Thinking of a 2005 1200GS...

[Motorradfahrer]

Fellow Hexheaders, I need your advice as I am in the market for a 2005 1200GS. Do you have any reservations of the 2005 model? Is it a good bike compared to the 2006; '07? Anything I should look out for. Does low or high mileage matter?
Many thanks for your input.

[DarrylRi]

If you have not had a bike with the "whizzy brakes", I suggest you familiarize yourself with them when the key is on and off, and also their sensitivity to a strong braking effort at the lever in a parking lot. (Actually, that last is good advice regardless of the bike.)

I'm not saying that they are defective, but they are different. I had no difficulties with them on my '02 R1150RS, but a lot of people don't like them.

[JimVonBaden1]

If it is money that is helping you choose an R1200GS (05), or you know of a very good deal, then I would say go for it. Pick one over 15K miles, to ensure the seals have been replaced in the trans, and you should be good to go.

If, however, you can afford it, get an 07 or later, just so you wont let forum fear scare you out of enjoying your new bike.

I know of almost no one who has had issues with the Servo-ABS brakes, no more than any other braking system, but between that and the final drive fear frenzy, you can easily become afraid of leaving your driveway.

IMHO you have chosen to buy a great bike, so go forth and enjoy!:dance

Jim :brow

[bobhancock]

I really enjoyed my '2005 GS. Took it to the track and to Canada. Put 16,000 miles on it in 9 months. Sold it for no really good reason....wish I still had it matter of fact. I wasn't partial to the servo brakes however. The ABS and linking were both fine....never know they're there until you need them, but the servo was just too abrupt for me. Reliability wise....no issues.

[mtfrench]

I have about 23K miles on my 05 R12GS and it has been nothing but pure pleasure for me. No unexpected problems whatsoever. I do all the scheduled maintenance at the appropriate times and keep a keen eye out for any leaks, strange noises, poor performance, etc. Like Jim mentioned earlier, an 07 would be nice, but I have no sensible reason to part with the 05. The brake pads will need changing soon and the battery will probably not last too much longer, but that's to be expected. Don't worry about the model and year (you'll love the 12GS), but be sure to carefully check on the rider/owner and condition of the bike. Cheers!

[SHAG]

I have almost 52k miles on my 05 12GS. Have had no problems except for a headlight, tailight & now a parking light bulb.

[Stuntman]

I have almost 52k miles on my 05 12GS. Have had no problems except for a headlight, tailight & now a parking light bulb.

Man, what a POS!!! :laugh

[gsmetal]

I'm on the hunt for a 12GS too.:thumb

I presently have a 95 11GS and I really like it. I'm a big dude so I really enjoy the leg room of the 11GS.

I hope the 12GS will be equally comfy in the legroom department.