ok, sold the old bike should I go for an RT

Dennis1971

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So I sold the current bike .... it was a complete impulse buy (Ducati 749) and it was beautiful to look at also complete agony to ride with my 6'3" frame folded up like a camp bed. So I was sort of set to buy one of the big old school bikes CB1300 / XJR1200 or similar. But funnily enough when I was dropping the Ducati of with the new owner my wife rode her SV650S and on the way back I rode that bike with my wife as pillion.

Now she is wondering is she doesn't prefer riding on the back and hence I am thinking of the RT as a replacement. Don't know if I am old enough yet to ride one but they look very good. My budget is self imposed around the £5000 but I might have to go up for an RT.

So tell me why I should go for it and which one.... 1150 or first gen 1200. (Definetely cannot afford the latest installment).

Thanks
Dennis

PS-had a 1150GSA loved it but it never went further off road than some gravel / grass :D
 
Depends what you want really.

The RT is a great bike, but will be much more laid back and un-involving compared to your 1150GS. If you want a more engaging ride then have a go on a 1200GS before parting with any money but if its the "2 wheeled limosine" experience you want then the 1200RT is excellent at it.
 
For two-up use, whether scratching or touring, my 1200RT was a better bike than my GS. However, the GS was more flickable when one-up and more fun.

I didn't like the 1150RT as I found it very dull and the 1150 GS was a much better bike in all respects.
 
Don't know if I am old enough yet to ride one but they look very good.
Dennis

PS-had a 1150GSA loved it but it never went further off road than some gravel / grass :D

Hi Dennis , well im old enough to ride one so im sure you are ..i could have rode one when i was 17 ..but waited till they became really good bikes , that wait took 20 years ......and i have not looked back ,,,im currently riding the new watercooled RT , possible not within your budget ...but the first version of the 1200 RT is a magnificent machine for you and your wife to explore the uk, europe or even further ...enjoy
 
Hi everyone,

Thanks for all replies, still on the fence on what bike to go for. But trying to decide how much I can afford to spend and what I want from the bike. An early 1200RT is very much on the radar.

Dennis
 
I really like the RT, I'm 6'5" and apart from the addition of a Cee Bailey taller screen, the stock bike is perfect for a normal sized bloke like you.

I'm on my second one, and currently have a 2013 SE with Corby trouser press and the full range of gadgets.

I realise some on this forum don't like too many gadgets on a bike and would be happy with a kick start and a manual retard and advance, but get decent spec RT and you won't be happier.

IMHO get one with a BMW extended warranty and you will have peace of mind for a while, 5k is a lot to spend and you don't want any big bills.

:-)
 
I traded my K1300S for a 1200RT, it's boring beyond belief. However, it's brilliant, comfortable, pillion friendly and has great luggage, all the things we needed.
 
Thanks for the replies, trying to make up my mind. It's that period after you sold a bike and need another one. NEED is the key word here.

So much to look at... weather turned to rain this weekend otherwise I would have tried to test ride an RT. Oh, well there is always next week.
 
So much to look at... weather turned to rain this weekend otherwise I would have tried to test ride an RT. Oh, well there is always next week.

why would the rain stop you testing ?...this really shows the flaws in a decent handling bike with a decent smooth rider .....get out there ...the protection form an RT of the elements is amazing
 
why would the rain stop you testing ?...this really shows the flaws in a decent handling bike with a decent smooth rider .....get out there ...the protection form an RT of the elements is amazing

Its some of the dealers wont in the rain..... Its not me.
Dennis
 
I prefer the 1150 rt less gizmos on it not like the r1200rt I also have the 1150gsa to good engine least you can adjust your valves lock nut and screw etc less gizmos the better
 
Hi, I have a 1200. I have had the 1100, which was a great bike, and the 1150, which in my opinion wasn't as good as the 1100 except for the 6th gear. Like most people have said on here though the 1200 is by far the better of the three. Stands to reason being newer technology & all that, now I'm not saying that just because it's newer it must be better, but it is in this case. The 1200 feels lighter, sharper, quieter, faster and all round easier to ride. I know it may be a stretch budget wise but consider going for the twin cam model(2010-2013). I have seen 2010 models go for around 7 grand. The engine is a peach, smoother and more tourque than the earlier one. Watch out for corrosion though, I saw some right minters when looking for my one...

As a guide I paid £8300 for mine last year, it's an SE in ostra grey (Matt paint) colour matched 46 litre top box, hooten crud catcher, 4800 mls with a FBMWSH. Engine front cover and final drive casing immaculate (look here as they are favourite corrosion points..)

Hope this helps

Steve
 


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