I am after a Burgman, though which one is open to debate and assistance is required to aid the decision. I live in Devon, near Tiverton, with fast access to the M5 (12 miles)

I ride a journey weekly 130 miles each way on the A303, some dual, and some single, carriageway. I also add on a journey to London that is another 90 miles twice a month, staying overnight and returning the next day.

Occasionally I do a journey to Dartford via the M5/M4/M25 and return the same day (with a long stop in the middle).

I have been a biker all my life and I'm not getting any younger. I found the 650 a bit hard to move forwards and backwards but, if I had to do it, I could. I'm leaning towards the 400 for lightness but am concerned about the distance. Would it be an issue?

What about speeds - what are the cruising speeds on these two models?

Apologies for the 'book'.

Get a TMAX, they're easier to move around and will keep you feeling younger for longer. Add a top box if you need the storage...

I'd have thought the 400 will be more than up to the job. It's lighter than the 650 and more economical. The newer models come with ABS as standard if you are looking to buy a new model. If not, try to get a 2007 model onwards as I understand they have many improvements. Both can easily cruise at motorway speeds or above. More underseat storage on the 400 too. I use my 650 Exec for pleasure but if I was using it for commuting over those distances on those roads I'd definitely go for the 400.

Thanks for your help - any joy with cruising speeds?

I'm leaning towards the 650 I must say.

Well, my one could cruise at 85-90 all day but on a recent long distance European trip at those speeds I only averaged 39mpg! A 400 should cruise easily at 75-80 and probably be a lot better on fuel. The 650 is a heavy bugger! Try the http://www.burgmanusa.com site for more info. If you don't mind the weight and the fuel economy, go for the 650.

My late model 400 has plenty of pull left at a true 70 mph and is nowhere near red lining the engine, no problems with hills/headwinds. She would happily cruise at naughty speeds.

Not tried it 2 up yet though.

Unless you need to carry a pillion or oodles of luggage, or expect to need a cruising speed above 80mph then the 400 is probably the wiser & cheaper choice.

But if you really must have the 650 then crack-on!

You just reverse it in when parking, as it's warm the final drive is "lighter" than when cold, then when setting off you "sit & go".

The Burgman 400, or indeed any 400cc scooter is more than capable of high speed cruising 2 up and with luggage. Only thing with the Burgman 2 up is ground clearance, occasionly the centre stand scrapes when leaning on cambered bends

if you're going to do a lot of mileage then consider the belt change costs of the burgman 400 as the 650 doesn't have that so on the long run it'll cost less to maintain. what you gain in servicing though you'll probably spend on more fuel costs.

You need my GP800