Bmw r1200rt 2006 specs

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R 1200 RT: A NEW DIRECTION FOR BMW DESIGN

From the first glimpse of the new R 1200 RT, there’s no mistaking that it is a completely new motorcycle. Dramatically styled new bodywork makes a clear break from the old R 1150 RT, yet provides improved rider and passenger comfort thanks to improved aerodynamics. Integrated rearview mirrors/turn-signals help manage airflow around the rider’s hands to provide a generous still-air pocket and protection from weather. Compared to the R 1150 RT, the new windscreen is taller and wider, also for better rider protection but also, because it’s important in a motorcycle of this caliber, excellent passenger weather protection with a minimum of fatiguing turbulence.

A prominent split grill channels cooling air over the R 1200 RT’s large engine-oil cooler and brackets a new style of "freeform" headlight. Because superior nighttime illumination is critical to long-distance riders, the R 1200 RT features geometrically optimized surface contours that redirect the efforts of two H7 halogen bulbs for the low beam and a single, central H7 halogen light for the high beam.

ERGONOMICALLY CORRECT, AS USUAL

The rider’s view from the saddle is at once familiar and yet completely new. Among the familiar touches is the ergonomic profile of the R 1200 RT, which is based heavily on the extremely comfortable R 1150 RT. (In fact, the handlebars are the same as before except for a revised finish.) This means that the R 1200 RT has the ideal seat-handlebar-footpeg relationship for long-range touring, placing the rider in a comfortable, upright position that reduces fatigue and improves control of the motorcycle.

Seating options abound. The R 1200 RT comes standard with a split saddle that allows for two-position adjustment of the rider’s portion, resulting in a seat height of either 32.3 or 33.1 inches (820 or 840mm). A lower seat is available that reduces overall seat height to 30.7 or 31.5 inches (780 or 800mm). In both cases, the seats themselves and the area around them have been resculpted in the R 1200 RT to maximize legroom and reduce the effective reach to the ground, which provides surefooted handling at a stop.

The R 1200 RT is clad in dynamic new bodywork that channels ambient air as well as engine-cooling air effectively around the rider and passenger. As before, the windshield is electrically moved within a wide range of positions to optimize wind protection and minimize turbulence for riders of all sizes.

A new rail mounting system is installed on the top of the fuel tank to improve the security and convenience of the optional tank bag. This is in addition to standard 32-liter hard saddlebags that feature new four-point mounting systems and, as ever, weather-resistant seals, and locks keyed to the ignition key. An integrated luggage rack can carry extra gear or be fitted with one of two optional topcases of either 28 or 49 liters’ capacity. (The 28-liter topcase is all black, while the larger case is White Aluminum Metallic over black. The side cases are color matched to the motorcycle.)

Standart Equipment :

• Hazard warning flashers
• Single key locks
• Closed Loop 3 Way Catalytic Converter
• Adjustable handbrake, clutch levers
• Adjustable rider’s seat
• BMW Integral ABS (Partial System)
• Luggage rack
• Diagnostic interface
• Electronic immobilizer
• Info flat screen
• Power socket

Available Equipment :

• Gray seat
  N / C
• Black seat
  N / C
• Low seat
  N / C
• Heated Seat
  $270.00
• Chrome Exhaust
  $125.00
• Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA)
  $775.00
• Oil Level Warning
  $50.00
• On Board Computer
  $215.00
• Radio/CD
  $1450.00
• Black Engine Spoiler
  N / C
• Silver Engine Spoiler
  N / C
• Clear turn signal lenses
  $50.00
• Anti-theft alarm
  $225.00
• Radio prep kit
  $390.00
• Heated hand grips
  $200.00
• Cruise control
  $310.00
• Accessory Socket
  $40.00
  

Manufacturer	BMW Motorrad
Production	2005-2019
Predecessor	R1150RT
Class	Touring or sport touring
Engine	1,170 cc (71 cu in) 8-valve flat twin
Bore / stroke	101 mm × 73 mm (4.0 in × 2.9 in)
Compression ratio	12.0:1
Power	81 kW (109 hp) @ 7,750 rpm[1]
Torque	120 N⋅m (89 lbf⋅ft) @ 6,000 rpm[1]
Transmission	6-speed sequential manual transmission, shaft-drive
Frame type	Load-bearing unit construction engine & gearbox, with front & rear subframes
Suspension	Front: Telelever Rear: Paralever
Brakes	Integral ABS (part-integral) Front: 4-piston calipers with floating 320 mm discs Rear: 2-piston floating caliper with single 265 mm disc
Tires	Front: 120/70ZR17 on 3.50 x 17 rim Rear: 180/55ZR17 on 5.50 x 17 rim Cast aluminium wheels
Rake, trail	26.4°, 116 mm (4.6 in)
Wheelbase	1,485 mm (58.5 in)
Dimensions	L: 2,230 mm (88 in) W: 905 mm (35.6 in) H: 1,430 mm (56 in)
Seat height	Adjustable 820 to 840 mm (32.3–33.1 in) Low seat option: 780 to 800 mm (30.7–31.5 in)
Weight	229 kg (505 lb) (dry) 259 kg (571 lb) w/o panniers (wet)
Fuel capacity	25 L (5.5 imp gal; 6.6 US gal)
Fuel consumption	41.6 mpg‑US (5.65 L/100 km; 50.0 mpg‑imp)[2]
Related	R1200GS R1200R R1200ST

The BMW R1200RT is a touring or sport touring motorcycle that was manufactured from 2005 to 2019 by BMW Motorrad to replace the R1150RT model. It features a 1,170 cc (71 cu in) flat-twin engine with a six-speed gearbox and shaft drive.

History[edit]

Previous RT models, 1978 to 2005[edit]

BMW Motorrad began manufacturing RT (Reise-Tourer, or travel tourer) touring motorcycle models in the late 1970s. The first of these was air-cooled (or "airhead") models that continued BMW's long tradition dating to 1923 of producing "boxer" or opposed flat-twin engined motorcycles with unit engine-transmission construction and shaft-final-drive.

In 1995, BMW produced its first air and oil-cooled (or "oilhead") RT model, the R1100RT. The new machine included standard ABS brakes, four-valve heads, five-speed gearbox, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear suspension, and an electrically adjustable screen.

In 2001, BMW launched the R1150RT, providing the same basic platform with increased engine capacity and horsepower, fully linked power-assisted ABS brakes, revised front lighting system, and a six-speed gearbox. This model was further updated in 2004 by the adoption of dual ignition, with two spark plugs per cylinder.

Six generations of RT motorcycles from 1996 to the present

2010 R1200RT with double overhead cams

2005 to 2013[edit]

In 2005, BMW introduced the R1200RT.^[3] The design of this model was completely different from the R1150RT with a 15% boost in power, 20 kg (44 lb) weight saving,^[3][4] optional electronic suspension adjustment (ESA) and on-board computer. A low seat and/or a lowered suspension were available for shorter riders reducing seat height to a lowest level of 820 mm (32.3 in),^[4] although the lowered suspension eliminates the ESA option. The standard electrically operated windscreen was adjustable across a range of heights.

The servo powered ABS brakes on the 2005 and 2006 models were partially integrated such that the rear brake pedal only applies the rear brake while the front brake lever applies both brakes. For the 2007 model year, servo assist was removed from the partially integrated brakes. A new, more advanced and lighter ABS system was produced by Continental Teves, which also produced the optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC),^[5] in BMW's traction control system for motorcycles.^[6]

An electronic tire pressure monitor (TPM) was introduced as an option. During the production of the 2006 models, the original two-tone horns were replaced by a single-tone horn. Other optional equipment included cruise control, heated grips, heated seats for both the rider and passenger and a CD/Radio audio system.

With 110 hp (82 kW) and 85 lbf⋅ft (115 N⋅m) of torque, the R1200RT is suitable for long-distance touring carrying a rider and passenger and a full load of luggage; and is able to reach 135 mph (217 km/h) and do a standing quarter mile in 12.2 seconds.^[3]

In November 2009, BMW announced some revisions to the R1200RT for the 2010 model year. The new model had the same horsepower, but more torque at 88 lbf⋅ft (119 N⋅m), a higher engine speed of 8,500 rpm, and double overhead camshafts that were first used on the BMW HP2 Sport.^[7]

There were some relatively minor styling changes and revisions to the screen and cockpit designs, switchgear (including conventional indicators), and location of the hydraulic fluid reservoirs.

2014 to 2018[edit]

San Marino blue 2015 R1200RT

The 2014 model represented a wholesale redesign of the R1200RT. The biggest change was a shift to a water cooled version of the boxer engine,^[8] producing dyno tested 113.5 horsepower (84.6 kW) and 82.1 pound-feet (111.3 N⋅m) torque.^[9] BMW claimed 125 horsepower and 92 lb/ft of torque with their own testing methodology.^[10] The seat and seating position, fairing, instrumentation, and frame were also updated. The standard ride modes "Rain" and "Road" can also be activated at the press of a button to adapt to weather conditions and road surfaces. An on-board computer, an electrically operated windshield, standard color-matched saddle bags, and heated grips were also basic items.

Optional equipment for the 2014 RT includes semi-active electronic suspension adjustment, and BMW Dynamic ESA, which response to changing road surfaces, and a shift assistant pro that allows the rider to shift up and down without using the clutch or throttle. A central locking system locks both cases by remote control. Other options are a radio, a top case, low or high saddles, a tank bag, cruise control, and (introduced for the 2015 model) keyless ignition and locking

Alpine white 2017 R1200RT

The 2017 R1200RTs are fitted with a judder damper on the transmission output shaft to control rapid and forceful shaking and vibration. New features also include a revised selector drum actuator, transmission shafts, and transmission shaft bearing. As part of the Ride Modes Pro option package, ABS Pro was available, which senses a lean angle and adjusts intervention accordingly.

The only changes for the 2018 model year were colors.^{[citation needed]}

2019[edit]

In mid-2017 Motorrad reported that BMW was planning to soon introduce variable valve timing (VVT) on its boxer engines.^[11] In March, 2018, Bennetts announced that BMW was testing an RT with VVT, possibly a successor to the R1200RT.^[12] In September, Kevin Cameron wrote that a "shift cam" VVT system was destined for a 2019 model year R1250GS, and other media reported the technology was to be adopted on all the R series boxer motors.^[13][14] BMW confirmed the R1250RT would have VVT in September 2018.^[15]

Specifications (2005-2013)[edit]

See information box for other specifications

Engine[edit]

• Type — Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke two-cylinder boxer engine, dual overhead camshafts per cylinder (single prior to 2010) and four valves per cylinder, central balance shaft
• Mixture control / engine management — Electronic intake pipe injection/digital engine management: BMW engine management, BMS-K with overrun fuel cut-off, dual ignition
• Emission control — Closed-loop three-way catalytic converter
• Fuel type — Unleaded premium, 95 or 98 Octane (RON) with automatic knock control

Electrical system[edit]

• Alternator — 720 watts 60 amperes three-phase alternator
• Battery — 12 volts, 19 ampere hours - 170A

Power transmission[edit]

https://www.bmwmotorcycle.com/2014-bmw-r-1200-rt-information/

Chassis[edit]

• Frame — Three-section frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine-gearbox unit
• Front wheel location / suspension — Telelever; stanchion diameter 35 mm, central spring strut, rebound damping electronically adjustable with standard ESA
• Rear wheel location / suspension — EVO-Paralever die-cast aluminium single-sided swinging arm; spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable to continuously variable levels by means of electronically adjustable ESA, rebound damping with standard ESA
• Travel front/rear — 4.72 inches (120 mm) / 5.31 inches (135 mm)

Authorities models[edit]

BMW Authority Vehicles produce factory built versions of the R1200RT, including an authorities only 878 cc R900RT model, specifically for emergency services use, including police, paramedic, blood transfusion, fire services, and escort duty.^[16]

BMW bikes have been popular with United Kingdom police forces in the past and many chose to return to them in 2007, taking delivery of the R1200RT after the Honda ST1300 Pan-European was withdrawn due to handling concerns.^[17] It is also used by the traffic police in Ireland.

Many states and cities in the United States use the R1200RT-P for police duty, mostly in the West including by the California Highway Patrol and Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.^[18] Acceptance of BMW's earlier R1100RT-P and R1150RT-P models had been moderate, but in 2005 came both the introduction of the more capable R1200RT-P and the end of production of Kawasaki's economical KZ1000P police motorcycle. As a result, BMWs and Harley Davidsons have taken most of the American market, though the 2011 re-entry of Kawasaki to the public-safety field has given the RT-P a strong second rival. In the United States, more than 225 law enforcement agencies have BMW authority motorcycles in their fleets of patrol vehicles.^[19] BMW claims to have produced over 80,000 motorcycles specifically for public safety use.

The Authorities variant is based on the standard R1200RT but can be recognized by the addition of stainless steel protection bars (colloquially known as "crash bars") situated about the front fairing and panniers, also often used for mounting of additional equipment such as sirens. Paint and trim schemes also reflect the service use, most often black and white "panda paint," such as found on many patrol cars. The large, flat side panels on the R1200RT-P are a convenient and easily seen location for insignia.

Other changes include unique top-loading panniers (also known as "saddle boxes"), a single-seat (with radio box in place of the RT's pillion seat), additional switchgear for equipment, emergency lighting, and an additional auxiliary battery which feeds all public safety electrical equipment. An additional feature of the RT-P is the reprogramming of the onboard computer to allow a motor officer to lock in their current speed on the speedometer display. The officer only needs to match speed with a target vehicle, press the "BC" button on the handlebars, and the speed is visible for later reference.

Optional equipment available through BMW includes electrically operated racks for mounting shotguns or rifles, as well as holders for nightsticks, flashlights, radar or lidar guns, citation books, and radio antenna mounts. Many of these items are also available from aftermarket manufacturers or may even be locally made.

The standard configuration of the R1200RT-P model used in the United States uses a 100-watt siren speaker mounted on the left front protection bar, and LED lighting pods (which were specially designed for the RT-P) above the front turn signals, and on the top rear edge of the radio box, all supplied by Code 3 Public Safety Equipment. There are also mounting hardpoints for mobile radar antennas. Optional lighting which may be installed includes bright lights for illuminating a scene or to the sides, and a light mounted on a telescoping post at the right rear, which can be operated while lowered for normal use, or raised to provide omnidirectional warning while stopped (such as at an accident scene).

Firefighting vehicle[edit]

In July 2010, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service in England began trialling a Firexpress fire bike version of the R1200RT fitted with twin 25 L (5.5 imp gal; 6.6 US gal) water tanks and a 30 m (98 ft) hose, capable of delivering water spray or foam to extinguish fires.^[20]

While not suitable for extended use—due to the small amount of fire retardant and single firefighter carried—the motorcycle is able to reach the scene of a fire faster than a fire truck, especially in cases such as a vehicle fire (which typically results in traffic jams which can delay fire trucks). This may reduce the spread of a fire, or even extinguish it while it is still small. In addition, the firefighter can give a report of the nature of the fire, thus enabling the agency to more rapidly task appropriate equipment.

Reviews and awards[edit]

The R1200RT was selected as best touring bike by two major American monthly motorcycle magazines in 2005 and 2006.^[21]

In September 2006, the R1200RT was named the United Kingdom's 'number one motorcycle' by readers of RiDE magazine in its annual "RiDER POWER" survey.^[22] It repeated this achievement in 2007, reached second place overall in 2008,^[4] and won the top spot once more in 2009.

In October 2006, the R1200RT was cited as a best tourer for the second year in a row by UK newspaper Motor Cycle News.

The 2014 model was selected as best sport-touring bike of the year by Cycle World.^[23]

Road tests published in Motorcyclist praised the 2014 model for its fine engine, "right-sized" ergonomics, and suspension "nearly immune to braking or accelerating influence".^[8]

The 2014 model was the winner of the 2014 Rider magazine people's choice vote.

Motorcyclist chose it in 2014 as the best touring bike for 2014. For the second year in a row, Motorcyclist magazine chose the BMW R1200RT as the 2015 "Best Touring Bike."

In its August 2015 long-term wrap-up, Paul Dean, of Cycle World, wrote "For riders who love to travel, enjoy having a little fun on the back roads, and often do both with a passenger, the RT could very well be the perfect motorcycle. Way, way more than just the best sport tourer."^[24]

Motorcycle.com selected the R1200RT as its 2015 "Best Sport-Tourer".

Safety issues[edit]

The R1200RT has been affected by a number of safety issues since its launch. The UK Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) has issued six separate vehicle recalls covering the front brakes,^[25][26]anti-lock braking system,^[27][28] throttle cable,^[29] and clutch.^[30]

References[edit]

External links[edit]

From the first glimpse of the R 1200 RT, there’s no mistaking that it is a completely new motorcycle. Dramatically styled new bodywork makes a clear break from the old R 1150 RT, yet provides improved rider and passenger comfort thanks to improved aerodynamics. Integrated rearview mirrors/turn-signals help manage airflow around the rider’s hands to provide a generous still-air pocket and protection from weather. Compared to the R 1150 RT, the new windscreen is taller and wider, also for better rider protection but also, because it’s important in a motorcycle of this caliber, excellent passenger weather protection with a minimum of fatiguing turbulence.

A prominent split grill channels cooling air over the R 1200 RT’s large engine-oil cooler and brackets a new style of "freeform" headlight. Because superior nighttime illumination is critical to long-distance riders, the R 1200 RT features geometrically optimized surface contours that redirect the efforts of two H7 halogen bulbs for the low beam and a single, central H7 halogen light for the high beam.

The rider’s view from the saddle is at once familiar and yet completely new. Among the familiar touches is the ergonomic profile of the R 1200 RT, which is based heavily on the extremely comfortable R 1150 RT. (In fact, the handlebars are the same as before except for a revised finish.) This means that the R 1200 RT has the ideal seat-handlebar-footpeg relationship for long-range touring, placing the rider in a comfortable, upright position that reduces fatigue and improves control of the motorcycle.

Seating options abound. The R 1200 RT comes standard with a split saddle that allows for two-position adjustment of the rider’s portion, resulting in a seat height of either 32.3 or 33.1 inches (820 or 840mm). A lower seat is available that reduces overall seat height to 30.7 or 31.5 inches (780 or 800mm). In both cases, the seats themselves and the area around them have been resculpted in the R 1200 RT to maximize legroom and reduce the effective reach to the ground, which provides surefooted handling at a stop.

The R 1200 RT is clad in dynamic new bodywork that channels ambient air as well as engine-cooling air effectively around the rider and passenger. As before, the windshield is electrically moved within a wide range of positions to optimize wind protection and minimize turbulence for riders of all sizes.

A new rail mounting system is installed on the top of the fuel tank to improve the security and convenience of the optional tank bag. This is in addition to standard 32-liter hard saddlebags that feature new four-point mounting systems and, as ever, weather-resistant seals, and locks keyed to the ignition key. An integrated luggage rack can carry extra gear or be fitted with one of two optional topcases of either 28 or 49 Litres’ capacity. (The 28-liter topcase is all black, while the larger case is White Aluminum Metallic over black. The side cases are color matched to the motorcycle.)

• Hazard warning flashers

• Single key locks

• Closed Loop 3 Way Catalytic Converter

• Adjustable handbrake, clutch levers

• Adjustable rider’s seat

• BMW Integral ABS (Partial System)

• Luggage rack

• Diagnostic interface

• Electronic immobilizer

• Info flat screen

• Power socket

Review

BMW shocked us early in 2004 when it released the ground-up re-think of the iconic Boxer GS. The R1200GS proved to be heaps better than the R1150GS, gaining a significant boost in power while losing a hefty chunk of weight.

I suppose, then, it shouldn't have surprised us to find out the new R1200RT is every bit of the huge leap forward over the previous generation. The sportbike formula of more power and less weight again proves its efficacy in other classes of bikes, as the loss of a claimed 44 pounds and the addition of 15 horsepower compared to the R1150RT makes this comfy touring bike feel like a nimbler sport-tourer.

BMW started with the GS's 1170cc Boxer Twin and hot-rodded it with a bigger airbox, more aggressive cams and a full-point bump in its compression ratio to 12.0:1. The result, claims BMW, is 110 peak ponies at 7500 rpm, 10 more than claimed for the GS. And its 85 lb-ft of torque at 6000 rpm is up nearly 15% from the 74 lb-ft claimed for the old R1150RT.

After riding the RT at its press introduction, we ordered up a test bike for the MCUSA fleet. Kenny rode it from SoCal to our headquarters in Oregon, where we strapped it to the dyno to check on the power sent to the rear wheel. We were impressed when it cranked out nearly 100 horsies (97.3) at 7900 rpm, just prior to hitting the rev limiter but after BMW's claimed redline of 7500 rpm. Torque stays above 60 lb-ft shortly after 3000 rpm, growing to 74.4 lb-ft at its 6400-rpm peak.

The old R1150RT was basically a full-fairing version of the R1150RS. For 2005, BMW has dropped the RS in favor of the new R1200ST, a sportier version of the new RT but using much less bodywork and features for a lighter steed.

At the siblings' press introduction, I spent a few hours aboard the 60-pound lighter ST before sampling the RT. I had been enjoying the ST's newfound power and sporty feeling, so it was a shock to sit behind the RT's acres of plastic. In contrast to the ST's relatively lithe physique, the RT wide expanse of wind protection and broad seat make it initially feel like a bit of a pig.
 

Engaging first gear in its revamped six-speed transmission (with quieter helical-cut gears) is now easier than ever, and the RT surprised me with its apparent lack of heft at low speeds, the Boxer engine's low center of gravity evidently playing a role.

I rolled off out of town, angling the electrically adjustable windscreen higher to fully block the oncoming air. Soon I was on a sparsely traveled and somewhat curvy backroad, happily cruising along in comfort and grace. Then I noticed the needle of the easy-to-read analog speedo was pointing at 90, so I assumed this RT might be a Euro-spec bike with kilometers-per-hour readings. Well, no, it turned out it was in mph-that's how comfortable and composed this bike is at speed while its rider is ensconced in a pocket of still air.

"I traveled from L.A. to Medford up I-5 in two days on the 1200RT, and I can tell you that this bike is the most comfortable motorcycle I have ever ridden on that stretch of road," comments Editorial Director Ken Hutchison.

Straight-line cruising is effortless on the RT. The revised Boxer engine drones along capably and without the bothersome surging of some previous models, and it pulls clean and strong from just 2500 rpm. A balance shaft that debuted on the 1200GS means that intrusive vibration doesn't come into play until top-gear revs are in the go-to-jail category.

Ergonomically, the RT's riding position is about as neutral as they come, as its rider is in a comfy upright position with a decent amount of legroom. Tall riders will probably prefer the broad two-position seat in its higher 33.1-inch setting rather than the 32.3-inch standard position. Shorter riders can order an optional seat that lowers the height to either 30.7 inches or 31.5.

The RT's windscreen, now taller and wider than previous, proved to be highly versatile. When in its low position, a rider can easily look over its upper edge and enjoy a bit of cooling breeze; in its most vertical position, it provides a huge bubble of shelter. In addition, the RT's integrated rearview mirrors/turn-signals help keep a rider's hands protected from chilling wind, and the side fairings do a similar job for legs.

"The windscreen actually suits me just fine in its low setting, although there is a substantial amount of wind noise that comes into play," says Hutch. "On the opposite end of the spectrum, the tallest setting completely shields my 5'8" body from the elements and drastically reduces wind noise."

Okay, so it's no surprise this born-again RT is comfortable. What was surprising was how well the big-boned Beemer could be hustled down a twisty road. A revised Telelever front end gives improved feedback, and its rake angle is set at a slightly steeper 26.7-degrees. Trail, too, gets a bit sportier, reducing from 4.8 inches to 4.3 inches. These two reductions result in a nimbler feel from behind the bars, despite the wheelbase remaining constant at 58.5 inches. (An odd snafu prevented us from weighing the RT on our scales, but BMW claims it weighs 571 pounds full of fuel but without the saddlebags.)

"I had a lot of fun blasting the backroads of Oregon during our time with the RT," notes Hutchison. "For such a massive looking machine the RT actually handles very well and is surprisingly nimble for a bike of its size. It really scoots through the turns, it's stable and holds a line very well, and it doesn't take a whole lot of extra effort to get it to change direction."

Holding up the 120/70 and 180/55 17-inch rubber are Brembo-made wheels that are lighter than before, reducing unsprung mass for better handling and improved suspension control. At the rear, BMW's Paralever shaft drive also acts as a swingarm, borrowing the GS's newer and lighter Paralever that is made of tough forged aluminum. The shock is adjustable for preload and rebound damping, while compression is handled by travel-dependant circuitry that gets stiffer as the shock is compressed. When combined with the revised Telelever front end, also made of forged aluminum, the RT's suspension does a wonderful job of soaking up bumps - it's only on sharp hits like Botts Dots that it feels harsh.

"The Telelever front end continues to evolve and this version is of course better than previous," says Hutch. "Feedback that was lost in previous versions is now more evident - it's not as familiar feeling as a fork, but it is getting closer."

In addition to its innovative and mostly effective suspension systems, BMW has become the biggest purveyor of luxury and comfort amenities. The RT is no different, and its list of standard features includes ABS, a power outlet, luggage rack and color-matched saddlebags, among a couple others.

"The RT comes equipped with two of the greatest OEM components to make their way onto any motorcycle: cruise control and heated grips," Kenny declares. "The great thing about the RT is its sweet rider accommodations."

And if that's not enough for you, the clever Germans have more to offer if you're willing to pay extra for it. A heated seat can be a godsend on cold rides, a trip computer is handy while traveling, a radio/CD player helps pass the miles, a choice of two top cases will hold more stuff, and BMW's Navigator II GPS moving-map system will help find your way.

Of the above options, our tester had only the stereo system. While we appreciated having tunes along for the ride, some of us found its myriad controls and buttons difficult to navigate without looking away from the road.

"This stereo is a double-edged sword," notes Hutch. "It offers a great break from the typical mind-numbing sound of the wind that accompanies any long trip and helps you forget about the amount of time in the saddle. And it gave me something to do to satisfy my innate desire to fidget with electronic equipment, which brings me to the con side of having a stereo. The handlebar-mounted stereo operation center, as I like to call it, is difficult to 'feel' your way to the controls on the first try. This nearly gave me a heart attack when the car I was following during one such moment got hard on their brakes. It's easy to forget you are on a motorcycle when you have all these gizmos to play with, so take a bit of advice and make sure not to sacrifice paying attention for trying to fine tune your tunes."

The RT's most notable option is BMW's Electronic Suspension Adjustment. Better known as ESA, this $750 selection allows a rider to adjust the shock's spring preload and damping from the cockpit and while moving. Sadly, our test unit was not equipped with ESA, but the scuttlebutt is that it's a very worthy option.

One item that some of us wish was optional is BMW's EVO power brake system with the Partial Integral anti-lock brakes. Optional on the R1200ST, the Partial Integral ABS is a form of linked brakes in which braking power is applied to the front andrear brakes when the hand lever is cued, governed by an electric power-assist mechanism. The amount of rear-brake application via the bar lever is electronically controlled depending on conditions. The rear brake pedal operates only the rear brake.

While we appreciated the extra safety provided by ABS, and the linked braking was transparent enough not to be intrusive, we're not entirely sold on a motorcycle needing power brakes. Sure, the twin 320mm floating front discs and single 265mm rear disc (and Brembo 4-piston calipers) provide plenty of whoa action, but the power-assist makes feedback feel unnatural. And when the bike is not running, there is only about 5% of braking power available, which can make for tense moments when pushing it around your driveway.

In one disturbing instance, the ABS malfunction light glowed back at me as I began to ride off from a stop, and I noticed the brakes' power assist wasn't functioning. I kept grabbing the brake lever to activate it, but it wouldn't respond to repeated attempts. I pulled the brake lever once more and the power brakes had suddenly and magically turned on, nearly catapulting my body through the windscreen! I'd much prefer having a direct connection to the bike, but Kenny had some different thoughts.

"I like the security of having ABS and the power-assist braking BMW has integrated into the RT," he notes. "Some people will complain about the lack of feel or whatever it may be, but the fact remains that ABS is a great addition to a bike that will be ridden from one end of the earth to the other, regardless of weather conditions. I have mixed feelings about the power assist, though. I can see the point that some level of feel is sacrificed, but it certainly seems to help haul a bike of this size down without much effort at the lever."

Although we didn't have the opportunity to sample a top box, each of the RT's standard side cases was able to swallow 32-liters of stuff. Recently redesigned, now with a four-point mounting system, the bags proved to be better than ever.

"The ease with which they can be installed and removed is a welcome change to the equipment just one year ago," explains Kenny. "The release mechanism in the handle no longer requires use of the key to open the bags as long as you do not lock them."

Frequent fuel stops are a major inhibitor of making efficient traveling time, but the RT can take you more than 300 miles on a tankful if you're judicious with the throttle. On his freeway stint up to Oregon at 75-85 mph, Kenny averaged 52 mpg, which combined with a generous 7.1-gallon tank means that its rider will probably be ready to stop before the RT will.

BMW has long been a reliable source for mile-munching touring bikes, and the R1200RT might be its best one yet. It is blessed with Gold-Wing-like comfort yet weighs several hundred pounds less, so it's fun to ride on twisty roads and not ponderous.

As with all things BMW, the only real obstacle to entry into the fraternity is the Corolla-like MSRP. The new RT retails for $17,490, so your 1986 Honda Magna trade-in ain't gonna get you far. Check all the option boxes and you're looking at a $20K ticket.

Still, the 1200RT is only $900 extra over the 1150RT and, like the excellent new GS, this RT is a Shaq step forward for the model line. It's one of the first directions we'd turn when setting out on a cross-country journey.

Source Motorcycle-USA