R1200rt

[enginerod]

I am thinking about up grading from my 75 R-90/6 to a R1200RT. I have not found many reviews so far. Can I get some reports on this bike from owners? Is there a better bike in this class? Thank you for your time.

[Ksrob]

In my opinion, the RT is the best bike of the marque.

There is a web site that was orginally all RT, all the time. bmwsporttouring.com

Over the years it has expanded it's content to include others but still has a lot on the RT. I suggest this site to anyone interested in RT's. Sometimes a bit basic but overall a kind web resource.

I'm very close to trading the '07 GT off onto another RT.

[Greenwald]

In my opinion, the RT is the best bike of the marque.

There is a web site that was orginally all RT, all the time. bmwsporttouring.com

Over the years it has expanded it's content to include others but still has a lot on the RT. I suggest this site to anyone interested in RT's. Sometimes a bit basic but overall a kind web resource.

I'm very close to trading the '07 GT off onto another RT.

Good News Enginerod.....you're already at the right place!

Just peruse many of the threads and posts within this Hexhead site and you will be exposed to a wealth of advice and experience with the R1200RT.

It's another of the benefits of being an MOA member, and why this 'Forum' always has redeeming qualities, despite it's often negative overtones.

I too own an R1200RT ('05) and enjoy it. If I could own more than one BMW, I'd probably have a K1200LT in the garage, but there would always be an R1200RT in the stable as well.

I have had more problems with it than any other brand I have ever owned, but I'm hoping I'm coming to the end of my 'glitch quota.' There are times I wish BMW made their bikes more mechanical than electronic, but alas, I have not yet been summoned to head the R & D division in Munich.

Has never left me stranded and packs like a mule.

Enjoy!

[R80RTJohnny]

The R1200RT is the cat's meow. After the first 5k I can honestly say that I understand why it wins awards.

As I've been riding an R80RT for the last 20 years I have found that it took me a little while to get used to it's top heaviness (not a problem - just something different).

To sum it up: Brakes, Suspension, Handling and no baked feet make for one happy rider. The R12RT is just that sweet.

If you enjoy your R90 keep it as a second bike. You will still enjoy riding it once in a while.

Good luck.

[jimfastcar]

I used to ride a Harley Ultra, and now and R12RT
It is a fantastic machine, fast, nimble, yet comfortable over the long haul

Went to MOA Rally last July from Toronto area, and logged almost 6000 Km without a hitch, other than needing to stop periodically to rest my knees.
At the Rally got JPegs which made the ride home much better.

[TomfromMD]

I had an R75/6 back in the 70's and, except for clutch spline problems, it was a fantastic bike for both touring and commuting - until available octane started to drop and I moved to a succession of GoldWings for 2 up touring. Since most of my riding is now solo, I traded my last Wing (1500/6) in on an '06 R1200RT and have recaptured the old boxer feeling again. Yes, the RT is about 100 lbs. heavier than a Windjammer equipped /6, but both the handling and comfort are much improved, the high speed stability is wonderful, the gadgets such as Cruise, ESA, OBC, etc. are appreciated, and I love having double the HP with better fuel economy.
Tom

[TourNut]

I had a R80GS and a R60/2 back in the 80's and have been testing R series BMWs about every couple years since. I was comparing them against a 1976 and 1991 Goldwings and all the R series Beemers were not bad for twin cylinder bikes but they still had a bit of that shuddering vibration that made me stay with Goldwings for my long distance rides. THEN the R1200 engine came along with that internal counterbalancing shaft & weight that really smoothed it out from the earlier ones. It is about as smooth as my 6 cylinder Goldwing , 350+ pounds lighter and in the range of the same power, - fantastic for a twin. I have test ridden 3 of these and after I figure out the best setup for the audio system ,etc. I probably will go for a '09.

[cookie]

I have had lots of Jap bikes over the years, now that me and mama are empty nesters I wanted a new bike. Still young enough for a sport bike but I like my cruising comforts the R1200RT has absolutely fulfilled my needs. I went into the dealer to pick-up a K1200GT but rode out the RT. I love everything about it except I did opt for a Corbin seat, just put the cherry on top. Have fun.

[enginerod]

Thanks for the feed back........I can't wait until I can get to a dealer. I think I will wait for the 09.

[bmwrn]

I've had the use of a 2005 RT for about 1000 miles this fall. I really like the way it works though I get nervous about all the electics. I just sold my 1993 k1100lt this year after15 years and 43k. I still have a k75 and my wife has a r850r I can use anytime but the new Rtis a sweet ride, The owner just emailed me tonight wanting to know worth and if I'm interested in purchasing. I'm building a house right now so timing isn't good but who knows. I'm really tempted if the price is right. I like the big tank, good milage, heated grips and big fairing this time of year in Maine.

[kbasa]

I've always hated RTs (no offense to those that have a differing opinion), but I've grown to really love our R12RT. I can ride it like a complete squid or grind out repeated 600+ mile days without complaint.

Crucial mods: CalSci shield, Rocky Mayer seat, Ohlins.

Save your money from the ESA, buy the Ohlins. Replacement of the rear ESA shock will run you $1800, about the price of Ohlins. Order from someone that will ask you some questions to make sure you get the right spring. I used Ted Porter at the Beemershop in Santa Cruz, CA.

No other motorcycle I've ever owned will consume so many miles of any kind of riding so easily. Highways, fast sweeping secondary roads, gnarly goat trails, it just doesn't care.

PS: My wife loves the heated seat.

[rglassma]

I have an '05 R1200RT and traded an '03 LT for it. Have never looked back. I lllooovvvveeee the RT !!!!!

It is the best bike I have ever owned, and I have owned 6 total. I bought it in April with 12K on it. Now it has 22K including a trip worth about 5K... Great bike for 600 mile days. It runs like a champ, handles great, and has only needed standard periodic maintenance... Wish I could say the same about the '03 LT I had.

What a great Bike... !!!!

[wezul]

I disagree with Dave (Kbasa) about the ESA. I have not had to replace anything yet on those shocks but the variety of settings at the push of a button is pretty cool and easy for a numbnutz like me. Standard seat works for me now as I am working my way towards a European sizing (isn't it interesting that these Germans engineered their bikes for folks who are . . . how do I say this nicely . . . OK, sized like Europeans).
I really like my '07 RT. Close to love but I reserve that for something more animate.

[markgoodrich]

The OP's original question was "Is there a better bike in this class?" I think it's fair to say most owners consider the RT to be a sport-touring machine/touring-sport machine. Given that, I'll put my two cents in and say that right now, no, there isn't a better bike in this class. I had a Yamaha FJR for about a year, and neither I nor my wife ever liked it very much, in fact, she hated it. Although others will disagree and nominate other models, I think the only other bike in the class is the Honda ST1300. I've only ridden the Honda on a short test ride, but decided against it based on all the comments about how hot the rider gets...and I was already wayyyy too hot on my ex-Goldwing. So, I rented an RT for 24 hours, put 400 miles on it, solo and with my wife, and we bought it. That was almost 24,000 miles ago. We're happy with it.

I'm not one to say any bike is "The Greatest," but right now, in this class, as I define it, the RT is the best. I like to ride it solo, and I like to ride it two up, and I like to ride it two up and loaded for days on end. My only complaint is the frequent service intervals, which cost a bloody fortune at a dealer, but I've learnt to do it myself, and sort of enjoy it.

Having said all the above, if I was a solo rider, I'd be suggesting a Honda Interceptor or similar bike, with soft bags and good windshield.

[empeg9000]

I've had mine 11 months and almost 9000 miles. I agree with KBasa 100%. I have had zero problems. Its awesome 2up too.

[Greenwald]

The OP's original question was "Is there a better bike in this class?" I think it's fair to say most owners consider the RT to be a sport-touring machine/touring-sport machine. Given that, I'll put my two cents in and say that right now, no, there isn't a better bike in this class. I had a Yamaha FJR for about a year, and neither I nor my wife ever liked it very much, in fact, she hated it. Although others will disagree and nominate other models, I think the only other bike in the class is the Honda ST1300. I've only ridden the Honda on a short test ride, but decided against it based on all the comments about how hot the rider gets...and I was already wayyyy too hot on my ex-Goldwing. So, I rented an RT for 24 hours, put 400 miles on it, solo and with my wife, and we bought it. That was almost 24,000 miles ago. We're happy with it.

I'm not one to say any bike is "The Greatest," but right now, in this class, as I define it, the RT is the best. I like to ride it solo, and I like to ride it two up, and I like to ride it two up and loaded for days on end. My only complaint is the frequent service intervals, which cost a bloody fortune at a dealer, but I've learnt to do it myself, and sort of enjoy it.

Having said all the above, if I was a solo rider, I'd be suggesting a Honda Interceptor or similar bike, with soft bags and good windshield.

Completely agree with your assessment of the R1200RT.

And as to the 'intent' of the original thread, I also concur...in this class of bike, IMHO, the R1200RT rides alone.

My son ordered a new '07 Honda ST1300 last spring, and over the past year, he and I have 'swapped' rides occasionally, so I've spent more than just a few miles on the Honda.

Heavier, hotter and less nimble, with less protection from the elements and a stiffer ride, along with some 'fit & finish' annoyances. Concours, Triumph Sprint ST and FJR....also have some issues, along with too forward a posture (have ridden all three).

R1200RT rises to the top of this category...no arguement from me on that.

[hlothery]

Ditto for me. 28,000 miles of blissful riding with nary a problem (knock on wood), mostly two up, recently pulling a trailer. The best road bike I have ever ridden. :thumb

[Easy]

The R1200RT is an excellent bike. However, it has its issues.

I also disagree with Dave about the ESA, mine works very well, and its nice being able to change the settings.

However, if you ride distance, the seat will have to go. There are a number of good aftermarket seat makers. I would stay away from Corbin. Their customer service department is nonexistent.

Being in a hot part of the country, I like the stock windshield. If you get an aftermarket, be careful to get one that will not cause the mount to break under speed. There are several threads on the subject in the forum.

That said, I would wait before purchasing a RT, or for that matter any new shaft drive BMW until something is done about the final drive issue. Sense my '06 they changed the final drive fluid and put in a drain plug, but nothing has been done regarding the design or poor quality parts used to make the final drive. I had the final drive fluid replaced in mine and it still failed. Unless they are willing to give you a free extended warranty (don’t hold your breath), I would wait until something is done. Some people on the forum will downplay the issue, but if they do ask them if they have had a failure.

Easy :usa

[RocksforBrains]

I have a 2005 R1200RT 26K miles. I have put several 400-500 mile days on it as well as shorter trips. It is very comfortable, stable, and fast. When passing at highway speeds downshift to put it above 5K RPM and IT GOES. Look at the speedo when you finish passing and don't be surprised to see triple digits. I love it.

Necessary mods: 1) aftermarket seat (I have Rick Mayer, but I hear good things about Rocky Mayer and Russel as well). 2) Bigger windscreen (with new upper support arms). Also the R1200RT has a 680 watt alternator so it can power heated vests, auxiliary lights etc with ease.

[Vagabird]

I think the R1200 RT is by far the best bike I've ever ridden. I have 32K on my '07. I usually ride 400 mile days but have put on 600-700 milers. It is fast, nimble, comfortable, and just a pleasure to ride. I love the cruise control now that my right hand is developing arthritis and needs a rest sometimes.

The only mods I've put on are head guards (which I needed once due to my inattention in a parking lot) and an accessory plug wired directly to the battery (which I use for the tire pump I carry with me). The seat is fine for me; I like to be able to move around on it. And since I usually ride with the windshield all the way down, I don't see any need to replace it. I'm thinking of adding some extra lighting to the front, though.

I've had four other BMWs and four other bikes. The R12RT is great. It just does everything well.

[billpeloquin]

My '07 has 26K on it now. Don't buy the bike. I like being one of the few that rides the best bike on the planet!

[leadfoot]

I walk past my Electra Glide every morning and mount up on the RT. As much as I like the Glide, it is for sale, as the RT has redefined my level of expectations when it comes to a Touring bike, and the Sport part of the RT is a delightful added bonus.

I can tour now and have a blast on the twisties with the same bike.:dance

[rinty]

Like many, I have never cared for the looks of the hexhead RT, but I know it's one of the best bikes ever built.

They remind me a bit of Volvo 242's or Cessna 182's, which, even though they may not have the sexiest lines, just grow on their owners because they are so damn good.

But manufacturers can make their products, such as the recent Subaru Legacy, or Honda RAV 4, look as good as they are, and it's too bad BMW didn't do that with the RT.

Ital Design could have made up a gorgeous version for them. It would be fun if some wealthy owner would give them a commission to do just that, and build a limited run of chassis.

Rinty

[Bob1100RTC]

Actually,I think my 07 RT is way better looking than the 00 RT I traded. Does everything better too.

[dancogan]

...But manufacturers can make their products, such as the recent Subaru Legacy, or Honda RAV 4, look as good as they are, and it's too bad BMW didn't do that with the RT. ...Rinty

Actually, Honda makes the CR-V which was fairly ugly until the re-design a year or so ago. The RAV 4 is Toyota, I think, not that any of this is particularly pertinent ... Sorry. :doh

[rinty]

Dan:

It was the CR-V I was thinking of, and I always get them mixed up with the Toyota RAV's, with both models having an "R" and "V" in their names. With the RAV, CR-V, Legacy, and Echo, there is a progression of improving the looks of succeding cars. I've wondered if the new Legacy was designed by the now departed head of styling at Fuji Heavy Industries, and who was formerly head of styling at Alfa Romeo. But I haven't researched that.

Anyway, back to RT's.:hide

Rinty

[Vagabird]

I didn't like the looks of the new RT when I first saw it, especially just in pictures. But now I love it. The same thing happended to me when the R1100RT came out. Still, I've gotten more compliments on the looks of my RT than any other bike I've owned.

http://vagabird.smugmug.com/photos/387188571_akx8o-L.jpg

Here's the new old look and the new new look at a hotel in upstate NY.

http://vagabird.smugmug.com/photos/387188209_hFEvr-L.jpg

[BrianM]

I traded my ST1300 for the R1200RT. Best decision I've made for a bike trade.
The Honda was a good bike but the BMW is a great bike. I looked at and rode all the others first, the FJR, Concours, BMW and Honda. I settled on the Honda because I initially liked the engine and the price. After a year of riding it, the ST just seemed like it could be so much better, but Honda was not willing to step up (I'm referring to lack of accessories and options as well as handling issues). So I stepped up and got what I really wanted all along. The RT exceeded my expectations and is a keeper.

[127161]

Just thought I'd check in and add to the fodder. I owned a Honda ST1100 for over 10 years and absolutely loved the bike. However, the older I got, the heavier that bike seemed to get. Additionally, it had ridiculously low weight- bearing capability for a bike of its heft. (But, what an engine.)

After much research, in 2006 I purchased a slightly used 2005 R12RT and have been very satisfied with the riding experience. With an ability to carry approx. 100pounds more weight I now feel well within the limits of the bike without diminishing its capabilities.

Positives: * ESA works great for me. * Cruise control is the bomb. * Adustible windscreen is great too. * My fuel mileage is high 40s for two up and low-mid 50s for just myself. I'm a relatively conservative rider, obviously, but do spend a lot of time in the North Georgia mountains. * My dealer experience has been excellent (BMW of Atlanta) and I would recommend them to anyone. * Riding experience is superior to the ST (my annual miles ridden have increased about 50% and have held up even after the "new car smell" wore off).

Negatives: * You may or may not need a new seat: all butts are different. I think we make a mistake in assuming that the manufacturers can make a bike that fits everybody. Their average rider assumptions are for someone 5'10" and 175 lbs. I'm 6'5" 210. I'm OK with a Sargent. Bottom line is that I had to change the seat add HeliBars and an aftermarket windscreen to get the ST where I needed it to be. * I've had to replace tires about twice as frequently on the R12RT as on the bigger, heavier ST. Softer compound radials do not last long if you're used to extended ranges of the older bias ply touring tires, non of which are currently made for the R12RT. * Service intervals and their cost are more frequents and cost more on the R12RT than the old ST/other metric bikes. If you do the work yourself you can save a bundle but I'm one of those guys who always has parts left over when I disassemble anything so I pay the dealer (but do perform my own oil changes which are far easier on the R12RT than the Honda. * Final drive failures are broadly discussed and are very real if/when they happen. So far so good on my machine.

If you want some additional information about the R12RT try www.bamarider.com. He's owned ST1100s, an ST1300 and the R12RT and provides good information on them all based on his long-distance, high-mileage riding.

John Bergey