“This bike may look like a battleship but it handles like a Thoroughbred. It surprises many a man that thinks his superbike is the Beesknees. Always brings a smile to my face and when the racing boys tire after 25/50 miles I can finish my journey, probably 500 mile plus, with ease.”
“Great bike, comfy and fast and reasonably economical considering the size of the engine.
Only let down by poor quality of finish on some of the painted parts like centre stand and engine paint flaking after only 4000 dry weather miles.
Depreciation is a lot more than most bmw's too.”
“This is a big heavy bike. Having said that once you are rolling the handling is solid and gives a very secure and predictable feeling - some may say boringly so but I like to feel safe and still have a bit of fun at the same time.
If you want to get away quickly at the lights, there's not much that will keep up. It's good for pottering around or having a good blast however the mood takes you. I use the bike all year round through countryside and crowded Birmingham streets. Filtering through traffic can be a bit hairy and if I usually leave the panniers at home whenever possible to give myself a better chance. The sheer size means you will always be at a disadvantage when filtering but this bike still saves me lots of time compared with a car! You can travel at very low speeds and still feel confident not to have to put your feet down. Incidentally the seat height isn't too bad for a big bike. I have 30" inside leg and can touch the floor comfortably; the seat can be raided if you're a bit taller.
The big six cylinder engine pulls from nothing and just keeps on going. Economy isn't too bad for an engine of this size - I get mid 40's to the gallon (bit less if you blast it everywhere of course!). Gear ratios feel a bit close but I'm sure the boffins at BMW have made the best choice. It will pull away in second gear quite easily.
Comfort is really good. Heated seats, electric windshield, cruise control, abs, anti skid etc etc. Again the purist "wind in hair bikers" will cringe at the amount of stuff crammed onto this machine, but when you're on a long continental trip it's fantastic. With a tank range of over 200 miles you can do that and still feel comfortable when you get off.
Finish is good as you would expect from BMW. Great attention to detail with items such as the way the panniers and top box catches work.
I've had a lot of different bikes over the years including sports and ordinary open; only touring bikes in last 6 years or so but these have included the BMW RT, Harley Electra Glide Classic, Triumph Trophy SE. This is the best one I have had so far, it's my main mode of transport and looking forward to eating up most of Europe on it. Plenty of luggage space too.
Only downside that I can think of with this bike is that you have to think about parking the thing. There is no chance of backing out up hill unless you've got help or are built like Arnie”
“This bike is the plnnacle of touring bikes. I have ridden most sport tourers and this is the best. I am amazed that it handles so well especially considering the weight”
“best bike I have ever owned.Always looking forward to getting out .Have just returned from France.Stuning performance real mile muncher.Great weather protection and comfort.My wife loves this bike when riding pillion.Could go on raving about this bike.Previous bikes owned.
K1200 r se. R1200 rt.”
“Fantastic ride, always look forward to riding. almost like having two bikes. take the panniers off and you have the potential of a sports bike. Stick the panniers, top box and tank bag on and you have ample room for those essentials for touring.
A great bike.”
