The Kove (However it’s pronounced)

I decided to treat myself to a new bike as I’m knocking on a bit now and not got too many more years doing the long distance off-road stuff and I picked a Kove. From the first 1000 or so miles that the bike has done, I think it was a good choice. It will never be as happy on the bigger roads as the T7’s, 790’s or Africa Twins but it sits OK at 70 mph, with more if required. It's a bit buzzy, but bearable. The seat was OK after time on the road which is another important factor. Off road it is more than capable and if it isn’t keeping up with the motorcycles mentioned above, it isn’t the fault of the bike. I found I was able to move comfortably and confidently over the more challenging trails, especially after I had softened the suspension settings from standard.
I got a rack designed to fit the bike and some waterproof soft bags which are a bit of a pain to put on/take off but work well on the bike, in as much as they hold stuff and don’t let the rain in.
I have ordered a new clutch cover for £30 that comes with an oil check window. As standard there is no way to check the oil apart from changing it and I need the security of actually seeing the oil.
I also fitted a tracker which I consider an essential item. There is an alternative woodruff key which will be installed soon, which changes the timing by a few degrees, reportedly giving more bottom end and midrange.

 

The lights are excellent, as is the console. I haven't signed up for the navigation app as they want money for it which I’m not up for, I use OSM and am happy with that so I’ll use my phone for now. The screen and little fairing comes off easily via six spring clips which is useful for putting the bike in non high top vans.
I have had a couple of rides on the trails in Kent and now the more demanding tracks in Croatia. All in all it appears to be a well designed and properly built bike. Now I’m looking forward to getting out and doing more. There are plans for a couple of days in the mountains of East Anglia followed by a TRF ride in North Yorkshire.
Hopefully the Kove will continue to impress.

Has anyone else out there got a Kove? If so are you impressed with it so far? What do you think? Let us know at [email protected] or on Facebook.