RT longevity

[jlaban]

I am considering a 99 R1100RT w/63,000mi. I understand the variables, but when is a 1100 oilhead considered hi mileage? How long may I expect it to last assuming a life of reasonable care?

John

[patiodadio]

My 94 R1100RS has 70K with no end in sight....I hope to pass her along to my Grandkids someday !

[bikerfish1100]

The Glaves have some oilheads all with much much higher miles that that. Voni has well over 300,000 on one of her RSs, and only some minor upper (outer?) end work on it to date. other components might not last as long.
63k is still pretty young.

[flars]

My '98 RS has 126000 miles, and I have had to replace the HES (ignition) plate, oil pressure sending unit, and the pivot bearings and pivot pins. Maybe $350 worth of repairs so far.
I assume I will have to replace the clutch some day, and I should probably lube the splines, but haven't done anything yet.
I do all the maintenance myself, but I am NOT a mechanic.
YMMV.

[PGlaves]

Voni sold one with 172K on it. She is still riding her original one with 340K on it.

My "new" R1150R is now at 83K and it has had zero repairs - just routine stuff. I consider it my new bike still.

A cared for Oilhead will last almost everybody until they get bored with it and want something different - and then still have some market value.

[jlaban]

Thanks to the four of you. I have a K1100RS and know it's reputation for long life. I now know a little about the R.

Paul, thanks for your comments. I read your column in the ON every month and understand less than half of it. I figure just looking at what you say could lead to later understanding. You have encouraged me to try some minor maintenance work on the R.

If any of you get to Maine, and you should, look me up. Bethel is in the western foothills and the Town is small enough that most people know where I live.

John

[PGlaves]

Thanks to the four of you. I have a K1100RS and know it's reputation for long life. I now know a little about the R.

Paul, thanks for your comments. I read your column in the ON every month and understand less than half of it. I figure just looking at what you say could lead to later understanding. You have encouraged me to try some minor maintenance work on the R.

If any of you get to Maine, and you should, look me up. Bethel is in the western foothills and the Town is small enough that most people know where I live.

John

Thanks, John

The key to working on your own bike is to start easy and get familiar with it. And to avoid getting in too far over your head. Having a good manual is essential.

Things like oil changes, filter changes, changing transmission oil etc. are straight forward. Being careful but not frightened by it is important.

[JimMoore]

You have encouraged me to try some minor maintenance work on the R.
John
If you end up getting an R bike, check out www.bmwsporttouring.com. It is THE place on the intra-webs for all things RT. Lots of nice, helpful folks.

[83869]

I am considering a 99 R1100RT w/63,000mi. I understand the variables, but when is a 1100 oilhead considered hi mileage? How long may I expect it to last assuming a life of reasonable care?

John

My RT is three years newer (2002) and has almost twice the miles (114k) and it's still going strong. I've had some repairs (minor, electrical, FD at 108k), but nothing serious (knock on wood).