Hi all:
I'm sure some of you will say...not again. But here it goes. I am returning to riding after a hiatus of 25 years. I am 51. I sold my bike when I was 26. I am just about convinced I want to buy a BMW due to the better technology (brakes, suspension, etc). I think that eventually I will want a Touring bike. However, I feel I must first do my classes. For that reason, I am hesitating between a R1150R and the new R1200RT. I am looking for opinions on the following:
1. Are both bikes OK to come back to riding. Are they too muck. How many miles/kms before I feel comfortable. I suspect the R may be just a bit better due to the drop factor, i.e. it does not hurt as much if you drop it.
2. Is the RT satisfying around town. If I don't tour for a couple of years, will I regret my purchase. Are they both as nimble, same handling, etc. Are they very different or very similar.
3. On the other hand, if I buy the R and decide to trade it in for an RT in a year or so I am afraid I will take a big hit. Especially with the rumors about a new 1200R in 06/07. Should I just wait for the new R.
4. Despite the fact that I live in Toronto and the riding season is over, I am looking for a bike hoping that I may get a good deal. Any opinion of realistic expectations on discounts is welcome.
Thanks
Here we go again...another one returning to rinding
Moderator: Moderators
Perhaps a suggestion might be to buy a used R1150R or better yet a used R1200GS, Upon selling either the financial hit would be smaller. The R1200RT is a great bike, work with your dealer and give him the oportunity to be part of the solution. When I was a BMW dealer, I enjoyed working with new and returning riders as it gave me the ability to develope a life long relationship with the customer, a win-win for all concerned.
Dean-O
Member #33
Member #33
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MooseR1100R
- Lifer
- Posts: 35
- Joined: Thu Mar 24, 2005 11:42 am
- Location: Arlington, Texas
Here we go again, another one returning to riding
jbim,
I am among you and the riders who returned after 30 years out of the saddle. As to your choice of bikes, I did as Dean recommended and bought a used R1100R. IMHO that is the way to go. You sight the drop factor. Well, speaking as someone with too much experience in this regard, I can tell you if your goin' to drop a bike, the R1100R or R1150R is the way to go. Why, for one thing you'll fall clear, bike in all likelyhood will not fall on you but rather on the valve covers, for which you can buy protectors. Damage has been superficial and minimal at speeds under 40 MPH. I have not suffered any serious injuries or broken bones with the bike. I will also add that my mishaps were due to inattention, so keep the eyes on the road ahead. Do not get complacent.
Either of the Rbikes, as I call 'em, are an excellent choice. As our fabled Darthrider has lamented, "The Rbikes are flattering to the new rider, and rewarding to experienced." Or words to that effect. I might add, you're looking at the right bikes, and you're in the right place. Hang here, a rich experience awaits you.
I am among you and the riders who returned after 30 years out of the saddle. As to your choice of bikes, I did as Dean recommended and bought a used R1100R. IMHO that is the way to go. You sight the drop factor. Well, speaking as someone with too much experience in this regard, I can tell you if your goin' to drop a bike, the R1100R or R1150R is the way to go. Why, for one thing you'll fall clear, bike in all likelyhood will not fall on you but rather on the valve covers, for which you can buy protectors. Damage has been superficial and minimal at speeds under 40 MPH. I have not suffered any serious injuries or broken bones with the bike. I will also add that my mishaps were due to inattention, so keep the eyes on the road ahead. Do not get complacent.
Either of the Rbikes, as I call 'em, are an excellent choice. As our fabled Darthrider has lamented, "The Rbikes are flattering to the new rider, and rewarding to experienced." Or words to that effect. I might add, you're looking at the right bikes, and you're in the right place. Hang here, a rich experience awaits you.
You can drink 'em pretty, but you can't drink 'em skinny.
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Guest
jbim,
I am also on Toronto.
I suggest a visit to the Toronto Motorcycle Show.
December 2-4, 2005 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre
All the manufacturers will have booths there. BMW has a rather large one and they will be more than happy to answer your questions.
Dealers at these shows often have discounts on last year's models (2005 in this case). A visit to their showrooms will also help, as they always have trade-ins.
I am also on Toronto.
I suggest a visit to the Toronto Motorcycle Show.
December 2-4, 2005 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre
All the manufacturers will have booths there. BMW has a rather large one and they will be more than happy to answer your questions.
Dealers at these shows often have discounts on last year's models (2005 in this case). A visit to their showrooms will also help, as they always have trade-ins.
I was in the same situation about a year ago. Decided to do what was recommended above...bought a used '02R with less that 10K miles for $7500. Bike had nice extras too...bar backs and peg lowering kit that makes riding position more comfortable, throttlemeister, system cases and a decent sport touring shield.
I am by no means an 'experienced' rider yet, but 'time to comfort' on this bike was very short. Took the bike into the N. Ga. mountains for a day after having it about 4 mouths and felt comfortable.
I like your idea of taking the new rider course too...great for confidence and safety.
Good luck!
PS...I am lusting for a touring bike, but realistically will not do that seriously for another few yrs. The R can handle anything I need to do at this point.
I am by no means an 'experienced' rider yet, but 'time to comfort' on this bike was very short. Took the bike into the N. Ga. mountains for a day after having it about 4 mouths and felt comfortable.
I like your idea of taking the new rider course too...great for confidence and safety.
Good luck!
PS...I am lusting for a touring bike, but realistically will not do that seriously for another few yrs. The R can handle anything I need to do at this point.
Don Purvis
'02 1150R (Atlanta Blue)
'02 1150R (Atlanta Blue)
I too returned after 25+ years. I was lucky and fowned a '98 r1100r with 26,xxx on it. took it home did a 12,xxx service on it and in runs grait! I love the bike paid $4,500 for it. The bike is very awkword at low speed (Under 15mph). when I ferst got it I tipped it over 3 times at under walking speed! 
How ever after 6weeks to 2mounths I got the hange of it and no longer have any problem. The throttel seemed very sinsitive at first but I became accustomed to it. It took about 2 mouths of seat time to get the hang of it. I put about 2,000M on it this spring and summer. 
How ever after 6weeks to 2mounths I got the hange of it and no longer have any problem. The throttel seemed very sinsitive at first but I became accustomed to it. It took about 2 mouths of seat time to get the hang of it. I put about 2,000M on it this spring and summer. R.D
"Don't take life too seriosly,because you'll neve get out of it alive anyway."
"Don't take life too seriosly,because you'll neve get out of it alive anyway."
Dean, I was thinking the same thing about the 1200GS!!! Course Im biased since I am lusting after that particular beast myself.
jbim, I too came back to riding tho in my early 30's about 16 yrs after last riding dirt bikes as a kid. My R1100R was my first ever street bike and I couldnt be happier with it. Mine came with system cases and a touring size windshield. I've since added a Corbin saddle and a Givi topcase and new Metzler Z4's.
For everyday commuting, I just keep the tank bag on to throw in keys, wallet, rain gear, etc. Day trips, I add the bags for lighter/heavier jacket, tools, xtra fluids, etc. Going all out I add the windshield and topcase. I took off the shield and bags all summer for naked riding and couldnt believe how much "funner" the bike felt for zipping around!!! But give me half an hour to dress her up and she'd be ready to go cross country.
Maybe its just by location or age but I'd be hesitant to go for an RT id any significant amount of your saddle time is commuting or back road riding. IMHO, that particular mount is meant for highway and well paved two up touring. And its a lot to balance in the driveway/parking lot. I too dropped my RR a couple time those first few months. Couldnt imagine righting an RT or the potential plastic damage from an all too common driveway over balancing fall.
I'd take a hard look at the RR or RGS lines. Add the touring windshield, system cases and a topcase, aftermarket saddle if you plan to rack up many high mile days amd you'll have what many here have called an RT lite. But underneath all the gear is still a "light" naked bike waiting if not begging to be leaned over hard in the corners.
I found the 250cc training bikes at my MSF (safety training course) riding days to be a lot for that first hour, not having been on anything that big. Got used to it quick tho. the R1100R took a couple days to get comfy balancing at slow speeds. Again, alot depends on what your going to be doing on the bike. If its just a couple tours a year, Id save myself from dragging all that bulk and expensive fairings around most of the time and go with the naked bikes.
Just my 2c!! YMMV!!!
Craig
jbim, I too came back to riding tho in my early 30's about 16 yrs after last riding dirt bikes as a kid. My R1100R was my first ever street bike and I couldnt be happier with it. Mine came with system cases and a touring size windshield. I've since added a Corbin saddle and a Givi topcase and new Metzler Z4's.
For everyday commuting, I just keep the tank bag on to throw in keys, wallet, rain gear, etc. Day trips, I add the bags for lighter/heavier jacket, tools, xtra fluids, etc. Going all out I add the windshield and topcase. I took off the shield and bags all summer for naked riding and couldnt believe how much "funner" the bike felt for zipping around!!! But give me half an hour to dress her up and she'd be ready to go cross country.
Maybe its just by location or age but I'd be hesitant to go for an RT id any significant amount of your saddle time is commuting or back road riding. IMHO, that particular mount is meant for highway and well paved two up touring. And its a lot to balance in the driveway/parking lot. I too dropped my RR a couple time those first few months. Couldnt imagine righting an RT or the potential plastic damage from an all too common driveway over balancing fall.
I'd take a hard look at the RR or RGS lines. Add the touring windshield, system cases and a topcase, aftermarket saddle if you plan to rack up many high mile days amd you'll have what many here have called an RT lite. But underneath all the gear is still a "light" naked bike waiting if not begging to be leaned over hard in the corners.
I found the 250cc training bikes at my MSF (safety training course) riding days to be a lot for that first hour, not having been on anything that big. Got used to it quick tho. the R1100R took a couple days to get comfy balancing at slow speeds. Again, alot depends on what your going to be doing on the bike. If its just a couple tours a year, Id save myself from dragging all that bulk and expensive fairings around most of the time and go with the naked bikes.
Just my 2c!! YMMV!!!
Craig
Life is too short to use cheap toilet paper 
Member #457
95 R1100R Red
Member #457
95 R1100R Red
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scottybooj
- Lifer
- Posts: 1336
- Joined: Mon Mar 21, 2005 12:16 am
- Location: Long Island, NY
return to riding
I returned after about 35 years and bought an 1150R, great bike to start back on as it is very forgiving. After 5,000 miles I moved to the RT for more long distance comfort. I have not ridden the 1200RT so I can't comment on that, but the R is much easier to start on than the 1150RT that I now ride. Contrary to some of what has been said though, the RT is a "sport" touring bike not a pure touring model. It will hustle through the twisties in a way that still surprises me especially in the hands of more acccomplished riders. Weather protection on the RT is outstanding but this makes it a warmer ride in hot weather, for town especially the R would be more enjoyable.
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9291150
Jbim,
I'm just north of Toronto, and I too say keep your investment low untill you get some real miles and really understand what you want/need. A new RT starts at 23 large here!
But I am not a fan of buying used. So here's my suggestion, Budds (best Beemer dealer anywhere!) has a mint 2002 R1150R with less than 1000 kilometers on it, selling for $12500 Canadian.
I love my '03 R, perfect all round bike, you can't go wrong!
I'm just north of Toronto, and I too say keep your investment low untill you get some real miles and really understand what you want/need. A new RT starts at 23 large here!
But I am not a fan of buying used. So here's my suggestion, Budds (best Beemer dealer anywhere!) has a mint 2002 R1150R with less than 1000 kilometers on it, selling for $12500 Canadian.
I love my '03 R, perfect all round bike, you can't go wrong!
Hey jbim -
Welcome! You are a man of impeccable taste for considering BMW Boxers as your re-entry bike.
If I were you, I would spend as little money as possible for your initial bike - like 2000.00 or less for a used bike that you can plan to ride around for 3-6 months while you get your skills back, figure out what you want, and look at other bikes. After you have done that, test ridden several bikes, and are comfortable with your skills, you can trade the cheapie in for a discount on your new bike, and the new bike will be what you want.
There are significant weather protection, passenger comfort, and handling/stability issues, among others, which differentiate the R from the RT - that's a lot to sort out, so give yourself an adequate opportunity to do so.
Take care and keep us posted on your progress!
Welcome! You are a man of impeccable taste for considering BMW Boxers as your re-entry bike.
If I were you, I would spend as little money as possible for your initial bike - like 2000.00 or less for a used bike that you can plan to ride around for 3-6 months while you get your skills back, figure out what you want, and look at other bikes. After you have done that, test ridden several bikes, and are comfortable with your skills, you can trade the cheapie in for a discount on your new bike, and the new bike will be what you want.
There are significant weather protection, passenger comfort, and handling/stability issues, among others, which differentiate the R from the RT - that's a lot to sort out, so give yourself an adequate opportunity to do so.
Take care and keep us posted on your progress!
Bob
2006 R1200GS ADV "Five Charlie"
2006 R1200GS ADV "Five Charlie"
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9291150
jonothan said...
"The R is a good starting point - buy used as Scotty says - and if you dial into it OK, then trading up to a GS or RT would make sense."
Excuse me? I prefer my R. A GS or a RT is not "trading up", rather it is just trading for another "type" of bike.
The R is a unique naked bike, that can only be bettered by an improved R. Yes, some (maybe you jonothan?) buy R's because they are cheaper, others buy 'em because they don't care for RT luxuries, or don't want to trade off a lower center of gravity for 7 inches of suspension travel on a GS, or prefer the look of a naked...and don't like ugly bikes like the GS, etc.
The R deserves respect man!
"The R is a good starting point - buy used as Scotty says - and if you dial into it OK, then trading up to a GS or RT would make sense."
Excuse me? I prefer my R. A GS or a RT is not "trading up", rather it is just trading for another "type" of bike.
The R is a unique naked bike, that can only be bettered by an improved R. Yes, some (maybe you jonothan?) buy R's because they are cheaper, others buy 'em because they don't care for RT luxuries, or don't want to trade off a lower center of gravity for 7 inches of suspension travel on a GS, or prefer the look of a naked...and don't like ugly bikes like the GS, etc.
The R deserves respect man!
The R is a gifted bike and a very beautiful one.9291150 wrote:jonothan said...
"The R is a good starting point - buy used as Scotty says - and if you dial into it OK, then trading up to a GS or RT would make sense."
Excuse me? I prefer my R. A GS or a RT is not "trading up", rather it is just trading for another "type" of bike.
The R is a unique naked bike, that can only be bettered by an improved R. Yes, some (maybe you jonothan?) buy R's because they are cheaper, others buy 'em because they don't care for RT luxuries, or don't want to trade off a lower center of gravity for 7 inches of suspension travel on a GS, or prefer the look of a naked...and don't like ugly bikes like the GS, etc.
The R deserves respect man!
My own reason for buying an R1200GSA next year - trading up, if you like - is that it will better meet my biking needs and aspirations.
I respect the R, always will, and it's a far prettier machine too. My argument is that it makes sense to start with the naked version which is cheaper as you say, and then move on to (or as in my case, add) a different genre of bike if it better suits jbim's needs - especially as he suggested the RS and RT in the first place.
Please don't read anything into my post that wasn't there in the first place.
OK?I respect every bike that BMW makes.
J
BMW R850R in silver
heated grips
panniers
flyscreen
cylinder head protectors
heated grips
panniers
flyscreen
cylinder head protectors
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9291150
jonothan,
Now you're calling the R "pretty"
Thems fighting words!
Have fun with your GSA once you get it...I guess I put my foot in my mouth when I called it ugly.
My point is, when you say "stepping up", which you did again, you suggest better. Thats fine if you believe it, but expect to get flame'd by those who don't.
Now you're calling the R "pretty"
Thems fighting words! Have fun with your GSA once you get it...I guess I put my foot in my mouth when I called it ugly.
My point is, when you say "stepping up", which you did again, you suggest better. Thats fine if you believe it, but expect to get flame'd by those who don't.