Performance Mods

[robertgerena]

Looking for info on performance chip, pipe combinations for R1150GS (2000), and results; did the chip/pipe aleviate the surging issues, did you keep the catalytic converter or toss it, suggestions.

Also, looking for seat recommendations, stock is not up to the task regarding long distance comfort.

[StevieWonder]

Rhine West Performance out of San Antonio make an awesome chip for the K1200RS. They make a chip for most other BMW bikes including the 1150RT, but I don't know anybody that has one installed on the RT. They also sell a matched exhaust/chip setup.

Give them a call at 210-826-0014. It's certainly a good place from which to start your search.

[robertgerena]

Thanks for the info Stevie (if that IS your real name). Do you have the Rhinewest chip and pipe installed on your bike? If so, was the difference worth the cash? Is the bike still civil for normal daily riding? And finally, did you toss the catalytic converter, or keep it?

I know of a few companies that manufacture the chips and pipes, but before I drop a grand on them, I was hoping to hear from someone who had them installed, to see if the benefits are worth the cash.

As far as getting rid of the catalytic converter, who needs the additional weight and heat sitting directly under the transmission.

[cat0020]

Any motorcycle has enough power to get yourself in trouble, why spend more to get more power? why not get more control over the power that's already available to you?

Suspension upgrade: better suspension allow your tires to stick to the ground more, to accelerate faster, to brake harder/later, to corner faster. Much better investment than any engine performance increase IMO. :brow

[robertgerena]

I have no issues with the suspension. It holds the ground as well as I could ask it to. I am not actually seeking more power, but if that happens, I won't complain. My issue is the surging, which, from what I have read, is common on these bikes. I have also read that gas mileage improves slightly with the performance mods. I also want the bike to make a little more noise, so it is not so easy to overlook in traffic.

[kbasa]

Careful tuning yields great results on oilheads. I've owned three. The time you take to tune your own bike will pay off in better rideability without having to make any significant changes.

Go over to AdvRider.com and visit the Hall of Wisdom. Download a copy of OVAD and you'll be in much better shape, without altering your motorcycle.

[robertgerena]

Thanks for the input.

[Feedback]

Originally posted by Robert 123456
I have no issues with the suspension. It holds the ground as well as I could ask it to. I am not actually seeking more power, but if that happens, I won't complain. My issue is the surging, which, from what I have read, is common on these bikes. I have also read that gas mileage improves slightly with the performance mods. I also want the bike to make a little more noise, so it is not so easy to overlook in traffic.

Noise?? It's not a Hardley. And even if it was by the time you hear a bike in a car....it is to late. "Loud pipes save lives " is a load of crap!! Bright lights and bright colors helps. But you still gotta assume they are all out to get you anyway.:D

[Stuff2C]

Originally posted by Robert 123456
Looking for info on performance chip, pipe combinations for R1150GS (2000), and results; did the chip/pipe aleviate the surging issues, did you keep the catalytic converter or toss it, suggestions.

If your interested in removing the surge, check out this web-site. I use the 259 box myself on more than one bike(r1100gs,f650 dakar). It will bring new life to your oilhead. The power increase depends on who you talk to, I see little low end but more midrange. The big PLUS, the surge will go away.
Thankfully BMW got the surge out on my 1200GS.Love this bike!

www.techlusion.com

[manicmechanic]

My 11GS had a bit of a surge when I got it. Switching to the Autolite 3923's and setting them at .028" really took care of it. Plus you can get a set of platinum plugs at Wally World for about $3.50.

[alien_hitchhiker]

Robert - I have to cast a vote (vote well & vote often!) for the Techlusion R259. It transformed my R1100RT, along with a change in plugs to Denso IK22s. No surge and a more robust feel throughout the RPM range.

One potential advantage of the Techlusion is its easy tune-ability. If you're looking to pipe your bike and drop the cat convertors (and maybe step up the diameter of the intake snorkle?) you will be able to precisely richen your fuel-air mix in response to the increased flow.

If you go with a chip you'll face a much more difficult installation and still have no ability to fine tune. Because of this limitation with a chip, for best results you are probably locked in to using the pipe the chip manufacturer recommends. With the Techlusion you are free to play, almost like tuning a carburetor, only easier.
Steve

[cat0020]

Originally posted by Robert 123456
I have no issues with the suspension. It holds the ground as well as I could ask it to. I am not actually seeking more power, but if that happens, I won't complain. My issue is the surging, which, from what I have read, is common on these bikes. I have also read that gas mileage improves slightly with the performance mods. I also want the bike to make a little more noise, so it is not so easy to overlook in traffic.

Techlusion would solve the surging problem..

More noise?? how about dragging a cowbell behind your bike?
Most people like to be stealthy so the cop won't hear you coming down the road at 80+mph.

[StevieWonder]

Robert,

I just did the chip. I had just bought the bike (just turned 1000 miles) and wasn't ready to kick up the bucks for the full enchilada.

It is VERY noticeable, mostly on the lower end torque, and well worth the money (IMHO).

I hope to add the exhaust when the budget allows. I've heard them and it adds a bit of noise without being obnoxious.

For those that are noise offended, I might point out that Porsche offers a "motorsound" package that gives the car just a bit of growl without sounding like a 1957 Chevy with straight pipes. So even at that level. a bit of noise is desirable.

[robertgerena]

SteveO, Cat, Stevie, thanks for the input. I seem to see a lot of the Techlusion mentioned, all favorable. I have seen the Rhinesports website, their chips have different settings for stock pipe and aftermarket, free flowing system. Whose chip did you use Stevie Wonder?

And Cat, I thought about the cow bell (actually a bunch of tin cans on string), but that goes right into the "annoy the neighbors" range, right out of the box, so I likely won't go that route. Thanks for the idea, though.

[StevieWonder]

I used the chip set for the stock exhaust. I plan on selling that chip and buying the matched chip when I cough up for the exhaust.

[kbasa]

Do a search for Techlusion and you should find some decent items on this forum. There was a guy here last year that really detailed installation considerations, though I forget his name.

[Bigrider]

Wanted to put my two cents in on Rhein West. As a member of the San Antonio BMW Riders, I can vouch for the Rhein West mechanics who install the chips, Hank and Jim. They have added chips and chips with exhaust upgrades on several bikes in our club. All have been pleased with the results. Both Jim and Hank are good guys. Give them a call to discus your expectations. (210-826-0014). Normal caveats apply, I have no commercial connection with Rhein West or Jim and Hank.

Dave Hoover

[robertgerena]

Thanks for the tip.

[StevieWonder]

Rhein West kicks bootie
:nra

[Stuff2C]

Originally posted by cat0020
Techlusion would solve the surging problem..

More noise?? how about dragging a cowbell behind your bike?
Most people like to be stealthy so the cop won't hear you coming down the road at 80+mph.

Any suggestions on a Good Quality cow bell. Do they wear-out fast if your dragging it or can you just bang it with a stick and git the same effect?:dunno