K12GT candidate needs feedback

[damian]

all, I am seriously considering upgrading my 2000 r11rt for the new k12gt. while i love my current mount, i am often wishing for the rush of greater power. Looking to hear pro's and con's from current and former owners............:dunno

[StevieWonder]

The older style 1200GT gives you 80% of the performance at 50% of the price.

BUT, if you are hell bent for the new style beware of idling issues and electrical issues discussed on this forum in other threads. The new CANBUS technology makes the addition of electrical items (lights, stereo, etc) very problematic. Additionally, if you like to work on your own bike, you'll find it much more limited in what you can do. Each progressive generation of computer-driven bikes increases the performance but makes routine maintenance nearly impossible to accomplish.

I went through the same thing and, styling aside, elected to get what I considered to be a proven, durable platform that offered impressive performance for half the price. I can't say that I've regretted my decision. Either way you'll get a great bike.

[damian]

I did read something about the idling problem for a few new owners; but was unaware of the electrical issues. I do like to the styling of both generations; and saving $$$$$$ is always a factor. Thanks again.

[cupracer]

I recently purchased an 07 and have loved every minute on it. Awesome power with velvety smooth delivery, an excellent long distance ultra-high speed tourer, many useful gadgets to keep the technoguy amuse. So far I have 2400 miles on it and it has performed flawlessly. My only complaint is that it is a bit tall and heavy. With my 30 inch inseam stopping is my biggest challenge. Ride one and see if it is for you. You may also want to consider the k100R sport. It promises to be a very special machine. Hope this helps.

[damian]

I hope you continue to enjoy it! The input helps, especially since we have the same inseam. I did sit on one that I was not allowed to ride and it did seem high. I intend to take a test ride at Max's in NH in the next couple of weeks during vaca. I'll let you know my impressions.........if I ever get off it!!! Thanks again

[StevieWonder]

The good news is that they are both great bikes. You can't lose no matter which way you decide to go.:thumb

[theLuz]

[QUOTE=StevieWonder;222855]The older style 1200GT gives you 80% of the performance at 50% of the price. QUOTE]

The older GT is just an RS, with half a bag on the exhaust side, smallish gas tank, and less horses. Get the new GT or stay with the R. I have the new GT. It's great.:nyah

[PAULBACH]

Try to find the "classic model" the one with the sculptured sides and open vents. Picked up a beauty this winter.

I bought one used this winter and rode it to the rally in Wisconsin. Awesome power and very smooth. When you twist the throttle do so very smoothly.

At 4.5K the bike is close to 80 mph. It redlines at 9K. Have no idea how fast it will go.

[Bob1100RTC]

I'm also considering upgrading from a 2000 R1100RT to a K12GT or A R12RT. My biggest concern is my wifes comfort on the back. She complains my seat is terrible and her pegs are too high. Is the rear seating on the KGT any better? Also will my top case from my 1000 fit either new bike?

[theLuz]

I'm also considering upgrading from a 2000 R1100RT to a K12GT or A R12RT. My biggest concern is my wifes comfort on the back. She complains my seat is terrible and her pegs are too high. Is the rear seating on the KGT any better? Also will my top case from my 1000 fit either new bike?

I doubt that the top case will fit (ask your dealer)
I do know about the passeger pegs. They are short for a normal size person. I've got a set of lower pegs ordered, but they are back ordered from Germany since May. Hope that helps.

Other than that, the bikes great!:blah

[PAULBACH]

The bike was made for touring. Test drive one at your BMW dealer with wife. And the dealer even pays for the gas.

[127378]

I still don't know how fast my '04 K12GT will go either, but I can tell you that it will do at least 130 for as many miles as you care to travel across the open roads around Gillette, WY! :bolt

[StevieWonder]

[QUOTE=StevieWonder;222855]The older style 1200GT gives you 80% of the performance at 50% of the price. QUOTE]

The older GT is just an RS, with half a bag on the exhaust side, smallish gas tank, and less horses. Get the new GT or stay with the R. I have the new GT. It's great.:nyah


OK as long as we're getting personal :stick , the new GT is a BMW in Honda/Kawasaki clothing.

The bodywork is different from the RS with lots more wind protection including the windshield, leg and hand protection. Compared to my '98 RS, it also has cruise control which was available as an option.

I've driven 1300 miles in 26 hrs on it ... it's fast and comfortable and a LOT cheaper to buy and maintain than the new GT. I found the power on the new GT to be awesome but also found the throttle response to be very touchy, especially at the lower power settings. And I really thought the slab-like styling was not appealing but that's simply a matter of taste and totally subjective. The performance is awesome but my personal evaluation is that it was not worth an additional $10K.

Like I said ... either bike will be a geat addition to your fleet.

[StevieWonder]

Just for reference, here's a copy of a very recent ad from the MOA Flea Market ... and '04 K1200GT with 2K miles for $11K.