Any R1200GS-LC + R1200R-LC Owners out there ?

[Meloman]

Looking for a comparison from owners of both the R1200GS-LC and the new R1200R-LC models.
Please no responses from "test ride only" riders, only owners who can offer real side by side comparisons of both LC models.

 

[bellyboy]

yep ive got both..
what would you like to know..

 

[Meloman]

Thanks for the response, Bellyboy. I have an R12GS-TC and an R9T. I'm intrigued by the waterboxers but can't decide which way to go. Keep the GS and trade the 9T for an RR-LC or trade the GS-TC for a GS-LC and keep the 9T.
Two issues that I repeatedly read about regarding the new GS-LC is engine heat and weird engine sound as compared to earlier air or oil cooled versions. So far, I've not read about either issue with regard to the RR-LC, but it's still new on the market.
So my first question is, what is your opinion on these two issues specifically ? Next, besides the obvious "off-road versatility" of the GS, how would you compare the two bikes if you now, having owned them for a while, had to choose only one to keep ? This is in terms of handling, braking, performance, comfort (for both rider and pillion), luggage quality and capacity and finally grin factor.
I know it's a lot to ask but you're my go to guy now as finding someone lucky enough to have both is extremely rare. So any and all feedback would be greatly appreciated.

 

[crotchrocket]

Meloman, have you had the opportunity to ride either the GSLC or the R1200RLC ?

 

[Nice 'n' Fat]

I'm not sure I would spend such a lot of money on a vehicle based on the opinion of someone I don't know

 

[matchbox]

I believe the 'weird engine sounds' on the GS LC are largely due to sound reflected the fairing and screen. Even having your visor open or closed makes a difference. The R LC has less superstructure to cause this so should be quieter - until you fit a screen!

 

[littleade]

Meloman, have you had the opportunity to ride either the GSLC or the R1200RLC ?

+1 ^^^^^ having 'listened' to opinions on the various bikes I was test riding recently the only thing clear to me was there was no straight answer. Depending on who replies you'll no dobt get different answers and looking at your criteria both bikes will be better at some of the aspects than the other. It'll then depend on what type of riding you do most and which in order of priority is the most important to you. So to answer your question you need to take a decent test ride on both, do the numbers then decide. Good luck and let us know which you choose.

 

[Meloman]

Crotchrocket, I've ridden the GS but there are no R demos available at this time.

Nice n fat, I asked for an opinion, I didn't ask him to tell me what to buy.

Littleaid, I agree test rides are important. Having owned over 50 bikes I've done my share of test rides. However, while waiting for an opportunity to ride one, doing some due diligence and questioning current owners is also helpful. Owners can point out subtleties that may not be obvious during a test ride but surface after extended time in the saddle. Adrenaline and excitement can mask things during that first ride. That's why I usually go back again another day after I've calmed down and ride it again for further evaluation (except my R9T which I bought after only a 10 minute ride).

 

[crotchrocket]

Well if it were me.... i'd have the LC GS and the R9T !! that would be an awesome combo to have. Hopefully an r1200R comes available to test ride soon!

 

[Meloman]

CR, I agree, that combination is intriguing as I would have the most current models of both the old and new technology.

 

[littleade]

With over 50 bikes under your belt, all I can say is.......... 'I'll get my coat!'

The 2nd test ride is a good idea, when I took one on the Explorer confirmed it wasn't the bike for me, but it only took me 1 ride to decide I wanted the GS. Whether I made the right decision with the GS or not I'll no doubt find out.....

 

[Nice 'n' Fat]

Nice n fat, I asked for an opinion, I didn't ask him to tell me what to buy.

Which is why I wrote

I'm not sure I would spend such a lot of money on a vehicle based on the opinion of someone I don't know

 

[Meloman]

Nice n Fat, let's put it this way. I wouldn't spend a lot of money on anything, based on anyone's opinion.

 

[bellyboy]

Blimey... feeling the pressure here now..gulp..

these are my views and opinions and I respect that we all ride differently and have different needs,,,

from you ..Meloman
I have an R12GS-TC and an R9T.
Two issues that I repeatedly read about regarding the new GS-LC is engine heat and weird engine sound as compared to earlier air or oil cooled versions....as reported earlier in thread,, no issues just different ive had GS LC since it first arrived and now on second one...0 I think its been on the market long enough now which may also confirm that..The noise is not as 'nice' as the air cooled I agree but stick an end can on it and youd hardly notice..

Meloman..
So my first question is, what is your opinion on these two issues specifically ? Next, besides the obvious "off-road versatility" of the GS, how would you compare the two bikes if you now, having owned them for a while, had to choose only one to keep ? This is in terms of handling, braking, performance, comfort (for both rider and pillion), luggage quality and capacity and finally grin factor.

well Ill try to sum it up as best I can... I had a 9T on order when first launched,, but between order and delivery whilst in Germany I was lucky enough to have met some test riders from BMW on a pre-production R1200R,
they raved about it and said if only the 9T was kitted out with the same level of electronics and adjustability that the ESA offers The 9T would be astonishing.. not just a great looking bike with good manners that gets a little breathless and bouncy ( their words)

I returned home cancelled my order and sat and sat until the new R1200R arrived,, different in looks but what a stunning bike to ride,, the more miles you ride the better it gets,,its one of those bikes that will go under the radar of many and those that own one will be blessed by owning a very special bike,, Its instantly puts a grin on my face, the handling is solid and its so easy to drop it into corners and fly through flip-flop style corners from peg to peg,, its low and light in feel ( although actually its not that light in wieght) one finger Braking can haul it to a stop like youve just chucked out an anchor the size of a barge, and trail braking into corners on those wonderful forks is so easy
agreed its no muscle CC bike or sports bike but the torque mid range is delicious and encourages the dark side to shine through.. ( can you tell that i like it) I test rode it on a very cold and damp winter day and came back grinning like I had just come back from a summers day hoot on my old S1000RR ( Ive had sports bikes for..... well a long time) ,,,
but the practacality to be honest is that yes you can tour ( I did 2000 miles in 6 days around Europe no aches pains etc ) I fitted a screen ( not BMW ) and just used a tail pack.. I dont ride with a pillion often but when I have over the a short ish distance Ive had no complaints..my cousin in Germany has one with Larger screen and panniers and is happy with his..

which is best/better the GS or R12R... I use my GS for winter and work its comfy and eats up miles easily It offers some weather protection handle remarkably for its size and with the ESA turns bumpy B roads carpet smooth. I dont have panniers I use soft luggage..

I have done the same european trip similar roads/route and the GS was superb.......... but the R1200R..well, all I can say is that I know what Im taking again next year ...

but like I said Im very lucky to have both...and Id like to keep it that way..but if I had to choose... well I think Ive answered that

hope its of some help..





Bellyboy

 

[Meloman]

Bellyboy, it’s about time you got back to me. I thought I ran over your dog or something. It’s interesting that you first ordered the 9T. Have you ever ridden one ? Even without ESA they’re still a lot of fun.

I appreciate all your feedback and can feel your enthusiasm for your R jumping off the page. My choice meter was tilting towards the GS-LC but now is possibly wavering towards the R side. I can't wait for a test ride when one becomes available.

You didn’t address my question about engine heat. I know that the LC models throw off more heat than the previous air/oil models. It seems that the GSA even more so than the GS possibly due to the increased tank size blocking more airflow. How does the heat on your R compare to your GS and do either ever get really uncomfortable ?

We both acknowledge that the GS can produce a “carpet smooth” ride. I hear that the R is more sport oriented and more stiffly suspended even in the softest ESA settings. It is a dramatic difference between the two ?

You mention the R’s “delicious” mid range torque. My experience is that all BMW’s are blessed with this trait. Are you saying that your R has more torque than your GS ?

You obviously love your GS too, as evidenced by your having an early LC model and then trading for a later one. What year was the first one and what year is your current one and why did you trade ?

Though both bikes have similar performance your R is obviously your “go to” bike of choice. I assume that is because it is lower, lighter, sportier and less utilitarian than the GS. Is that an accurate assessment ?

 

[bellyboy]

Hi
Sorry for slow responses but work duty calls ��
Well the , R has more mid range torque than the GS and as it's sprung differently the ride
Is a different ride the GS floats over the road the R gives ,,feedback, which in turn gives
It that sporty feel, it is firmer when in dynamic but the settings can be tailored to suit
Your own preference, the difference between settings and modes is maybe not as noticeable
As the GS but using the preload and ESA it's easy to get a god set up.

Not sure if answered all ? Oh the heat I've never really noticed it on either bike except
When I've been down south of France or on particularly hot uk days, I would say
I've not noticed much difference between the two but it's not been a major concern,

I had a 2013 model changed coz it had high mileage in very short time and I was offered a great deal
If I've not covered everything just ask it's cool

 

[bellyboy]

Hi
Your summary is nearly right the R is go to for the more spirited sunny day ride and the GS is more for work in all weathers

 

[Meloman]

Bellyboy, sorry for the pressure. I sometimes forget that some people have a life. Thanks again for your valuable input.

Coincidentally, the new winter issue of BMW magazine has a comparison test between the R and the GS. I'll be reading it with great interest tomorrow morning when it arrives.

 

[bellyboy]

Hi Meloman,
tis no problem,, Id be interested to know what they think,,as I dont get the magazine..

cheers and Hope ive helped in some way..