Dual Plugging a 2000 R1100RT

[AnnapolisAirhead]

Has anyone done this successfully within $$ reason? I've been looking for a '04 within my range but haven't found 'the' bike for me yet. Found a really nice 2000 though and was wondering if this is a common upgrade as it was on my old airhead. From what I read, it'd help with the surging (as would a Techlusion) and not having the linked brakes might suit me better. If so, I might make the jump.

So on an Airhead, a worthy endeavour....but it is the case with a 2000 R1100RT? :dunno

[bikerfish1100]

haven't heard of anyone attempting a dual-plugging of any oilhead. it was the hot-trick on airheads- but it was done to prevent detonation (pinging), not to reduce surging. right fix, wrong problem. i would think it's possible to do- but probably not cost effective- especially compared to getting a Techlusion.
that said- BMW did the dual plug to oilheads to reduce emissions, with the ancillary by-product of reduced surging. at least that's their story, and they're sticking to it!

[alien_hitchhiker]

San Jose BMW offers a dual plug conversion for oilheads. It's been discussed on this forum in the past. IIRC, those who've spent the bucks were well satisfied.

As a rider of a year 2000 R1100RT, I say you would not be making a bad choice, provided you come across a well loved example. The unlinked, conventional brakes (non-servo) are a definite advantage.

The cable clutch and five speed tranny may or may not be - depending on your point of view. The styling is not as sleek, but that big front fender helps to keep the mechanicals cleaner.

Lighting is said to be inferior on the 1100, but I still see plenty of 1150s with top dollar auxiliary lighting mounted up. I gave the headlight its own fat gauge wiring harness, with a relay ($30 for a plug & play, $15 for a DIY) and a pair of cheap driving lights and I'm happy - and I do a fair amount of night riding.

Now, about that surging. Yes, the 1100s tend to surge. And yes, it is fixable. Often for just a small cash outlay. Mine surged significantly when I first brought it home (with 7000 miles on the clock).

A good valve adjust and throttle body synch helped. Cost is $0 (easy DIY), discounting the price of a TB vacuum balancing device, which you'd want for an 1150 also. Next I tried Autolite plugs, which also helped. After riding it for a year I spent $250 on a Techlusion box. What surge is left is pretty much below the threshold of my perception.

Dual plugging is still an option. I've heard good things about the Power Commander unit. Some owners have simply pulled the Cat code plug and installed an potentiometer in place of the O2 sensor. Point is, you have some choices if surging is a problem.

I'd say, if you come across a good looking 1100, give it a test ride and see what you think. Even though they've been superseded by the 1150s and then the 1200 hexheads they are still superb bikes.