Fabulous but Flawed (BMW K1200RS)

Member Name: grbrown

Product:	BMW K1200RS
Date:	20/02/02 (11205 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Reputation, Quality, Torque

Disadvantages: Uncomfortable, Poor rider protection, Six Speed Gearbox

NEWS FLASH!

At the 2002 NEC Bike Show, BMW showed their K1200GT, which is based on the K1200RS, with many improvements to the fairing, which should improve rider comfort significantly. The GT is due for release in the UK in Spring.

ORIGINAL REVIEW:

I have owned several BMWs and travelled 50,000 miles to date on my current K1. I have considered a K1200RS as the spiritual successor to the K1, but found it wanting.

The engine is remarkably powerful, which makes its six-speed gearbox both tiresome and superfluous - I am sure two gears would be enough! The suspension is firm, but its handling is solid and dependably BMW. The disappointment is that the novel front suspension does not provide a smoother ride. The brakes are powerful and unobtrusive.

The riding position seems a bit odd, in that I found the footrests too far forward and the handlebars too far away. But my biggest criticism I reserve for the fairing, which looks good, but provides little actual rider protection. I travelled over a 100 miles in rain, sleet and snow, so my demonstration ride was reasonably fair! By contrast, my K1 is cosy and sublime!

At the NEC Show in 2001 there was a Police-spec K1200RS on display, with an extensive range of added aerodynamic aids to the fairing and better screen and more relaxed riding position. The response to my enquiry was that they are developed to meet the "peculiar" needs of the Police! QED.

A good looking bike which may suit recreational use, but not daily use all year round in all weathers.

Summary: