BMW K1200GT - no way

[sradek]

I did test ride one today in CT. It's cop's bike and he was a gentleman.

I haven't yet ridden a FJR1300A, so I can't compare.

Here's the scoop on the BMW:

- Riding position: for me (almost 6') - it was not comfortable. My wrists hurt only after 5 miles of back roads. This bike had risers and aft adjusted - still, bad posture overall and the seat makes you creep forward.

- Engine 9/10 (It's silky smooth and I like the purr)

- Brakes 10/10 (no chance to test ABS)

- Suspension 8/10; rear should be softer still for the passenger. maybe it's adjustable, but I couldn't test

- Windshield: 5/10: puny max height - hardly any protection; also makes slight rattle sound on large bumps

- Heat: Engine heat goes directly at knees and thighs (and I wasn't running it hard!)

- Sidebags: my Shoei L wouldn't fit even in the right bag! Left bag is quite useless.

- Rear luggage rack: decorative, can't carry much without a top bag

- Handling: 7/10: Top heavy and ponderous at low speed

Didn't test cruise and heated grips/seats. I think this settles it - this bike is not a good sport tourer. Seems like a hasty design to get it out in the market.

Now, from what I have 'heard' so far, my own research and looking at yamaha site for 2006 model improvements, I am leaning to the FJR for sure. I will decide once I test ride.

I have already discounted considering ST1300 ABS - in a nut-shell not much 'sport' in it. Besides I didn't like the integrated (on fairing!) rear view mirrors - they are obstructed by the rider and too low.

Anyone reading my request for a test ride? I live in NJ, but willing to travel :clapping: I am also trying few dealers ...

btw. I am going to look for a broken-in 2006 so I can ride it at least some this year. Anyone wants to sell me one or knows of a good deal? Pls drop me a note. I am checking forums and cycletrader now.

 

[jjsC6]

I have never ridden the BMW, so I cannot comment, but thanks for your input.

As to the ST1300, I had one for a year and a half. I like the FJR better, but I do want to comment on the mirrors. They were a a little odd at first, but they are better than the FJR's. The main thing you see in the FJR mirrors are your own elbows. The ST's have a clear view behind you.

 

[bramfrank]

...Besides I didn't like the integrated (on fairing!) rear view mirrors - they are obstructed by the rider and too low.

Not to bust your bubble, but mostly I see my elbows in the mirrors on my FJR.
The BEST mirrors I've ever had were on my Kawasaki Concours

 

[GreyGoose]

+1 on the mirrors being better on ST.

also +1 concerning the comments on the GT not being a good sport tourer. Its a sport bike!!!! The rider position and usefullness of the hard bags put it in a sport bike catagory in my mind. When i test rode the GT, i could not believe the rider positioning was so far forward. Wind protection was minimal (even with the shield all the way up (and i'm only 5'6)). I wasnt about to do any long rides on that thing. I gotta admit that i loved the engine. I'm not sure what it was about it, but the way it made power was exhilerating. I was afraid to inquire about the cost of servicing but didnt have to after knowing it wasnt going home with me. The FJR will easily fill the niche between the ST and GT.

GreyGoose

 

[madmike2]

The best mirrors I've ever had are the FZ-1 mirrors on my '05 FJR. And yes, boys and girls, they will fit on the '06 with a little modification (IIRC, the threaded studs need a "sleeve" but the spacing is the same. See the post where a rider put the FJR Goodies light brackets on his '06.).

 

[Toecutter]

Not to bust your bubble, but mostly I see my elbows in the mirrors on my FJR.

Which is exactly why the FZ-1 mirrors are a popular replacement.

 

[Cyclenut]

I did test ride one today in CT. It's cop's bike and he was a gentleman.

Sounds like it was an '05 or earlier. The '06's are completely different. I sat on one yesterday at the Fresno dealer and it felt good to me. Decent size windshield, both saddle bags are usable. Very different bike.

I'm anxious to see if Honda redoes the ST though. Sept is a great time of year. I think this new GT is a contender though.