt. It feels a little funny at first because you sit taller and it feels a little floaty, but you get used to it.

I also use a Ventura rack and RJays city bag for touring. They work great and I can pack plenty of stuff for a few days away on the bike.
 
#7 ·
well there ya go ,,but most are refueling before then getting some blood back in that axx and ready to burn another tank....dont help if sitting like a statue for 150 miles,,,move those cheeks around change it up....bring it close to redline you forget about you axx.....axx is like ecu it adjust over time......oldest trick in the book sit on a newspaper find right thickness ..read it after.... last thing i want to hear is ouu my axx ouu my throttle.......Zook enjoy the trip rip it up be safe
 
#10 ·
I’m not long back from a weeks ride round Germany I had a givi xs307 tank bag and Suzuki’s own tail pack both kept contents perfectly dry. Although I have a tail tidy on and my haversack always got soaked with the spray. Never found a problem with seat though. Here’s how she looked.



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#11 ·
I’m not long back from a weeks ride round Germany I had a givi xs307 tank bag and Suzuki’s own tail pack both kept contents perfectly dry. Although I have a tail tidy on and my haversack always got soaked with the spray. Never found a problem with seat though. Here’s how she looked. View attachment 28225


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I like the tail pack but I must ask, does it rub te paint at all? I'd like one for smaller trips but I've always been afraid they might leave some marks.

Cheers