2006-2007
by Jeff Dean |
K1200GT
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As a veteran oilhead RT rider, I was most interested in finding out how the new GT compared to the RT in terms of ergonomics and protection. The "new" GT is more RT-like than the "old" GT in terms of ergonomics, which is good. But it is distinctly different from the R1200RT in more ways than one. First, obviously, its engine pumps out 42 more horsepower than the RT, and in a different way. Whereas the two-cylinder RT has torque and power from 2,500 RPMs on up, the four-cylinder GT's power comes on at higher revs and revs much higher than the RT. There is a lot more power, but you have to reach for it.
In comparison to the R1200RT I noted the following items as well. Wind protection is much less; hands are out in the airstream. The handlebars are buzzy and at a higher frequency. The seating position is more radical in that the rider's foot pegs are higher and further to the rear. I bet that the most popular GT accessory will be foot peg lowering kits. The electric windshield has less movement and does not reach as high. The rear view mirrors are much smaller — too small for my taste. The horn is, well, crappy — like that of a 250cc Honda Nighthawk. The GT needs the RT's horns.
On the postive side, the new K1200GT is a much better touring mount than was its predecessor. The handlbars can be adjusted such that the handlebar-seat relationship is almost as good as the RT's. The power is exciting, of course, and the luggage system is identical to that of the R1200RT. With lowered foot pegs and a taller aftermarket windshield, I think this could be a superb motorcycle for those who find the RT's 110 HP inadequate (though I find it has plenty of power). Except for the radio, all the RT's amenities are available: cruise control, ESA, trip computer, heating grips and seats, etc. Bottom line: this is one fine motorcycle.
The information below is from other sources, and I put it here before I had an opportunity to touch and ride a K1200GT.
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This powerful (152 HP) sport-tourer K1200GT was introduced by BMW in 2006 and arrived in U.S. dealerships in May. It features a more powerful engine than that of the previous K1200GT as well as a more upright seating position. Its luggage and handlebars are the same as that of the R1200RT. It shares many of the technical features of the BMW K1200S, though the engine, in comparison, is detuned in horsepower to provide a greater range of usable torque.
Shahram Shiva's excellent PDF information document on the K1200GT can be found here, so I will not try to reinvent the wheel.
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As with the RT, I suspect many buyers of the new K1200GT will quickly replace the saddles with something more comfortable. And they have already headed to Cee Bailey for new windshields. In these matters, the more things change the more they stay the same.
I wish the RT had been available in the deep blue metallic shown in the photo of the K1200GT above.
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