Had a car park test ride at Ed Fernihoughs (near Rugeley) today. Very nice guy and some nice, tasty toys in the showroom, old and new
The SWM was one of the latest batch with a nicer colour scheme. No panniers fitted on the bike, but waiting to go on. Bike looks nice and decent build as was the case with the other SWM's I've looked at, and really looks the part with the 21/18 wheels and dual sport tyres. As before, the bike sounds great. Apparently, the 2018 models are remapped as they leave the showroom.
Sadly, not the bike for me as it stands, the seat/peg dimensions will suit a 28" inside leg perfectly, but waaay too tight for me. The higher seat or a modded seat will not work in my opinion, as the tank cut out and then the flare above the cut, out will STILL be hugely restrictive when standing. Risers may help a bit I suspect, but not enough. If you are 5'10" and stay sitting down the bike is ace. IMO, a hell of a lot of bike for the money...
If the RS650 R had a cush drive wheel out of the showroom, it has the potential to make a cracker of an ADV bike with some of the dual sport bits, screen etc. now available ,, but be more "off-roadable". I did ponder asking how much a Dual Sport back wheel was, but they are all ABS setups now...