If you could own an "R" bike from the early 21st Century?

Milar · 03-04-2016, 06:02 AM

I've owned 2 R1100S bikes, a 1999 and a 2005. They rank high on my list of all time favorites.

I was at the Phoenix Motorcycle Show a couple of weeks ago and sat on the new R1200RS. It felt right and brought back memories of my old "S" bikes. Similar size, similar weight, similar fairing and styling. The big difference was an extra 25 hp for which I care not a bit and a heck of a lot more money.

So I'm revisiting owning another another BMW sport touring bike. Probably not a new RS at $15K+. But a used "R" bike from the first decade of the 21st century. An "S", an "ST", an "RS" or maybe an "RT". I have Ohlins on my Guzzi and I'd probably upgrade the suspension. A limited edition model is a plus.

I'm 70 years old and the bikes primary use would be 2 lane touring I live in Arizona so distances are great and speeds are high. 2 lane roads vary from desert straights to mountain curves.

Since most of you have owned "S", and all 4 models are based on the same platform, I'd be most interested in your thoughts on models from this era.

Mike

luisrinsivillo · 03-04-2016, 06:49 AM

tomorow I am picking up a 2003 R1100S Boxer Cup Replica!!!!
this will be my second R1100S (my first was a 1999 back in 2005).
I have had a K1200R and a Honda VFR in between, but I am happy to go back to the R1100S and I am lucky enough to have found a good quality #3 out of 200 bike.
Glad to head that you are still riding in your 70!!!!!!

speedyhp2s · 03-04-2016, 08:29 AM

personally I've always like the look of the R1200r, you can pick up the early year models in the low $5,000 to $6,000 range if you shop around. Great do it all bike if you ask me. Also I always hear great things about the ST model, but they are pretty rare and hard to find.

Good luck with your search, and keep on riding sir.

brentw1 · brentw1's Garage

you dont want the servo abs versions if you can avoid it
the later abs system is much better and wont try to kill you

lkchris · 03-05-2016, 09:20 AM

The balancer shaft in the R1200 engines makes a world of difference.

Clif Port · 03-05-2016, 02:38 PM

I'm your age, Mike, and have owned all four bikes you reference. For your stated use, my hands down choice would be the R1200RT, 2007 or newer. The problematic servo brakes were last fitted in 2006 which is why I'd avoid earlier models.

The RT's 6.9 gallon tank will easily deliver 350 mile range, the fairing and electrically adjustable windshield and upright riding position make going the distance comfortable for ''experienced" riders, and I find the handling on tight, twisty back roads to be even better than the R1100RS, R1200ST, and R1100S bikes I owned previously.

There is only one bike I'd choose over the RT; the R1200GS. That's why my ’07 RT, with Ohlins shocks and Corbin seat is for sale . . .

speedyhp2s · 03-07-2016, 11:19 AM

Would be a bit of trip for you? fly and buy (I do it all the time) and if your not scared of high mileage? Very nicely equipped R1200R

2007 BMW R1200r

metropolis2k · 03-08-2016, 02:54 AM

I currently have a 2004 R1100S (Boxer Cup) and a 2000 R1150GS. If I had to start again and just get one it would be a tough call between an R1200R and an R1200GSA.

In your situation I think, as Clif Port states above, that the RT would be the best call for you. I think you'd find the R1200R lacks protection for sustained highway and the RT is the best balance between comfort and fun!