new vs. used (r1150r)

[Mason'sDad]

New member to this site... and I'm asking for any insight or suggestions on the benefits of buying new vs. used with regards to the R1150R. All the used bikes I've found are in other states (timezones) and not sure if I want to spend the "new" price. I'm also 6'3" and 230 lbs and curious if I'll feel cramped on the bike. I liked the feel at the dealership, but wanted actual owner/user input. I really, really appreciate your help and hopefully I can locate the right bike. Thanks!

[ProductUser]

Here's one good point for buying used: The first owner took the depreciation hit as well as a lot of maintenance costs. The previous owner may also have installed some goodies (e.g., upgraded seat, windshield...etc.) too.

Personally -- I'm one of those people who buy new. I just don't know how the bike was ridden or maintained. If I did buy a used bike, I would have a mechanic look it over and I would have a compression and leak down checks performed.

I don't know what to tell you re being 6'3" and 230lbs. Others will have to chime in.

ProductUser

[MikeCam]

Most often I'd expect a used BMW R1150R to be well kept and maintained and a better $$ value than new. Look at miles, year of manufacture, # of owners and finally price.

Here is a rough guide:
Non-ABS
2002 30K miles $5K
2003 24K miles $6.5K
2004 18K miles $8K
2005 12K miles $9.5K plus

for ABS be prepared for $500-1000 more (it was a $2K option).

Accessories are worth only what you wish to pay. Offer to let the seller keep them and sell separately if you do not like them.

Best of luck.

[mnnden]

If I were in need of a motorcycle it would be used!!! IMOP it is a buyer market, I have seen some great deals, I do however think you should have the bike looked over by someone who would qualify as a mech.
(sorry, I do not know your expertise), I look at my "R" it is a great ride, in excellent condition, well maintained, low miles (22k it is an "02") And worth so little!!!!. At $5k it would be someones buy of the year. ( I would look for one with ABS, I do not want to start an argument, just MOP)
As far as your size goes, I have no idea, Maybe you could rent one for an afternoon, Good Luck Den

[ferroknight]

At 230 lbs the rear suspension may feel softish to you. Check that preload travel will give you sufficient ride height. Sometimes hydraulic fluid in preload circuit must be topped up to provide full preload range. An aftermarket shock and shorter GS paralever torque arm may be your only salvation. For me the R1150R feels best with the ride height and stiffness of a GS...these suspension settings transform the handling tremendously.

Aftermarket seating is probably necessary to keep your longer legs and butt comfortable on longer rides.

[johno]

I am around 220lbs, but only 5'11". I have my rear shock preload set on around half to three quarter . I find that OK.
You would most likely need the high seat option, to give you more leg room. Or peg lowering brackets.
Otherwise, a very good bike. Well worth a try.
2nd hand would be the way to go, as stated, the original owner has made the first loss-your gain.

[acejones]

I've bought new and I've bought used. I vote for used.

[DJ Downunder]

I'm 6'4" and bought my 02 RR new...I find it a perfect fit and one of the main reasons for buying it..there's not many bikes out there that fit tall people.

I would suggest second hand..and don't worry too much about how many miles it has on it..as long as it's been looked after..and garaged.

You local dealers should have demo models that might be worth considering also.

A dealer will ofter sell you extras that you might need for their cost price..I got my helmet and system cases at about half price when I bought mine.

Good luck with it let us know how you go..btw I have the tall seat option on mine..that's another thing that a dealer might swap over for you.

DJ

[beemerphile]

I bought my 2004 dual spark with 1,700 miles on it for $8,000. I can't imagine how even a foolish owner could hurt one in that many miles. I confirmed that it had the dealer service at 600 mile and paid the man.

Regarding your size and the bike, the knee bend may be an issue after long rides depending on your own age and maintenance condition. I am a pretty well used-up individual and I had to lower the pegs and raise the seat and the suspension to be happy. My 34 year old son is as tall as I am and he had no issues with the original ergonomics because he is, well, 34 years old.

[NorseMan9]

FWIW, I've bought 3 BMWs used, all off Ebay, and they've all been great! I find that BMW riders take care of their bikes very well (but you should still get it checked out by a mechanic).

I picked up my first one, a '97 F650 ST for $3,700. The next one was a '03 F650CS for 6,000 (with only 98 miles on it I might add!). My current ride is a '02 R1150R that I got for $5,700, which had just over 5k on it.

Good deals are out there to be had.

Also, I'm 6'0", 210 lbs and find the bike to be quite adequate.

[paroyboy]

I'm 6' and around 225. My 04 has the low seat but the bike fits me great. Bought mine used for $6800 with 5K on it. I was lucky enough to track down the original owner and talk to him about the bike. I'm not usually a fan of used cars or bikes but I couldnt pass this deal up. Best decision of the year!

[dcameron]

I'm 6'2"" @ 210 lbs. and the bike fits just right. The seat would break my butt after 30 minutes so, I got a custom Corbin seat. Now. I can ride all day w/o any discomfort. Bought mine in Nov. 05, used but looked new, thru a dealer - $6.2K Black '03 w/ 10K miles - the bike had maintenance logs and the dealer did an inspection. Great bike. Just did a quick 50 mile ride after work thru the wine country.

[Mason'sDad]

Thanks to everyone for your help and insight! This basically confirmed my thought that used would be best... As BMW owners (from my limited experience) seem to take care of their rides. I guess the next thing would be, when is the best time to find deals? I've heard that the winter months are best?

[leno]

Same as anything buy in winter sell in spring.

[Gordium7]

I found a 2005 R1150R as a dealer demo bike -- 500 mi. With ABS and heated grip options I was still able to get it for a little over $11,000 last May.

[big papa]

I'd sell my 04 Rockster w/ 9k miles for $7k.

[Mason'sDad]

Really only considering the R1150R roadster at this time... For some reason I'm really drawn to the style and look of the roadster.

[Mason'sDad]

Ok everyone... Just found the following bike available close to where I live.

2002 R1150R (black)
9,000 miles
ABS, heated grips, highway pegs, sargent seat w/ removeable backrest, BMW luggage, new tires, and two helmets
$7775

Looks to be in excellent condition.

Now... I should go see it in person and request to ride correct? I have my motorcycle license/endorsement, but do most let people ride?

Input is welcome... This has potential to be the one (possibly)?

[NorseMan9]

Ok everyone... Just found the following bike available close to where I live.

2002 R1150R (black)
9,000 miles
ABS, heated grips, highway pegs, sargent seat w/ removeable backrest, BMW luggage, new tires, and two helmets
$7775

Looks to be in excellent condition.

Now... I should go see it in person and request to ride correct? I have my motorcycle license/endorsement, but do most let people ride?

Input is welcome... This has potential to be the one (possibly)?

If you haven't ridden one before, you should definitely request it. BTW, this sounds like a great deal.

I'd also make the final sale contingent on a mechanic blessing it. Good luck. I'm jealous. I have an '02 (black) as well, but w/out ABS.

[sjbmw]

A BMW dealer will let you test ride a bike.

Not sure you want to barge in on a private seller expecting a test ride.

Some will do it, some won't.