R1200RS

[zer0netgain]

Looking at buying a BMW.  The R1200RS in particular.

What am I looking at in terms of ownership cost (maintenance/repairs)?  How hard is it to do your own work as to avoid the cost of putting it in the shop?

[Sport-Touring]

[cruisin]

Pre-2002 are the easiest to work on and seem to have fewer nagging problems than later models.  If you have wrenched other bikes and have a shop manual, the 1100RS should be no problem for you.  There are a lot of used parts out there on the net so shop around with your computer before paying new OEM prices on anything.

[Fudge]

Having just completed the 12K on my R1200R I would say a boxer motor is easy to maintain yourself.  I think if you have at least a basic understanding of do it yourself maintenance you could do 90% of the work.  The most difficult service is the valve adjust (12K interval).  IMHO if you choose to have the dealer do the valve adjust the cost should still be reasonable since the jugs are hanging out in the breeze so the valves are easy to access.  Lots of do it yourself videos for the boxer series that will help you.

You'll need a good Torx tool kit, torque wrench and I would suggest a GS-911.

[coho]

Good source of new, new-take-off and pre-enjoyed parts and accessories. Also oil change kits, O rings and brake pads and stuff. Some of it is cheaper elsewhere, some of it is not. Customer service is darned fine.

http://www.beemerboneyard.com/

[zer0netgain]

I'm wondering because my CBR1100XX is pretty much bulletproof.  The more involved maintenance checks aren't "critical" and can wait until you have a few months over the winter to pull stuff apart to get to them.  It's not known to have ANY service needs that justify going into a shop if you're handy with tools and have the shop manual.

I wouldn't want to buy something that requires regular runs to a service department for work requiring specialized tools too expensive to obtain for yourself or involve work too involved for a person to do absent a HIGH mechanical aptitude.

For example...If I took a BIG trip, I'd be looking at 9,000 miles at one shot.  That means planning maintenance checks so they fall before or after the trip.  During would be problematic unless it's 100% safe to just ignore them for a decent span of mileage (some machines are more picky about such things compared to others).

[mxvet57]

Get an FJR.     298,000 and going strong.

Hasn't seen a service department in 7 years. And that was for warranty work.


Joking aside, The older bikes are so much easer to work on. Less electronics to go bad. Like anything you just have to learn on your own. And a service manual is a must.

[Volfy]

Almost pulled the trigger a few times but not a BMW owner... yet.  With most engines, valve clearance check is the bigger maintenance headache to me.  It's big enough of a tedious job that I dread doing it myself, but I don't like paying the dealer service dept beaucoup buck to do it either.  This is one major advantage of the boxer engine.  Even with the waterheads, it should still be an easy job.

[Fudge]

The valve adjustments are not an issue with the cam head and later model change to 'semi-sphere' (shim).  The valves rarely need adjustment, I changed two shims at 6K and none at 12K.  Intervals are now at 12k for the LC.

The boxer motor isn't really a highly tuned motor so timely checks aren't 'critical' either.

[cruisin]

I'm wondering because my CBR1100XX is pretty much bulletproof.  The more involved maintenance checks aren't "critical" and can wait until you have a few months over the winter to pull stuff apart to get to them.  It's not known to have ANY service needs that justify going into a shop if you're handy with tools and have the shop manual.

I wouldn't want to buy something that requires regular runs to a service department for work requiring specialized tools too expensive to obtain for yourself or involve work too involved for a person to do absent a HIGH mechanical aptitude.

For example...If I took a BIG trip, I'd be looking at 9,000 miles at one shot.  That means planning maintenance checks so they fall before or after the trip.  During would be problematic unless it's 100% safe to just ignore them for a decent span of mileage (some machines are more picky about such things compared to others).

with my 1st 1100RT ('98 model) I got a little lazy on maintenance in the beginning and let it go 32K between valve checks.  When I finally did it, they were all still spot on as I had set them previously.  Setting valves on the boxer engines is a piece of cake with them sticking out the side the way they do.  You can even do it without removing any of the fairing on an RT if you do not have head protectors in place.  Since the RS has even less tupperware, it is likely to be even easier on it.

OH crap! I just noticed you said 1200 not 1100 RS.  sorry.  

[UFO]

Anyone bought one of these yet, or test rode one?  Impressions?

It's an intriguing bike.

 

[bubba zanetti]

Never made it to the bike show so have not even seen one. But read first impressions and it looks very good.  
Might be my next bike.  

http://www.visordown.com/road-tests-first-rides/first-ride-bmw-r1200rs-review/26597.html

[miles]

I took one out for a test ride on saturday.  

My quick impressions:
The dash sucks.  Too low and at a bad angle, so it reflects the bright and shiny silver handlebar and triple clamp.  In bright sunlight the dash is completely unreadable.  In the shade, it's still pretty bad.
The bike has plenty of power.
The autoblipper downshifted is fantastic, but the power upshifted not as much.  It boils down to the immense amount of engine braking the boxer 1200 has.
The seating position is all-day comfortable and neutral.
The bike handles well, but like all boxers it has a "roll into the turn" feel.
I didn't fuss with the adjustable windshield.  Low position worked well for me.
I couldn't discern any real difference between the D-ESA settings on the short (20 minute) test ride I did, but I'm sure that it exists.

My bottom line:  I wouldn't buy the bike merely because I'm not a fan of the boxer motor.  I never have been, and although the wether has plenty of power, it's still a boxer.
Other than that (and the shitty dash) I liked the bike.  It sits exactly at the confluence of sport and tourer.
Plus, it looks great.

[zer0netgain]

I test rode the R1200R (same geometry without the "sport" trim).

I can honestly say the R1200RS would be my next bike if I didn't have to sell both kidneys to afford it. (lol).

It has EVERYTHING I want in my next sport-tourer and is COMFORTABLE for me.  The "dash" is the same on both bikes, and it does leave something to be desired (if you're used to old-school gauges), but I think it'd "grow on you" as you get used to it.  Lots of bells and whistles I'd likely never care to use...so it'd stay on certain settings once I found the essentials I wanted to look at.

I figure I'd like the RS version because the R had too much wind buffeting for me to like it as a distance rider.   Otherwise, the R version was pretty sweet.

[R Doug]

Good reviews and feedback so far.     I've only sat on one, not ridden it.  I'm surprised I've not seen anyone on STN w/ one yet.

While I appreciate the fact the boxer motor can be an acquired taste, this new WC version is an amazing motor.  I love it!

[Orson]

Having been impressed by rental BMWs, I am interested.

However, I might be leaning more towards the new Honda Interceptor as I'd like to experience something different before kicking the bucket  

[Volfy]

I took one out for a test ride on saturday.  

My quick impressions:
The dash sucks.  Too low and at a bad angle, so it reflects the bright and shiny silver handlebar and triple clamp.  In bright sunlight the dash is completely unreadable.  In the shade, it's still pretty bad.
The bike has plenty of power.
The autoblipper downshifted is fantastic, but the power upshifted not as much.  It boils down to the immense amount of engine braking the boxer 1200 has.
The seating position is all-day comfortable and neutral.
The bike handles well, but like all boxers it has a "roll into the turn" feel.
I didn't fuss with the adjustable windshield.  Low position worked well for me.
I couldn't discern any real difference between the D-ESA settings on the short (20 minute) test ride I did, but I'm sure that it exists.

My bottom line:  I wouldn't buy the bike merely because I'm not a fan of the boxer motor.  I never have been, and although the wether has plenty of power, it's still a boxer.
Other than that (and the shitty dash) I liked the bike.  It sits exactly at the confluence of sport and tourer.
Plus, it looks great.

Your impressions confirmed a lot of my expectations of this bike.  My local BMW dealer is supposed to have a test ride event this Sat.  Not sure if they will have an R1200RS on the roster.  Look forward to trying one out.

I too have never been much of a boxer fan.  The old ones really do feel like riding a sewing machine.  The new waterhead supposedly has as much power/torque as my Trophy SE, so I'll keep an open mind.  Of all the current boxers, the RS is the most intriguing to me.  RT a close second.

[bubba zanetti]

I took one out for a test ride on saturday.  


My bottom line:  I wouldn't buy the bike merely because I'm not a fan of the boxer motor.  I never have been, and although the wether has plenty of power, it's still a boxer.
Other than that (and the shitty dash) I liked the bike.  It sits exactly at the confluence of sport and tourer.
Plus, it looks great.

How was the fit for you on the RS ? Footpeg to seat etc.

[R Doug]

How was the fit for you on the RS ? Footpeg to seat etc.

I believe I'm shorter than Miles, but this is what it looks like for a stocky 5'8" guy (1.7272 meters).

[michaelrm69]

Anyone bought one of these yet, or test rode one?  Impressions?

It's an intriguing bike.

 

I picked mine up in mid-June and love it!  My 3rd BMW Boxer (GS and Boxercup) and like this one the best!  Some quick bullets:

Great power at any rpm range in any gear

D-ESA is good, though a little on the stiff side and just slightly below Ducati's skyhook suspension.  As for the difference between dynamic and road; it is a slight difference, but you will notice it once you get some more time on the bike.

The dash isn't perfect, but you can (and need to) adjust the brightness of the backlighting!  Makes a night and day difference.  Also, it has 3 different selectable themes to make it more or less crowded.  All that said, I'd give it a 6-7 out of 10.

CC rocks!  Amazing how the little things can add so much to a bike.

The windscreen can be adjusted into 4 different positions.  Once I found the position I like, I haven't moved it since.

All day comfortable!

GPS w/GPS prep "wonderwheel" work great!  GPS isn't in the best place, but it's fine where it's at and you never need to take your hands off the bars to adjust.

Topcase and panniers match nicely with the grey bike and store a little bit more than expected.  I like them and have no complaints.

Mine has keyless start/gas cap.  Each works w/o flaw.

Really like the shift assist.  Perfect for downshifts, up shifts a little torque-y from 1-2, 2-3, but much better after that.  There's a software update for it already which improves the shifting...slightly.  Overall it's good enough that I never use the clutch except for stops and starts.

Bike looks much better in real life than the pictures and the pictures look great!

All in all, I am super pleased with the bike and my wife loves riding on it as a passenger.  If you like boxers and want a light sport touring bike, you should try it as it's really nice.  If you want something bigger, smaller, faster, slower, 3 cyl, 4cyl, etc, you should probably pass on the test ride as it will not change your mind on any of those fronts.

[mugwump58]

 

[UFO]

How's the throttle response at low RPM, low speed?

I asked because the Multistrada is fucking annoying trying to ride below 3K RPM.

[miles]

A bit jerky, but not horrible.

[zer0netgain]

Topcase and panniers match nicely with the grey bike and store a little bit more than expected.  I like them and have no complaints.

Have you had luck spotting aftermarket hard case options that fit the bike?  BMW's pricey options are a big hit on the desire to buy it.  Givi doesn't make a kit for it (yet, and perhaps never).  So, I'd have to get new cases rather than use what I have.

[miles]

I thought the side bags were standard.

[Orson]

Have you had luck spotting aftermarket hard case options that fit the bike?  BMW's pricey options are a big hit on the desire to buy it.  Givi doesn't make a kit for it (yet, and perhaps never).  So, I'd have to get new cases rather than use what I have.

From my experience with a rental RT, BMW's luggage is top notch therefore, probably worth the premium.

[Volfy]

Have you had luck spotting aftermarket hard case options that fit the bike?  BMW's pricey options are a big hit on the desire to buy it.  Givi doesn't make a kit for it (yet, and perhaps never).  So, I'd have to get new cases rather than use what I have.

Not yet, but I don't doubt Givi and SW Motech are both burning midnight oil right now working on them.  V35s would work great on this one.

[R Doug]

From my experience with a rental RT, BMW's luggage is top notch therefore, probably worth the premium.

I love the cases that came with my R1200RT.  I believe the RS will share in BMW luggage parts bin with the RT.  And, the new RT's cases are remote control lockable.  Pretty cool.

[michaelrm69]

How's the throttle response at low RPM, low speed?

I asked because the Multistrada is fucking annoying trying to ride below 3K RPM.

Much better than my '06 GS was, that thing drove me nuts at slow speeds.  Only at super slow parking lots speeds do I notice a little jerkiness, but nothing that even hints at frustrating.  This was a specific trait I looked at on my demo ride, and now with 1100+ miles I'm happy to say it's been great.

[cruisin]

Anyone bought one of these yet, or test rode one?  Impressions?

It's an intriguing bike.

 

I like it a heck of a lot better than the first R1200RS back in '05--'06(?) when it had that horrendous diamond shaped headlight and the feeble attempt at stealth bomber flat panel technology.  This new one is much more appealing to my eye.  It's a bit reminiscent of the 1100S of old.  I still like the old S better though.

[BlueRidgeKat]

Wife and I both have BMW's and have never had a problem..... change the oil and go.  However these both have the 800 Rotax engines so that's all we have experience with.  Have been riding for 40 years now and wish I had switched to Beemer long ago, didn't know what I was missing.

[Roadscum]

The Boxer motors are very easy to to work on and you should be able to do all the maintenance yourself. If ya need some help you can get high quality DVD's from JVB productions. Look here: http://www.jvbproductions.com/

Paul

[DrMikey]

The valve adjustments are not an issue with the cam head and later model change to 'semi-sphere' (shim).  The valves rarely need adjustment, I changed two shims at 6K and none at 12K.  Intervals are now at 12k for the LC.

The boxer motor isn't really a highly tuned motor so timely checks aren't 'critical' either.

+1  

[zer0netgain]

God, I'm wanting that bike so bad.

How long would I last without my kidneys?  

[Orson]

Well, I bit the bullet  



My initial impressions after about 100 miles:

- I agree with miles about the dash. It's hard to read. A large analog speedo should have been a tachometer like KTM has. I'll hafta play around with different settings.
- Engine power is very nice. I look forward to riding a wave of torque. Haven't had a chance to try the different engine modes. I didn't notice any harsh engine jerky snatch at low RPM
- Handling seems neutral and confidence inspiring. No problems there
- Suspension is very nice and plush. Haven't tried the sporty "Dynamic" mode
- Ergonomics has a very slight forward lean with flat handlebars. I think I prefer a bit more lean as, I felt a pain between my shoulder blades while riding the Interstate. It feels fine in the twisties.
- Fairing wind protection seemed fine in the twisty bits. Remains to be seen on long interstate stretches
- Seat feels great so far but, all-day comfort remains to be seen
- Haven't had a chance to try the autoblipper. After 35 years of riding, It's difficult to get away from pulling in the clutch lever

[Tyrroneous]

Great looking bike you got there Orson.  Congrats on the purchase.  Which continent is this one going to live on?  




The RS is on my short list.  Maybe next year.

[Orson]

The bike is with me in Asheville, N.C.  

[bubba zanetti]

Congrats. Very jealous.  The RS's numbers and pedigree speaks loudly to me. Unfortunately, the cost is beyond what I can justify. But a used, well cared for RS might well be in my future. So I will be following along with your impressions. How tall are you and what is your inseam?

Now that you are retired, you should ride that bike up here as part of an epic west coast ride !

[Orson]

I'm 6'2" with a 32" inseam.

I'm an old fart and prefer the bodywork on your old 1000RS to this new, angular stuff.

As far as the west coast, hopefully someday   Southwestern Colorado, Utah and my old stomping grounds in Northern California spur feelings of yearning. Also, we used to take family vacations to Vancouver Island so, it would be good to re-visit B.C. as well  

[Mrs. DantesDame]

Damn, I missed this thread! Congrats on the new ride, orson!!  

[bubba zanetti]

I'm 6'2" with a 32" inseam.

Cool. Same height, my legs are a little longer. Look forward to your impressions.

[mugwump58]

On the very, very short list for next year. Looking forward to some test rides this spring/summer.

[Roadscum]

Very nice, congratulations on the new ride!  

I had the nek'd version, a '15 R1200R for 6 weeks and 2112 miles of smiles. It keeps company with my '15 GSA with 15+K miles  of smiles.

Did you get the Nav 5? It goes a long way to compensate for the short coming of the  instrument cluster. In addition to navigation functions it can display much of the data from the cluster, and sometime more detail info. It can be configured to display 1, 2, 4, or 16 tiles, each with different data selected by the rider. I prefer the  4 tile mode showing: speed, F/TP, R/TP, and fuel range.

A few days ago the cluster shows a light warning indicating it was at the rear of the bike. The Nav unit specified it was the license plate light!

The Nav 5 unit is pricey but brings a lot of additional function with it.

Paul

[Orson]

I have the BMW GPS. I'm not sure if it's called Nav 5.

I will play around with the different screens.

[R Doug]

Congrats!  

And yes, I use my BMW Nav IV as my speedo.  You can customize your screen and have the speedo in the lower left or right of the screen when you're in map view mode.  

[Mrs. DantesDame]

And yes, I use my BMW Nav IV as my speedo.  You can customize your screen and have the speedo in the lower left or right of the screen when you're in map view mode.  

I do this too, but it causes me problems when I'm in one of the numerous, long tunnels here, as the GPS is no longer updating my speed. 100kph? Sure! That's what it says right here on the GPS! Never mind that the speedometer has crept up to 120...  

[Roadscum]

......
....
.. Never mind that the speedometer has crept up to 120...  

Funny how that can happen in those looooong tunnels.  

Paul

[R Doug]

So, are you coming to the spring meet in WV or what!?  

[Roadscum]

I have the BMW GPS. I'm not sure if it's called Nav 5.

I will play around with the different screens.

If it's the GPS that was sold to you by the dealer for that beautiful RS it is the Nav 5 unit.

Paul

[Orson]

So, are you coming to the spring meet in WV or what!?  

I'd love to be there but, I can't promise anything   That would be a great, first long ride.

If it's the GPS that was sold to you by the dealer for that beautiful RS it is the Nav 5 unit.

Yup, it's the GPS the dealer put on.

[bucktownbilly]

Good looking ride, love the color set up

[Roadscum]

I have the BMW GPS. I'm not sure if it's called Nav 5.

I will play around with the different screens.

Have you seen this overview of the Nav V?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdEoDqaz7DE

Paul

[Orson]

Thanks for the link!  

[Orson]

I did my first semi-long day today. About 210 miles. Butt started to complain a bit the last 20 or so miles but, nothing painful. Kept the windshield in the low position and it was fine, no buffeting.

I was gonna switch the suspension to "dynamic" mode for the tight twisties but, forgot all about it   Normal suspension mode works fine for most street riding I guess  

[Acadian Rider]

Well, I bit the bullet  

What? Not a MG?  

[Orson]

I would love an updated Le Mans but, Guzzi isn't offering anything like the RS at the moment  

Also BMW has a local dealer so, it's a bit more convenient.

My Guzzi in Italy is still running strong  

Edit to add: the boxer sounds like an extended fart  

[Roadscum]

Edit to add: the boxer sounds like an extended fart  

I fixed that on my '15 R1200R with the Remus CF slip on. It now has a nice baritone growl, even with the baffle in.  
That CF Remus would look great on your RS!  
The GSA with the stock can has a nicer voice then the stock system on the R/RS .... go figure.  

Paul

[HipGnosis]

I did my first semi-long day today. About 210 miles. Butt started to complain a bit the last 20 or so miles but, nothing painful. Kept the windshield in the low position and it was fine, no buffeting.

I was gonna switch the suspension to "dynamic" mode for the tight twisties but, forgot all about it   Normal suspension mode works fine for most street riding I guess  

A good seat takes a while to break in.
Now you have to go back to those twisties and do 'em 'right'.

[RBEmerson]

I give you joy of your new ride. Even if it doesn't have a transverse V motor.  

[Virginian]

Wow! I missed this thread as well! Congratulations Orson! Guzzi fans are a bit bitter....  

Eric

[Orson]

As I said before, I would love it if Guzzi built their version of an RS  

But I'm not holding my breath  

[stromgal]

Well, I bit the bullet 

        

[bubba zanetti]

As I said before, I would love it if Guzzi built their version of an RS  

But I'm not holding my breath  

I think you have seen and probably ridden Guzzi's "RS"


But its numbers don't add up to the new "RS"


I doubt Guzzi has a bike waiting in the wings. The Norge is it for now and as much as I like mine, IF  I could afford it right now, one test ride on the R1200RS would put it in my garage. Even if it is not as good looking!

[Roadscum]

My thinking is that the Norge is more of an RT then an RS.
My '09 1200 Sport was a very nice ride until the electrical gremlins found their way in.  25k miles and 2 months out of warranty, nearest competent dealer was 600 miles away, now they to have gone the way of many other Guzzi dealers.

RIP Ridershill.   

RIP Red 1200 Guzzi Sport.  

Paul

[Orson]

After almost 1,000 miles on the RS, the boxer lump just fails to inspire like a Guzzi having its neck wrung  

That being said, it does everything else very well plus heated grips and good luggage  

As for all the electronic doodads, they could all be gone and I wouldn't miss them. I just don't need or use all that information. Give me a tachometer and I'll be happy  

[coho]

After almost 1,000 miles on the RS, the boxer lump just fails to inspire like a Guzzi having its neck wrung  

That being said, it does everything else very well plus heated grips and good luggage  

As for all the electronic doodads, they could all be gone and I wouldn't miss them. I just don't need or use all that information. Give me a tachometer and I'll be happy  

Don't scratch it up and it'll be a nice trade in when Mandello remembers to start building LeMans' (LeManses?) again.  

[st2sam]

After almost 1,000 miles on the RS, the boxer lump just fails to inspire like a Guzzi having its neck wrung  

Don't fight it Orson, life is short.  

http://www.motoguzzi-us.com/special-offers.html

[Orson]

Guzzi seems to be trying to create a lifestyle brand like a European Harley  

Hopefully, someday they will rediscover their racing heritage  

[Virginian]

Guzzi seems to be trying to create a lifestyle brand like a European Harley  

Hopefully, someday they will rediscover their racing heritage  

Blasphemy!

[Roadscum]

After almost 1,000 miles on the RS, the boxer lump just fails to inspire like a Guzzi having its neck wrung  

.....
...
..

With 3K miles in a little over 3 months on my "15 R1200R I'm thinking......
The modern boxer motor can certainty lull one into the feeling of complacency.  
And the electronic packages make for a more comfortable, better controlled, safer ride, especially when you ring its neck! Makes me a better rider.
My thoughts anyway!!!  

Paul

[bubba zanetti]

With 3K miles in a little over 3 months on my "15 R1200R I'm thinking......
The modern boxer motor can certainty lull one into the feeling of complacency.  
And the electronic packages make for a more comfortable, better controlled, safer ride, especially when you ring its neck! Makes me a better rider.
My thoughts anyway!!!  

Paul

Looking forward to a multi day trip report. Some details about the hard bags, range in real world  riding, comfort including ... inseam, arm length, height/weight. It is one of my peeves that so much time is spent comparing apples to cumquats. We are all so differently shaped and somewhat oddly at that ... IF my many years of meeting and hosting motorcyclists from round the world counts ... Temperatures, road condition, packed weight, riding style, maintenance etc ...Yet still much debate about bikes is assumed that my modification should be your modification. Same for tires, oil and gear.

[Orson]

As for all the electronic doodads, they could all be gone and I wouldn't miss them. I just don't need or use all that information. Give me a tachometer and I'll be happy  

It looks like I may hafta eat my words  

I got a warning from the tire pressure monitor that my rear tire lost about 10 lbs. I limped into a gas station and topped it off then monitored it afterward.

[Roadscum]

It looks like I may hafta eat my words  

I got a warning from the tire pressure monitor that my rear tire lost about 10 lbs. I limped into a gas station and topped it off then monitored it afterward.

How do you like your crow prepared....... roasted, grilled, or broiled?  

Me, well I like mine grilled and blackened, yum!  

Paul

[Orson]

Well, after my trip to Texas, I find that the RS hearkens back to my old 1984 Yamaha FJ-1100 in that, it does sport touring rather effortlessly.

Decent power, good handling and all day comfort.

[bubba zanetti]

Saw my first R1200RS a couple of weeks ago at the eastern end of CA36 in Red Bluff.  At first I thought it was a 1000S until I saw the bags etc. Looks good in the flesh.  

[mugwump58]

I need more convincing that the BMW luggage  is that much better than similar Givi kit. Will BMW's GPS mounting accept any other units? Thanks.

[RBEmerson]

Sorta. The Garmin Zumo 660 will plug right in and works like a charm (BTDT). But... there is zero interface with the bike's GPS controls. In short, it's a fully functional Zumo in the middle of the bike.

[BobW]

It's been two years and my self imposed time between changing motorcycles has played its course, so......

[img][/img]

[Jetpilot5]

That looks nice.  Custom color? Looks like higher bars and a few other mods.

[BobW]

Thanks Jetpilot5.

This was a "perfect timing" situation on this bike with 2000 miles on her rather than taking advantage of BMW year end deals on a new "nekkid" RS. I was finishing a RS demo test ride and my friend at the shop said if I waited an hour they had this bike coming in on a trade. The owner was picking up a new KTM 1290 Adventure he was a better fit for after having spent time and $$ trying to make the RS comfortable for his traveling needs. When I saw him unload it we shook hands on the deal before it made it into the shop   R bars and rox risers, puig screen, lowered pegs, leds, crash bars, etc., etc., etc. Really nicely farkled and a nice finishing touch was he had a shop add the color matched custom grey wrap onto the white components giving a nice blend and flow that compliments her lines with a unique look.

I had queried Orson and some other RS riders and I'm very happy to have joined the party. I rode the heck out of my r1200r and rt and as amazing as the platform improvements from the 11XX series was to the 1200, the LC is all that and so much more again. One of my favorite sport tourers was my futura with all kinds of goodies to include full ohlins and the RS takes what she represented and improved on her in every way. The RS is      

Cheers

[bubba zanetti]

So interested in this bike. I hope you/and/or Orson will start a thread about day to day, touring etc. A dedicated sport-touring bike deserves such attention. Don't you think ?

[BobW]

So interested in this bike. I hope you/and/or Orion will start a thread about day to day, touring etc. A dedicated sport-touring bike deserves such attention. Don't you think ?

I agree and will add my $0.02 along the way. I have been a bikeaholic for 50 years now and try to get something "different" each time I change bikes. There really are no bad motorcycles out there today, but my Sprint ST, the futura and now the RS represent what keeps me returning to the sport touring platform (my Stelvio or a GS would be my second favorite). I still manage 15-20 thousand miles a year between our local, friendly old Smoky's and Blue Ridge mountain roads and annual family visits from here in NC to New England and the Pacific Northwest. The RS is slotted for those rides as well as a 2018 Canada and Alaska loop.

Cheers  

[Orson]

So far, so good after about 9,000 miles.

As I said previously, the RS reminds me a lot of my old 1984 FJ1100 which, pretty much set the standard for sport tourers in the 1990s. It ticks off all my sport touring needs; sure footed handling, good torque for riding "the Pace", comfort, good luggage, heated grips, etc.

I do miss the Guzzi soundtrack but, the fact that the RS does everything else so well helps to ease the pain  

[zer0netgain]

Hate to resurrect the thread, but I have another question I'm not seeing an answer to on the BMW website.

Is a "service plan" available?  How much?  Is it worth it?

I ask because basic things I can do myself, but given the demands on my time, I'd almost consider paying for a plan that covers any and all ROUTINE maintenance issues.  Of course, maybe the kinds of things I'd take it in for would be just as affordable to pay on an "as needed" basis, but I'd like to know if there's the option.  I know they try to sell that stuff on car sales.

[Stripes]

If you don't have one after a year and a half, my advice would be to move on and get something else.

[zer0netgain]

If you don't have one after a year and a half, my advice would be to move on and get something else.

I may be in a position to get one in the next few months.  That's why I'm reconsidering the situation.  

[radon222]

Zero,

  Unlike BMW 4-wheeled vehicles there is no manufacture 2-yr Free maintanence type deal.   Any plan of that sort would have to be dealer specific and I sure haven't heard of one.  

[Stripes]

I may be in a position to get one in the next few months.  That's why I'm reconsidering the situation.  

 

Good luck!

[BobW]

So far, so good after about 9,000 miles.

As I said previously, the RS reminds me a lot of my old 1984 FJ1100 which, pretty much set the standard for sport tourers in the 1990s. It ticks off all my sport touring needs; sure footed handling, good torque for riding "the Pace", comfort, good luggage, heated grips, etc.

I do miss the Guzzi soundtrack but, the fact that the RS does everything else so well helps to ease the pain  

Your assessment of the RS was a big help when I was narrowing my choices and I appreciate your feedback to my questions before I closed the deal. BTW, Eurosport would be great for Guzzi if Piaggio ever got their U.S. Operations sorted and if they offer a balanced lineup again. I get the cruisers and scramblers, but there is a big hole to be filled.

[BobW]

I just got a RS, do it! You will be a happy rider.

+1, it would be a dealer offer.

The service is only easier on a moto guzzi because of the perky jugs   sorry I digress  

6000 mile service is basically an oil and filter change and go over the bike looking at brake pads, tires, etc. No disassembly required. The RS uses a spin on oil filter that is easy to reach and while on the center stand slide a drip pan under the engine and remove the drain plug. After the oil drains, Replace drain plug using a new crush washer along with new filter and add fresh oil. Congrats! You have just serviced the engine in about the same time and effort it took to type this. Final drive can be done at the same time and it too has an easy drain and refill. The 12000 mile service is the same, but they add a valve check, spark plug, air filter change/inspection. Brakes should be "bled" at least every other year, but I do it yearly and it doesn't require a lot of time either.  You can do the "easy" stuff to enjoy playing Doctor with her and to save on labor costs and then have the Surgeons at the shop do a valve check etc. It isn't a bunch of man hours even if you had a shop do all maintenance and obviously any repairs are warranty work for 3 years or 36000 miles at no cost to you.

There are some great Ewe tubes showing the service and as suggested above the Jim VonBaden DVD is widely used and covers all you wanted to know about your BMW, but were afraid to ask......  

[Orson]

If Guzzi came out with an RS clone that wuz within 80% of the RS's capabilities, I would be sorely tempted just to have that Guzzi soundtrack  

The aural qualities of the Guzzi really make it an engaging bike out in the real world.

[coho]

Nothing beats good aural.

[howardrichman]

I've been researching various rides in the last 6 months. this RS is on my short list. I'm riding a Ninja 650r now and want more character and performance. I'm trying to decide between the Yamaha fj-09, the Honda VFR interceptor, and the BMW r1200rs.  If I can swing the RS, in the long run, will there be electronic problems that will cost me trips to the dealer or $ out of pocket often w/o a long term warrantee ? The 650R doesn't even have a fuel gauge, and don't need one using a trip meter.  The fj-09 has great reviews, but not into adventure style rides (unless I'm convinced that'll change); but now it feels like sitting on a big dirt bike. The VFR looks great, like the center stand and single side swing arm, but not the vtec. these two rides can be had for nearly half the price of the RS, and have to guess that's attributed mostly to its high technology. I guess I'd be concerned about the reliability of the whole bike; electronics and mechanically as the odometer runs near the 60K mls +    

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[Jetpilot5]

As a base line, I don't think any BMW will be as reliable overall as a Honda or Yamaha and I've had three BMW's and multiple Honda's and Yamaha's. That said, my BMW's have been pretty good, very good mechanically and a few minor electrical issues. For example I had the right hand switch-gear replaced under recall on my K1300S. I did almost leave me stranded though. The VFR is very nice, I had a 99 model.  It won't have near the power and isn't as comfy as the RS. Can't speak to the FJ as I've never ridden the triple but I read good things.

If you'd like to get the price down and are worried about electrical issues you can do what I did.  I bought a base RS demo bike. Even the base BMW is well equipped. Then I added a center stand, heated grips and electronic cruise. That's all I really wanted and now don't have to worry about expensive electronic suspension components failing out of warranty or a gas cap that wont lock because keyless ride failed and it got the price down into the low teens for essentially a new bike with a full three year warranty. I will tell you that base BMW's are rare.  I had to travel 10 hours to get mine. If you're committed and can't find one you can always order one.

Which bike do you want? I've always been happier with bikes that had a high want factor over bikes that made more sense to me. If it's the BMW that you really want then get it, you'll most likely be fine.  If you get the BMW and like it but spend all your time sweating whether it'll leave you on the side of the road then it won't be fun and you won't like it.

Hope that helps. Oh, and I'm just getting ready to take my RS in for it's second replacement water pump.

[kver]

As a base line, I don't think any BMW will be as reliable overall as a Honda or Yamaha and I've had three BMW's and multiple Honda's and Yamaha's.
...

Which bike do you want? I've always been happier with bikes that had a high want factor over bikes that made more sense to me. If it's the BMW that you really want then get it, you'll most likely be fine.  If you get the BMW and like it but spend all your time sweating whether it'll leave you on the side of the road then it won't be fun and you won't like it.

Hope that helps. Oh, and I'm just getting ready to take my RS in for it's second replacement water pump.

Funny how people always seem to be worried about BMW reliability on this forum while most of the best ride reports and the most miles seems to be ridden by BMW riders...
 

BMW must be doing something right or maybe BMW owners just like to blog while everyone else is busy riding???  

but that wouldn't explain DD or Gene and Neda...


 

[RBEmerson]

Or maybe the many happy riders are riding, and the (relatively) few unhappy campers are doing all the posting?  

[kver]

Or maybe the many happy riders are riding, and the (relatively) few unhappy campers are doing all the posting?  

Ah the voice of wisdom...  

[RBEmerson]

Dunno why I have time to write here... must be the snow...  

[Orson]

I've been researching various rides in the last 6 months. this RS is on my short list. I guess I'd be concerned about the reliability of the whole bike; electronics and mechanically as the odometer runs near the 60K mls +    

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I have about 12,000 miles in 12 months on my 2016 RS.

I have had one electronic issue where the digital tachometer flashes. Nothing that distracts from the ride. Will have it checked next service. The digital tacho irks me a bit. You'd think Germans would follow Porsche's lead with a big, fat analog tacho front & center  

Other than not sounding like a Guzzi, it does everything else extremely competently  

[RBEmerson]

C'mon... two cylinders is two cylinders is two cylinders... How much different can the sound really be?  

[Orson]

I have had one electronic issue where the digital tachometer flashes. Nothing that distracts from the ride. Will have it checked next service.

Update: The mechanic told me that the tachometer flashing indicates that the engine hasn't reached full operating temperature and you should keep rpm down until then.

[Jetpilot5]

So, you have not read zee book?  

[Orson]

Guzzis don't have flashing lights so, I wuz disoriented  

I did read the part that said warming up the engine before taking off is not required.

[R Doug]

Guzzis don't have flashing lights so, I wuz disoriented  

I did read the part that said warming up the engine before taking off is not required.

You'd think Germans would follow Porsche's lead with a big, fat analog tacho front & center  

Other than not sounding like a Guzzi, it does everything else extremely competently  

Oddly, all of the main German auto markets (save for Porsche) are migrating to digital dashes.  The current 3/4 series is the last one you can currently obtain new with BMW's traditional analog guage dash.  The 2018 models will have digital dashes like their Audi and Merc counterparts.  

Other than not sounding like a Guzzi,

If only it sounded like a Guzzi.  I'd love if my GS sounded like a Guzzi.  

[GRN]

Zero,

  Unlike BMW 4-wheeled vehicles there is no manufacture 2-yr Free maintanence type deal.   Any plan of that sort would have to be dealer specific and I sure haven't heard of one.  

We do them...

[howardrichman]

I'm also considering the new RS.  I'm concerned about  complex electronics and differential failing a hundred miles from home, and cost of repairs.  At this time; I'm comparing the r1200RS to the Honda VFR 800 Interceptor.

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[Orson]

I have about 12,000 miles on my 2016 RS.

So far, it has been a trouble free experience.

No problems with electronics. The engine hasn't burned any oil.

Handling and suspension is flawless. Ergonomics are a good fit for my 6'2" body with 32" inseam.

The only problem has been that the engine sounds like the Jetsons' flying car.

[howardrichman]

do you appreciate or use the multiple drive modes, lean angle abs, electronic suspension, ect compared to more standard options compared sa. just having fuel injection and abs?

[Orson]

I have found that leaving the suspension in ROAD mode rather than the SPORT mode is sufficient for my spirited rides.

The same goes for the engine settings so, I guess I could probably live without them.

The lean angle ABS operates in the background without being noticed.

I did appreciate the tire pressure monitor as, my rear tire got a slow leak during a trip. I also appreciate the heated grips. Surprisingly, the cruise control also proved to be useful for those four lane highways with low speed limits where police tend to patrol.

[zer0netgain]

Bumping to the top.  I’m seriously looking at the 2018 model.  Thoughts?