Asking for my son who is going a little crazy looking at something KLR-like (or just pure adv-touring) that can handle cruising at 70. He has and LOVES the KLR but... The Chinese-made engine on the newer F's is a deal breaker- what was the first year of that engine? Second- What year did they put the fuel tank where it belongs (Sorry- I had a 650GS I get it!!) Is there a year when engine wasn't chinese and tank wasn't under the seat?? Oh a funny wrinkle- he just found a dealer who has 2 NEW 2014 Veestrom 1000 for a very tempting price...so some of this may be moot! Heading to the not-so-local BMW dealer tomorrow. (Max) Thanks. The appeal of an F (or the triumph 800) is that it'll allow a little more aggressive offroading as well as handle the faster touring speeds (I believe...yes?)