Thinking of getting an r1100rt over a k-bike

[LICK MY BRICK]

I have a 93 k1100rs and would love to get a new k1200gt but don't have the money for a brand new bike. I really like the r1100rt because of it's long distance capabilaties so I'm thinking of getting a 2001 rt. now being I'm a K bike owner will I be disapointed perfomance wise?I do not know anybody with and rt where I can test drive one,so any input would be great.

happy holidays to everyone

Jayson Vilett:beer

[BMWRich58]

Jay,first of all,your trying to compare apples to oranges . Two totally different animals. If you like "Bricks" stay with them. If you want to experience "character" try a "Boxer"...
Next,find a Dealer that will let you "Test" ride a bike. That shouldn't be to hard.
And lastly, I have access to a beautiful '99 Boston Green R1100RT with 60K miles on the clock for $6600.00 in great condition.
So do the home work,and then decide...cuz whats good for the gander,is not always good for the goose! "Kaaapesh"!

[fish]

It seems that people fall into two camps...boxer guys and brick guys.

That said...boxers rock! :bliss

http://fish.smugmug.com/photos/141796-M-1.jpg

http://fish.smugmug.com/photos/1352525-M-1.jpg

[DarkCloud]

Sent you a pm

[BMWRich58]

It seems that people fall into two camps...boxer guys and brick guys.

And then you got posers (HD) and riders (BMW)

And then you got RT riders and GS riders,

and then you got airheads and oilheads,

and then you got apples and oranges....

and then you got clear rum and dark rum...

and then you got sweet peppers and hot peppers...

and then you got..................turn it off...turn it off...turn it.....

[username]

there are only two kinds of people, those that think there are two kinds of people, and those that know better.

[fish]

Originally posted by username
there are only two kinds of people, those that think there are two kinds of people, and those that know better.


There are only three kinds of people - those who can count and those who can't.

[LICK MY BRICK]

I guess I came to the wrong site,seems you only get smartass answers to important questions here.Thanks for nothing:mad

very dissapointed
Jayson

[kbasa]

Jayson,

Sorry you're bummed, but there's only one way to find out which is better for you: ride them. Your BMW dealer will let you ride them without a problem.

It's kind of wierd. Some folks have Kbike brains and some folks have R bike brains and there's no way to tell which one you have without riding them.

Either of those bikes will take you anywhere, but whether you enjoy the trip depends on a whole bunch of things.

Do you like to sit up straight? Do you like to have a ton of power? Do you like a boxer?

There's really no way for you to know until you ride them. That's what I'd do if I were you; go ride them.

Best in the new year,

dave

[jdiaz]

If you are coming off a K1100, the Oilhead will feel small, snappy, and light steering. Both bikes will have no trouble getting you up and over the speed limit in a hurry. The Oilhead is a bit easier to work on at home, but you will have to work on it a bit more often.

[Rocky Racoon]

Jayson,

I have limited experience with K bikes but from what I know they are fast and smooth. My experience with R bikes are from a couple of old R75/6 and a 2000 R1100RT. The RT is in many amazing ways so similar to the old boxers but is much, much more. I really like the boxer. A friend who had quit riding about 15 years ago (mostly japanese bikes) recently got a 99 RT and he consistantly comments about how well it does most things. Both he and I are wondering why they still have clunky transmissions with the technology that is out there, but they are still great machines.

hope this helps. like everyone keeps saying, you've got to ride one to know. When you do get to ride one, go for a couple of hours if you can. You need a little time to lose the feeling of difference and find the comfort zone.

good luck

Rocky

[BMWRich58]

Calm down,life ain't over yet..

I guess I came to the wrong site,seems you only get smartass answers to important questions here.Thanks for nothing

I believe your questions were addresed properly to the best of our knowledge, with little infomation given on your part!!!.
Just a little humor to liven up the board.
Apparently tho, you didn't fully understand my first reply,
"What's good for the Gander,isn't always good for the Goose"! What I was trying to say is,what I or anybody else likes,dislikes or feels shouldn't in No Way have any bearing on whether a "K" bike or "Oilhead" is or isn't for you.
You asked about how do you get to experience an "Oilhead",and I replied to go to a Dealer,right??? ( I could give a smartass reply but I won't).
You originally asked and I quote" I really like the r1100rt because of it's long distance capabilaties so I'm thinking of getting a 2001 rt. now being I'm a K bike owner will I be disapointed perfomance wise?
How can I or anyone answer the question of what "You like or dislike"performance wise?? Tell us "What characteristics you like/look for in a bike,and maybe we can share some of our "Owning experiences". We can't guess what you like or dislike. We are not you,only thing we can report is "What We/I like,in performance in a bike that suits me. We/I already stated that their is a difference in the two bikes. A difference only you have to experience and decide.

[jstitan2000]

I have to tell you; I'm coming from riding Harley's for the past 10 years. I test rode both 04' models of the K1200GT and the R1150RT. There is no comparison to the Harley, BMW is a far more sophisticated machine than the Harley. BMW is about 20 years ahead of Harley in technology. Now for my test rides, I rode the 1150 first and was pleasently surprised at how smooth it was and there was no surging. I like the idea that I can have a stereo for those long rides and the upright seating position that this bike has. As far as speed, this baby was over 100 mph in no time flat. If your just cruising around 80 or so, you can ride all day, for that matter even at 100 you can ride all day. Now the 1200GT, first of all this machine is fast, but to be hunched over all day, I don't personally think I could do it. To boot, you cannot have a stereo on it, although it does have cruise control and a heated seat for the rider which the 1150 doesn't have. I liked them both, but in the end I bought an 04' R1150RT and I am so glad I did. Yeah the GT will probably pass me from time to time, but my bike is fast enough. Its not how fast you get up to speed; its about the journey, and I think the journey would be better on an RT. I hope this helps.

[bmwmotorhead]

New R1200 GS, 2004 at UK GSer:

http://www.smugmug.com/gallery/21309


http://perso.wanadoo.fr/mike.werner/BlogPics/vis_end_r1200gs_02.jpg

Note the new R1200GS is a NEW GENERATION, the engine, frame etc. is all new... I am sure in a year or so there will be a new generation RT also...

Or wait for the new K1200 below due out this Fall:

http://www.motorradonline.de/sixcms/media.php/49/hefttitel_21_280_Grau.gif :clap

[DesertRider]

Originally posted by LICK MY BRICK
I have a 93 k1100rs and would love to get a new k1200gt but don't have the money for a brand new bike. I really like the r1100rt because of it's long distance capabilaties so I'm thinking of getting a 2001 rt. now being I'm a K bike owner will I be disapointed perfomance wise?

I'll have to disagree with the majority here. Having owned a couple of K-bikes and currently owning an Oilhead (1100R) I'd have to say yes, there are differences, in overall they're much more alike than they are different. All this talk about huge differences is more about tribal distinction than mechanical difference, more "theological" than practical. All part of the tribal rituals, I suppose. :-)

If the comparison is confined to the very small world of BMWs only, then I suppose one could make a tempest-in-a-teapot argument about their differences. But compared with the broad spectrum of touring and sport-touring bikes available (Italian, Japanese, British, American, etc.), one would have to say Boxers and K-bikes are two peas from the same pod. The biggest difference you're likely to notice is that the Boxers are not as smooth and not as top-heavy as your K1100. After your K1100 I think you'll immediately find the Boxer has a strangely familiar feel to it, in 20 minutes you'll be comfortable on it, and in a day or two you'll be fully at home in it.

[basketcase]

Don't cop a snit. You asked for feedback, and you got some good stuff along with a bit of irreverence. The fact that the people around here have a sense of humor is not a slam on your questions, or on your character.

For my part, I'm a K-LT kind of guy. But rather than type it all up again, you can read my take on the R and K comparison at the link below.



The link will take you to another, earlier discussion over on the K Forum.

Whatever you get, remember the three mainmost rules:

1. Don't hit anything, and don't let anything hit you.
2. Hang on tight while it's moving.
3. Ride with a PMA.

[Rich]

Originally posted by LICK MY BRICK
being I'm a K bike owner will I be disapointed perfomance wise?I do not know anybody with and rt where I can test drive one,so any input would be great.

happy holidays to everyone

Jayson Vilett

Jayson, I agree with what has already been recommended, go to the dealer and do the test ride routine, most dealers are more than happy to let you do that, and you will know what is going to work for you. I had the same dilemma this last fall, and I rode away on the R1150RT. It was the clear-cut choice for me, but only you will know if it is for you. The brick guys love theirs, us twin guys love ours, and I am sure you will love whatever it is you decide to ride away on. Good luck with your choice, let us know what you decide to go with, and how you like it.

Rich

[theLuz]

If you're of "normal" height (6'4" or so) don't sell the K. The R is a fine bike, but not even close to a K1100LT (or even the RS). It's tiny. The decrease in horspower and less smooth engine is noticable as well. The K1200GT is "really" an RS: same riding position, and only slightly different.

Keep the K

Oh, yes, I have an R. The beautiful R1150GS Adventure, and it's great.

[Rocky Racoon]

If "normal" height is required to ride a K, I guess I will have to stay with my R. I am the world's tallest short person, or is that the worlds shortest tall person.? oh well, I like my R bikes.

Rocky.

[Boyd32450]

Originally posted by LICK MY BRICK
I guess I came to the wrong site,seems you only get smartass answers to important questions here.Thanks for nothing:mad



I would think that with a nic of "LICK MY BRICK" you would hav e a sense of humor:bliss

First of all Jayson Lighten Up! When you pose such a question on such a subjective subject as bike choice you are bound to get ribbed. Be assured that none of it is meant to demean you in the least. Rather its a familiar and humorous attempt to get you to realize that someone else can tell you how they love their bike but I HATE chitlins but I know perfectly normal people who would eat them three or four times a week if they could. My advice to you is to go to a dealer who sells used beemers and test a used 1100RT. You may have to drive a ways to find one, but don't spend a dime until you are sure you like the ride. As for myself I feel the 1100RT is one of the finest bikes BMW has ever produced. There are some things it won't do like pull a boat. I would not feel comfortable taking it on dirt roads or gravel, though there are people who do. It loves to go straight ; it loves twisty mountain roads; it has almost too much power for its weight; I could go on and on about how much I love my RT but I won't. Grab a beer with me sometime and I'll tell you some more. 1100RT's have a surging problem that can be fixed many different ways. Mine still surges but I'm fixing that next week.

Anyway take the comments with a grain and realize that for problems and advice there thousands of years of combined BMW riding experience with the members of this forum so if you can stand the good hearted humor you will definitely learn something.

Keep the shiney side up
Boyd

[04gt4me]

:brow As you found out "most" bmw riders "know" everything, so all you get is their know-it-all attitude. I just got rid of my 2002 LT and bought a new R1200 C Montauk. What a treet after handeling that BIG Touring machine around town. Granted, you can't find a more beautyfull and functionel long distance machine than the K1200LT, but My needs have changed and the Montauk struck my fancy, believe Me I thought long and hard befor I did it. The LT was a silver beauty that drew complemints everywhear I went. My advise would be to scan the Flea Market adds check out what is available and go for whatever you deside because BMW's are ALL wonderfull in their own way so you will be happy as long as the optimust in you prevails.:brow :clap :bliss :cat

[drmajor]

I have both!!!

'97 RT and 2003 LT.

First and formost, they are BMW and fine bikes!!!!

My RT runs GREAT! It is very flickable, good on gas(42-48), pretty easy to work on.

My RT does require me to stay on top of the throttle body sync and spark plugs. It likes new plugs every 3-4000. Although the Iridium plugs have gone much longer. Tires last 6-8000 (mostly two up). It vibrates. Nothing like a Hardly. But after 2-3 hours I tend to feel it. You can tune it for a certain RPM range and make it pretty darn smooth there. I usually set it up for 60 MPH as that is where I spend most of the time.


I can't seem to get a comfortable seat. I have 3 - Stock, Sargent, and Meyer.

My LT is new (700 miles). It is SMOOOTH. Almost the main reason we got it. We bought it in Daytona and road 8-9 hours home with no problems (except cold). Wife said only problem she had was staying awake cause it is so comfortable.

We test rode the LT at the Charleston WV rally. Mistake. It handles really well. It does take a little getting used to. The EVO brakes are VERY STRONG, and can supprise you. Counter steering works extremely well.

I have been told that valve adjusting is tough, but seldom needs to be done. Other maintenance is harder, but supposidly needed less.

I hope to keep the RT for around town and fun mountain trips. The LT will be for long weekends and mountain trips.

[schaeftl]

I have a brief experience with a very nice K100LT. And I now have a few miles on a new R1150GS.
First off I must say I have a bias toward multicylinder Water-cooled bikes such as the K bike.
I use to have a Tiger, I went to the GS because of how its setup.
If the GS was offered with an K bike motor I would buy that instead.

My k bike was very smooth. Had good power even at low RPM's. The Boxers have good power but not at RPM's less than 2000.

I think that both bikes are very high quality. It seems to be that BMW invests a lot of time and effort to make sure that their product line is top notch. And very rider friendly.

I would think that both the GT and the RT could be classified as light touring machines. But I know that beyond that these two are very different bikes. If you want a bike that has a bit of an edge to it. Get the K bike. If you want a boxer with an edge on it then get the RS.
However if you are really looking for advice from someone that you don't know. My advice would be to buy a used BMW. Ride it until you have saved enough money to get the K bike. You will not loose money on a good used bike. And I think that the GT is possibly the best motorcycle on the road.
Tim

[maniags]

I'm a newbie here... Jayson, you're going to get all sorts of opinions when you ask a question as your's. But I have to admit that when I read fish, site instigater's reply: "Three types of people, those who can count and those who can't"... I busted up!:) :) :)

[LICK MY BRICK]

I want to thank everyone for their reply,and advice on my question about the k bike vs. R series.And for those who thought I was wrong because I "copped a snit" I have very good sense of humor. It's just that I asked a serious question about motorcycles,and I got some Stupid-ass replys that I thought were uncalled for.Maybe I'll just wait till you have a question about something ,and see what kind remark I have for you,but I won't do such childish things.:rolleyes

[basketcase]

nannynannybooboo

:stick

[LICK MY BRICK]

POOPOOCOCKY!!!

LOL:rofl

[fish]

Originally posted by LICK MY BRICK
I got some Stupid-ass replys that I thought were uncalled for.

Hi LMB! :wave

[LICK MY BRICK]

Yeah Alan, you were one of them,but I'm over it:D No more "snitting".

Jayson

[crvalley]

I recently had a great test ride on an R1100S at Cal BMW. The sales person said, "Here, take it out for about 45 minutes..."

Sooooooooooo, I did...I've never felt more confident cornering than on that bike...man!

Granted, the ergonomics differ from the RT you are considering, but I did love the feel of that engine. I currently ride a K1200RS, though, and as I think Kbasa mentioned, we're talking apples and oranges in comparing the two rides.

Take a test ride and choose for yourself. I'm glad I now have a two car garage, though, for I see my fleet growing...

Damn!

[CustomSarge]

How great is it to have such options? I run a K1100 (LTX) & an R1100 (HR) and am glad I don't have to choose.
> K's: heavier (high C/G), high RPM power, smoother (lower vibration at most RPM)
> R's: lighter (& lower C/G), bottom end torque (!), more vibration (but a visceral sense of power)
To have to choose may depend more on use, but that's not sharply cut either. I tour the K, but an equally setup R could be just as great.

[crvalley]

Hey! Is your bike the one that is covered in the March issue of BMW Owners News?

Sure looks the same...

[CustomSarge]

Suhr, youse has me at a disadvantage.... Honestly, I'm out of town as we "speak" and haven't seen Marchs' issue yet. However, if it looks close, it's almost certainly it. I've only built one and don't think it's been copied.

[Unyalli]

Give the R1150RS a GOOD look partner. That's the bike I could have owned instead of the GT. The GT won but I could have been very happy on the RRS.

[maniags]

Jayson... Before purchasing my GS in '96 I looked long and hard at the RT. I though it was very stylish and would fit the bill for long distance touring. The intervening years have not proved that thought wrong. Only reason I bought the GS was because of its off-road capabilities (and you can pack a ton of camping gear on it!) Still, the RT, either R1100 or R1150 would be a capable motorcycle.

[wrx1979]

Jayson,

I have a '96 R1100RT purchased new, 40K miles. My other bike is a Harley Dyna Conv. Had a Honda CB900 prior to the RT. In earlier times road off road KTM, Yamaha, Honda, Penton.

I love my RT...can ride it all day...600 or more miles per day at almost any speed. Love the music...have a iPAQ PDA with GPS...with flash cards with lots of music.

Never had a problem with any of these bikes and liked them all for different reasons...but love the RT the best.

I am sure you'll be pleased with either a K or RT...BMW just makes great bikes.

Dick

[lorazepam]

I have almost 1k on my R1150RS and I have to say it is the most comfortable motorcycle I have ever owned. I feel some serious distance trips will be comeing on this mount. I am still playing with the windscreen adjustments to find a height that is comfortable, but doesnt funnel all the bugs onto my face shield. It really is an awesome bike, and lighter than the RT.

[LICK MY BRICK]

I just want to thank everyone again for your input,and thoughts on the r-series motorcycles.It's still so hard for me to choose.I guess i'm at that age(32),Listen to me, like i'm some kind of old man:D , were I still want performance over comfort.Man I wish BMW could put that k motor in the RT!Hmmm maybe someone could build a conversion kit for the RT:p

thanks again
Jayson

[Lobby]

Hi Lick :wave

Concerning Boxer performance: I was at a motorcycle gathering in Tx last night and talked a guy with a 98 GS1100. He said they were driving all around west Texas (Big Bend area) last month.

For one day their average speed, according to GPS, was 104 MPH! :eek

I have an R1150GS and am uncomfortable riding it much above 85, just cause I'm a conservative, boring guy. But the concensus from all the BMW riders there was that the Boxer is an outstanding engine that CAN go fast.

Example: BMW Boxercup races!

I guess I couldn't argue with that.


My 2 cents concerning Brick vs Boxer: I have a K12LT and a GS. They are otally different bikes. The engines are totally different. You won't know until you try them.

But, if you want to stay with a brick, but want a more comfortable touring package, consider a K1100LT. Yeah, it's not a K12LT, but you get a great motor and 200 lbs less than a K12LT. The K1100LT weighs probably about the same as an R1100RT, I'd guess.

Shopping is half the fun!

[ziphyr]

Hey Jayson! This is Ziphyr. I was most recently surprised by my wonderful wife with a 1999 BMW R1100RT for Christmas. All I can say is awesome. Now, I am a new rider, however, I test rode cruisers before making a decision to purchase my beemer. I love the way it handles. The ergonomics are well thought out. Oh, I purchased it used with 41,000 miles on it to include all of the service records from the origional owner. When it comes to cornering, wow is all I can say! It's a beautiful bike and handles really well. The purchase price was $6,800 at Blue Moon Cycle here in Norcoss, Georgia. I hope this help partner. Ziphyr...safe riding!:usa