How different are (insert model year) R1200 (insert model)
 

So, aside from compression and gearing, how different is the maintenance requirements on a (let's say) '07 R1200S from a '07 R1200RT or R or GS?

Should I expect major maintenance differences between all the R1200 models throughout a production year?

Are all the final drives the same amount of susceptible to failure, or is one model worse than another?

I've listened to what R12S owners do versus the R12RT which I owned. Other than the fact that the R12S runs through tires much faster than the RT (due to riding style), I can't see a bit of difference in the maintenance requirements. The final drives have had improvements incorporated since they were first rolled out in'05 on the R12RT/ST/GS. My '08 RT final drive was changed out completely under warranty because the seal wore a ring on the shaft.

Thanks. I'm thinking about trading in my Honda ST1300 on a '07 R1200R. I've really missed the boxer soul since I sold my '99 R1100S.

any other advice before I pull the trigger in the '07 R1200R
 

any other advice before I pull the trigger in the '07 R1200R?

Yes, I was in the dealership in Asheville a week ago and they had an awesome looking R12R on the showroom floor that they had taken in trade. Color was black. If it's an '08 or later you' get a better tranny and final drive.

what's better on an 08 R12R trans. ? tjs

On the RT it shifted into 1st without the klunk.

I got basically the last run of the oil/cam head bikes a 2013, and the transmission is butter smooth and very quiet. Don't know what they did, but I love it.

Lane

I've noticed a lot of R1200R with less than 10k. I guess that's not really to strange as my R1100s ('99) only had 11K when I bought it in 2010 and my ST1300 ('06) only had 8k in 2012.

You're right on the mark, Lane. BMW has really been runnig a product improvement program all during the hexhead/camhead production run. Even though we bellyache about FD's failing BMW is improving the product. We are often impatient; but, in most cases we are ignorant about what is be done to placate our concerns.