I took the new R1200RT LC out for a test ride today. Given that I am comparing it to the R1150RT, the initial impression was that it is the same, only different. It feels lighter even though it is slightly heavier. The weight is well-balanced with a low centre of gravity so once both feet are on the footrests the plot feels agile and moves easily with light handlebar pressure.
The screen is bigger, wider and taller – much more of it with greater coverage. I didn’t need it fully up to enjoy a motorway ride at 70mph with the visor up. And on that note, the torque and fly-by-wire throttle gives an instant tractor-like pull from low revs. I glanced down at the speedo and rolled off the throttle to get back within a legal limit. Acceleration is effortless – yes, so was its predecessor, but that sounded busier, so there was more feedback to give the speed away. This machine feels under-stressed at legal speeds and feels like it wants more. Much more. Lane changing is a matter of slight handlebar pressure – and likewise through the twisties. It feels like a bike half its weight, not a galleon under full sail, which the fairing tends to portray.
Interestingly, after a twenty year break, I find I am riding a bike with self-cancelling indicators. That will take some getting used to. Apparently, the time-lapse can be adjusted by the workshop. Given the on-board computer with numerous settings, I’d have thought that would be better suited adjusted by the rider. The indicator switch is probably the only niggle for me. I am used to the old BMW paddle type switches that were wonderfully ergonomic. This has the Japanese standard in place. Which is fine, I’m used to it on the Yamahas and Hondas I’ve ridden and owned. What is different is the lack of movement in the switch. A little pressure is all that is needed. I found myself looking at the dashboard lights to make sure, as it didn’t have much feel to it.
The wet clutch makes for a very different gear change. It’s much more like the Japanese standard with a very positive clunk on engagement. The clutch is light and smooth as is the throttle with instant response.
So, overall, yes, I am happy to be spending £15,000 on one. I can’t wait to collect it.
Now i don’t know a thing about bikes so can’t really comment.
However, the Ford Probe overheated on the way back from Harrogate yesterday. I managed to drive it home and spent this morning fixing the issue. It also seems to have fried the sparkplugs though, and I only fitted them the other week.
Anyhoo…
Interesting selection of plugs for various models. And they pre-set the gaps as well. How nifty.
http://www.partsgeek.com/mmparts/spark_plugs/ford/probe.html
Now that IS news to me a flat twin with a wet clutch, the clonk is the oil clinging to the plates and causing resistance in the change mechanism, something all wet clutches are subject to to a greater or lesser degree. I understand completely the delight in the evolution offered by succeeding models, however mine is restricted to 16 valve 80’s Honda’s vs 70’s 8 valve Honda bikes and as much as I love ’em, they are a different world to what Meriden and Small Heath were knocking out. Best of luck with the new BMW and keep the rubber side down! 😉
In many respects it feels like my old Yamahas.