[BadToTheBown]

The R259s (i.e. R1100, R1150 and R1200C) are good cheap performance and parts are readily available and honestly cheap. However, the Hex heads do make better power, are lighter and in my opinion, easily to work on in many ways. Parts are more expensive and mods, in my opinion, are harder.

These bikes are VERY reliable and rack up miles well. Many do not consider these broken in until 50K, so don't let some mileage scare you. They're also simple with air and oil cooling. Not horse power kings but great torque and with a 360 degree firing order with cylinders 180 apart, very manageable and forgiving on the throttle.

A friend of mine would shock you at how fast you can go on an R1200R and I know plenty of guys who would equally shock you on GS bikes (without knobby tires). Same can be said for the ST and some would say it might be one of the best sport touring bikes BMW every made, even though it was unpopular (people didn't like the styling). The R, GS or ST will all be great 2 up bikes, the GS likes a lot of inseam but I know guys who are not tall who ride them. I would still go for upgraded shocks or get them after you buy a bike. Good luck...