BMW R1200R

[dav]

G'day guys, i'am thinking of (ok not thinking, will be) buying one of these in the next few months. Just wondering if you guys (the experts on all things boxers) know of any problems, issues etc... cheers

[Bengt_Phorqs]

Justin would be a good one to comment on the mechanical vagaries of the R1200 series.  They are pretty difficult to work on outside of changing oils and spark plugs without special tools and knowledge.  Overall, airheads are a lot more satisfying to my needs.  My R1100RT is fast and nimble but just doesn't have the soul of an airhead.

[nhmaf]

There are a couple guys on this forum with R1150R bikes that will likely chime in.   I've tried an R1200R (briefly) and it was a nice bike.   I like it better than some of the highly enclosed "tupperware" models BMW has, as it would be easier to wrench on (somewhat).   I've heard that they are pretty reliable BMWs- it would definitely be a very different riding experience than the R65.   Due to the frame design and use of the engine as a frame member, doing clutch repairs/spline lube involves some serious disassembly as compared to the airhead.   Probably do-able if you are methodical and very mechanically inclined and invest in some tools, otherwise expensive @ the dealer.

[Bengt_Phorqs]

Due to the frame design and use of the engine as a frame member, doing clutch repairs/spline lube involves some serious disassembly as compared to the airhead.

Spline lubes aren't required.  Plus I believe since 07 they have hydraulic clutches.  Just getting to the battery is a PITA.  You have to remove the tank and all of the little bitty hoses underneath.  Alternator belts do have to be replaced every 30k or so.  That's not too difficult on the R models, but RT's are difficult.  I'm giving serious consideration to selling my R1100RT just because of all the tupperware.  Fuel injection is nice but I'll probably stay with the Moto Guzzi Cali SS for that.  At least I can get to the motor!

[NC Steve]

Beautiful bikes, lightweight, big horsepower and run great.

But, BMW has had a steadily increasing number of catastrophic rear drive failures, to the point that a good many of their long-time riders  are becoming reluctant to buy and trust the brand any more. The factory refuses to admit there is a problem, but it's been very well documented, just check any of the large discussion sites, including BMWMOA and IBMWR. More than a few riders have reported multiple failures, even after repairs were made and replaced with factory parts.

There are also some electrical issues, but the general feeling is that BMW has added so much electronic equipment to its' bikes in recent years that it's almost unavoidable. I read something recently that basically said, "BMW is trying to make their motorcycles into their autos."

That being said, though, if I found a clean used one at a really good price tomorrow, with some warranty left, I'd probably still jump on it.

[Bob_Roller]

I've had an '02 R1150R for about seven years, and 32,000 miles, and the parallel between the BMW cages and current bikes is a valid one .

Other than the routine mechanical maintenance, you are going to get in over your head in a hurry, with the electronics, without the diagnostic tools, it's nearly impossible to do any worth while troubleshooting on your own .

Mechanically, the bike is nearly bulletproof .


Things like removing the battery are time consuming, but like anything, with practice, you can get good at it , the first time I went for the battery, to change the OEM serviceable type, to an Odyssey sealed AGM battery, was 90 minutes, last time was less than 20 minutes .

If you want something you don't have to mess with, it's a great bike, if you want something with the 'character' of an airhead, it's the wrong bike .

I've made the comparison between my 1150, and R65, and the 1150 is an F-15, the R65, is a WWI bi-plane, it's that much of difference between the two .

Power, is something you'll get addicted to, and at least in my experience, 60 mpg is not uncommon on rural highways, at 75 mph .

Unless you get a 'lemon', you won't be disappointed with the bike at all .

What kind of prices are the bikes going for in your area ?

One of the main factors that led to my acquiring mine, was the fact that it was $8900US, plus taxes and the usual other charges, it was a deal that felt I couldn't pass up, never have regretted getting the bike .

[dav]

Thanks guys for the comments ..... I have to say i did worry about the electronics with it been reliable & such but these days what new bike does't have some of the gizmos.

I will be buying it "new" (black with the white pin stripe), with ABS & traction control...it will be roughly $21-22,000 aussie dollars, but i do keep my bikes for many yrs & as i dont have a car (my choice) i look at it if i did buy a new car (but i dont want a bloody car) it would be roughly or more the same price.

I'll be doing the "in between" maintanice (ok not me the old man) just oil, plugs, filters etc... cause i like to change oil/filter every 5000kms but some new bikes suggest every 10-15000kms to me thats to long in between, but i will take it to the dealer for the "log book" service, well until the warranty runs out anyway.

Cheers....thanks guys  

[SCJJR65]

I test-rode a black R1200R last year, and was mightily impressed!  Never have ridden anything so light, responsive, and flickable, with so much acceleration in my life!  If I was going to buy any new BMW, this would be it!!  Two thumbs up!!   [smiley=thumbsup.gif]

[drewboid]

I have an older R1100R - naked with ABS. The ABS is great and the power is out of sight.
However - fuel injection gives a jerky response going from idle to part throttle - I find myself slipping the clutch to smooth things out - but that is only noticible at parking lot speeds. Second - the bike has more weight up higher than the airheads.
I haven't had it long enough to do any major maintenance but the airheads seem easier to work on. On the other hand you will not need to upgrade the alternator to run a bunch of accessories.
Overall I perfer to ride my /6. Perhaps when the 1100 is twenty years old I'll decide I like it too.

and, like Bengt - I have an eye out for a Guzzi at the right price.
Pay your money and take your choice!  YMMV