Good stuff and thanks. The strength of an RT is the “Sport” part of sport touring. It handles ten times better that any HD, Indian, Goldwing or K series. Unless you enjoy highway riding for endless hours, (super touring?). I don’t own an RT but wish I did. Soon enough for sure. Need to consider my other 9 motorcycles, (2 HD’s). Again, personally I think you missed it’s real strength. Handling. So I don’t agree with your conclusion but did enjoy the vlog. Respectfully of course.
@@BruceHoult I have over 100K miles on my 2000 R1100RT and I'll never sell it. Dream tourer and great mountain carver--OK, not on the level of an actual sport bike, but I'll bet there's not another tourer out there that can hang with it--including and especially a BMW K16-whatever.
@@BruceHoult The new 2020's are so very nice, I have an 09 r1200rt that runs wonderfully but it was not taken care of and serviced when it should have been, I've had it to 90mph once and now it has a slight amount off oil leaking from under the plastic and I hit something on the road and had to get a used front rim and the gas tank is leaking and will be repaired and I also have a used tank to install. Everything will get taken care of as i am used to taking bike a part as i've built some choppers in the 70's but I sure hate it when people think they can do the work and have no idea how to so make a mess of it.
One major and very important point missed in the final comparison was RT's much lighter weight. Good luck picking up the 1600GT, Ultra Glide, or Roadmaster when (not if) they accidentally tip over. At 600 pounds fully loaded , the RT is 200 pounds lighter than 1600GT and 300 pounds lighter than the HD and Indian models mentioned.
The RT is a 604 lb. tourer. Name another that has a factory sirius/ radio, GPS, cruise, ESA, auto shift assist, ASC,DTC, ABS, hill start control, Shaft drive, heated grips and both seats, one touch locking.
Great Review. The GT is unnecessarily large if you ask me. You just don't need it. And the boxer engine provides the 'character' that it's nerdy looks may lack. Personally, I love the analog dash. While the TFT is very functional, there's a reason that even the finest of automobiles don't go that route. They just look like a cheap video game. All that said, I liked your review and the photography was amazing! Thank you for your honest opinion. PS - I have an RT and an Indian, and 9 times out of ten I reach for the RT....
I have had 3 K16's the last being a 2017 GT Sport. I tour Europe each year and have put about 45,000 miles on K16's over the last eight years. The K16 is prone to overheating in a warm climate, last year my 2017 bike overheated 3 times, when I got back I decided enough was enough. The K16 was traded for a R1250RT, I am thoroughly enjoying the RT.
@@stevecade857 Totally agree with its size and weight. I have moved to R1250RT and its a fantastic machine, much improved over the last R1200RT that I sold in 2012.
Not being able to afford a new bike, I replaced my R65 with a 2000 R1100RT. Ample torque, comfortable, surprisingly economical on fuel and tyres, and ideal for my all-weather 115Km (each way) commute. Have to be careful at low speeds, since I'm only a little bloke, but it's a great bike.
Matt, your off base on the RT and comparing it to a K1600 or an Indian / Harley. Ive seen people go from theire Harley and ride an RT and be stolen from the Harley Zealot crown unbelieving how good the RT is in their hands compared to the other boat anchors from USA. Then you have the Goldwing and K1600GT or GTL. The K1600 hits the scale at 100lbs more than the RT and its up higher in the frame to boot. The super long wheelbase of the big K bike makes the two so different that the balance at rest and at speed on the back roads the RT a clear winner in the eyes of veteran tourers. They know that performance isnot measured in size, its measured in abilities on the road. Not just in a strait line. Having ridden all three of the four and owned an RT for many rears, i cont come up with a reason to not select the RT, well there is the Goldwing. I actually owned one once. One that I had to build into a touring bike. Back in the 1970s Goldwings were just like other bikes “Naked”. So i added a windjammer, bates saddlebags and a luggage rack. THe bike never carborated properly, didnt like to start on cold days, was heavy and rode like a Buick. Suspension was terrible at the rear. Shaft was jacking up and down. I hated the bike for 6 months before I mad a great decision and that was to trade it in on a year old R90/6 boxer and that was it, what a better motorcycle and that sums it up forthe RT really. THe R1250 or R1200RTs just do allthings and that is what a Motorcycle is supposed to do. No bike does all things as well as the RTs do and that makes them special to their owners. Its not the name, brand or plain loyalty like those Zealots. Its the get down the road,carve that corner, haul the passenger, the camping gear, fuel mileage, power to accelerate out of those turns solo or two up, add fun to ride and you described the RT.
I suspect that many of the people who buy this kind of bike will prefer analogue instruments, which are easier to read quickly than digital ones, and less troubled by external light. I certainly do.
More HP? You can hustle the RT to 60 mph in 3 seconds. It’s not until you’ve cracked triple digits that the GT begins to pull away. Also the RT is 200+ lbs lighter.
Exacto pero trata de hacerles entender eso a los anglosajones que viven en un mundo de fantasia en el que se jactan de ser los mejores solo en la forma de hablar su pseudoidioma cuanto mas pretencioso y marcado el acento mejor es lo mismo con su gusto para las motos todo es superficial no entienden que la eficiencia yla ergonomia siempre superara las apariencias eso y ademas no veo ninguna Triumph que si quiera pueda competir en este segmento y los ejemplos que llos dieron (Goldwing, MasterRoad,k1600) no son para nada viables demasiado peso (86kg mas en el caso de BMW) en fin me agrado leer el comentario de un entendido como tu pues bien sabemos que la RT1250 es la unica moto que necesitas para toda la vida uso diario carretera no importa es la mejor opcion
I thought long and hard about the R/T, an incredible machine. In the end I went with the 2020 BMW R1250GSA due to its versatility (off-road) and leg room (I’m 180cm). There are just too many vineyards, waterfalls and lakes that require off-road capability in order to explore. Good video. Ride safe.
For the sake of being correct: Hill start control (Pro only) is engaged (if HSC Auto is selected) on a slope of 5%. ( Not 5 ° as you mention, and 5% equals 2,9°). I love my RT, Cheers!
i like the review but it really reflects what (I assume) riding in SA is like unlike what we have in the Uk and europe where the RT will comfortably outhandle any of the bikes you mention and why most riders will choose the RT.
TFT screen for critical info would awesome. Keep the analog gauges too. Love the new generation Gold Wings dash. Love BMW’s style and unique engine feel and ride of the RT. Now for ultimate touring it’s the GT all day every day.
Agree with Robert below that handling is the best feature. I recently bought an ‘09 RT with 13k miles on it for $7,300 as my fourth bike. I have a Honda Valkyrie, Bonneville T100 and a ‘94 1100RS. I debated going with a Goldwing or the BMW 1600, but wanted something that can comfortably accommodate my wife and stuff 😳 and still handle like the sport bike that it is.
Why would you want a boxer engine? Why would you want the vibby KTM v-twin? I know...the power. So what! I rode a KTM this weekend and immediately realized why I own a BMW 1200 GSA. The boxer engine is awesome in the GS, RS, and RT. An Electra Glide over an RT?! I'm an American, and I wouldn't ever own a Harley.
I think the main difference between the RT and the K16 is that one can cope with city when the other will easily overheat. I have a 2016 K16 and i know that inside Paris I have to watch for the heat during summer. It is a bike made to be in movement. But it is one hell of a great bike ! I'll have hard time getting something better IMO.
Those fools forget to mention that the 6-cylinder engines eat up a lot of cash when you have a valve check. That is where a boxer is far better. Plus it is way more nimble than those K1600
Ro ck - I agree with you that the boxer is more nimble than the heavyweight K1600. I sold my K1600GT, I just couldn’t get on with it. But regarding checking valves, this always annoys me that bikers are being ripped off with valve checks. I’ve never had a valve check on any car or bike I’ve owned over the last 30 years. I think its all a load of crap which bikers are still being ripped off for.
I had an 05 rt that I bought in 2010. One of the drive shaft u joints broke outside of Vegas last fall. It had 102k miles on it. I traded my broken bike in for a 2016 1200rt with 22k miles on it. I think they are wonderful bikes, but I would add two points. One is buy used. A 3 year old bike is 1/2 the price of a new one. Two is do your own scheduled maintenance. Buy a manual, get the tools, watch UA-cam videos. Those cylinders poking out make most scheduled maintenance fairly easy. BTW, My old rt is for sale at the dealership in vegas for 4k.
Bruce Kendall Yup, fully agree, the difference in maintenance costs is massive. Plus, depending on the country, so could be the difference in insurance costs.
I tend to disagree, K1600GT only has more Spark plugs, Oils, filters, diffs and labour are surely around the same price. And the 6 Cylinder with Aftermarket exhausts sounds so much better than the RT, and I have a GS LC BTW. The insurance might be a bit higher due to it being a more expensive bike. But again, that 6 Cylinder, and the K16 is a bit quicker on the open road as well.
@@GeOgreSA Checking the tappets for clearences,getting the head off etc is a lot more work than taking the tappet cover off an RT.The 6 cycl engine is in multiples.I suspect I'm am more correct than you in my assumptions.
@@brucekendall52 K1600GT is every 30000km vs every 20000km on the RT(Same for the Plugs if you look in the Manual). Theroetically should ony be 33% more in labour and parts. That will be like a R 2000 more over 60000kms That is speaking here in SA though. For the Sound the 1600GT is worth that if all else is equal IMO.
Ge OgreZA There are two issues to consider here as it comes to maintenance costs, and I am speaking from experience as a former K-bike owner (k1200lt): #1 access to the valves on the boxer engine is unobstructed, meaning it takes a few minutes to get to the valves. On the K-bikes you need to remove a lot of cladding and other components to gain access to the cylinder heads ($$$ at an hourly mechanic billing rate of USD $120+). #2:The K1600 has 24 valves to adjust, the R1200/1250 has 8 ($$$). As to insurance costs mentioned above, I actually just compared them. R1250RT: $130 per month, K1600GT: $360 per month. That’s USD. Same exact coverage.
Only just found this excellent review. I am considering purchasing an RT in the very near future. What is the short sport screen like in terms of wind protection in comparison to the standard taller screen? I'm around 5'10". Cheers
Bit puzzled with the boxer engine criticism, which lets face is a twin cylinder, and then compare it with two American twin cylinder bikes. Is more a looks thing that's the problem?
I’ve ridden the Harley Ultra, two Goldwing’s, FJR 1300 and two 1200RT’s......best for me was by far the BMW 1200RT. So nimble it’s effortless to ride with a very low center of gravity.
Hello, fellow South African here!! Triumph got absolutely amazing bikes but I'm very sure on whether their lack of dealer support is an absolute deal breaker or not. What would the guys from the bike show say? (hoping you guys have info I don't)
After my heart attack when I found out how much a valve adjustment for my R12RT was, I sold it. There's no way a two-cylinder engine would need 4hrs for an adjustment. BMW= bring more wallet.
You spent $26,000 (if bought new and in the USA) on a bike and are worried about ~$600 for a valve adjustment once a year? Wow! My GSA is getting the 24,000-mile service this Friday and it'll cost $650. That price includes valve check/adjustment, new spark plugs, oil change, new air filter, final drive oil change, brake bleed, and various other checks/adjustments. I don't find that to be too expensive.
How does the boxer compare to a Japanese 4 cylinder like in the Kawasaki Veryse?? Boxer has more HP and torque according to the stats but a screaming inline 4 is a different animal
Honda goldwing has an analog gauge, boxer engine and the RT inspired the sport touring segment. The bikes you mentioned as a super tourer are 760 to 850 pounds, those are super tourers as you said and all are close to are over $30k. But I enjoyed your review as always 👍🏽
How can you compare the RT to the Indian and HD? The RT falls into the sporttourer segment with the Concour & FJR, the GT compares more to the Gold Wing due to the six cylinders IMO. HD & Indians would compare with the Boulevard, Vulcan & Venture.
apples and oranges. i've had many of both. the american bikes. are legs forward so your back arches and your spine takes the weight. RT feet are under you so your legs take the weight. im an iron butt rider so 800 to 1,000 miles a day. but they really are too different to compare i think. i had a road glide that i liked alot, but the RT has more useable features for actual touring
Point nine - This is really beauty bike Touring bike we have to talk about consuming gas for mile , and it’s very diferent Rt compare to k1600. Very nice bike it will be my future bike when my Rt 1150 don’t want to ride more , but I think i will wait a lot off years more because my Rt 1150 it’s a really great machine and never stops... Bmw and Honda bikes it’s In diferent world and not compare with USA Harleys and Indians ... Nice video 👍👍
I guess this is more of a question for the motorcycle averse regions... Would more shaft or belt drive bikes with CVT or DCT bring more and a more diverse range of riders into the fold?
I like the old school dials but don't see this as a competitor to the Harley or Indian. For me, competitors to the BMW are their own product line, the Yamaha FJR and the Kawasaki Concours which I love although it needs updating. To a lesser degree, a Triumph Tiger 1200 XCA could be a competitor for some riders. I owned a Concours, currently ride a 1200 XCA but would consider this BMW as a replacement for either but not the HD or Indian.
My insurance company charges by displacement. A 200hp liter bike is cheaper to insure. A 1250 is cheaper than 1800. Only 2 BMW dealers within 500 mile radius. Going westbound from central Minnesota, not another dealership until almost Salt Lake or Seattle.
Wow! Completely missed the point of the RT! The fantastically reliable boxer, which grunts along with a lovely twin growl, the lighter weight over the K series and the other behemoths they mentioned, the INCREDIBLE handling this bike affords all with amenities second to none..... I don’t know. When you start comparing Harleys and Indians to the RT that just shows you how out of touch these guys are.
GS Adventure loaded with the TFT display, ride modes and useful amenities that is standard this is my choice Adventure Tourer. No compromises unless you want a Lazy Boy sofa thats heavy.
I bought a s/h R1200RT at a saving of almost 30% off new with top box, Opt 719, no GPS, no driving lights. Had 7300K when I bought it in Sept, now has 24000Km on dash. Sorry but the 1600 is just too heavy when you travel Australia like I .do-alone. My last ride was K1100 LTSE that got to 290,000 before being sold. RT issues for me, gearbox clunky, apparently fixed, quick shifter can't be turned off, music player is a software bug waiting for a solution. Vibration? Gets less the more kms I do. Panniers don't pack as well as the K1100 despite being larger. Plus points, great weather protection, low wind noise, brakes are great but the rear to front linkage could have more rear, fuel economy better than 550km per tank on 98 octane, lighting is good for night riding as we have kangaroos to cope with. 1250 was little changed over 1200 and that says it to me.
I didn't even notice it the first time I watched the video. It is not one bit dangerous, it is not long enough to reach the wheel and this bike does not have a chain... I'm sure anyone who has factory panniers has done this before, I certainly did once or twice when I didn't notice and closed the lid of the pannier on a strap that was hanging out. Not as big of a deal as some people make it out to be here in the comments.
IMO, the back seat of any motorcycle is not fun. I would rather 2 motorcycles vs one with a passenger. I guess I enjoy driving a car vs a passenger. It is more dangerous with 2 people as emergency maneuvers may cause someone to disembark earlier than expected. Great review. That bike offers slot for the money.
The tft on BMW bikes is now the same 6.5" across the range. It's called economies of scale. There probably only costing a few quid a time by now. And also all those menu's are in the display now.
Always naysayers. TFT is awesome because it’s designed in color with appropriate quick & easy on the fly reading. Airplane, Formula One and MotoGp Cockpits have similar for quick visibility especially in bad weather or low illumination due to sun or other. Bookend the classic analogue gauges with a TFT in the middle. Technology has greatly improved since the old dash. Move forward people.
The problem with that: simply converting the price they pay in SA to another currency is not the same as the price one would pay in another country, no? Though we watch all watch these videos, I think they're still reviewing from the perspective of riders in SA.
@@cdubbleyoo I take your point but quoting euros would give a much better idea for comparison, by quoting Rand they may as well be quoting jelly beans, it's a meaningless currency for 95 percent of their audience. At least in euros or dollars, people have some idea.
@@jeffhopkins8131 Hi Boet, here in the US the RT base price is $18645 and if you then add the Select Pkg ($5150) you're looking at a total of $24455. Not cheap at all here. I'm currently riding a 2016 Yamaha FJR1300A which I paid $17999 for in early 2017. Quite a big difference in price. To further highlight the pricing here in the US, I can buy a new base Golf GTI for $26500.
I think you miss the point about the RT. I can’t believe someone with your experience can conclude that a K1600 and RT are in the same decision making process. They appeal to different riding segments and riders. Those who want monster sized touring bikes and those who don’t. Those who want decent fuel mileage in there riding and those who don’t care about getting mileage in the 30s. Then there are those who don’t mind 600+ pounds of bike to push around and those who want something lighter. As far as capacities they are both capable of the same luggage capacities. The K bike maybe a little more comfortable for the passenger in seating and room but the fairing on the RT is much better for both in coverage. Guys who buy 1600 don’t buy RTs and guys who want an RT don’t buy 1600s. Wake up over there.
Quite right on the instruments - a giant cock up by BMW and I'm sure sales are suffering accordingly. Mind you, the K1600 is as bad on that front and needs a major upgrade. BMW are weird at times.
The "BIKE SHOW" is actually a made for TV show in South Africa, the Tube channel is a sideline. LoL watched this on Tube 2 days before it ran on local TV.
When he said 250 grand I was like WTF??? Not sure what that was... had to go to the website. Base model is around $18,600 here in 'Murica. That probably keeps it competitive with Harley, and the Goldwing. Still not cheap, but BMW never is. I like the boxer motor. It is naturally well balanced, and 2 big cylinders are probably better for touring and torque than more smaller pistons. Also easier to access the valves and plugs for maintenance. In line engines are better from a pure performance aspect... I consider them better for a sport bike. I love my R1100RT. I wasn't so impressed with my Goldwing. Too much faring and wind screen blocks all of the cool air and you just get the heat off the engine. I didn't intend to write a book when I started this comment. lol
South Africa so 250K Rand equals $20 thousand CDN$$ or $14K U$ which seems awfully cheap for this bike. In Canada there no change out of $30K CD$ i know because i looked at it. My Triumph Trophy was $20K so i left BMW and with the difference i bought a 2 axle enclosed bike trailer...
I love your videos! I have a 2012 K1600GT, and in the past the difference in power was enough for me to not even consider an RT. My last bike was a K1300GT. With the new bike though, the performance difference is a lot less! And then there's the maintenance. I just did the spark plugs and radiator clean a few months ago, and just had to do the front wheel bearing and ball joints. The maintenance is just killing me. Maybe it's time to drop some cylinders, lose a few HP and just ride more! To see what I've been up to, and how NOT to repair your ball joints, please follow along! ua-cam.com/video/jvjCrfWsVCE/v-deo.html -jaysbigadventure
Can someone chime in here, i agree the K1600 is the cat's meow but what is going on with that bike at 160 km/hr ? there seems to be a flaw with that bike's dynamics. The 1250rt no such problem....
I dislike the retro 1960’s look of the American ones mentioned. You think the console of the RT is “grandfather clock” but the whole package of an Indian is NOT? Wow! I wonder what school of modern design you could reference to base this. RT is stylistically superior (very subjective appeal I admit) to any other alternative. Your reason 3 to me is reason 1 for as you mentioned, without it there is no further need to assess it.
And yet no Full LED headlights. Just look at that fairing, to change a single halogen bulb is a nightmare, not to mention the cost for the dealer to tak all that Shit off to change one bulb. it's a 2020, the stupid thing should have LED's , So it's a deal breaker.
I hate TFT, it's just a fashion item and a security risk (thieves in the UK have discovered how easy they are to steal). For me it's a definite barrier to buying a newer RT. please give me clocks any day. No distracting rubbish on the display. Who wants all that unnecessary detail when actually moving? The K1600GT is heavier, more expensive to buy and run on with increased service and maintenance costs and poorer fuel economy for no real performance benefit on real roads in real traffic.
I had both and stuck with the honda st1300, the rt is a fantastic bike, but honestly it's just TO EXPENSIVE! Purchase price and maintenance is ridiculous. The honda is smooth as butter. Plenty of power, and very reasonable to own and maintain, of course there no longer available. In line fours like fjr and concours are great bikes also, guzzi norge is no longer available, twin st bikes are narrower but I still love my honda. Guess its personal choice and budget obviously
Everybody thinks the BMW is all that. They throw a lot of rubbish on there and a unbelievable overpriced pricetag. Then every no no thinks it's the creme de la creme... After a few years ut starts showing flaws, faults and all. Repairs are unpayable, undoable by yourself and it keeps getting worse. Just like the cars. Great try. Also very temping. Not going to lie about that. But, just stick with the Japanese bikes.
Good stuff and thanks. The strength of an RT is the “Sport” part of sport touring. It handles ten times better that any HD, Indian, Goldwing or K series. Unless you enjoy highway riding for endless hours, (super touring?). I don’t own an RT but wish I did. Soon enough for sure. Need to consider my other 9 motorcycles, (2 HD’s). Again, personally I think you missed it’s real strength. Handling. So I don’t agree with your conclusion but did enjoy the vlog. Respectfully of course.
I bought the 1st gen R1100RT in October 1995 after owning a K100RT for eight years. I will NEVER sell it.
@@BruceHoult I have over 100K miles on my 2000 R1100RT and I'll never sell it. Dream tourer and great mountain carver--OK, not on the level of an actual sport bike, but I'll bet there's not another tourer out there that can hang with it--including and especially a BMW K16-whatever.
Not selling my 2014. Never.
Your hallucinating, the new Gold Wing DCT is absolutely sublime.
@@BruceHoult The new 2020's are so very nice, I have an 09 r1200rt that runs wonderfully but it was not taken care of and serviced when it should have been, I've had it to 90mph once and now it has a slight amount off oil leaking from under the plastic and I hit something on the road and had to get a used front rim and the gas tank is leaking and will be repaired and I also have a used tank to install. Everything will get taken care of as i am used to taking bike a part as i've built some choppers in the 70's but I sure hate it when people think they can do the work and have no idea how to so make a mess of it.
One major and very important point missed in the final comparison was RT's much lighter weight. Good luck picking up the 1600GT, Ultra Glide, or Roadmaster when (not if) they accidentally tip over. At 600 pounds fully loaded , the RT is 200 pounds lighter than 1600GT and 300 pounds lighter than the HD and Indian models mentioned.
The RT is a 604 lb. tourer. Name another that has a factory sirius/ radio, GPS, cruise, ESA, auto shift assist, ASC,DTC, ABS, hill start control, Shaft drive, heated grips and both seats, one touch locking.
Great Review. The GT is unnecessarily large if you ask me. You just don't need it. And the boxer engine provides the 'character' that it's nerdy looks may lack. Personally, I love the analog dash. While the TFT is very functional, there's a reason that even the finest of automobiles don't go that route. They just look like a cheap video game. All that said, I liked your review and the photography was amazing! Thank you for your honest opinion. PS - I have an RT and an Indian, and 9 times out of ten I reach for the RT....
'They just look like a cheap video game.' You got that right (IMHO). I could accept the TFT on a S100RR . . but not the RT.
I have had 3 K16's the last being a 2017 GT Sport. I tour Europe each year and have put about 45,000 miles on K16's over the last eight years. The K16 is prone to overheating in a warm climate, last year my 2017 bike overheated 3 times, when I got back I decided enough was enough. The K16 was traded for a R1250RT, I am thoroughly enjoying the RT.
I've also owned the K16GT and loved it. The engine is its crowning glory. Its biggest problem though is its size and weight. At low speed
@@stevecade857 Totally agree with its size and weight. I have moved to R1250RT and its a fantastic machine, much improved over the last R1200RT that I sold in 2012.
Not being able to afford a new bike, I replaced my R65 with a 2000 R1100RT. Ample torque, comfortable, surprisingly economical on fuel and tyres, and ideal for my all-weather 115Km (each way) commute. Have to be careful at low speeds, since I'm only a little bloke, but it's a great bike.
Love analog dials!
...there's no need at all for a TFT!
I hate the move to ipads on every motorized vehicle.
I'll take a leftover 20 with analog dials.
6:30 A glorious big tablet display like the GS. Shows a video of the dashboard of an Africa Twin.
Give the camera/sound guy some props. Good improvements from last year on! Good review too!
Matt, your off base on the RT and comparing it to a K1600 or an Indian / Harley. Ive seen people go from theire Harley and ride an RT and be stolen from the Harley Zealot crown unbelieving how good the RT is in their hands compared to the other boat anchors from USA. Then you have the Goldwing and K1600GT or GTL. The K1600 hits the scale at 100lbs more than the RT and its up higher in the frame to boot. The super long wheelbase of the big K bike makes the two so different that the balance at rest and at speed on the back roads the RT a clear winner in the eyes of veteran tourers. They know that performance isnot measured in size, its measured in abilities on the road. Not just in a strait line. Having ridden all three of the four and owned an RT for many rears, i cont come up with a reason to not select the RT, well there is the Goldwing. I actually owned one once. One that I had to build into a touring bike. Back in the 1970s Goldwings were just like other bikes “Naked”. So i added a windjammer, bates saddlebags and a luggage rack. THe bike never carborated properly, didnt like to start on cold days, was heavy and rode like a Buick. Suspension was terrible at the rear. Shaft was jacking up and down. I hated the bike for 6 months before I mad a great decision and that was to trade it in on a year old R90/6 boxer and that was it, what a better motorcycle and that sums it up forthe RT really. THe R1250 or R1200RTs just do allthings and that is what a Motorcycle is supposed to do. No bike does all things as well as the RTs do and that makes them special to their owners. Its not the name, brand or plain loyalty like those Zealots. Its the get down the road,carve that corner, haul the passenger, the camping gear, fuel mileage, power to accelerate out of those turns solo or two up, add fun to ride and you described the RT.
Add the TFT and shrink the front end a bit and it’s perfect! Great review!
I suspect that many of the people who buy this kind of bike will prefer analogue instruments, which are easier to read quickly than digital ones, and less troubled by external light. I certainly do.
Agree with the conclusion: loved my 1200 RS Boxer, tested the 1250 RT and ended up buying a second hand K1600 GT.
More HP? You can hustle the RT to 60 mph in 3 seconds. It’s not until you’ve cracked triple digits that the GT begins to pull away. Also the RT is 200+ lbs lighter.
Ps I also manage a very respectable 50 mph on the interstate and another 5 mpg on the backroads.
50 mpg
Jeff Keniston The big guy is a huge KTM fanboy. IMO, He rarely gives BMW a fair shake.
Had both, GSA does everything the RT does and carries more gear, much more fun to ride.
Had a GSA, went RT then back to GSA & I add that the GSA has a softer, more comfortable seat
The boxer allows a better handling, mpg and down low torq
Exacto pero trata de hacerles entender eso a los anglosajones que viven en un mundo de fantasia en el que se jactan de ser los mejores solo en la forma de hablar su pseudoidioma cuanto mas pretencioso y marcado el acento mejor es lo mismo con su gusto para las motos todo es superficial no entienden que la eficiencia yla ergonomia siempre superara las apariencias eso y ademas no veo ninguna Triumph que si quiera pueda competir en este segmento y los ejemplos que llos dieron (Goldwing, MasterRoad,k1600) no son para nada viables demasiado peso (86kg mas en el caso de BMW) en fin me agrado leer el comentario de un entendido como tu pues bien sabemos que la RT1250 es la unica moto que necesitas para toda la vida uso diario carretera no importa es la mejor opcion
If you don't tuck that strap, I'm going to get my utility knife.
I thought long and hard about the R/T, an incredible machine. In the end I went with the 2020 BMW R1250GSA due to its versatility (off-road) and leg room (I’m 180cm). There are just too many vineyards, waterfalls and lakes that require off-road capability in order to explore. Good video. Ride safe.
I had 2014 GSA LC and enjoyed it every second. Now thinking about getting the RT, but maybe again the GSA will be better choice
For the sake of being correct: Hill start control (Pro only) is engaged (if HSC Auto is selected) on a slope of 5%. ( Not 5 ° as you mention, and 5% equals 2,9°). I love my RT, Cheers!
i like the review but it really reflects what (I assume) riding in SA is like unlike what we have in the Uk and europe where the RT will comfortably outhandle any of the bikes you mention and why most riders will choose the RT.
TFT screen for critical info would awesome. Keep the analog gauges too. Love the new generation Gold Wings dash. Love BMW’s style and unique engine feel and ride of the RT. Now for ultimate touring it’s the GT all day every day.
Agree with Robert below that handling is the best feature. I recently bought an ‘09 RT with 13k miles on it for $7,300 as my fourth bike. I have a Honda Valkyrie, Bonneville T100 and a ‘94 1100RS. I debated going with a Goldwing or the BMW 1600, but wanted something that can comfortably accommodate my wife and stuff 😳 and still handle like the sport bike that it is.
What is that strap flapping around loose from underneath your left side bag? Early in the video, when talking on the bike, riding the highway.
Great bikes , good review 👍. RT is starting to look like the K1600 GT 😂😂🍺🇦🇺
Why would you want a boxer engine? Why would you want the vibby KTM v-twin? I know...the power. So what! I rode a KTM this weekend and immediately realized why I own a BMW 1200 GSA. The boxer engine is awesome in the GS, RS, and RT. An Electra Glide over an RT?! I'm an American, and I wouldn't ever own a Harley.
I think the main difference between the RT and the K16 is that one can cope with city when the other will easily overheat.
I have a 2016 K16 and i know that inside Paris I have to watch for the heat during summer. It is a bike made to be in movement.
But it is one hell of a great bike ! I'll have hard time getting something better IMO.
Those fools forget to mention that the 6-cylinder engines eat up a lot of cash when you have a valve check.
That is where a boxer is far better. Plus it is way more nimble than those K1600
Ro ck - I agree with you that the boxer is more nimble than the heavyweight K1600. I sold my K1600GT, I just couldn’t get on with it. But regarding checking valves, this always annoys me that bikers are being ripped off with valve checks. I’ve never had a valve check on any car or bike I’ve owned over the last 30 years. I think its all a load of crap which bikers are still being ripped off for.
I had an 05 rt that I bought in 2010. One of the drive shaft u joints broke outside of Vegas last fall. It had 102k miles on it. I traded my broken bike in for a 2016 1200rt with 22k miles on it. I think they are wonderful bikes, but I would add two points. One is buy used. A 3 year old bike is 1/2 the price of a new one. Two is do your own scheduled maintenance. Buy a manual, get the tools, watch UA-cam videos. Those cylinders poking out make most scheduled maintenance fairly easy. BTW, My old rt is for sale at the dealership in vegas for 4k.
Servicing that RT will be a lot cheaper than the GT and some of the others.Just a consideration maybe?
Bruce Kendall Yup, fully agree, the difference in maintenance costs is massive. Plus, depending on the country, so could be the difference in insurance costs.
I tend to disagree, K1600GT only has more Spark plugs, Oils, filters, diffs and labour are surely around the same price. And the 6 Cylinder with Aftermarket exhausts sounds so much better than the RT, and I have a GS LC BTW. The insurance might be a bit higher due to it being a more expensive bike. But again, that 6 Cylinder, and the K16 is a bit quicker on the open road as well.
@@GeOgreSA Checking the tappets for clearences,getting the head off etc is a lot more work than taking the tappet cover off an RT.The 6 cycl engine is in multiples.I suspect I'm am more correct than you in my assumptions.
@@brucekendall52 K1600GT is every 30000km vs every 20000km on the RT(Same for the Plugs if you look in the Manual). Theroetically should ony be 33% more in labour and parts. That will be like a R 2000 more over 60000kms That is speaking here in SA though. For the Sound the 1600GT is worth that if all else is equal IMO.
Ge OgreZA There are two issues to consider here as it comes to maintenance costs, and I am speaking from experience as a former K-bike owner (k1200lt):
#1 access to the valves on the boxer engine is unobstructed, meaning it takes a few minutes to get to the valves. On the K-bikes you need to remove a lot of cladding and other components to gain access to the cylinder heads ($$$ at an hourly mechanic billing rate of USD $120+).
#2:The K1600 has 24 valves to adjust, the R1200/1250 has 8 ($$$).
As to insurance costs mentioned above, I actually just compared them. R1250RT: $130 per month, K1600GT: $360 per month. That’s USD. Same exact coverage.
I'm glad that the "Pizza Delivery Box"on the back is an option, rather have a soft bag up top... plus, top boxes are Ugly!
Only just found this excellent review. I am considering purchasing an RT in the very near future. What is the short sport screen like in terms of wind protection in comparison to the standard taller screen? I'm around 5'10". Cheers
Bit puzzled with the boxer engine criticism, which lets face is a twin cylinder, and then compare it with two American twin cylinder bikes. Is more a looks thing that's the problem?
I’ve ridden the Harley Ultra, two Goldwing’s, FJR 1300 and two 1200RT’s......best for me was by far the BMW 1200RT. So nimble it’s effortless to ride with a very low center of gravity.
Hello, fellow South African here!!
Triumph got absolutely amazing bikes but I'm very sure on whether their lack of dealer support is an absolute deal breaker or not.
What would the guys from the bike show say? (hoping you guys have info I don't)
After my heart attack when I found out how much a valve adjustment for my R12RT was, I sold it. There's no way a two-cylinder engine would need 4hrs for an adjustment. BMW= bring more wallet.
You spent $26,000 (if bought new and in the USA) on a bike and are worried about ~$600 for a valve adjustment once a year? Wow! My GSA is getting the 24,000-mile service this Friday and it'll cost $650. That price includes valve check/adjustment, new spark plugs, oil change, new air filter, final drive oil change, brake bleed, and various other checks/adjustments. I don't find that to be too expensive.
@@RSV4JeffA
That’s not bad at all.
How does the boxer compare to a Japanese 4 cylinder like in the Kawasaki Veryse?? Boxer has more HP and torque according to the stats but a screaming inline 4 is a different animal
Honda goldwing has an analog gauge, boxer engine and the RT inspired the sport touring segment. The bikes you mentioned as a super tourer are 760 to 850 pounds, those are super tourers as you said and all are close to are over $30k. But I enjoyed your review as always 👍🏽
How can you compare the RT to the Indian and HD? The RT falls into the sporttourer segment with the Concour & FJR, the GT compares more to the Gold Wing due to the six cylinders IMO. HD & Indians would compare with the Boulevard, Vulcan & Venture.
apples and oranges. i've had many of both. the american bikes. are legs forward so your back arches and your spine takes the weight. RT feet are under you so your legs take the weight. im an iron butt rider so 800 to 1,000 miles a day. but they really are too different to compare i think. i had a road glide that i liked alot, but the RT has more useable features for actual touring
Great review. Got to agree, I’d rather have the K16GT, it sounds amazing.
Not sure if its true but read that a K1600GT eats through rear tires every 8K miles. Not a good thing.
fleuger99 with 165bhp on tap and all that weight I think 8000miles to a rear tyre is not too bad.
Point nine - This is really beauty bike
Touring bike we have to talk about consuming gas for mile , and it’s very diferent Rt compare to k1600.
Very nice bike it will be my future bike when my Rt 1150 don’t want to ride more , but I think i will wait a lot off years more because my Rt 1150 it’s a really great machine and never stops...
Bmw and Honda bikes it’s In diferent world and not compare with USA Harleys and Indians ...
Nice video
👍👍
The R1200RT is the way to go, and if you don't have the money than the Yamaha FJR1300.
So every point (except variable valve) same as 2018/19 1200 model with massive cost saving?
Like the RT, but purchased the K1600GT. Would never go down to the RT now.
I guess this is more of a question for the motorcycle averse regions... Would more shaft or belt drive bikes with CVT or DCT bring more and a more diverse range of riders into the fold?
I like the old school dials but don't see this as a competitor to the Harley or Indian. For me, competitors to the BMW are their own product line, the Yamaha FJR and the Kawasaki Concours which I love although it needs updating. To a lesser degree, a Triumph Tiger 1200 XCA could be a competitor for some riders. I owned a Concours, currently ride a 1200 XCA but would consider this BMW as a replacement for either but not the HD or Indian.
I think it looks good but I will keep my Goldwing...
My insurance company charges by displacement. A 200hp liter bike is cheaper to insure. A 1250 is cheaper than 1800. Only 2 BMW dealers within 500 mile radius. Going westbound from central Minnesota, not another dealership until almost Salt Lake or Seattle.
Wow! Completely missed the point of the RT! The fantastically reliable boxer, which grunts along with a lovely twin growl, the lighter weight over the K series and the other behemoths they mentioned, the INCREDIBLE handling this bike affords all with amenities second to none..... I don’t know. When you start comparing Harleys and Indians to the RT that just shows you how out of touch these guys are.
👍👍 Agreed and exactly on point!
GS Adventure loaded with the TFT display, ride modes and useful amenities that is standard this is my choice Adventure Tourer. No compromises unless you want a Lazy Boy sofa thats heavy.
I bought a s/h R1200RT at a saving of almost 30% off new with top box, Opt 719, no GPS, no driving lights. Had 7300K when I bought it in Sept, now has 24000Km on dash. Sorry but the 1600 is just too heavy when you travel Australia like I .do-alone. My last ride was K1100 LTSE that got to 290,000 before being sold. RT issues for me, gearbox clunky, apparently fixed, quick shifter can't be turned off, music player is a software bug waiting for a solution. Vibration? Gets less the more kms I do. Panniers don't pack as well as the K1100 despite being larger. Plus points, great weather protection, low wind noise, brakes are great but the rear to front linkage could have more rear, fuel economy better than 550km per tank on 98 octane, lighting is good for night riding as we have kangaroos to cope with. 1250 was little changed over 1200 and that says it to me.
I just put a deposit on a 2022 1250 R/T
Have always loved the RT and it's other more "urban" versions.
Too bad I'm not made out of money. 🙄👎😔. They cost as much as a small NEW car. 😳
@Transylvanian MGTOW monk Yes.
Get the lighter RS and add an aftermarket screen. More fun, less money!
R Zu I looked at that as I prefer the looks but once you’ve added the luggage to bring it up to the RT spec there was no saving at all.
Totally different bikes...ride 1000kms on each and you'll know
The strap hanging out of the left pannier is dangerous and annoying.
Kept looking at it as well :)
I didn't even notice it the first time I watched the video. It is not one bit dangerous, it is not long enough to reach the wheel and this bike does not have a chain... I'm sure anyone who has factory panniers has done this before, I certainly did once or twice when I didn't notice and closed the lid of the pannier on a strap that was hanging out. Not as big of a deal as some people make it out to be here in the comments.
Je ne vendrai jamais ma 1250 RT 2019!Une machine sécurisante et surtout elle nous donnent beaucoup de plaisir
IMO, the back seat of any motorcycle is not fun. I would rather 2 motorcycles vs one with a passenger. I guess I enjoy driving a car vs a passenger. It is more dangerous with 2 people as emergency maneuvers may cause someone to disembark earlier than expected. Great review. That bike offers slot for the money.
How about triumph rocket 3?
That's a completely different bike. That bike is better compared to the Diavel or VMax
Great review! But why the irritating background music!!
does it have a reverse gear ?
No
You make a good point chunky.
I remember when the RT was a good looking bike. What happened?
Noooo! Leave analog clocks alone. The TFT on a bike is stupidity!
There's an elegance to the analog clocks that's completely lost with a TFT.
The tft on BMW bikes is now the same 6.5" across the range. It's called economies of scale. There probably only costing a few quid a time by now. And also all those menu's are in the display now.
Always naysayers. TFT is awesome because it’s designed in color with appropriate quick & easy on the fly reading. Airplane, Formula One and MotoGp Cockpits have similar for quick visibility especially in bad weather or low illumination due to sun or other. Bookend the classic analogue gauges with a TFT in the middle. Technology has greatly improved since the old dash. Move forward people.
Can we have the price in Euros and Dollars as well as Rand Please, I'll keep asking till you do!
The problem with that: simply converting the price they pay in SA to another currency is not the same as the price one would pay in another country, no?
Though we watch all watch these videos, I think they're still reviewing from the perspective of riders in SA.
@@cdubbleyoo I take your point but quoting euros would give a much better idea for comparison, by quoting Rand they may as well be quoting jelly beans, it's a meaningless currency for 95 percent of their audience. At least in euros or dollars, people have some idea.
@@jeffhopkins8131 Hi Boet, here in the US the RT base price is $18645 and if you then add the Select Pkg ($5150) you're looking at a total of $24455. Not cheap at all here. I'm currently riding a 2016 Yamaha FJR1300A which I paid $17999 for in early 2017. Quite a big difference in price. To further highlight the pricing here in the US, I can buy a new base Golf GTI for $26500.
Good video!
Very disappointed that the RT doesn't come with a built in coffee maker.
Latest gold wing. Also comes with a slow cooker.
I think you miss the point about the RT. I can’t believe someone with your experience can conclude that a K1600 and RT are in the same decision making process. They appeal to different riding segments and riders. Those who want monster sized touring bikes and those who don’t. Those who want decent fuel mileage in there riding and those who don’t care about getting mileage in the 30s. Then there are those who don’t mind 600+ pounds of bike to push around and those who want something lighter. As far as capacities they are both capable of the same luggage capacities. The K bike maybe a little more comfortable for the passenger in seating and room but the fairing on the RT is much better for both in coverage. Guys who buy 1600 don’t buy RTs and guys who want an RT don’t buy 1600s. Wake up over there.
K1600 gt please.
Is the background pseudo-music track actually necessary? Very intrusive when it is frenetic....and it spoils what is otherwise an excellent video.
you didn't speak to weight... the RT is lighter than the K1600 and waaaaay lighter than those Harleys & the Polarus...lol
The K1600 is something like 70kg heavier . . . . I guess the Reverse Assist really has a role to play here.
I agree with you. The weight is a big factor. Not sure why that makes you belt out laughing though.
Why doesn't BMW just use Copper colored pipes, since they all turn that color anyway?
I prefer dials so much more than a TFT screen.
Quite right on the instruments - a giant cock up by BMW and I'm sure sales are suffering accordingly.
Mind you, the K1600 is as bad on that front and needs a major upgrade.
BMW are weird at times.
The music is extremely annoying. Otherwise a fine video.
The "BIKE SHOW" is actually a made for TV show in South Africa, the Tube channel is a sideline. LoL watched this on Tube 2 days before it ran on local TV.
1254cc two cylinders boxer 136hp/147nm
When he said 250 grand I was like WTF??? Not sure what that was... had to go to the website. Base model is around $18,600 here in 'Murica. That probably keeps it competitive with Harley, and the Goldwing. Still not cheap, but BMW never is. I like the boxer motor. It is naturally well balanced, and 2 big cylinders are probably better for touring and torque than more smaller pistons. Also easier to access the valves and plugs for maintenance. In line engines are better from a pure performance aspect... I consider them better for a sport bike. I love my R1100RT. I wasn't so impressed with my Goldwing. Too much faring and wind screen blocks all of the cool air and you just get the heat off the engine.
I didn't intend to write a book when I started this comment. lol
R250,000 ZAR South African Rands = roughly $16,000
I am not sure where they live But 250.000.00 what for a BMW ?
South Africa so 250K Rand equals $20 thousand CDN$$ or $14K U$ which seems awfully cheap for this bike. In Canada there no change out of $30K CD$ i know because i looked at it. My Triumph Trophy was $20K so i left BMW and with the difference i bought a 2 axle enclosed bike trailer...
I tested one of these two years ago with my wife and we both hated it
I love your videos! I have a 2012 K1600GT, and in the past the difference in power was enough for me to not even consider an RT. My last bike was a K1300GT. With the new bike though, the performance difference is a lot less! And then there's the maintenance. I just did the spark plugs and radiator clean a few months ago, and just had to do the front wheel bearing and ball joints. The maintenance is just killing me. Maybe it's time to drop some cylinders, lose a few HP and just ride more! To see what I've been up to, and how NOT to repair your ball joints, please follow along! ua-cam.com/video/jvjCrfWsVCE/v-deo.html -jaysbigadventure
If I was to get a tourer then I would get the K1600 GT
He has 10 things to say about tourers, but he starts with #2. What happened to #1? Lost in edit?
I like this BMW Motorcycle 😎🛵
1st/2nd/3rd/4th/5th/6th/7th/8th/9th/10th
Ah but are you eleventyeth?
@@RufusCapstick no
Can someone chime in here, i agree the K1600 is the cat's meow but what is going on with that bike at 160 km/hr ? there seems to be a flaw with that bike's dynamics. The 1250rt no such problem....
BMW
Big
Money
Wheels.
That VVT engine will be a problem.
Weight. And the boxer puts up more torque than any other bike of this displacement. - to answer the question D asked.
I dislike the retro 1960’s look of the American ones mentioned. You think the console of the RT is “grandfather clock” but the whole package of an Indian is NOT? Wow! I wonder what school of modern design you could reference to base this. RT is stylistically superior (very subjective appeal I admit) to any other alternative. Your reason 3 to me is reason 1 for as you mentioned, without it there is no further need to assess it.
Good review though I really like clocks . TFT 'S just look cheap
Nice bike but for smiles per miles I'd rather have a Harley Road King and I'd always turn round to look back at that..
I'll stick with my £2k Pan European that's taken me all over Europe superbly thanks
Wider at the back than at the front is a fail for me.
@Cj true, I'd definitely want some protection for the sticky out cylinders
ZTechnik's Engine Guards are pretty sweet.
British snoobs.....I dont know if I can say this? Some of the best come from America. Damn right. Thanks for the insight.
Is "snoob a word? BMW is German and some of the best what come from America? Bikes? You mean Harley? No way
FJR1300ES
Far better motircycle.
And yet no Full LED headlights. Just look at that fairing, to change a single halogen bulb is a nightmare, not to mention the cost for the dealer to tak all that Shit off to change one bulb. it's a 2020, the stupid thing should have LED's , So it's a deal breaker.
No TFT is a deal breaker...
I hate TFT, it's just a fashion item and a security risk (thieves in the UK have discovered how easy they are to steal). For me it's a definite barrier to buying a newer RT. please give me clocks any day. No distracting rubbish on the display. Who wants all that unnecessary detail when actually moving?
The K1600GT is heavier, more expensive to buy and run on with increased service and maintenance costs and poorer fuel economy for no real performance benefit on real roads in real traffic.
As good as this is I still would rather have a new pan European come on honda
I had both and stuck with the honda st1300, the rt is a fantastic bike, but honestly it's just TO EXPENSIVE! Purchase price and maintenance is ridiculous. The honda is smooth as butter. Plenty of power, and very reasonable to own and maintain, of course there no longer available. In line fours like fjr and concours are great bikes also, guzzi norge is no longer available, twin st bikes are narrower but I still love my honda. Guess its personal choice and budget obviously
Everybody thinks the BMW is all that. They throw a lot of rubbish on there and a unbelievable overpriced pricetag. Then every no no thinks it's the creme de la creme... After a few years ut starts showing flaws, faults and all. Repairs are unpayable, undoable by yourself and it keeps getting worse. Just like the cars. Great try. Also very temping. Not going to lie about that. But, just stick with the Japanese bikes.
Get rid of the damn noise, the music.
that scratch already :(