Road Test – BMW R1200RT & ST
I’ve owned a 1995 BMW K1100 four cylinder for about 6 years now. It’s been a great bike and I’ve clocked up around 93,000 klms since buying it. It’s held its own against many new comers for most of that time, especially the R series boxers which always lacked the punch of the four cylinder models, UNTIL NOW!
I’ve had the opportunity to spend some time with the new R1200s and they’re a quantum leap ahead of their 1150 & 1100 predecessors. The bikes may still be air cooled ‘Boxer’ twin engines, but that’s where the similarity ends.
The
new RT is around 25kg lighter while the ST (replaces the RS) is 20kgs
underweight. The new 81kW (@7500rpm) engine produces 115Nm of very serious
torque at 6,000rpm which pushes it’s performance past my venerable old K
series. Add the smooth and quiet 6 speed transmission from the GS plus the low
maintenance rear swing arm/final drive assembly (never have to change the diff
oil) and you have a package for touring in comfort with all the power on tap for
that rapid overtaking manoeuvre.
Along with all the new bits, BMW have ‘restyled’ the ‘Boxers’ to such an extent that there will be no mistaking them from the old ones. I’ve listened to comments from observers and so far the styling appears to be well accepted.
The
RT offers adjustable levers, electric windscreen, radio/CD player, heated
seats/grips, panniers, electronic suspension adjustment, servo assisted ABS and
headlights that will satisfy those with crook eyes. The new instrument cluster
is effortless to read and offers LED trip computer information at the touch of a
gloved thumb (you can even check the engine oil level). The fuel tank offers 27
litres capacity which should give up to 600klms range (the ST has a 21 litre
tank). Accessories include (check the huge catalogue) a choice of 2 top boxes 28
to 49 litres and a purpose designed 13 to 19 litre expandable waterproof tank
bag.
The
ST is more a basic machine with provision for accessory luggage similar to the
RT. It has a smaller electric screen, manual adjuster for suspension and 25mm of
easy height adjustment on the handlebars.
Both models use anti-knock sensors which mean they’ll run on unleaded fuel if your favourite Premium isn’t available. A balance shaft irons out all but top gear/low rev vibrations.
Seat
height in standard trim is 820 to 840mm, however, there is a low seat accessory
which allows the seat to be brought down to 780mm plus the design of the squab
is narrower than it’s predecessors. Pillion comfort has been well thought out,
grab rails are perfectly placed and foot pegs are set at a height to keep your
gals legs looking good.
The telelever front-end is still (in my opinion) one of the best systems available on a production motorcycle. The whole package allows for more boot scraping fun through corners than a winner at Star City Casino.
Likewise, the BMW EVO braking system is probably the safest around it’s idiot proof! Unlike previous versions, the new bikes are not integral which allows the rider to ‘drag’ the rear brake where necessary.
All the electrics run through BMWs ‘single wire system’ and don’t take kindly to splicing additions into it, better to make sure things like CBs and intercoms come from their own source off the battery.
Pricing for the RT is $27,600 and $21,500 for the ST, plus on road costs.
This is the best performing ‘Boxer’ I have ever had the pleasure to ride.
May your lid never skid
Test bike supplied by John Brisan Motorcycles, Cnr Hannell & Greenway Strs Wickham NSW – 2293 Ph49694500 Fax49612825