| Message | Just heard from Bobs BMW today(Friday Dec 13) that the "new" BMW K1200GT is in and available for test riding at Bobs. I've been test riding the Beemers as a potential replacement for my '84 Wing ("2 weels"). Here are a few quick comments, strictly IMHO (apologies in advance to Beemer owners among us):
BMW R1150 RT. The RT is the best handling big bike I've ever ridden in the twisties. Never been on anything that holds a line like this bike. The new RT now has a 6-speed gearbox which is really nice; the old 5-speed really needed overdrive for interstate riding above 70 mph. The huge fairing has great weather (i.e., rain) protection. And the electric windshield is one of those gizmos that sounds really stupid until you've tried it, then you can't ride without it. All that said, I don't want one. The bike is just too tall and tippy, and the motor is power challenged and buzzy. Plus the twin is infamous for low rpm surging if you read the chat sites (although the one I was one didn't have this problem). Will someone tell me why this oilhead motor is so highly regarded???
BMW K1200: Also excellent handling, with a much lower cg than the 1150RT. Plus the flat 4 motor has much more power. And I mean power. This is a killer bike with the 6-speed gearbox, cruise, and heated grips! But I rode the RS version -- i.e., "crotch rocket" -- and couldn't believe anyone would want to do anything in that position for more than 5 minutes except maybe have sex. And I'm not sure about the 5 minutes. Anyway I couldn't handle it. But if you try to sit more upright, the windblast will rip your helmet off, and maybe take your hair and ears with it. The new GT is supposed to have a more upright riding position and better wind protection (it has a funky larger windshield with a lip on top) but the chat group at bmwrt.com suggests otherwise about the riding position. I'm looking forward to finding out myself about the GT. |
