1200RS to 1200GT conversion ???

[StevieWonder]

I have a '98 K1200RS in the now-famous Dakkar yellow/checkerboard scheme, equipped with a Remus exhaust and RhineWest chip, which I absolutely LOVE . However, I've been taking longer and longer rides and plan a long early summer ride from Texas out to SoCal and then up to NorCal and back. I own an 1150RT also so there is always that option, but there's is something very special about the extra juice on the K bike.

So the question is, can I make this bike a "near-GT" simply by adding a touring windscreen, the rubber fairing flares, a set of barbacks and some system bags? I'd still be missing the GT hand coverage flares. The fairing flares require drilling the bodywork (one screw and some silicone adhesive) which I'm not crazy about doing but the rest is essentially bolt-on, bolt-off.

I'm sure somebody has done this or something close to it. Ideas? Recommendations?

[bikerfish1100]

other than for the purpose of finding out if you could do it.. why would you want or need to? everything i've ever heard of the KbigRS is that it's a fine touring mount.
will this be your first longer tour? if so, i'd run it as is, and find out how it works for you.
i toured 2 up on my K11RS, and found it totally fine in everything except extreme cold in Canada (and that only because i didn't bring appropriate gear for sub 40 temps.) or the wicked 100+ heat across Kansas. same thing for using my R1100S as a tourer, except that the heat was much less of a concern, and i never did find those super cold temps. i guess what i'm saying is that just because they sell it, does not mean that you need it. :thumb

[StevieWonder]

Not my first long trip. But I'd have to buy the bags anyway as I understand the system bags like those on my 1150RT won't fit the K bike. I think the wind factor would be significant on 600+ miles/day jaunts. Last time we did this there was still snow on the ground (but not on the roads) at the higher elevations, so for a Texas boy it would get pretty damn chilly. I don't have the heavy winter clothing that you Yankees might have and there is no real need to spend that money on something I MIGHT use once every other year. I can do everything but the fairing flares and switch back to standard RS mode in an hour or so. Other than the hardshell bags vs the standard black system bags (I COULD have them painted if I got a little crazy) it would be fairly easy and fairly cheap.

[StevieWonder]

BTW, the heat is NOT an issue at all. That's standard operating procedure down here. It's the cold and the constant wind buffet that could make the trip less than enjoyable.

Besides ... a checkerboard GT would be kinda cool and possibly unique :hide

[MCohen]

You're right. Adding the upper fairing extensions are a no go. Besides needing to drill and bolt them on, they only fit the later revised upper RS/GT fairing. That would be really expensive to buy and retrofit. Besides a large touring fairing from Aeroflow (http://www.aeroflowscreens.com) or others would provide similar coverage. The BMW lower extensions would help but they would be a more permanent modification since they are taped in place. If you don't object to the look, Aeroflow also has some lowers. I've got the Aeroflow windscreen and lowers but don't use them much. I prefer my helmet and upper chest in the windflow most of the time. Unless I'm in Texas with a constant sideways wind. ;)

If you add more wind protection then you also add more weight on your wrists. Even standard length bar-backs won't get you into an RT-type riding position. You'll need some long bar-backs for that and therefore need to change the brake and clutch hoses. Also, if you're sitting more upright a set of peg-lowers could help.

BMW's System Cases are an easy addition but expensive. If you only want to occasionally tour you might want to look at soft luggage like those from Chicane. (http://www.chicaneusa.com/)

You might be over thinking your trip. The K1200RS is a great touring platform. I really enjoy touring on my K1200RS even with a low windscreen. Try taking a couple of long trips and see if you get used to the differences between it and the RT before making expensive changes.

Good luck,
Michael

[Mudbug]

You did not mention whether or not you had heated grips and heated saddle.
A heated saddle would be nice for those cold northern rides. Have you considered the grip protectors that come on the GS as a way of keeping the cold wind off your hands instead of modifying the front fairing. I don't know how easy they are to install.

[StevieWonder]

Yes, I have heated grips. Getting a better set of winter gloves would be easy enough.

I didn't realize the rubber fairing extensions wouldn't fit the '98 model ... or are you talking about the extensions off the front nose/windshield area?