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View Full Version : 2010 R1200RT is not an R1300RT


BMWDEAN
11-05-2009, 10:46 AM
http://bmwdean.home.att.net/2010-r1200rt.jpg

The long awaited 2010 replacement of the R1200RT is ... an R1200RT!

It has more torque (88 lb-ft), higher RPMs (7,750), and double overhead camshafts borrowed from the HP2 Sport. There are some styling changes and a standardized turn signal switch. And it looks a lot like the previous R1200RTs. Those of us with earlier R1200RTs will recognize the 2010 model as ... an RT.

There is also a jazzy paint job available:

mistercindy
11-05-2009, 10:52 AM
By "standardized" turn signal, do you mean one button for the left hand a la Honda? And I heard that it squeezes another 10 hp out of the engine. True? And are those changes going to be there for all the 2010 R12 bikes?

Ludell
11-05-2009, 11:01 AM
are those changes going to be there for all the 2010 R12 bikes?

From what my dealer told me they will not be, but I will know for sure next week when I take delivery of my 2010 R12R.

So, will the new DOHC variant still be considered a Hexhead?

LoneRanger
11-05-2009, 11:48 AM
The brake fluid reservoirs are now mounted on top of the handle bars like the jap bikes. This is plain ugly. My 2008 RT will be my last BMW. No way will I buy a 2010 with the high maintenance HP2 heads.

kbasa
11-05-2009, 12:24 PM
are those changes going to be there for all the 2010 R12 bikes?

From what my dealer told me they will not be, but I will know for sure next week when I take delivery of my 2010 R12R.

So, will the new DOHC variant still be considered a Hexhead?

I'd like to propose "camhead".

Remember, you saw it here first. :ha

DocZ
11-05-2009, 12:31 PM
Ya gotta love "germanish" - sort of like reading "Motorcycle Tour and Travel".:D - which I do like a bunch.

Being a long time RT guy (R100 & R1200), looks like some really nice evolutionary improvements.

But the mother company needs a copywriter with access to a copy of Roget's finest.

Did I mention that it is more DYNAMIC!:D

kbasa
11-05-2009, 01:16 PM
In Germany "More dynamic" = "higher performance".

wezul
11-05-2009, 02:06 PM
I have to believe a lot of the interesting verbage has to do with translation but what the heck, let's have fun with it. :whistle

marcopolo
11-05-2009, 02:17 PM
By "standardized" turn signal, do you mean one button for the left hand a la Honda? And I heard that it squeezes another 10 hp out of the engine. True? And are those changes going to be there for all the 2010 R12 bikes?

It has the same turn signal switch as was introduced on the K1300s, i.e., one switch on the left-hand bar controlling both right and left signals.

There is no increase in HP; it remains at 110 hp @ 7750 rpm. There is a slight increase in torque to 88 lb-ft. (up from 85). On the down side, the usable fuel tank capacity is now 25L vs. the earlier 27L. On top of that, estimate fuel consumption is up, thus a bit of a reduction in range.

You can read the entire press kit materials (link in another thread in Motorrad forum).

The new heads are also being introduced on the 2010 GS (press kit also released for the GS same time as for the RT). Don't know about other boxers.

Here's a link where you can read the press kit and see the photo gallery: https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/pressclub/p/pcgl/showTextTopic.html?left_menu_item=node__2278

Semper_Fi
11-05-2009, 02:34 PM
http://bmwdean.home.att.net/2010-r1200rt.jpg

The long awaited 2010 replacement of the R1200RT is ... an R1200RT!

It has more torque (88 lb-ft), higher RPMs (7,750), and double overhead camshafts borrowed from the HP2 Sport. There are some styling changes and a standardized turn signal switch. And it looks a lot like the previous R1200RTs. Those of us with earlier R1200RTs will recognize the 2010 model as ... an RT.

There is also a jazzy paint job available:

I LIKE the Jazzy paint job a LOT!

Semper_Fi
11-05-2009, 02:34 PM
I'd like to propose "camhead".

Remember, you saw it here first. :ha


Camhead - good call :thumb

Sailorlite
11-05-2009, 02:36 PM
What color is "Polaris"? From the pictures, all I see are various shades of gray and black. To my eye, there's still room for improvement in the new RT's available colors.

Semper_Fi
11-05-2009, 02:38 PM
It has the same turn signal switch as was introduced on the K1300s, i.e., one switch on the left-hand bar controlling both right and left signals.


Before the heratics get burnt at the stake, as an owner of a 1300 KGT I was at first appaled at the single switch change, coming from an RT.

However after several months of use, I have come to accept it, and for what it is worth I no longer do an "Angry Left Blinker" when I go for the horn.

Overall I do like the new styling changes.

SugarHillCTD
11-05-2009, 02:43 PM
Camhead- good name but NOT good for ease of maintenance, right? I suspect that these might be bucket/shims on top of the valves, correct?

(I am faced with doing the valve check and necessary adjustment on my K1100RS this winter. NOT looking forward to camshaft removal if I need to change out some shims.)

I was interested in going to an RT for a newer bike- but I guess I better look soon before the Camhead is the only RT produced.

LoneRanger
11-05-2009, 02:48 PM
Well I can see a new aftermarket product for the RT. A nice black cover to put over the brake fluid reservoirs so the brake fluid is not visible. I can not believe that BMW put those on a $20,000 bike. They look terrible. There was nothing wrong with the BMW switchgear. The motorcycle magazine reviewers always complained about them and that is only because they were used to the cheap jap switchgear. Now we get the cheap jap switchgear. Thanks BMW for caving in.......

marchyman
11-05-2009, 03:48 PM
Camhead- good name but NOT good for ease of maintenance, right? I suspect that these might be bucket/shims on top of the valves, correct?

I don't think so, but I'm going from third hand info. :deal

As told to me the shims are hemispheres that drop into an indent, held in place by the depth of the indent and the finger followers. Nothing need be removed to check clearances. The follower moves or is removed (not sure which) to change shims. My source said maintenance is easier as most of the time its measure only -- shims don't change that often.

I'm curious to see if any of that is true or not.

JimVonBaden1
11-05-2009, 04:32 PM
I don't think so, but I'm going from third hand info. :deal

As told to me the shims are hemispheres that drop into an indent, held in place by the depth of the indent and the finger followers. Nothing need be removed to check clearances. The follower moves or is removed (not sure which) to change shims. My source said maintenance is easier as most of the time its measure only -- shims don't change that often.

I'm curious to see if any of that is true or not.

That is my understanding as well, just like the HP2 Sport.

Jim :brow

Ludell
11-05-2009, 04:45 PM
My source said maintenance is easier as most of the time its measure only -- shims don't change that often.

Once the valves are seated there should be little to do. That was certainly true of the Honda CBX I owned for 20+ years, and it was a good thing because there were 24 of those buggers to deal with. And the cams did NOT have to be removed to swap shims.

dumfounded
11-05-2009, 05:01 PM
And are those changes going to be there for all the 2010 R12 bikes?

I received my 2010 R1200R last week and it is the same engine as last year. Looks like the GS and the RT get the new one first. I was quite relieved to learn they have NOT changed the R.

Bob1100RTC
11-05-2009, 05:48 PM
I would have settled for the same bike with a comfortable seat. My 07 is fast enough for me and I like the old turn signal switches. I do like the looks, not that much different than mine. Nothing there to make me trade up.

andrewsi
11-05-2009, 06:01 PM
I think I read an article somewhere where the head of BMW Moto NA was saying that the BMW-style switchgear was seen as a hindrance to acceptance during test rides of riders-of-other-brands, those-not-yet-in-the-fold, who are all familiar and comfortable with the much more common all-on-the-left-thumb turn signals. So call it "caving" if you will, but personally if it makes people more comfortable buying a BMW and helping support the brand, I'm all for it - I'm not particularly attached to the split signal switches one way or the other.

Now if they monkeyed with something I really care about, like the engine, or the brakes, or the seating ergos, in some unpleasant way, I'd be much more concerned.

wuli959
11-05-2009, 06:17 PM
Electronically controlled exhaust flap for superior and powerful sound??

you've got to be kidding . . . can BMW add any more complexity :sick

cookie
11-05-2009, 06:22 PM
The cam pucks I like to refer to are a widely used and respected method of technology. My Yamaha 1100XS Special had them, I adjusted them once and never had to change a puck again. Never gave a puck. Question, why the high maintenance comment? Is this design a real bugger to change??
Your thoughts

kbasa
11-05-2009, 08:45 PM
Electronically controlled exhaust flap for superior and powerful sound??

you've got to be kidding . . . can BMW add any more complexity :sick

I suspect that it will work like the 20+ year old Yamaha EXUP system did. It adds back pressure by closing at lower revs to boost torque, but opens up at higher revs to allow better hp. It's pretty simple and have been part of high performance motorcycles for quite some time now.

kbasa
11-05-2009, 10:59 PM
The cam pucks I like to refer to are a widely used and respected method of technology. My Yamaha 1100XS Special had them, I adjusted them once and never had to change a puck again. Never gave a puck. Question, why the high maintenance comment? Is this design a real bugger to change??
Your thoughts

It's new so people are frightened. :ha

Atomicman52
11-05-2009, 11:42 PM
I think I read an article somewhere where the head of BMW Moto NA was saying that the BMW-style switchgear was seen as a hindrance to acceptance during test rides of riders-of-other-brands, those-not-yet-in-the-fold, who are all familiar and comfortable with the much more common all-on-the-left-thumb turn signals. So call it "caving" if you will, but personally if it makes people more comfortable buying a BMW and helping support the brand, I'm all for it - I'm not particularly attached to the split signal switches one way or the other.

Now if they monkeyed with something I really care about, like the engine, or the brakes, or the seating ergos, in some unpleasant way, I'd be much more concerned.that's what I heard.

they were already on the '09 K1300GT

R80RTJohnny
11-06-2009, 04:51 AM
Electronically controlled exhaust flap for superior and powerful sound??

you've got to be kidding . . . can BMW add any more complexity :sick

I suspect that we already know the answer to that one.

hlothery
11-06-2009, 10:06 AM
The turn signal switches are just a matter of getting used to. After I stopped scaring the crap out of myself by honking the horn on left turns on my Goldwing, it no longer matters. They are actually a lot easier to use, once you get used to them. I would like to have had an increase in low end torque when I had my RT.....one of the major reasons I changed.

wuli959
11-06-2009, 10:17 AM
I suspect that it will work like the 20+ year old Yamaha EXUP system did. It adds back pressure by closing at lower revs to boost torque, but opens up at higher revs to allow better hp. It's pretty simple and have been part of high performance motorcycles for quite some time now.

it doesn't say anything about adding to the bikes performance, only modifying the "sound". . . but it's nice to know that they're copying 20 year old yamaha technology to improve their bikes :clap

ragtoplvr
11-06-2009, 10:53 AM
I am interested in how these will hold up long term.

I see one thing that concerns me, that is the cam chain making all those cam guide supported direction changes in the head. It seems the more common arrangement is to gear or chain the two cams together and then use a little shorter more direct chain to drive one of them. Given BMW's track record on making cam chain tensioners that keep the chain reasonable quiet, and their tendency to require a crank case split to change a tensioner rail, I am concerned. Does anyone know how these have been holding up?

I am also at a loss at the lower fuel economy rating?

It will be interesting to hear how these actually hold up in the real world.

As far as the valve adjustment, I have no worry about it at all, this type is superior to the screw and nut system.

Also, it looks like there is a tiny fan built into one of the cam sprockets, is this to promote better air circulation in the head or for what.

Basically though, I am more excited about some of the buying opportunities for 1200 RT hex heads this new configuration will provide.

Rod

Mika
11-06-2009, 12:24 PM
I have been looking at some other sites where HP 2 Sport riders have posted on these issues and with that limited sampling the reports on durability, repairs etc sound good. In several cases these were sport riders that racked up over 15K miles per year or more so more than just weekend warrior wear reports. That is promising. I am pleased they don’t offer it in the Roadster yet which will give them even more time to work the kinks out before I face the buying decision.

IIRC the way mileage the mileage rating test is being done has changed. The results for many vehicles have been lower than expected but the new system (sorry I don’t remember the differences) was supposed to yield a rating closer to real world experience.

The four valves, overhead cams, exhaust flap and muscular appeared on the HP 2 Sport. When that happened we were all grunting “More Power” “Good” “More Power” like Tim the Tool Man Taylor.

In past motorcycle applications all of these have been about performance. They allowed designers to manage the fuel load and flow thus maximizing the performance of their designs over a greater portion of the engine rpm range.

Go out to your garage and pop your cage’s hood and many of you will find what I would. My 5 year old business cage has 4 valves per cylinder and a variation on the flap. This has to do with performance – emission performance. Again engineers are managing the fuel load and exhaust to lower emissions. Same thing is going on here. The demand was not to wring HP 2 Sport performance but manage the fuel load and emissions better.

BMW knows that the Boxer is an iconic necessity for the Motorrad division. We taught them that back in the ‘80s. These are the things they are doing to keep the model alive and ready to meet the demand for emission parity with cars that looms in EU5 standards for motorcycles.

YMMV

kbasa
11-06-2009, 02:19 PM
it doesn't say anything about adding to the bikes performance, only modifying the "sound". . . but it's nice to know that they're copying 20 year old yamaha technology to improve their bikes :clap

I think just about every manufacturer has applied some level of wave management to an exhaust system. Yamaha just got there first. Given their musical instrument background, managing waves in a tubular system is pretty second nature to them.

For a while, Honda had a scheme on the CB954RR that actually converted the exhaust configuration by rotating a cylindrical gizmo. It altered the exhaust from being a 4-2-1 to a 4-1 to alter flow characteristics.

The existing GS exhaust uses a similar type of exhaust, but the activation of additional flow is done mechanically rather than via an electronically controlled servo. Look at a stock GS exhaust canister to see the control apparatus on the front side that adds additional volume to the exhaust system during upper rpm riding.

kbasa
11-06-2009, 02:21 PM
I am interested in how these will hold up long term.

I see one thing that concerns me, that is the cam chain making all those cam guide supported direction changes in the head. It seems the more common arrangement is to gear or chain the two cams together and then use a little shorter more direct chain to drive one of them. Given BMW's track record on making cam chain tensioners that keep the chain reasonable quiet, and their tendency to require a crank case split to change a tensioner rail, I am concerned. Does anyone know how these have been holding up?

I am also at a loss at the lower fuel economy rating?

It will be interesting to hear how these actually hold up in the real world.

As far as the valve adjustment, I have no worry about it at all, this type is superior to the screw and nut system.

Also, it looks like there is a tiny fan built into one of the cam sprockets, is this to promote better air circulation in the head or for what.

Basically though, I am more excited about some of the buying opportunities for 1200 RT hex heads this new configuration will provide.

Rod

The little "fan" is actually a device that helps provide crankcase ventilation. It was originally part of the oilheads, was enlarged for the hexheads and seems to have taken another step up in size with the camheads.

hlothery
11-06-2009, 03:50 PM
Go out to your garage and pop your cage’s hood and many of you will find what I would. My 5 year old business cage has 4 valves per cylinder and a variation on the flap. This has to do with performance – emission performance. Again engineers are managing the fuel load and exhaust to lower emissions. Same thing is going on here.
YMMV

Some of us will even see a boxer engine with the above!

PlaneGeek
11-06-2009, 03:59 PM
for what it is worth I no longer do an "Angry Left Blinker" when I go for the horn.

:lol Now that's funny...

JimVonBaden1
11-06-2009, 04:43 PM
Electronically controlled exhaust flap for superior and powerful sound??

you've got to be kidding . . . can BMW add any more complexity :sick

it doesn't say anything about adding to the bikes performance, only modifying the "sound". . . but it's nice to know that they're copying 20 year old yamaha technology to improve their bikes :clap


:scratch

Jim :brow

wuli959
11-06-2009, 08:43 PM
:scratch

Jim :brow


if you read through the thread, in response to my first post, kbasa said that the electronic control for the exhaust was a performance enhancer much like yamaha had used in the past (post #24).

my second post was in response to his post.

sorry to have confused you.

PlaneGeek
11-06-2009, 10:18 PM
:scratch

Jim :brow

Looks like Jim's going to have to start crackin' on some new DVDs for us :bow

agmom98
11-07-2009, 01:51 PM
.

I no longer do an "Angry Left Blinker" when I go for the horn.

Overall I do like the new styling changes.

LOL! This just made my day!!

Yet another loveable idiosyncracy, like how the horn announces a full-lock right turn.

Mollygrubber
11-15-2009, 03:42 AM
If BMW's shim and bucket system is built anything like Yamaha's, valve adjustments will be a rare and seldom needed maintenance item.

I've had 3 Yammie I4's, valve adjustments were 20,000 miles apart, and none ever actually needed a new shim. Sounds to me like it's an improvement over the locknut twiddling, feeler gauge juggling method.:thumb

Peter

FinnSwede
11-15-2009, 07:30 AM
Last summer when I bought my '09 RT I had no idea that I was buying the last pushrod twin but I am now very glad that I bought when I did. In time we will probably come to accept and like the new motor but I would not want the first one made. BMW will likely need a few years to get everything right as they did with the previous model.

rinty
11-15-2009, 12:16 PM
I have a feeling that requests for a Quadcammer Forum are pending...:hide

RoboRider
11-15-2009, 02:09 PM
Is there any reason one can think of to trade up to this bike from an earlier R12RT?

The engine has a hair more power and torque, but not enough to warrant an upgrade. The RPM is increased 500 RPM, which is nice, but again, not that big of a change.

The brake reservoirs are hideous, I certainly prefer the built in look of my 05 RT.

If I were buying a new bike, great, it's nice, but I can't see any reason to trade up.

Anyone?


--Robo

LoneRanger
11-15-2009, 03:44 PM
Is there any reason one can think of to trade up to this bike from an earlier R12RT?

The engine has a hair more power and torque, but not enough to warrant an upgrade. The RPM is increased 500 RPM, which is nice, but again, not that big of a change.

The brake reservoirs are hideous, I certainly prefer the built in look of my 05 RT.

If I were buying a new bike, great, it's nice, but I can't see any reason to trade up.

Anyone?


--Robo

+1

The brake fluid jars on top the handle bars? I will pass on any new RT's and keep my 08. Even if BMW had better color choices or 2010 I still can not get past the jars on the handle bars.

taran1900
11-16-2009, 08:49 PM
+1

The brake fluid jars on top the handle bars? I will pass on any new RT's and keep my 08. Even if BMW had better color choices or 2010 I still can not get past the jars on the handle bars.

Heck I'm keeping my '05 with 87k. You're right on the reservoirs. HIDEOUS. I'm with you on the colors too. They SUCK. My RT runs great. Gets great mileage. Doesn't break. Is ridiculously easy to maintain. And it's paid for. I think BMW slapped this new motor in there to make sure it meets emission and noise standards. Who knows, there may be further improvements in the works. I get the feeling this was something they had to do in order to keep the RT in show rooms. But the colors do suck :sick This is of course, just my opinion. :D

SirRonny
11-17-2009, 05:38 AM
Is there any reason one can think of to trade up to this bike from an earlier R12RT?

The engine has a hair more power and torque, but not enough to warrant an upgrade. The RPM is increased 500 RPM, which is nice, but again, not that big of a change.

The brake reservoirs are hideous, I certainly prefer the built in look of my 05 RT.

If I were buying a new bike, great, it's nice, but I can't see any reason to trade up.

Anyone?


--Robo

+1

I have this mental picture of swinging my arms around getting on the bike and seeing my plastic brake reservoirs rolling across the parking lot. Well maybe not, but they are still butt ugly.

Ron

rinty
11-17-2009, 08:10 AM
...plastic brake reservoirs...
...brake fluid jars...
...HIDEOUS...

But those little urine jars have a nice elemental look to them...:D

Apparently Pierre Terblanche thinks so too...:)

Is there any reason...to trade up...

Redesigned EWS Ring? :hide

JimVonBaden1
11-17-2009, 10:24 AM
I actually like the new brake resevoirs. Weird, huh?

Jim :brow

PS You guys do realize that this is hardly new tech, and not particularly vulnerable since they use them on nearly every other bike, even dirt bikes.

ka5ysy
11-17-2009, 06:51 PM
I actually like the new brake resevoirs. Weird, huh?

Jim :brow

PS You guys do realize that this is hardly new tech, and not particularly vulnerable since they use them on nearly every other bike, even dirt bikes.


We R1200R drivers have been looking at them since the introduction in late 2006. Really, it is not a distraction and makes a nice place to stick velcro for gadgets !:bikes


The "colors" are interesting. Black, White and Grey. Must be a colorblind designer in Munich these days. I have to say that I like the stripe job. It looks good.

RoboRider
11-17-2009, 07:14 PM
The brake reservoirs will certainly be functional, but the built in look with the sight glass on the RT is very slick. I get a lot of compliments for how clean the RT looks with the built in reservoirs. It's aesthetics, so certainly up for debate.

gwood
11-18-2009, 06:23 AM
One rumor on the net that would have resulted in at least one sale was that the controls from the K1300GT were coming to the RT. I read that as "the adjustable bars are going to be used". Obviously, the correct interpretation was "the cheap plastic reservoirs and jap signal gear is going to be used". :dunno

LoneRanger
11-18-2009, 03:14 PM
I was thinking of selling my 08 and getting a new 09 as that would be my last BMW. After thinking that over I have decided to keep my 08. It is fully loaded plus I have added about $50,000 in farkles (LOL) and its paid for so I'll keep what I got. It runs great, easy to maintain and I'll get an extended warranty for the future. I am really disappointed in BMW. Every review I have read on the R1200RT the reviewer was bitching about the BMW switch gear so BMW caves in puts the cheap switch gear on and sticks the plastic jars on top the bars. I wonder what they will do next year to save money. The colors for 2010 put me to sleep.

Fridy
11-19-2009, 12:26 PM
Mabe I am different , but I like the colors much better than the blue and black on the 2009 .

OfficerImpersonator
11-19-2009, 02:10 PM
Ah the joys of already owning the perfect bike I never want to upgrade!

marcopolo
11-19-2009, 07:18 PM
Mabe I am different , but I like the colors much better than the blue and black on the 2009 .

So do I.

taran1900
11-20-2009, 01:55 PM
Mabe I am different , but I like the colors much better than the blue and black on the 2009 . I think the red of 2005 and 2006 are the best. I think second best is the blue. The current colors just seem so blah. To each his/her own I guess. I do prefer the "blah" or subdued resevoirs on my bike :D

http://i769.photobucket.com/albums/xx333/taran1900/Deals_Gap/RT_86k.jpg

womanridge
11-20-2009, 04:20 PM
http://i769.photobucket.com/albums/xx333/taran1900/RT_86k.jpg[/QUOTE]

Sorry to hijack, but I love the wind turbines in the field along with the old oil well pump. Such contrast.:bolt

gwood
11-21-2009, 06:49 AM
I think the red of 2005 and 2006 are the best. I think second best is the blue. The current colors just seem so blah. To each his/her own I guess. I do prefer the "blah" or subdued resevoirs on my bike :D]

"Red! I want red, there's no substitute for red.
Red! Paint it red, green ain't mean compared to red."
Sammy Hagar, AKA The Red Rocker

+1 on the "Blah" reservoirs!

RandyBailey
11-21-2009, 09:40 AM
I just read in the AARP Journal that the new RT reservoir design was at the request of its members. Their members wanted a convenient place to soak their dentures on long rides.

LoneRanger
11-22-2009, 10:20 AM
I just read in the AARP Journal that the new RT reservoir design was at the request of its members. Their members wanted a convenient place to soak their dentures on long rides.

+1

Well it seems to me that BMW has put the cheap turn signal hardware and the cheap and ugly brake fluid jars on they must be saving money on each bike produced. How much are they going to lower the MSRP now that the bike is cheaper?

My 2008 looks better every day:D

bogthebasher
11-22-2009, 11:13 AM
Now... BLUE. That's a colour!

... and I love the clean handlebar set-up pre-2010... crap, I must be turning into an old fuddy-duddy with a German bike fetish!

DMilan
12-19-2009, 12:39 PM
Hello All,

Just received my February 2010 Rider Magazine.

Little blurb in Kickstarts regarding the the new R12 RT.
Says there is now a vibration-isolated handlebar.
It looks to finally be a different riser. I believe that the riser has been the same at least since 2002 - 2009 (R1150-1200RT). Probably 1100's as well.

Must be some rubber located at the joint between the riser and the shaft that the grip is mounted to. I don't see anything at the riser / top clamp in photos from the press kit.

Handlebar vibration is a subject which does come up in regard to the R12RT.
I'd like my '05 RT a lot, but a bit of isolation for a smoother, less vibey feel at the grip would be appreciated by many, including me.

I'll be curious to check it out.

Dmilan

leadfoot
12-20-2009, 06:57 AM
Seems to me there is too much focus on looks nowadays with less consideration on function. I think the glass is half-full. ;)

The lack of color choice likely cuts down on production cost, helping to keeping the RT below the cost of an Electra Glide. I'll paint mine the color I want once I get enough scratches and wear on it.:violin

The plastic reservoirs are fine with me, considering my aluminum ones on my Electra Glide are already corroded at 3 years old. Hey, maybe BMW can come up with some billet ones!:stick

I have both types, a good looking bike (HD), and a completely functional bike (RT). BTW I think the RT looks good as it is. If I was still worried about how I looked when I rode through town I would not have my RT. And I can tell you that the RT (or another) will be with me when my HD is long gone.:dance

Not meaning to offend anyone here, but I keep hearing the same thing throughout this forum, not just this thread, & wanted to put my 2 cents in.:lurk

gwood
12-23-2009, 05:47 AM
I have both types, a good looking bike (HD), and a completely functional bike (RT).

Wow...Kinda brings the whole "Beauty in the eyes of the beholder" thing home.:stick

leadfoot
12-23-2009, 01:43 PM
Wow...Kinda brings the whole "Beauty in the eyes of the beholder" thing home.:stick

ABSOLUTELY!!! :dance

taran1900
12-29-2009, 07:55 PM
Sorry to hijack, but I love the wind turbines in the field along with the old oil well pump. Such contrast.

It is pretty cool isn't it! The photo was taken just north of Meunster Texas. Lots of cows among the windmills too. Red is THE color.

http://i769.photobucket.com/albums/xx333/taran1900/Deals_Gap/D1502086.jpg

Donster
12-29-2009, 08:55 PM
It is pretty cool isn't it! The photo was taken just north of Meunster Texas. Lots of cows among the windmills too. Red is THE color.

http://i769.photobucket.com/albums/xx333/taran1900/D1502086.jpg

Where's your windscreen?

LoneRanger
12-30-2009, 06:24 PM
I know for a fact that my 2008 RT is faster than the new 2010 model. First the urine jars on the handle bars will cause more wind resistance which will slow the bike down and 2nd I have the speed tested Sand Beige Metallic paint with lots of wax on it. The new 2010 model will not have as much wax so it will not slip thru the air as fast as my bike. So, there you go. Proof that my 08 is faster than the new model so I am going to keep mine.

taran1900
01-03-2010, 11:31 PM
Where's your windscreen?

Right where it's supposed to be.

http://i769.photobucket.com/albums/xx333/taran1900/Deals_Gap/K5909c.jpg

ka5ysy
01-04-2010, 05:50 AM
I know for a fact that my 2008 RT is faster than the new 2010 model. First the urine jars on the handle bars will cause more wind resistance which will slow the bike down and 2nd I have the speed tested Sand Beige Metallic paint with lots of wax on it. The new 2010 model will not have as much wax so it will not slip thru the air as fast as my bike. So, there you go. Proof that my 08 is faster than the new model so I am going to keep mine.


Actually, the new camhead cylinder covers only have two bolts versus the four on your machine, so there is less parasitic drag on the 2010 bikes. The new style fluid reservoirs on the handlebars are actually used to pick up static electrical charge for creating an electromagnetic field around the redesigned fairing, thus giving the top-secret electromagnetic drive assist that will greatly reduce air drag and improve gas mileage and eliminate helmet buffet. Rumor has it that the software in the bike has a reference to "flux capacitor" too, which appears to be connected to the new controller wheel, combined with some kind of key combination pressing the new turn signal control switch to activate it. Your old technology is now obsolete. You need to upgrade immediately :thumb

BMWDEAN
01-07-2010, 12:49 PM
I think the red of 2005 and 2006 are the best. I think second best is the blue. The current colors just seem so blah. To each his/her own I guess. I do prefer the "blah" or subdued reservoirs on my bike :D

I had a red R1200RT. Traded it for blue when it became available in '07. I think it is just personal taste. But I like a red hat :)

http://bmwdean.home.att.net/blue-rt.jpg

barryg
01-07-2010, 01:53 PM
Are heads dual plugged or two sparked?

ka5ysy
01-07-2010, 09:34 PM
Are heads dual plugged or two sparked?


Yes !

ricmau9
01-16-2010, 08:01 PM
Just sold my 03 RT for 8k - probably will regret it-and am buying a blue leftover 09 low suspension because I do not like the colors for 2010. They are just drab. Also I like the low suspension since I am only 5 8.

themayer
01-17-2010, 06:17 PM
Am selling my '04 RT and bought a leftover blue '09 low suspension BECAUSE I COULD SAVE A WHOLE LOT OF MONEY over the 2010. Took the new bike out for a couple hundred mile jaunt yesterday...I no longer miss my beloved '04. You won't regret moving up to the 1200.

amiles
01-17-2010, 06:32 PM
Maybe they could move the hydraulic reservoirs to just above the engine and cable operate them from the levers?

mneblett
01-17-2010, 09:03 PM
Maybe they could move the hydraulic reservoirs to just above the engine and cable operate them from the levers?
Which is exactly what BMW did with the /6 and /7 front disc brakes.

More neglect maintenance (outta sight, outta mind) and leaking masters dribbling on the frame and engine than you can shake a stick at.

In this case, coming full circle would *not* be a good thing.

$0.02 deposited.