what to look out for on an 1100 or 1150

[birdseye]

My last BM was a 1200GS but I dont want to spend that much on my next bike so I intend to buy either an 1100 or 1150 in the next couple of months. I would appreciate any advice on what to look out for and what to check out.

One issue I have already been warned about is the abs pump particularly on older bikes that have not had a lot of use. I would like abs - are the pum,ps completely unserviceable? A £1800 replace on a £3k bike doesnt make a lot of sense to me.

But what else should I carefully check? Incidentally it will be a R1150R and not a GS if that makes any difference. Legs seem to be getting shorter as I age.

 

[Pip_UK]

Not really a big deal, but one thing to be aware of with the R1150R is that it had an overdrive top gear as a no-cost factory option, to offer more relaxed and economical motorway cruising, at the expense of roll-on punch. Don't be surprised if the dealer/owner has no idea if the bike has the standard or overdrive top - a test ride will let you know (if indeed, it's important to you)

You probably already know this, but the 850/1100/1150 roadsters have the same high exhaust position as the 850/1100/1150 GS and use the same BMW System panniers (i.e. normal-size right pannier & cutout left pannier) in case you see any for sale. I think the pannier mountings were standard on the GS, but a dealer-fit option on the Roadsters.

Otherwise, same qualities as the equivalent GS: well-made, sweet-handling, comfy, easy to ride, a bit agricultural, and not especially light, fast or pretty.

 

[Fanum]

But what else should I carefully check? Incidentally it will be a R1150R and not a GS if that makes any difference. Legs seem to be getting shorter as I age.

You could do a lot worse than Lucy's 1100GS- You mentioned leg length as the reason for going to an RR model, but Lucy is only 4 foot 6 and she managed it well

The bike is HERE and they have the full lowering kit for it

 

[Steptoe]

Incidentally it will be a R1150R and not a GS if that makes any difference.

You'll need a screen or some upper body protection if you're riding it during the winter months.
You can fit GS handguards to an "R".

The 1150R is a nice bike, i've got one i use a loan bike.

 

[birdseye]

You could do a lot worse than Lucy's 1100GS- You mentioned leg length as the reason for going to an RR model, but Lucy is only 4 foot 6 and she managed it well

The bike is HERE and they have the full lowering kit for it

Unfortunately as an occasional visitor to the site I dont have viewing rights for the adverts. If Lucy wants to send an email to this single use address: [email protected]

I'll get back to her on my proper email address.