the bike is extremely well engineered, has tons of power and is perfect with my wife on the back. those Harley guys are missing a real treat- the R1200RT is a dream to ride. Excellent review
One of the most honest and complete reviews about this bike. After owning a Versys 650, one RT and two V-Strom’s 1000 (among many other bikes), now I’m on my second RT. I couldn’t agree more with the review of this fantastic bike, and also the ranking of the top five. Thanks for all the great explanations!
*Well done!* As a fairly new rider, I have only ridden Harley tourings, but am interested in a local 2010 RT ($6.5k with 50k miles ) since most of my riding tends to be in the twisties. Love the Harley experience, but a bit concerned about the BMW dealership experience. I am not a wrench. From what I have seen, this bike is bulletproof! A real keeper. Thank you.
I´ve ridden an HD for years and for more than 150.000 Km. The first thing that came to my mind when riding the RT for the first time was "where this bike has been during all this time?"
@@decocatani RT is a Phenomenal bike. My only issue is the shifter. I have to work to squeeze my boot toe under it and it's a total buzz kill. Maybe there's an after-market shift extender and heel shifter.
Thanks for the very nice review! Good to hear some comparisons between the ST1300 and the RT1200 based on your experiences. I own a ST1300 for 8 years now and am thinking about buying a RT1200, so this review is exactly what I was looking for. Keep up the good work!
I absolutely LOVE my '17 R1200RT. I've had a GL1800 wing and an Electra Glide over the past 15 years and they are seriously lacking in so many ways. The BMW engineering is far and away superior. Handling, brakes, suspension, clutch, aerodynamics, transmission gearing....just an amazing blend of great attributes. It still has to be fit to the rider (all bikes do). I bought it with Ilium guards, aftermarket windshield, Sargent seat and later put on lowered pegs and bar backs for ergonomics. It fits me like a glove. Once the morning temps are above freezing, I'm back to commuting full time on it!
Just bought a 14,000 miles from my friend, only owner, '98 R1200C and it has this setup; a bit older of course, but that is what I noticed about riding this bike. I love the smooth ride. Hit the brakes and no diving. I float on the road and feel almost zero bumps. I noticed the dual suspension whatever and figured this had something to so with this smoothness. It still purrs and am loving it. Thanks for the video. Thumbs up review!
I had an R1200 C which I loved. However I loved my next bike way better-a 1999 R1100Rt. Way better handling,comfort, and power. Handled like it was on rails in the twistiest. Very neutral and stable. Could pack two weeks worth of gear aboard. After a couple of weeks touring I could have kept going forever. Next bike will be an RT of some sort.for sure.
I totally recognized the front area of the dealership and was happy to see Adventure BMW. Clay did the hard stop on grass for me also, but on the GS. I am trying to decide between the RT, RS, R. Love the ride of the GS but don’t want an adventure bike. Ready to say goodbye to chains. Take care. Happy to see more content.
That is one great bike! I don’t agree with your friend on BMW being ahead of the game regarding issues… They did have recalls but some only due to too many complaints and issues owners were having. Latest one is the drive shaft recall for all water cooled boxers(over 440,000 bikes) and this thing is a known issue for many years which corporate BMW was trying to duck… They are much better than KTM who will absolutely not make a single recall rather put out any “fires” on a one on one basis. Thank you so much for your amazing work 🍻🍻
I had a 2016 R1250R, I got rid of it within a year because the gear box was so horrible, the bike felt like it was going to break in half every time you shift into 1st. 2nd and 3rd gears w ere slightly better . Shift assist pro was excellent in the upper 3 gears. BMW dealer said I would get used to it like everybody else. I understand BMW has fixed the issue on the later models.
Man, I thought I was fickle with my bike ownership (I have had 60 bikes) but you slay me. Of course I never worked in the industry. Great video. I am now looking for an older cheaper low mileage RT. I am sure you could tell me which gen is the best to buy. Closest bike I have had to the RT was my 17 Triumph SE 1200. Those triples are cool.
Interesting set of bikes you like. Still have my first bike (gen1 Versys 650) with 7 years of adventuring on it (70K miles) and just picked up my first big bike, a 2007 R1200RT ex state police bike. Amazing handling. For a heavy bike, it feels lightweight as soon as it's in motion. Right now I'm riding it for commuting and city traffic, helps gel the handling and controls. Just got a proper (used) barn door for the front (Aeroflow tall) and waiting to try it on the highway later. Gobs of power. BMW did some juju on the powertrain for these police bikes.
Excellent video ! Lots of great info. ! It would really be nice to compare the R1200 with the K1200 to inform viewers of the reasons for the differences in weight ! Thank you !
Why have I never heard anyone talk about the mirrors? Are they positioned where they are functional, yes or no. They appear to be in line with the grips. What is everyone's opinion of them?
RT has the best mirrors! On previous bikes I always saw the shoulders of my jacket, had to move my head and change the angle of view. Now it is no longer necessary, the mirrors are in an excellent position
I've owned and ridden quite a few motorcycles myself. Currently have a DR650 for solo riding, but I started looking at used touring bikes to ride with the lady. I've seen quite a few older R1200RT for sale at a decent price, but many seem to have had the very expensive ABS module fail. I remember trying one and it was probably the most comfortable suspensions I've ever experienced (100% better than FJR, Concours, etc on rough roads) and thats the main reason why I'm looking at them again. Think it's worth going to the 1250? Or the 1200 is just about as good (if all I'm looking for is reliability and comfort). Also, I'm 6'1", 190lbs. Thanks!
I have the 1200RT. One up it’s got plenty of power.. I can go 30MPH to 80MPH in 3.5 seconds. 3rd gear red lines at 110MPH. I don’t have the balls to shift into 4th and keep going though ha-ha. The 1250 has close to 30 more HP so if you can afford it definitely get a 1250 but the 1200 has plenty of power.
Do the benefits outweigh the complexities + costs? Are boxers still made for owner servicing+maintenance? They don't seem as friendly in those regards as boxers from the 70s+80s. Do you like the RS too?
I’ve owned my 2017 RT for over 2 years done tens of thousand of miles and it costs around 600$ a year for maintenance and only repair was a battery and fork seals went bad on me cheapest bike I’ve owned to maintain best performance and well balanced bike on the road and I’ve been on most I’ve done 1000 miles a day tons of time all stock
What's key in the anti dive system is the trajectory of the front contact patch, which is different in traditional forks. The telelever makes sure that the contact patch travels part of a circle. It's the center point of that circle that does the trick. It lies a little lower than the line between the contact patch and the combined CG, and in front of the center of that line. That's why there's significantly less but still a little front end diving. I made a diagram here: ua-cam.com/video/eAHRDOxmCNk/v-deo.html
I am looking for brand new Honda NT or second hand 2016 RT with 26K km for the same price. I am interested for long travels around europe . I am afraid BMWs due to reliability issues .
the bike is extremely well engineered, has tons of power and is perfect with my wife on the back. those Harley guys are missing a real treat- the R1200RT is a dream to ride.
Excellent review
Probably the best description of the Telelever and Paralever and their interactions I’ve ever heard. Thank you sir. G.
absolutely the best description ever heard
One of the most honest and complete reviews about this bike. After owning a Versys 650, one RT and two V-Strom’s 1000 (among many other bikes), now I’m on my second RT. I couldn’t agree more with the review of this fantastic bike, and also the ranking of the top five. Thanks for all the great explanations!
*Well done!* As a fairly new rider, I have only ridden Harley tourings, but am interested in a local 2010 RT ($6.5k with 50k miles ) since most of my riding tends to be in the twisties. Love the Harley experience, but a bit concerned about the BMW dealership experience. I am not a wrench. From what I have seen, this bike is bulletproof! A real keeper. Thank you.
I´ve ridden an HD for years and for more than 150.000 Km. The first thing that came to my mind when riding the RT for the first time was "where this bike has been during all this time?"
@@decocatani RT is a Phenomenal bike. My only issue is the shifter. I have to work to squeeze my boot toe under it and it's a total buzz kill. Maybe there's an after-market shift extender and heel shifter.
Excellent review. I own a 2015 and have owned four of these bikes. Very light on its feet and an amazing comfortable bike to ride.
Thanks for the very nice review! Good to hear some comparisons between the ST1300 and the RT1200 based on your experiences. I own a ST1300 for 8 years now and am thinking about buying a RT1200, so this review is exactly what I was looking for. Keep up the good work!
I own a 2009 r1200rt and a 1995 R100rt. Both wonderful touring bikes. The 09 has more bells and whistles ,but both as smooth as silk.
I absolutely LOVE my '17 R1200RT. I've had a GL1800 wing and an Electra Glide over the past 15 years and they are seriously lacking in so many ways. The BMW engineering is far and away superior. Handling, brakes, suspension, clutch, aerodynamics, transmission gearing....just an amazing blend of great attributes. It still has to be fit to the rider (all bikes do). I bought it with Ilium guards, aftermarket windshield, Sargent seat and later put on lowered pegs and bar backs for ergonomics. It fits me like a glove. Once the morning temps are above freezing, I'm back to commuting full time on it!
In first few mins you gave more information than in those 1 hour reviews, nice!
Just bought a 14,000 miles from my friend, only owner, '98 R1200C and it has this setup; a bit older of course, but that is what I noticed about riding this bike. I love the smooth ride. Hit the brakes and no diving. I float on the road and feel almost zero bumps. I noticed the dual suspension whatever and figured this had something to so with this smoothness. It still purrs and am loving it. Thanks for the video. Thumbs up review!
I had an R1200 C which I loved. However I loved my next bike way better-a 1999 R1100Rt. Way better handling,comfort, and power. Handled like it was on rails in the twistiest. Very neutral and stable. Could pack two weeks worth of gear aboard. After a couple of weeks touring I could have kept going forever. Next bike will be an RT of some sort.for sure.
I totally recognized the front area of the dealership and was happy to see Adventure BMW. Clay did the hard stop on grass for me also, but on the GS. I am trying to decide between the RT, RS, R. Love the ride of the GS but don’t want an adventure bike. Ready to say goodbye to chains. Take care. Happy to see more content.
That is one great bike!
I don’t agree with your friend on BMW being ahead of the game regarding issues…
They did have recalls but some only due to too many complaints and issues owners were having.
Latest one is the drive shaft recall for all water cooled boxers(over 440,000 bikes) and this thing is a known issue for many years which corporate BMW was trying to duck…
They are much better than KTM who will absolutely not make a single recall rather put out any “fires” on a one on one basis.
Thank you so much for your amazing work 🍻🍻
Great knowledge and perspective!
I had a 2016 R1250R, I got rid of it within a year because the gear box was so horrible, the bike felt like it was going to break in half every time you shift into 1st. 2nd and 3rd gears w ere slightly better . Shift assist pro was excellent in the upper 3 gears. BMW dealer said I would get used to it like everybody else. I understand BMW has fixed the issue on the later models.
Man, I thought I was fickle with my bike ownership (I have had 60 bikes) but you slay me. Of course I never worked in the industry. Great video. I am now looking for an older cheaper low mileage RT. I am sure you could tell me which gen is the best to buy. Closest bike I have had to the RT was my 17 Triumph SE 1200. Those triples are cool.
I have a 22 my gsa rallye 1250 your description on the handling and how the tele and para lever works i agree with everything you say
Interesting set of bikes you like. Still have my first bike (gen1 Versys 650) with 7 years of adventuring on it (70K miles) and just picked up my first big bike, a 2007 R1200RT ex state police bike. Amazing handling. For a heavy bike, it feels lightweight as soon as it's in motion. Right now I'm riding it for commuting and city traffic, helps gel the handling and controls. Just got a proper (used) barn door for the front (Aeroflow tall) and waiting to try it on the highway later. Gobs of power. BMW did some juju on the powertrain for these police bikes.
I never keep my suspension on soft. Going fast around corners the rear tire gets swirly. Normal/sport your 100% locked into the road. I love my RT
Excellent video ! Lots of great info. ! It would really be nice to compare the R1200 with the K1200 to inform viewers of the reasons for the differences in weight ! Thank you !
Great analysis !
Why have I never heard anyone talk about the mirrors? Are they positioned where they are functional, yes or no. They appear to be in line with the grips. What is everyone's opinion of them?
GREAT mirrors. No issues at all.
love the mirror position. no complain about it. @@remektekmedia6641
RT has the best mirrors! On previous bikes I always saw the shoulders of my jacket, had to move my head and change the angle of view. Now it is no longer necessary, the mirrors are in an excellent position
Mine has two sets of mirrors which in my opinion is the way to go . Zero issues with looks if that concerns you
Excellent review.
I've owned and ridden quite a few motorcycles myself. Currently have a DR650 for solo riding, but I started looking at used touring bikes to ride with the lady. I've seen quite a few older R1200RT for sale at a decent price, but many seem to have had the very expensive ABS module fail. I remember trying one and it was probably the most comfortable suspensions I've ever experienced (100% better than FJR, Concours, etc on rough roads) and thats the main reason why I'm looking at them again. Think it's worth going to the 1250? Or the 1200 is just about as good (if all I'm looking for is reliability and comfort). Also, I'm 6'1", 190lbs. Thanks!
I have the 1200RT. One up it’s got plenty of power.. I can go 30MPH to 80MPH in 3.5 seconds. 3rd gear red lines at 110MPH. I don’t have the balls to shift into 4th and keep going though ha-ha. The 1250 has close to 30 more HP so if you can afford it definitely get a 1250 but the 1200 has plenty of power.
Do the benefits outweigh the complexities + costs? Are boxers still made for owner servicing+maintenance? They don't seem as friendly in those regards as boxers from the 70s+80s. Do you like the RS too?
I’ve owned my 2017 RT for over 2 years done tens of thousand of miles and it costs around 600$ a year for maintenance and only repair was a battery and fork seals went bad on me cheapest bike I’ve owned to maintain best performance and well balanced bike on the road and I’ve been on most I’ve done 1000 miles a day tons of time all stock
@@alexwheeler8026yup my seals went on my 14’ RT as well. $750 repair at Max BMW in Danbury.
What’s with the antenna?
Is there some a plug of some kind that I boiled use as I don’t use the radio.
What's key in the anti dive system is the trajectory of the front contact patch, which is different in traditional forks. The telelever makes sure that the contact patch travels part of a circle. It's the center point of that circle that does the trick. It lies a little lower than the line between the contact patch and the combined CG, and in front of the center of that line. That's why there's significantly less but still a little front end diving.
I made a diagram here:
ua-cam.com/video/eAHRDOxmCNk/v-deo.html
Haha. I wonder were i meet this guy. He sold me a gs1200 last week.
Love my RT.
Only thing that beats it is the Boss Mustang GT. Chargers and challengers, no problem.
If you ever wonder why all the cops ride these bikes like there king of the world, is because they are. 🤠👍🤠
Thanx4post
Cool friend you made biker bros
Im new to bmw have r1100rt rides great..vulcan 1500 beats me up. Bmw glides on road. Now i know why.
Fantastica Moto
Nice 80s track lol~ Eddie Murphy, 'party all the time
Is that what he was listening to? lol that guy
100 like here 👋
Didn't you state in another video not so long ago that BMW bikes were craps ?
I own 2014 looked at the corbin seat way too much in australia no thanks i will pass.
love my 2014 rt1200
My stock hi seat on my 14’ is very comfy.
👍😎👍
350 different bikes. Ok
You should do a test run. In a parking lot to get familiar with bike before taking it on highway....just sayin!!??
350 mc shit is that True???😊
Thank you! I think I just found my love...."other half" of mine :)
I am looking for brand new Honda NT or second hand 2016 RT with 26K km for the same price. I am interested for long travels around europe . I am afraid BMWs due to reliability issues .
I'd go with Honda any day.
@@VehicleHunter reasons ? Except newest model